pug puppy videos

Many will say I want a puppy on a certain date. Mother Nature has blessed us with two wonderful litters. Please ask for a price on the merle puppies. We always welcome visitors! About Us Experienced Breeders We have been breeding dogs for 33 years and breeding labradoodles for 19 years. We also breed occasional litter of Moyen poodles. I Carol have a degree as licensed veterinary technician which allows me to bring my medical knowledge into the breeding program. All puppies leaving our home will have excellent temperaments! We have worked with a lot of families over the years and we pride ourselves in being very family friendly. Our goal is to place the perfect 4-legged family member into your home. Don't buy from a breeder that won't show you their dogs or makes excuses why you can't visit. We welcome your visit! Our Family We are a family run business. Carol and Tom established Acme Creek Kennels in .Amber and Ryan run the boarding and daycare. Carol and Amber raise the labradoodles. Our guarantee We guarantee our labradoodle puppies 2 years. We are also available throughout your dogs life for any questions that may arise. In order to provide the healthiest puppy for your family we do hip, eye and DNA testing. Our labradoodles have fantastic temperaments, We have 30 years experience as a veterinary technician and breeder. She doesn't shed at all and has an extremely nice, soft coat. Her temperament is outstanding and she gets along great with our old lab and loves kids - she was truly a great pick and we couldn't be happier with her. We're thinking she'll probably end up around 60 because she just weighed in at 52 at her last vet visit and she still has a lot of filling out to do. Paul Michigan Hi Karri- just a little update on Jet. Since picking him up on Thursday, he has been the perfect puppy. He has only had one accident in the house, sleeps through the night, only waking once to go outside, he is crate training quickly, and has been on road trips to Spring Lake and as far as Up North Cadillac.He is a little cuddle bug and is beginning to play a lot and becoming more independent. I absolutely love this little guy. Thanks for breeding such great pups! She really helped make the transition of my new puppy to my home a breeze. I was able to meet and visit with my puppy for the first time at 4 weeks old and it was love at first site. What a beautiful boy, with a brown curly coat that feels like silk. We were already bonding at this visit and it was pure bliss. I anxiously waited while he grew old enough to bring him home, all the while in contact with Karri as she answered any questions I may have had and also gave me updates. The day finally came where I was to bring him home, Lance was now 9 weeks old and when we reunited he was so excited as if he recognized me and this just melted my heart. What a pure joy he is. Lance also loves to snuggle which is my favorite. He met and visited with my children, grandchildren and their dogs and cat on several occasions, who all love him to pieces. He plays nice with them all. He is a big part of our family now and is adjusting so nicely. Sir Lancelot is the best gift I have ever given myself! I look forward to our future together. Thank you Rozey K9 Farm! We are experienced Labradoodle breeders with 6 years of working with Australian Labradoodles. Our puppies are non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them not just a family pet but a perfect addition to any family. Quality - At Michigan Labradoodles, we have the best team! Our dogs , are members of our family—they are all descendants of experienced selective family- based Labradoodle breeders in the business. Our business is centered around our family, including our dogs—you can always expect an exceptional experience with our family based company. We are a recognized ALAA breeder, our goal is to breed our wonderful Australian Labradoodles to provide you with an excellent addition to your family. Service - Honesty is a foundation of our family that stretches far beyond our business. We understand that it takes a lot of trust to buy a puppy online. At Michigan Labradoodles, we are committed to making this a fun and memorable experience for you and your family. When you buy a labradoodle from us you can expect constant communication through the puppy adoption process. While our labradoodle puppies are born in Michigan, we provide delivery service anywhere in the US. We provide updates through our Facebook and Instagram page and email variety of forms, including detailed descriptions, pictures, and videos. Why Authentic Australian Labradoodles? Consistent - Our dogs and their puppies are consistent, they are descendants of a multigenerational breed. The pedigree is true back eight plus generations, breeding Authentic Australian Labradoodles with the same great qualities of their breed. This gives us the ability to closely predict the size, shape and color of your puppy. On top of that we breed for excellence and closely adhere to the ALAA standard. They were originally bread as service dogs and therapy companions with an allergy friendly coat dating back to the 's. Coat - Our Australian Labradoodles all possess a soft fleece coat that has been developed over generations - a quality that you will only get with experienced dog breeders. It provides the allergy friendly coat qualities of the poodle, without sacrificing the amazing soft to the touch feel you will love. Temperament - Originally the Authentic Australian Labradoodle was bred as the ideal therapy dog. They interact well with adults and their playful personality makes them a fun addition to families with children. They are a great mix of playfulness and cuddly. The organization promotes responsible dog companionship for labradoodles for sale in Michigan and the United States by cataloging helpful information about the breeds making it easier to buy a dog online by offering networking services to breeders and owners. The organization protects our breed from inhumane puppy mills. This status recognizes our commitment as a breeder to maintaining a high health standard for our dogs, as well as our recurring investment in health testing of our breeding dogs. It assures potential adopters that our litters have come from the healthiest parents possible along, with a strong level of health guarantees that can be maintained. Thank you for your interest in this wonderful breed here at South Mitten Australian Labradoodles! Our labradoodles are allergy-friendly, meet rigorous health standards and have wonderful temperaments, making them the perfect addition to families of all shapes and sizes. Located in southern Michigan, our dogs are raised in our home as cherished and spoiled members of our family! Our puppies are given the utmost care and researched-based attention and stimulation right from the start. This ensures you are not just getting a puppy of impeccable bloodlines, but one that has an optimal start and a superior advantage. We strive to produce healthy well-socialized puppies from multi-generational lines with amazing temperaments. South Mitten Labradoodles follow the strict health guidelines and strong ethics of the Australian Labradoodle Club we belong to. We specialize in the true Australian Labradoodle with wonderful coats and temperaments with bloodlines originating from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor in Australia. This is a different dog and usually a different temperament than the Australian Labradoodles. True Australian Labradoodles average generations of labradoodles back in their pedigree that all originate from either Rutland Manor, Tegan Park, or Sunset Hills in Australia. We strive for nothing less than excellence in breeding and raising our precious puppies. We love and are devoted to this very special breed. Why do we believe that certified Australian Labradoodles are the ultimate breed? You are getting the best of the best! Virtually Non-Shedding Greatest ambition is to be with "their people" Incredibly intelligent and easy to train Loyal Low to no odor even when wet Comical and endearing.

Quality Not Quantity Our aim is to breed dogs as near the breed standard as possible. As a small breeder, we at Bonsaviour aim to have approximately 3 to 4 litters per annum, selecting our Dam and Sire carefully and concentrating on quality, healthy puppies as a priority. Bonsaviour dogs are fed a natural BARF diet which is keeping them all extremely fit and well. The barf diet is based on raw meat and meaty bones along with a few vegetables and added vitamins. More about puppies About us At Bonsaviour all of our dogs are first and foremost our companions and their welfare and happiness is of paramount importance to us. We are dedicated and love our dogs they are part of our family, they all live inside our home and are cared for in the best possible way for health, happiness and temperament. Our puppies are reared naturally for true health and temperament and are used to the normal day to day living. The puppies are socialised with our grandchildren and all the normal noises such as the hoover and TV. When the puppies are 8 weeks old and are ready to move on to the new family we guarantee the puppy will be a confident healthy and happy puppy. Bonsaviour are committed, responsible breeders rearing our puppies on a natural diet as nature intended for health. We're based in a small village in the beautiful, wooded countryside of Neachley which is near the village of Albrighton in the County of Shropshire West Midlands UK. Golden Retriever Puppies are available all year round, all bred from parents not only of superb quality from long-established proven bloodlines, but also with wonderful temperaments - a factor on which we place great importance. Our puppies are bred with love for type, temperament, intelligence and health, making excellent companions, as well as being suitable for the various purposes for which these dogs are renowned. Retrievers are wonderful dogs with great temperaments and we are sure that you and your family will be happy to become Retriever Lovers. Our Buddy is a lively, loving and gentle boy. With a teenager attitude right now. We had a puppy from you last year. He was born in March and we picked him up in May. We called him Alfie. Any accolades gained are from our customer or Independant third party reviews. In the "Dog World", ferocious opinions clash all the time. Our philosophy can be digested from the following article. Some of our Retrievers Puppies Litters of puppies are planned very carefully and are born and raised in the house. Bonsaviour puppies are adapted to family life well before they leave us. We have an occasional litter each year, most often puppies are sold before they are born. Reserving a puppy from planned litters is recommended. If you are interested in a puppy, we will require some background information about yourself, your family members, your home and lifestyle, including where you live, whether you have owned a pet before, opportunities for exercise and when you hope to welcome a new addition to your home. We are very happy to help in the process of selecting a puppy that is right for you and your family. When you purchase a puppy from Bonsaviour we will always be here to offer support for you and your puppy and help with any questions you might have for the life ofyour puppy and beyond. This is one of the finest family dogs in the world: cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners. Give this breed two brisk walks each day, play fetch games, and take him out for a good run once a week, and he is adaptable to almost any lifestyle. Friendly with everyone strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets , his bark is welcoming rather than protective. You must control his tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands -- provide a box filled with toys so he can carry things around in his mouth. A Golden Retriever remains enthusiastically puppy-like for many years, so early obedience training is required to instill calmness and good manners. Eager to please and wonderfully responsive, he is nonetheless distracted by exciting sights and sounds, so you must be both patient and persistent. The mind and heart of a Golden is sweet and gentle, but his body is robust — until he's taught not to pull on the leash, you'll need good biceps to walk him. Our beautiful girl was born last April and we collected her in June. We named her Sienna and she is just the most adorable and loving girl. She loves going for long walks and running round the fields surrounding our home, although she does manage to seek out every muddy puddle to roll around in. She loves nothing more than playing hide and seek with her many toys and is so clever, she always finds them. My favourite time is in the evening, when she becomes sleepy and snuggles on the sofa with us, being totally pampered. We absolutely adore her and feel so blessed she is part of our family. Thanks again Jude. Well, the short answer is that while the English Cream has a lighter coat, it is still simply a Golden Retriever. However, held to slightly different standards in most ways they are exactly the same. Most people ask me if the English Golden is blockier or bigger and the answer is no! But lets go over the European history and breed standard of the English Cream Golden and what the differences are. When different Golden Retriever Clubs across the world describe the breed using words like 'rich' and 'lustrous' in the U. While in Europe, lighter colors are specifically mentioned. So breeders hoping to achieve the best match to the standard and win show titles would err towards light-colored puppies. European Golden Retriever Size Another point of difference in the breed standards is size. There has been no known difference in temperament. The Golden is known across the world as the ultimate people dog. The Golden Retriever can trace its roots back to the 19th century. But, differences in opinion about the ideal Golden Retriever has meant that in each country, breeders have typically tried to achieve slightly different looks. Around the same time, fans of the breed started taking them to America and Canada. Different breed standards This recognition by three separate breed registries is the crux of why European Goldens are sometimes described as being distinct from American Goldens. Each breed registry has drafted and agreed its own description of the ideal Golden Retriever. This is known as a breed standard. Fill out the Puppy Application to get started and we will be in touch with you soon. Northwest Golden Retrievers Rescue — Lancashire. Our last pick on the list of the most reputable Golden Retriever breeders in the UK is not a breeder, but an independent adoption and rescue center dedicated to rehoming Golden Retriever dogs. Northwest Golden Retrievers rescue was established in , with the main goal of finding responsible, new forever homes for Golden Retrievers that are either abandoned, unwanted, or due to other circumstances, in need of a loving family. Get in touch with Northwest Golden Retrievers Rescue to find the right Goldie for your lifestyle and your family. Although they are so popular and have many good qualities, they do have one downside. As you can already tell, there are a lot of options to choose from when searching for your new Golden retriever puppy. Keep in mind that even though the breeders on this list are trustworthy and reputable, you still want to make sure to ask all the right questions when talking to the breeders, as well as be prepared to be screened by the breeder about your home environment, lifestyle, and capacity for taking care of your new family pet. Even though these breeders are vetted and have good references, make sure your new Goldie comes with all the required paperwork and written health check records. Other than these general guidelines, we have only one more thing to say. We wish you luck in finding your new Golden Retriever puppy to be your pawfully wedded companion for life. Related Articles:. It has been a favorite for 30 years and counting. From their physical differences, to personalities, and even potential health issues, each type of Retriever has their own characteristics, based on their breeding history. In this article, we will explore the main differences between American and English Golden Retrievers. Lord Tweedmouth bred these two dogs for hunting and retrieving, and they are believed to be the originators of the Golden Retriever breed. They can learn up to commands, including words and phrases. Goldens make great pets as well as service, guide, and therapy dogs. Thanks to their hunting and retrieving history, Retrievers thrive when playing outdoors. Whether you throw a stick or a ball, your furry friend will get it back for you and be entertained for hours. Retrievers have webbed feet yes, just like a duck, but much more subtle , which make them exceptional and enthusiastic swimmers! American vs. English Golden Retriever Both American and English Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, playful personalities and natural curiosity. Still, the two types of retrievers are considered distinct from each other based on their subtle, but specific, differences. But since it has evolved for hundreds of years in the United States, the American Golden Retriever has experienced a few physical and potential behavioral changes that make it different from the other types of retrievers. But because this particular retriever has been bred in the United Kingdom, it has developed unique features. The English Golden Retrievers are excellent search and rescue dogs. Recognition from the American Kennel Club vs. You can also find more standards from international dog clubs, such as the International Canine Kennel Club. These organizations are non-profit clubs created to provide expert information and advice on dog breeds and their health and training. As such, the standards from these two kennel clubs play a major role in the agreed-upon differences between American Golden Retrievers and English Golden Retrievers. Because of these differing standards—and the quest of breeders to meet these standards—these two types of dogs have evolved with unique features. Neither club recognizes sub-types of dog breeds, so they both list the Golden Retriever as a breed but with differing standards. In the United States, they are differentiated based on their physical appearance and colors and are called English Golden Retrievers or American Golden Retrievers. English Golden Retriever vs. English Golden Retrievers have a beautiful cream color, while American Golden Retrievers have a more lustrous golden color that can vary in shades from honey to tan. In general, the only acceptable colors for Retrievers are light colors, such as Retrievers that are almost light, to darker shades of red. Their coat textures are also a bit different. They have feathering around their ears and other parts of their bodies, with a water-resistant undercoat. On the other hand, American Golden Retrievers have much longer and thicker coats with moderate feathering. The American Golden has an arched head structure and a broader skull, while the English Retriever has a larger and more balanced head. They both have wide foreheads, but the American Retriever has a longer and deeper one than its English cousin. Eyes Their eyes also have slight differences. The American Golden Retriever has round eyes and fitted rims, with various shades, from medium brown to dark brown. Ears American Retrievers and English Retrievers also have slightly different ears. The American Golden has ears with a front edge that extends a bit above their eye level, so the tips of their ears are at cheek-level. Size and Weight Another noticeable difference in terms of physical characteristics for the two types of Golden Retrievers is their size. American Golden Retriever males are between 23 to 24 inches, with an average weight of 65 to 75 pounds. Females are usually 20 to 22 inches, with an average weight of 60 to 70 pounds. English Golden Retriever males can be 22 to 24 inches, while females grow to between 21 and 22 inches. Retrievers, as a breed, are notorious overeaters! Across breeds, a good way to measure obesity versus an ideal or healthy bodyweight is to look at body fat percentage. English vs. American Goldens live for 10 to 11 years, while their English counterparts live for around 12 years. Besides lifespan, all Retrievers are prone to a few common diseases and genetic disorders that you should watch out for. These original Goldens were bred to hunt and withstand the harsh winters of Scotland. Over the last years, Golden Retrievers have been bred and refined to create different styles and variations of the great family dog we all adore. American vs. Canadian vs. The American Golden is considered the general standard of the breed. While there are similar Canadian and British counterparts, the American is the most popular. The American Golden Retriever has a rich gold coat. The shades of gold can vary slightly but can be neither too light nor too dark. Adult males stand at the height of inches, while females stand at .Male American Goldens can weigh as much as pounds, while adult females are slightly smaller at pounds. American Golden Retrievers are well-loved by all, showing loyalty and friendly nature to everyone. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please. With that said, American Goldens are known for being a little more energetic than other breed variations. They make an excellent pet for younger couples who enjoy many outdoor activities or families who can spend a lot of time playing with them. These Goldens have a long golden coat that can vary slightly in the shade. They stand at the same height as adult American Golden Retrievers, with males being inches tall and females being .Canadian Goldens are also the same in weight, with males being pounds and females pounds. Overall, Canadian Goldens and American Goldens are the same dogs in different locations. While very similar to American Goldens, they do have some subtle differences. The British Golden is typically a lighter shade of gold than the American type. The standard weight for British Golden Retrievers is not specified, but most weigh anywhere between 55 to 70 pounds. British Golden Retrievers are highly devoted, friendly, and intelligent. Many breeders report that British Golden has fewer potential health conditions like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia than the American or Canadian versions. Still, there are no studies to confirm this. The English Cream Golden has a very pale cream to white coat shorter and thicker than standard American Goldens. They have a stockier build, with males standing around inches tall and females standing approximately inches. Adult male English Creams can weigh anywhere between pounds, and females weigh about pounds. English Cream Goldens have lovable personalities with a calm, friendly nature. They are incredibly smart and easy to train, as well. With that said, English Cream Golden Retrievers are often more expensive than other types of Goldens because of their desirable appearance. See our English Cream Golden Retriever puppies for sale for more information. They are highly motivated working dogs that enjoy sporting activities like hunting. These Goldens range in color from dark golden to red, with shorter to mid-length coats. They have a smaller stature than other Golden Retrievers, with adult males standing at inches and females at inches. Males can weigh between 60 and 70 pounds and females between 50 and 65 pounds. Field-bred Goldens are ideal for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. These dogs want to help with hunting or accompany you while fishing. They enjoy water sports and basically any outdoor activity. They may not be an excellent match for families who spend a lot of time indoors and cannot provide daily exercise. See our Field-bred Golden Retriever puppies for sale. Red Goldens get their name from their distinctly red coat. That is often a deep, bright red that distinguishes them from other kinds of Goldens. Their hair is often thinner and longer than other types of Goldens, as well. They tend to stand smaller in size, with males topping out at around inches and females .Adult males can weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and females between 55 and 65 pounds. With most red Goldens actually being Field-bred Goldens, they are highly driven and motivated to work. These dogs will have high energy levels and benefit from being given tasks to assist with. Check out our Red Golden Retriever puppies for sale. Show Golden Retriever Show Golden Retrievers are a style that is bred to meet exact breed specifications to be shown in competitions. With perfectly golden coats and long hair, Show Goldens are often quite remarkable in appearance. They are large-boned and thick in stature, with a wider, more broadhead than average Goldens. Show Golden Retrievers have all the same wonderful characteristics as other types of Goldens, being friendly and well-natured. However, since Show Goldens are bred to meet very specific breed standards, they are often costly. They are ideal for owners who are looking to exhibit their dogs in competitive dog shows. Find your new best friend from our list of top-quality show Golden Retriever puppies for sale. There is some debate about whether mini Golden Retrievers should really be considered a type of Golden, as they are technically crossbreeds. Since mini Golden Retrievers are hybrid breeds, they have no actual breed specifications. Their coat color can vary from light cream to dark gold or red, with extreme variations in length. Their heights vary, but most are under 20 inches tall, males and females. Their weights can vary as well, typically staying anywhere between 30 and 50 pounds. Miniature Golden Retrievers are excellent for anyone who desires certain personality traits of a Golden Retriever without the medium-to-large size. With that said, mini Goldens do not always take on the friendly, happy-go-lucky nature of purebred Goldens. Since they are crossbred, they can have attributes of other breeds. Purebred Black Golden Retrievers do not exist but can essentially be created by mixing any variation of a Golden with a black Labrador, Newfoundland, or other breeds. The coat, height, and weight of a black Golden will vary because it is actually a mixed breed. Since many Goldens are bred with Labradors, they would likely be of medium-to-large build, with males or females anywhere between 50 to 75 pounds. Some Goldens may even be mixed with Newfoundlands, which would result in a much larger dog, weighing 80 to pounds or more. Determining which type of Golden Retriever is best for you depends on your unique lifestyle. All kinds make a great family pet, but some have distinct characteristics that make them better suited for specific homes. Each Golden Retriever puppy has a different cost too, so make sure you know the golden retriever price before deciding. To know which Golden is ideal for your family, you can consult with a reputable breeder or trusted veterinarian! Find your new best friend from our list of top-quality Golden Retriever Puppies For Sale and from our high quality golden retriever breeders. Both can show moderate signs of being territorial, but more so in females due to their motherly instincts. What is the best color for Golden Retrievers? Standard gold has been shown to be more popular out of the colors of Golden Retrievers. Each color type has specific characteristics. A lighter shade tends to look more white in the light while the darker Golden Retrievers consist of more deep reds and blacks. The most obvious difference lies in the shades of color. Aside from color differences, the head of an English Golden retriever is broader with a square muzzle. Canadian Golden Retrievers are leaner and taller. What color is a Canadian Golden Retriever? All of them have their signature styles in either light, dark, or natural golden coat colors. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Golden Retriever Gun Dog Group The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges. Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated. The Golden was bred by British aristocrats to be a dual-purpose dog, able to retrieve waterfowl and upland game birds and also to be a companion. Today, Goldens are found at field trials and dog shows, in family homes and nursing homes, leading the blind and serving as ears or hands for handicapped persons. General Appearance The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized, well-balanced dog with a distinctive golden-colored coat; small, drop ears; and a natural tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The correct relationship of length of body to height is .The Golden Retriever is a dog without exaggeration. Another essential characteristic is proper temperament. A Golden Retriever is friendly, calm, compliant and compatible with people and other dogs. Goldens are particularly good with children. The Golden Retriever is a powerfully built dog, with a good nose for tracking, a soft mouth, and an eagerness to learn. Head The head is proportionate to the size of the dog and is without exaggeration of any sort. When viewed from the side, the skull and muzzle are roughly parallel to one another and joined by a well-defined, but not abrupt, stop. The skull is clean without prominence of orbital arches or occipital bones. Cheeks should be clean. MUZZLE In profile, the muzzle is deep and, measured from nose to stop, is slightly shorter than the skull, measured from stop to occiput. The bridge of the muzzle is straight. Viewed from the top or the side, the muzzle is slightly deeper and wider at the stop than at the tip. Lips are close-fitting, with dark pigment. Removal of whiskers is permitted but not preferred. Faults: Misaligned teeth; level bite. Serious Fault: Missing teeth leaving obvious gaps. Disqualifications: Overshot or undershot bite. NOSE The nose leather is black. Nostrils must be large and open. Serious Fault: Pink nose without pigment. EYES The eyes are set in to the skull, but not too deep, and wide apart. They are medium sized and somewhat triangular in appearance, but never so much as to give a hard expression. Eye color is brown. Darker brown is preferred, but a medium brown that does not detract from the desired kindly expression is acceptable. Eyelids are close-fitting, and eye rims are dark. Faults: Light eyes; eyes too dark, creating a blank expression; eyes set obliquely; white of eye or haw visible when dog is looking straight ahead. Serious Faults: Functional abnormality of eyelids or eyelashes. EARS The ears are drop and rather short, with the front edges attached well behind and just above the eyes. When pulled forward, the tip of the ear should just cover the eye. The ear leather is pliable. The lower part of the ear should be well furred with short, soft hair. The hair is slightly longer where the ear attaches to the skull. At rest, the ears may be drawn back half folded into the neck ruff. When alert, the ears are drawn up and forward with the inner edges of the ears close to the cheeks. Fault: Low-set, hound-like ears. Neck The neck is of medium length, blending smoothly into well laid back shoulders, giving a sturdy, muscular appearance. The neck is free of throatiness. Fault: Long, upright neck; short, stuffy neck. Serious Fault: Ewe neck. Forequarters Shoulders are smoothly muscled. The shoulder blades are long and well laid back with the upper tips fairly close together at the withers. The upper arm appears to be equal in length to the shoulder blade and joins it at an apparent right angle. The elbows are close to the body. The forelegs are straight, strong and sturdy in bone, with strong, short, slightly sloping pasterns. Faults: Weak pasterns; upright shoulders; out at elbows. Whether the dog is standing or moving, the line of the back is strong and level from the withers to the slightly sloping croup. The loin is moderately short, muscular and deep, with very little tuck-up. The ribs extend well back and are well sprung out from the spine, forming a broad, strong back, then curving down and inward to form a deep body. The brisket extends to the elbow. Faults: Sloping topline; slab-sidedness; chest too narrow, too shallow or too wide; excessive tuck-up. Hindquarters The hindquarters are broad and muscular. In profile, the croup slopes slightly. The angulation of the hindquarters is in balance with the angulation of the forequarters. The stifles are well-bent, and the hocks are well let down. When the dog is standing, the short, strong rear pasterns are perpendicular to the ground and, viewed from the rear, parallel to one another. Faults: Cow hocks; spread hocks; sickle hocks; over-angulation. Feet Good feet are essential for a working retriever. The feet are of medium size, round and compact, with well-arched toes and thick, elastic pads. In the field, toenails help to grip the terrain so they should not be cut back so far as to be useless. Dewclaws may be removed. Excess hair around the feet and between the pads may be trimmed. Faults: Splay or hare feet. Tail The tail is a natural extension of the topline. It is thick and muscular at the base and tapers to the tip. A tail of the correct length extends to the hock but never below. When the dog is relaxed, the tail hangs down naturally. When the dog is moving or alert, the tail is carried level with the back or only slightly above level, with a merry action. The tail should never curl over the back or be carried between the legs. Coat The Golden Retriever has a dense, water-repellent double coat. The outer coat lies close to the body and may be straight or wavy. The coat texture is firm and resilient, neither coarse nor silky. Undercoat is soft and dense. The untrimmed coat forms a natural ruff around the neck, blending into the front of the neck and chest; moderate feathering on the back of the forelegs and the underbody; and heavier feathering on the front of the chest, the back of the thighs, and the underside of the tail. Coat on the head, lower part of the ears, paws, and the front of the legs is short and even. Feet may be trimmed and stray hairs neatened, but neither the natural appearance of the coat nor the outline of the dog should be altered by trimming. Fault: Trimming other than described above. Serious Faults: Excessively long coat; open coat; soft coat. Color Color may be any shade of golden, but it must be rich and lustrous. Body color that approaches cream or red is undesirable. Some latitude may be given when judging a lighter-colored puppy whose coat shows promise of darkening with age. Feathering may be lighter than the rest of the coat, and lighter shadings extending upward from the underbody are typical and acceptable. These lighter shadings must not be confused with white markings. With the exception of graying or whitening of face or body due to age, any white marking, other than a few white hairs on the chest, should be penalized in proportion to its extent. Serious Fault: Any noticeable area of black or other off-color hair. Disqualification: Albinism. A correctly built Golden Retriever male in working condition should weigh between pounds, and a female should weigh between pounds. Faults: Dogs up to one inch above or below standard height should be penalized proportionately. Gait When trotting, the gait is effortless, smooth, powerful and well coordinated, showing good but not exaggerated reach in front and drive behind. The topline remains level with only a slight flexing to indicate suppleness. Viewed from any position, legs turn neither in nor out, nor do feet cross or interfere with each other. As speed increases, feet tend to converge toward center line of balance. It is recommended that dogs be shown on a loose lead and moved at a moderate speed to reflect true gait. Eliminating Faults An Eliminating Fault is a Fault serious enough that it eliminates the dog from obtaining any awards in a conformation event. One inch or greater over or under the standard height. Disqualifications A dog with a Disqualification must not be considered for placement in a conformation event, and must be reported to UKC. Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Do your research — Before purchasing anything online, including pets, look up reviews for the site, or person, you are buying from. If the seller declines, challenge them on why. Choose your payment method wisely — If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, avoid paying by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or a payment service such as PayPal. Buying a Puppy The Golden Retriever is an excellent choice for a family pet, and though a sporting breed, it is one of the most adaptable. A Golden can be all things to all people, from fulfilling its original function in the shooting field, to service dog for search and rescue, guide dog, hearing dog for the deaf and working dog for the police and customs. Most are intelligent, unfailingly cheerful and gentle making them ideal companions for families with children. As family pets they can be taught to compete successfully in obedience, agility and working trials as well as in the show ring. There are, however several points to bear in mind before you purchase your new puppy. Owning a puppy is a responsibility requiring a serious commitment from all members of the family, for this will be a partnership that can last anything up to 12 — 15 years. Perhaps at this point we ought to remind you of a few of their less attractive traits. Goldens shed their coats frequently and copiously. Do not buy one if you are house-proud, have pale coloured carpets or a dodgy vacuum cleaner. Goldens are large dogs with an uncanny knack of finding all the muddiest puddles. Some are great wallowers — yours is bound to be one of them! Faeces are a by-product of all dogs, which we all have to dispose of responsibly. It is one of the more unpleasant facts of dog ownership, and most public places now require you to pick up after your dog. Veterinary fees are expensive, so it makes sense to insure your dog, indeed most breeders will insist you do so. Goldens do not make good kennel dogs, most are real couch potatoes, who unerringly find the most comfortable sofas and the choicest position in front of the fire. Some Goldens are great landscape architects, if your garden is a show piece, having your own Ground Force team may not go down too well. The garden must also be well fenced with sturdy boundaries, like Anne Robinson, puppies will always find the Weakest Link. Although usually tractable and obedient, given an inch, most will take the whole nine yards! If you still insist that a Golden is the dog for you, read on. Choosing your puppy. Always buy from a breeder where you can see the mother with her puppies. This will give you an idea of how the puppies will turn out. If the breeder does not own the stud dog, ask to see photographs of him. Make sure that both the sire and the dam of the puppies have the appropriate health clearances, and ask to see the certificates. Click on the diamond for an explanation of the health schemes. Reputable breeders will have their puppies checked out by their veterinary surgeon prior to sale and bear in mind you may be asked to sign a sales contract. Are they scrupulously clean? Is the breeder making provision for proper socialisation of the litter? Are the puppies happy and out-going, with clear eyes and skin? If yours is a family with very young children, do not go for the cute, shy puppy sitting on his own in the corner. Opt for the middle-of-the-road puppy that interacts well with his siblings, is lively and happy without being too dominant, bold or brash. A Golden puppy should be confident and interested to explore his surroundings. If colour is important to you, bear in mind the puppies will all look considerably lighter at this age than they will end up. The colour of their ears gives an approximate guide to their ultimate colour. What may appear to be a quiet puppy may be the life and soul of the litter who has just had a mad half hour and worn himself out! Make sure you have been given all the Kennel Club documentation and copies of all appropriate health clearances with the puppy, an advice sheet and a diet sheet. Stick to the diet suggested by the breeder until the puppy has settled well into his new home before you make any changes. Well bred puppies should also be Kennel Club Registered, this is proof of lineage. There is no reason not to register a litter, it cost very little. Be wary of breeders offering puppies un-registered. Puppies should also come with advice of worming, vaccination and some offer an insurance cover note to cover pups for first few weeks. Do your homework. Buy, or borrow from the library, all the books you can on Goldens. Puppies do not sit gift wrapped on a shelf — be prepared to wait for the puppy of your choice. Caring for your new puppy. Training should start as soon as you arrive home. Have one set of rules for all the family and stick to them. Puppies, like young children, need routine and firmly established ground rules. Goldens are good with children, but make sure your children are taught to be caring and responsible with dogs. A puppy is a living, breathing real-life creature, not a toy and should be treated with respect. Your children and your puppy. Provide the puppy with its own bed and do not allow the children to disturb the puppy when it is sleeping. Always make sure there are no staples that the puppy could swallow. Do not allow young children to pick up the puppy. Do not allow very young children to play with the puppy unsupervised. Do not allow children to become over excited around the puppy. This means no screaming, no jumping and no fighting. Do not allow young children to feed the puppy or disturb the puppy while it is eating. The First Night. The first night is always a little fraught. It will be the first time your puppy has been separated from his mother and siblings, so expect him to cry a little and do not be unduly alarmed when he does so. Be calm and matter of fact, do not excite the puppy and make sure it has relieved itself before putting it to bed. Most breeders will have given you a small piece of blanket with the scent of his family on it, that you can put inside his bed and which will help to settle the puppy. Provide a warm comfortable blanket such as Vet Bed, which is hard-wearing and easily cleaned. Dogs are den animals and so prefer their bed to be tucked in a corner. House Training As a rule Goldens learn quite quickly and although at times it seems as though they will never be clean, most are by around four months. Puppies are not really capable of controlling bladder function much before this time, so anticipation and vigilance on your part is of prime importance. So as soon as you arrive home with your new pup carry him straight to the spot in the garden and stay with him until he has performed, then make a fuss of him, then he can go and explore his new home. The odd accident is an inevitable part of house training your puppy, so be prepared to experience it. Remember, prevention is better than cure! View accidents as a lack of vigilance on your part. Times to watch are after a meal and a sleep. Take the puppy outside to his spot in the garden. An eight-week-old puppy can spend a penny for England, so be warned! Remember that these dogs are retrievers, so it would be going against their nature if they were never allowed to pick things up. All puppies chew: It is a natural process that enables baby teeth to be expelled. If anything precious gets spoiled it is your own fault. Your puppy is an instinctive animal. There is no point in getting cross if your puppy chews things if he is unsupervised for long periods The Devil makes work for idle paws! If you do have to be away from home for more than a couple of hours, you will need to arrange for a puppy-sitter. Though Goldens are usually extremely biddable and kind to people, children and other animals, as youngsters they can be lively and boisterous and appear to be in trouble more than they are out of it Your puppy has no concept of the social graces unless you teach it, and people usually get the dogs they deserve. We strongly recommend obedience classes for you and your puppy to learn to become responsible members of society. Your breeder will be able to advise you of local classes. The very first lesson should be for the puppy to learn his own name and to come when called. Call him and make a fuss of him when he bounds over and give him a food reward. Hopefully by the time he has gained the confidence to go off exploring, the lesson will have been learnt and the thought of a treat will bring him back. If he is told off at this point he will associate the punishment with coming to you, not the fact that it was in his own time. NEVER hit a young puppy; violence solves nothing and your dog will associate pain to being with you and it will take weeks of patience to win him round again. Teach your puppy to accept you as his new pack-leader and that what you say goes. Use short one-word commands, but try to make learning fun. If you have a dominant, greedy puppy who guards his food, hand feeding him for several meals often works. If the puppy growls and guards a prized possession, remove the article and spend time giving the item back and then gently removing it again, until the puppy accepts your supremacy. Initially, a play in your garden is quite sufficient for your new puppy. After he has received his vaccinations, start with 10 to 15 minutes exercise off the lead in a safe area allowing him to set the pace. Exercise can be increased as the puppy grows, but very gradually. Remember your puppy is growing at an alarming rate and over-exercise and too boisterous play can cause damage to joints and cartilage later on. A good way to monitor exercise is a guide of 5 minutes for each month of the puppies life, ie: at 3 month 15 minutes lead exercise twice a day, which is then increased every month by 5 minutes. Take it slowly at first, and by the time your dog is 12 to18 months old he will be able to take all the exercise you care to give him, and more. The new Nobivac and Canigen vaccines out now, enable the vaccination programs to be completed earlier, so your puppy can be socialised earlier. Until last injection has taken effect, he should not leave the confines of your garden, unless he is carried. The breeder, using a proprietary brand of wormer should have wormed your puppy at least three times. Even so, it makes sense to be certain that children wash their hands after playing with the puppy and before eating. Worm again every couple of weeks until 3 months, then once or twice a year as a precaution. Ask your Vet for a recommended brand of wormer. Groom your puppy every day. This not only helps to keep him clean, but also establishes a bond between the two of you. Get your puppy used to having his ears looked at, his feet picked up and his teeth checked on a daily basis, so that any veterinary examination, should it be necessary at a later date, will not be too much of an ordeal. Initially, grooming will just consist of a thorough brushing, though later as the adult coat and feathering comes through, a daily check for knots and tangles will become necessary. And Finally. With just a little effort and training, your puppy will mature into a wonderful companion and a fully fledged member of the family that you can take anywhere and whom you will be proud to own. Should the unthinkable happen and your circumstances change so that you are unable to keep your puppy or older dog, please remember to inform the breeder in the first instance. If you live outside the UK, we would suggest you go to our links page and contact your nearest Golden Retriever Club. Club members: 1 Will properly house, feed, water and exercise all dogs under their care and arrange for appropriate veterinary attention if and when required. Puppies which may not conform to the Breed Standard should be placed in suitable homes. Will not sell by sale or auction Kennel Club registration certificates as stand alone items not accompanying a dog. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.

Articles Sit. Heal Boxer Dog Hip Dysplasia: What to Know Characterized by their regal stance, drooping jowls, endearing underbite, and squashed face, boxer dogs are beloved, protective members of the family. As with any of our pets, it can be painful to watch an energetic dog begin limping with rear leg pain or show other signs of discomfort. Boxers are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a common dog skeletal condition on one or both of the hip joints caused by genetics, nutritional, and environmental factors. CHD is a malformation of the ball and joint socket of the hip. Hip dysplasia has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. Your veterinarian can diagnose this disease after a complete physical exam with X-rays of the hips and pelvis. Some breeds have genetic predispositions to hip dysplasia. In addition to bulldogs, retrievers, and Rottweilers, boxers and other muscled and large breed dogs are also affected by hip dysplasia at a higher rate. Boxers can be born with hip dysplasia, although their hips may appear perfectly normal. Your boxer puppy with hip dysplasia may not show symptoms for six months or a few years. Older dogs may develop hip dysplasia from deterioration of the hip bone and cartilage. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner the boxer puppy can begin treatment and return to pain-free play time. Hip Dysplasia Treatment Options If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Dog hip braces may also slow the progression of this chronic issue and provide support. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Talk to your vet about the following common boxer breed medical problems that may be affecting your pup: Arthritis Arthritis is one of the most common health problems boxer dogs experience. Symptoms of arthritis are similar to symptoms of hip dysplasia. In fact, arthritis may develop as a result of existing conditions like hip dysplasia. A Hip Hound Brace can also provide support for arthritis. Discuss options with your vet. The dog will begin favoring the non-injured leg and it may appear to be boxer hip pain, although the issue is in the CCL. A brace, such as the Ortho Dog Cruciate Care Dog Knee Brace can help stabilize the knee by limiting flexion and extension so that scar tissue can form a callus over the tear for healing. Degenerative Myelopathy A progressive disease of the spinal cord typically seen in dogs between 8 and 14 years old, degenerative myelopathy in boxers can result in hind-end paralysis. Learn more about Degenerative Myelopathy. Bone Cancer Osteosarcoma Signs of bone cancer in boxers can include lameness and joint pain, as well as fatigue and a mass growth. As with hip dysplasia, an X-ray by a certified veterinarian can help diagnose this disease. For the most part, these health issues can be treated if caught early enough. The breeders test for most of these on the parents of the puppies. There are health tests for these health issues, you should visit your veterinarian to perform yearly tests and talk over health issues of your boxer. Cancer Boxers are at risk of various cancers. They are brain, thyroid, mammary glands, testes, heart, spleen, blood, lymph system lymphoma , and other organs. Benign skin tumors usually respond to surgical removal under local anesthesia. Malignant forms of cancer need specific treatment. Being observant to any unusual worth on your boxer goes a long way to prevention and treatment on time. The aortic valve is the valve through which blood leaves the heart, traveling to the rest of the body. When this valve is narrowed, the heart and specifically the left ventricle, which is the chamber that pumps blood through the aorta must work harder to force blood out through the valve. In many cases, affected dogs do not show any signs. AS is detected on a routine physical examination, when the veterinarian notices a heart murmur. The boxers with severe AS show the following signs lethargy, exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, and fainting. The tests used to confirm a diagnosis of AS are electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. Fainting or even sudden heart failure can occur, and some patients can develop congestive heart failure. It could show up as soon as 6 months or as late as 10 years of age. Symptoms of Cardiomyopathy are an irregular heartbeat in a routine exam, fainting, coughing, rapid breathing, accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and sudden death. A 24 hours holter recording the heart's activity for this period of time, an electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. In Boxer it appears to have a predisposition for development of CKD, suggesting that kidney disease in this breed might be heritable. DM is a neurological disease that affects the spinal column and nerves that coordinate the movement of the rear legs. Eventually boxers lose their ability to walk, incontinent and are euthanized. There is now a test that detects DM. Spondylosis Spondylosis is a degenerative spinal condition that affects older dogs, but can also happen due to an injury. Some show no symptoms a boxer knows how to hide his ills, however some of the symptoms are motion issues or inflexibility, lameness or limping. Treatment for mild symptoms may be prescribed pain medication or anti inflammatory drugs. Physical therapy and an exercise program can help also monitoring weight and a weight loss program if the boxer is overweight. Hip Dysplasia HD Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the ball and socket joint that makes up the hip. Some of the symptoms are the dog does not want to play vigorously, pain and lameness, hip dysplasia shows in ages between 4 months to a year. Dog should be tested for hip dysplasia at 2 years of age. Symptoms will show between the ages of years old, but it can be diagnosed at any age. Some of the symptoms are: sleepiness, lethargy, weakness, increased appetite, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, the coat can become dull and dry, loss of fur, itchy skin, skin sores or infections, and ear inflammation. Diabetes Diabetes is when the pancreas fails to produce insulin properly. Treatment usually requires insulin shots for life. Some of the symptoms are frequent urination, hunger, weight loss, vomiting and weakness. For more information, browse the following links:. Struggling in hot weather Collapsing Your vet will discuss weight control and the possibility of surgery to help your dog feel more comfortable with the condition. Epilepsy This common cause of seizures in boxers is often inherited from a parent and usually surfaces between six months and six years of age. Perfectly healthy canines can have one or two unexplained seizures during their lifetime. Turn off any lights and make the room quiet. Note how long the seizure lasts and film it if you can. Phone your vet — if you have coverage with one of our Purely Pets dog insurance plans, you can call the hour vet video service for quick and professional advice. Caring for your boxer dog With the knowledge of the possible health concerns your boxer may experience and the symptoms to look for, you can get your animal help when it needs it. Dog insurance plans cover your pet in case it needs urgent care, but there are complementary measures you need to take at home to make sure it enjoys the life it deserves. What does a boxer dog eat? This breed grows to a medium or large size, and they need a well-balanced, complete diet to keep them fit and healthy. So feeding them the right foods is essential to their quality of life. Discuss with your vet how much your pet should be eating. They can weigh your boxer and measure their height to determine an ideal diet. Feed your four-legged friend at a similar time each day and let their meal go down before taking them out to exercise. How to train a boxer dog This breed is clever, but they can also be boisterous and clown around during training. Use these tips to raise an obedient and well-trained pup: Implement a positive, reward-based training programme from an early age. Maintain a firm but fair attitude with plenty of reassurance for good behaviour. Be patient and consistent to get the best results. Boxers mature at a slower rate than most dog breeds, and their energetic puppy-like ways can make it challenging to control them as they get bigger. Before you bring a boxer into your home, consider whether you have what it takes to keep it controlled. What exercise does a boxer need? As you might expect, this high energy, active breed needs plenty of exercise. Boxers love playing and it can be a rare sight to see one sitting calmly. These dogs need a minimum of two hours daily exercise, which can be split into a few walks. Give them plenty of chances to get sniffing and explore their surroundings as well as some off-lead time for a decent run around. Use every opportunity you get to let them stretch their legs. This could be taking them with you when you pop to the shop or letting them out into the garden on a nice day. Do boxers need grooming? All dogs need some form of grooming to keep them clean and maintain their coat. Boxer owners will be pleased to hear this breed is fairly low maintenance, thanks to their short hair that only needs a weekly brush. Your dog will shed throughout the year, especially in autumn and spring, but the hairs are easy to clean with a hoover. Make sure your boxer has frequent baths to keep their skin folds clean and dry. The excess flaps can cause skin fold dermatitis if not looked after properly. Many owners complement their dog insurance plans with a pet health programme. While the former takes care of your animal in case of an emergency, the latter is sometimes offered by vets to spread the cost of routine treatments and grooming. What are the best accessories for a boxer dog? Is a boxer the right dog for me? The affectionate and loyal nature of this breed might make you consider bringing one into your family home. Remember, boxers are large dogs and need lots of care to keep them healthy and happy. Before you adopt or buy one of these canines, ask yourself if you have the funds and time needed to give them the life they deserve. Cost of owning a boxer Usually, the bigger the breed, the bigger your bank balance needs to be. So, just what causes such a big expenditure? Purchase costs: Unless you adopt a boxer from a rescue centre, you can expect to pay a hefty price for these lovable dogs. Be wary of cheap puppies and check you always buy from a Kennel Club Assured breeder. Set-up costs: This includes everything you need to pay for when you first get a puppy. They need vaccinations, neutering, and lots of accessories. Ongoing costs: Throughout their lifetime you need to provide food, preventative healthcare, more accessories, and vet bills. As boxers are prone to so many health conditions, dog insurance plans are a good idea to help you save on unexpected medical bills. Additional costs: You need to budget for other miscellaneous costs like training, kennels, and a dog walker if you work all day. Time needed to look after a boxer Unless you have the budget to pay for doggy day-care and walkers every day, you need plenty of free time to give your dog the care it deserves. Your boxer needs at least 2 hours of exercise a day plus training. You also need to factor in time for feeding, bathing, and playing with your fun-loving pet. Are boxers good with kids and other pets? Yes, this breed usually makes excellent family dogs that love to play with children. Boxers take pride in protecting their owners but are very rarely aggressive. They fare best with older children due to their large size and boisterous nature. These dogs also love other pets as long as you introduce them slowly. The two most common ways to get this breed are rehoming centres and breeders. There are many rescue centres across the UK that may have boxers, and others specialise in finding new homes for the breed. Dogs from these organisations are usually older, so make sure to check their history for any health or behavioural concerns you need to look out for. When you buy from a breeder, there are a few things you need to check before you bring a puppy home. Make sure they meet the high standards required to be a Kennel Club Assured breeder. The dog should also be well socialised and have up-to-date vaccinations and health checks along with screening tests. The greatest way to reward their ever-growing loyalty is with a lifetime pet insurance policy. Dog insurance plans protect your animal in times of need and could save you thousands in vet bills. At Purely Pets, we know how important dogs are to your family and that they deserve only the best during their time with you. Choose from 15 levels of lifetime cover to fit your budget and needs and manage your policy online at a time that suits you. Are you looking to protect your loyal boxer through every stage of its life? Check out the dog insurance plans at Purely Pets today. Boxer Dog Behavior Overview Are you thinking about getting a Boxer and wondering if this dog breed is right for you? Do you have questions about general Boxer behavior problems? Or perhaps you own a Boxer and you are curious if his or her behavior is normal. Each recognized dog breed has their own general behavior and overall temperament; this is what defines a dog breed and makes them special. Each dog within that breed has their own little quirks and personalities that make each individual dog a treasure. Large, powerful and sleek with an imposing appearance and loud bark, the Boxer is a fantastic watchdog. While their looks may be intimidating, this breed also makes for a wonderful family pet. Their temperament is quite special. Boxers are the perfect companion for singles and large families. They typically get along great with other dogs, and children. Some even do just fine with cats. Depression We have received many requests from our Members, asking for information regarding the subject of depression in Boxer dogs. There are many reasons and circumstances in which a dog may show depressed behavior. Understanding why your dog is behaving this way will lead you to know which steps to take to help him. Learn more in our Boxer Depression section. Is this Breed Right for You? Boxer Dog Behavior to Keep in Mind While the Boxer is a great dog and very popular all around the world especially in the United States , because this is a big dog one of the largest of the medium sized breeds , one should keep a few things in mind. Boxer puppy behavior is excited and rambunctious. Boxer puppies are generally very active and love to jump and bounce around. If you love playing with and being entertained by a puppy- and a rather large one at that - the Boxer is for you! If your home is filled with expensive items and you generally keep things as clean as a whistle, having a Boxer pup playfully hopping around may not be right for you. A Boxer makes a lot of amusing noises. If you want a quiet dog, you may want to think about another breed. However, if you love Boxers and are amused by the many noises one can make, this is the dog for you! The Boxer, along with other mastiff breeds such as the Pug dog were bred to have flat faces and wide noses. Because of the shape of a Boxer's head and face, a Boxer will: Snort Grunt Snore- Sometimes snoring can be quite loud. Pass gas flatulence All dogs do this, the Boxer may just be a bit less discreet! Whine - A soft whining may be vocalized to gain attention. The Boxer is, in general, a bit stubborn. While this breed may not immediately follow every command and in some cases play a mental game with you called, "Who's the Boss? If your Boxer dog is not listening to you, you'll want to be sure to teach and then continually reinforce proper hierarchy. If you are looking for the easy way out, this breed is not for you. If you are looking for a dog that needs interaction and effort from his owner to be fully trained and you are happy to do it, a Boxer will fit well into your life style. The Boxer can display some destructive behavior if not properly stimulated throughout the day. Just as a human would have a difficult time sitting in 1 room all day, alone and without entertainment, so does this dog. .The breed needs an owner who is able to provide a daily schedule of activities: Walks and exercise to help maintain muscle mass, keep the heart healthy, and release pent-up energy, grooming to keep skin and coat healthy, bathing, regular meals, playtime and plenty of interesting dog toys. If a Boxer is given enough attention and activity when their owner is home, they will most likely settle down and behave well when left home alone. Separation Anxiety can occur with both puppies and adults that are left home alone for too long. How long is too long? That depends on the dog! For some, having an owner leave for 10 minutes can be stressful. For others, nervousness can set in after a couple hours. If your Boxer is very sensitive to being left alone, you can train him or her to learn to cope. When you leave, do not make a huge fuss or give hugs and kisses; this will send a message that leaving is a big deal. You can give your dog all the attention in the world, but stop doing so about 30 minutes before you actually leave. Once he has been fed, has been taken out to eliminate and perhaps had a walk, you should quietly leave. Throwing a toy as a distraction works well. Leave for just a few minutes and work your way up to longer and longer amounts of time. When you arrive home, again do not cause a fuss. Calmly enter and greet your dog with a relaxed tone. Your dog will read off of you and react accordingly. If you announce your arrival back as if you have just returned from a month-long vacation and shower him or her with affection, your Boxer will become very excited. If you arrive back calmly, and wait a bit before enthusiastic interaction, your dog will then not associate play and fun with your arrival. They will simply enjoy the attention. Other Dogs This breed generally gets along very well with other dogs and two Boxer dogs together will be partners in crime for life. While an established Boxer should be tested to see how he reacts and tolerates another dog before bringing in an addition to the household, most do remarkably well. This breed can be very friendly with the smallest of toy dogs and the largest of the large. Inside Environment The Boxer is on the top of the medium sized dog breeds. While a dog of any size can live in any sized home, space should be considered before bringing a Boxer home. While this dog can make do with living in a small apartment, having a larger living area is best for the Boxer breed. In general, this breed loves to run around and have room to jump and play, even as an adult. If you have hardly any extra room in your living room, what will happen when your puppy grows into a 60 lb. You will be sharing your couch with this breed and it is best to think ahead to what life will be like with this size dog. If you do have extra room imagine living with one extra human in your house , the Boxer is the right breed for you! But during our walks if another dog is walking towards us, she will get into a crouch down position and will start walking very slowly till they meet. She does this every time. Why does she do that? A: That's actually a great question. Many owners believe this sort of behavior is due to a submissive nature or to show caution. However, your Boxer crouches in that way as a sign of play.It appears that your Boxer is open to having canine playmates and that is a great sign of good socialization skills. Q: My Boxer is just about one year old and to this day he's yet to bark. He makes some noises, so his voice box is working. I don't really need him for protection, but it kind of would have been nice. Should I be concerned? A: It's actually not that uncommon for owners to worry their a Boxer doesn't bark. Many Boxers are better at protecting via their size than their bark. Some are just really laid back and easy-going. If you ever had a pup that was a yapper, you'd know how lucky you are. So, no reason to be concerned at all as long as he's not showing any signs of a health issue. Q: My 2 year old male Boxer hiccups a lot. Is that okay? Should I try and stop it? A: Canines do get hiccups just like humans and most cases are infrequent and short-lived. In cases where it lasts a long time, a dog can start to get frustrated with the diaphragm spasms and if your Boxer does show behavior that he's bothered you can intervene by giving him a spoonful of smooth peanut butter; that usually does the trick. See Also: Begging Behavior - If a Boxer thinks that there is even a slight chance that he can get a tasty tidbit from you, he may never give up in asking for it. Advice for teaching a Boxer to stop begging. Are Boxers Outside Dogs - Boxers love to run around outside; however, they should be supervised and never allowed to spend the day outdoors alone. Boxer doesn't like the Cold - Even good sized dogs like the Boxer can have cold intolerance. Since daily exercise is very important, you'll want to take steps to encourage your puppy or dog to stay outside with you. Jumping Up on People - If your Boxer is way too enthusiastic and leaps up to greet you or guests, this is common; but, there's some effective ways to train your puppy or dog to curb this behavior. Why do Boxers Drool - Some drooling can be expected. How much is normal and how much is considered excessive. Boxer Dog Health Problems Overview All dog breeds are susceptible to certain illness and health conditions. While a Boxer may be susceptible to certain ailments, this does not mean that your dog is doomed to have all of them. We will go over the most common health concerns with this breed and also steps that you can take to keep your Boxer healthy. Acne It is not uncommon for a Boxer to have problems with acne. Most cases will appear when the dog is in the stage of puberty and may pimples may be a chronic issue during this time. If proper care is not taken, it can develop into a more serious health issue of infection. In addition, aside from the aesthetic element, scarring may occur. Read more about Boxer dog Acne. Aortic Stenosis - Heart Condition This is a canine issue that affects the dog's heart. The Boxer breed is more prone to this than some other dog breeds. Mild cases are sometimes not noticed and the dog will live a normal life. However, this is inherited and once passed down to Boxer puppies, those pups may have more severe cases. Therefore, the detection of this Boxer health issue is important. For dogs that do have a severe form of Aortic Stenosis, this can be very serious. More about Aortic Stenosis Arthritis Many of us have heard the words arthritis and osteoarthritis so many times that we begin to think of this as a normal and accepted part of getting older for our dogs. However, even young dogs can have this health issue. While it is true that as a dog ages, the chances of arthritis increases, your dog does not need to live in pain! There are many types of treatment for this and ways for you to make your dog more comfortable. A Boxer dog owner should be aware of the signs, diagnosis methods and treatments for this health issue, to help their Boxer dog live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible. And can be avoided in many cases. If the signs of canine bloat are not noticed and treatment is not given.Bloat can happen to a Boxer dog of any age. Thankfully, the chances of getting this are greatly reduced when an owner understands how to prevent it. While cancer strikes dogs of all breeds, an owner should take time to keep an eye out for early symptoms. As with humans, catching this early greatly increases the odds of survival. Boxers dogs are particularly prone to the development of mast cell tumors, lymphoma and brain tumors. White Boxers, and colored Boxers with white markings should be protected from the sun, as they are vulnerable to develop skin cancer if sunburns occur. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Cardiomyopathy Heart Condition Boxer cardiomyopathy is a very complicated Boxer health condition. Studies are still underway to understand more about this issue. Currently it is known that cardiomyopathy causes the heart of the dog to beat too quickly or unsteadily. This can happen at random intervals and hard to detect unless you know what symptoms to look for. If the uneven beats happen in too great of a sequence, the dog may weaken to the point of unconsciousness, coma or worse. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Degenerative Myelopathy While this is not common, the Boxer is among the top 3 breeds to develop this. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable disease of the spinal cord. It is not painful. However, it is quite serious. It starts with weakness in the rear legs, resulting in paralysis. Then, unfortunately, progresses to the front legs. More about Canine Degenerative Myelopathy with the Boxer Dog Ear Mites This can be quite a problem for dogs, ears mites are extremely contagious and will quickly jump from dog to dog or cat to dog. When a Boxer has ear mites, this can cause quite a bit of discomfort for the dog and you will want recognize the symptoms so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. This can be caused by a wide variety of bacteria, allergies or foreign elements. There is help for all types. Learn about symptoms, treatment and prevention. Cherry Eye, Corneal Dystrophy and Uveitis are some of the most common eye health issues with this dog breed. More about Boxer Dog Eye Diseases and Problems Heartworms Sadly, many owners believe that Heartworms only strike unclean dogs or those that are not loved and taken care of. However, this is a widespread very serious canine disease. Worms from 6 to 14 inches cm long grow and burrow into a dog's heart. They multiply; up to worms can live in a dog's heart and arteries. It is vital for dog owners to understand prevention and treatment. The Boxer dog, among other dog breeds, is prone to this health condition. Passed on genetically, this type of canine disease is progressive — meaning that it will worsen as time goes by. It may cause loss of motor function, loss of coordination and in sadly, in some cases, paralysis. While more common among certain breeds, a dog of any breed may develop this. The Boxer and the Boston Terrier are both prone to this. Both dog breeds do have similar bone structure of their heads and it is also seen among some small breed dogs. With vomiting and bloating occurring, it is important to have this treated. There may be rapid weight loss due to the symptoms. The time span between eating and vomiting is what will distinguish 'regular' vomiting from this stomach disease. While a dog may vomit right after eating when having this health problem, he or she will also vomit up to 24 hour later…when there would usually be no food left in the stomach. With this Boxer dog stomach problem, the vomit will usually contain large pieces of undigested food. It is diagnosed by carefully documenting when the dog eats and when the dog vomits. Barium studies with X-rays may show the narrowed stomach outflow. In mild cases, the vomiting does not happen often and a dog can live a normal life without treatment. In severe cases, treatment must be given right away; if not, the dog can succumb to this canine disease. Surgery may be needed in some cases. Thankfully, the majority of surgeries are very successful. When puppies are born, these are passed on to them from dam to pups. For healthy Boxer dogs, this does not cause any concern and the dog will not have any health issues. A dog will often show strange symptoms such as repeated behavior as if a movie is looping over and over again , drooling, staring into space, confusion, falling down, stiff limbs or unconsciousness. Learn about the different types of canine seizures, the symptoms of each and what to do if this happens. Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. Chances are that you chose her because you like Boxers and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Affectionate, easygoing, and lovable Loves to play games, especially fetch Intelligent, friendly, and easily won over Large, strong, and athletic, with lots of stamina in cooler climates Good with kids and other pets An excellent guard dog, courageous and dependable You may also recognize these characteristics in your Boxer pooch: Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Exhibits signs of separation anxiety if left alone too much Can be gassy and drool a lot Can be independent and strong-willed Needs frequent attention from her family Suspicious of strangers She is a bright and energetic companion that forms close human bonds. With early socialization and consistent leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The modern Boxer was developed in Germany during the 19th century from mastiff type dogs, and was originally used to hunt large game and for fighting or baiting. The Boxer is a high-energy dog with an enthusiastic and animated nature. They are a friendly and high-spirited breed that loves to play with children. Some Boxers can be stubborn, but most are eager and quick to learn. Boxers enjoy close human contact and demand to be the center of attention with their clownish antics. The Boxer is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. Your Boxer's Health We know that because you care so much about your dog , you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Boxer. By knowing about health concerns specific to Boxers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Boxers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Boxers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Boxer looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Boxer is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. In fact, your Boxer's lifespan may even be cut short by one to three years! Infections Boxers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Boxers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Parasites All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Boxer's body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Boxer is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Boxers Heart Disease Boxers are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Boxers are especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Boxer is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Hyperadrenocorticism Cushing's Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Boxer is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications, and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Boxers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including your Boxer. Usually, surgical correction can stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like when playing Frisbee are key in avoiding these painful injuries. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic condition, similar to ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease in people, that causes weakness and poor nerve function in the hind legs. It affects Boxers more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture, and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is an immune system disorder common in Boxers in which the intestinal lining becomes overrun with immune system cells called lymphocytes and plasmacytes. Chronic vomiting or diarrhea is common, or symptoms may flare up suddenly and then improve again for a time. Stress, diet change, or intestinal parasites can make IBD worse. If your friend has diarrhea or digestive upsets that are not explained by more common reasons, diagnostic tests, which may include intestinal biopsy, will be needed. Lifelong medications and special diets are usually required to keep IBD under control. Eye Problems Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, Boxers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Multiple Skin Problems Your Boxer is susceptible to various kinds of skin infections and diseases. One type, Malassezia dermatitis, is caused by a kind of yeast. When this yeast infects the ears, it causes itching, redness, and an accumulation of brown, waxy discharge. On the skin, this yeast leads to greasy, hairless areas, especially on the neck and throat, with a characteristic odor. Another common skin disease called seborrhea can cause dry, flaky skin or greasy, oily skin. Skin diseases make your pet itchy and uncomfortable. Bleeding Disorders There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Boxers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Boxers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Mast Cell Tumor Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Boxers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal, so early detection is critical. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Boxers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Acepromazine Sensitivity Acepromazine is a widely used tranquilizer that is often prescribed as a sedative for travel and anxiety. For many years this drug was considered to have a wide margin of safety, meaning that vets prescribed it readily for traveling pets and for pets with noise phobias. Recently, however, studies have uncovered some dangerous side effects in a few breeds, notably the Boxer. Adverse reactions are still rare, and the drug is very useful for a variety of conditions, but we'll carefully evaluate the need for sedation against the risk of a reaction, and recommend alternative therapies if possible. Respiratory Distress Syndrome Respiratory distress syndrome, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose, like your Boxer. Short-nosed dogs have the same amount of tissue in their noses and throats as longer-nosed dogs, but with less area to contain it. As a consequence, the soft palate at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long and may hang down into the airway. All of these differences can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway such that many of these dogs can barely breathe! Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. With his short nose, your pet is also more likely to develop other problems, such as flatulence from excessive air intake, pneumonia from aspirating food, and heat stroke. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to alleviate airway obstruction. Taking Care of Your Boxer at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Boxer live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She has low grooming needs. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Boxers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She's a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she'll get bored. That's when the naughty stuff starts. She can have a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a sturdy fence is a must. She can be sensitive to temperature extremes; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Boxer needs help. They have incredible immune systems, they possess hyper-athletic physiology, and they have an incredibly high tolerance for discomfort. A boxer is a physical specimen, even by comparison with other dogs. The boxer dog breed is as athletic as dogs get while still being sweet, obedient, and playful read more fun facts about boxer dogs. However, as is the case with most purebred dogs, boxers are prone to certain health problems. Degenerative Myelopathy The first major health issue that most dog owners should be aware of is degenerative myelopathy. This debilitating condition affects the nervous system and lower spinal cord and eventually leads to partial or full paralysis of the lower limbs. These sudden unexplainable bouts of clumsiness will be few and far between to begin, but any sign of paralysis in the hind legs should serve as a warning sign. Unfortunately, there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, as it is a debilitating nerve disease with irreversible effects. Even still, rapid action and treatment is a necessity for keeping your Boxer as healthy and happy as possible. Things like canine wheelchairs, kinesiology tape, and certain kinds of prescribed medicines from the vet can help your Boxer pet lead a life that is as close to normal as possible. If you notice any regular bouts of clumsiness or temporary paralysis in the hind legs, it is imperative that you take your Boxer in to be checked for degenerative myelopathy. If you fear your Boxer may be suffering from this disease, your veterinarian will be able to help with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxer Cardiomyopathy is a canine heart condition that is more prevalent in the boxer dog breed than any other breed of dog. While other dogs are just as susceptible to developing this kind of heart condition, due to their genetic makeup boxers are at high risk for this disease. Characterized by an irregular heartbeat and fainting spells, boxers affected by cardiomyopathy are often at high risk of sudden heart failure. Most boxers who suffer from Boxer Cardiomyopathy begin to show symptoms of the disease at two years of age or earlier. Complications can arise as a result of waiting, so it is always a best practice to consult your Vet as soon as you notice any health problems in your dog. Symptoms like heavy wheezing not during exercise , fainting, coughing, and an irregular heartbeat could all be indications that your Boxer is suffering from Boxer Cardiomyopathy. Take preventative action and visit your Vet for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan. Bloat is a more common name for a condition called gastric dilation, wherein the gastrointestinal system swells, preventing digestion of food and passage of stool. The most common cause of Bloat is simply overeating, which Boxers are prone to do. The result of excess food combined with excess stomach acid is rapid inflammation and Bloat. In some severe cases, Bloat can require surgery. Bloat can cause the stomach muscles to twist on themselves, which prevents blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If this goes without treatment, it could be catastrophic for your Boxer. Even in more mild cases of Bloat, uncomfortable methods of extraction are often employed. The best treatment for Bloat is to avoid it altogether, and Bloat can easily be managed by you as an owner. Simply control how much you are feeding your Boxer, and be sure to avoid overeating. Most Boxers are susceptible to massive appetites, and they require large amounts of caloric intake daily. Hip Dysplasia As a superior athletic specimen, mobility is key for your Boxer. Hip dysplasia is one of the biggest long term threats for the health and well being of the Boxer dog breed. This degenerative joint condition is a genetic malformation wherein the hip joint does not properly fit into the hip socket. The discord between joint and socket creates a painful sensation wherein your Boxer is limited in his mobility. Activities like walking become a chore, while fun activities like running and jumping become downright impossible. However, hip dysplasia becomes more of a risk the older your dog gets. If left untreated Hip dysplasia can lead to other joint conditions like lameness and arthritis. Typically, hip dysplasia is treated with a long term medication plan to control inflammation and pain. If your Boxer is severely limited in his mobility, you may be interested in looking into canine physical therapy, which can help your dog in their pursuit to learn new ways of moving. Seizures Seizures may be one of the most frightening medical episodes to watch your Boxer endure, but they are an unfortunate reality for boxer owners. The same thing that makes your Boxer a lovable bundle of renewable energy is the very cause of potential seizures, their brain. Most commonly, and especially in boxers, these types of seizures are brought on by Idiopathic Epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy refers to a single or series of epileptic episodes that have no apparent cause. These epileptic fits stem from some unknown genetic malformation of the brain, and this type of epilepsy is found in large dogs and boxers. Additionally, Boxers, especially those with heart conditions, are susceptible to seizures because of their increased energy levels. While it may be scary, seizures are treatable, both in the moment and long term. In the moment, it is important to remain calm and allow your dog to seize. Your instinct will be to restrain your dog, but this action could cause more harm than good. Once the seizing has subsided, take your dog to your Vet immediately. Seizing could be a side effect of some greater health risk, so it is always imperative that your dog is taken in for analysis after an epileptic event. There are medications and treatment plans that can help your Boxer cope with seizures and epileptic events. General Health The best way to keep your Boxer healthy and happy is with a good diet and lots of exercise. Your Boxer is full of natural energy, and his excitement to run and play will likely outlast your enthusiasm and energy levels. Nonetheless, it is imperative that you are constantly engaging with your Boxer. Boxers are one of the most demanding breeds, not just as a result of how much energy they have, but how much energy they require in return. Even in spite of some of the health problems listed above, your Boxer will still have more energy and desire to be active than many other breeds. Boxers require a calorie-rich diet of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to match their high metabolism. They were bred from a German hunting dog that was crossbred with English bulldogs. Boxers are well-loved, high-energy family dogs that are sweet with children and vigilant guards of the family home. Some of the conditions that afflict Boxers have a genetic basis, and are more likely to happen to Boxers than to dogs of other breeds. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions, and when possible, avoid breeding dogs with those traits. But these conditions can still happen. Boxers are more likely to develop health problems such as heart problems, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, and ulcerative colitis than other dogs. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxers are more likely to develop a specific heart condition than other dogs. The condition, Boxer cardiomyopathy , is actually named after the breed, though other dogs can develop it. The most common sign a dog has Boxer cardiomyopathy is if it has trouble breathing. Your dog might cough or wheeze frequently. Your dog might start panting during walks or playtime. If you think your dog might have Boxer cardiomyopathy, you should avoid exercise until the dog can be examined by its veterinarian. Eventually the weakness will be more apparent, with loss of bowel and urinary control. The dog might struggle to get up because the disease also causes muscle atrophy. Boxers with degenerative myelopathy can become paralyzed by the disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. But if your Boxer has the disease, there are a few things you can do to help them suffer less. Kinesiology tape has been used successfully to help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. A dog that spends lots of time lying down is at risk of bedsores. Boxers that become partially paralyzed by degenerative myelopathy are candidates for wheelchairs. Dog wheelchairs can help to slow down the progression of degenerative myelopathy by removing stress on the joints and allowing more mobility and exercise. Both stress and lack of exercise can contribute greatly to the progression of the disease. Boxers with Bloat Bloat, or gastric dilation , is another health risk that boxers are more likely to suffer from than other dogs. Bloat is a potentially fatal stomach condition that is common in large dogs with deep chests, like boxers and shepherds. Bloat is caused by unhealthy eating habits: if a Boxer eats one large meal a day, or eats too quickly, they run the risk of bloat. If you notice your dog likes to scarf its food, you can give it smaller meals throughout the day. Also, make sure your Boxer does not run around or get over-excited within an hour or two of meals. Panting can cause a dog to swallow air, further expanding the stomach and contributing to bloat. Bloat can sometimes result in Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus. In GDV, the over-filled stomach twists around, cinching the ends closed. This is a true emergency, requiring immediate surgery. Nothing can escape from the twisted stomach, and the blood supply to the stomach and spleen is compromised. In a few hours, the dog can die from loss of blood supply to the stomach as well as physiologic shock. Ulcerative Colitis in Boxers Many Boxers also develop ulcerative colitis. In fact, non-Boxer dogs rarely develop the condition, which may have a genetic basis. Ulcerative colitis is another digestive system problem; dogs with the disease develop ulcers in their intestines. Boxers with the disease will have trouble absorbing water and have diarrhea or loose stool , and might lose weight as a result. Puppies one year old or younger most often develop the disease. Your vet will treat your Boxer by prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. In some cases, your vet may recommend a change in diet. And remember—if your dog has any of these health problems, they should be treated by a veterinarian.

They represent a fascinating gene pool. AKC allows many colors. The French also come in rare colors such as blue, lilac and Isabella. However, the main topic is their eyes, it is really amazing how specific this breed is, especially when it comes to eye color. So let's find out more about the famous blue eyes of French bulldogs. Lately, we could notice there is growing popularity of buying rare colored French bulldogs. Besides, they have unique colors of fur, they also have blue eyes. Blue eyes French bulldogs are rare, but not impossible to find due to the genes that are present in them. The presence of S-locus and M-locus gene gives rise to a wide variety of eye colors in blue French bulldogs. In most cases, it will not, unfortunately, although everyone would like it. However, an exception may occur. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. As they go through a gradual growth process over the next few weeks, you may see different shades in your puppy's eyes; shades of blue, green-gray to brown, which is their standard eye color. But don't be upset because it is natural and common at this tender age of 10 weeks. The standard brown eye color will soon materialize, without you having to worry about it at all. It is not uncommon for them to have light pink skin around their eyes and mouth. Our advice is to protect them with some sunscreen. Corneal dystrophy can also be one of the problems, which can be hereditary. Therefore, the French Bulldog would have vision problems, you will notice a change in color to a dull blue look. Nuclear sclerosis, occurs mostly in dogs over 5 years of age. It may not be painful for your dog, but it can lead to a change in his vision. Our advice is to contact a veterinarian immediately. Also the French Bulldog may have problems with Heterochromia. There are two types of heterochromia- congenital and acquired. As we have already said, our advice is to contact your veterinarian immediately, so that your dog can get the right treatment and get rid of some of the problems if possible, because usually, veterinarians do not want to "touch" if it is not painful for the dog, which is the case in most cases. Please assume all such links are affiliate links which may result in my earning commissions and fees. This will not incur additional cost to you. French Bulldogs have some of the most adorable eyes in the world of dogs. There are some French Bulldog puppies with amazing blue eyes. If you have a puppy with this striking blue and you are wondering if your Frenchie would lose its blue eyes, the answer is, Yes! Your French would lose those dazzling blue eyes as they grow. Many people are attracted to this cute breed of dog because of its physical appearance and its gorgeous glittering eyes. So if you are an admirer of French Bulldog puppies because of those large cute blue eyes, here are some of the things you should know. Most dog lovers fall in love with certain breeds of dogs because of certain unique physical features such breeds possess. For instance, many dog lovers fall in love with the German Shepherd because of its fur. Some people love the bulkiness of the South African Boerboel, the physique of the Doberman, the muscularity of the American Pit, among others. The eye color of the French Bulldog might also influence your decision on getting this breed of dog. When you set your gaze upon the piercing eyes of a French Bulldog pup, you cannot help but fall in love with this breed. Brown and black eyes are the most common type of eyes among Frenchies. There are also French Bulldogs with green or grayish eyes; however, you might also come across French Bulldogs with dazzling blue eyes. The blue eyes are one of the stunning looks which attract many dog lovers to the French Bulldog even though there are many misconceptions about the nature of the blue pigment present in the eyes of the French Bulldog. If you are an owner or an admirer of this breed, you might be wondering how the French Bulldog got its blue eyes. In this article, there would be an in-depth discussion on the eyes of your French Bulldog puppy. At birth, the eyes of a Frenchie can either be black or blue. Therefore, you should not mistake the fact that your puppy has blue eyes as a sign of an eye defect. Your French Bulldog might have blue eyes depending on the recessive gene it carries. This genetic development can also result in your Frenchie having one eye color as brown while the other will be blue. This has nothing to do with an eye infection, and you should not, as a result of this genetic formation, discard your puppy. If your Frenchie has a historical background of blue eyes, there is no course to fret when your puppy also inherits such genes from either of the parents. If you have got a French bulldog because of your affection for the dazzling blue eyes, I am sorry to break it to you that the blue eyes of your pup might not stay blue forever. Once a Frenchie is around ten weeks old, the color of its eye begins to change. The changes, depending on your dog, might take different phases. At first, you would notice the dark blue eyes fading away into shades of blue and then into dim grey, finally into the regular brown eyes. Although, under a special light, you might still notice the blue color of the eyes, although it is not as dominant as when it was between 1 week and nine weeks old. It is common among Frenchies to change their blue eyes as they age to complete brown. However, this might not be the case with the blue fawn French Bulldog. The blue fawn French Bulldog is a rare breed of Frenchie with a mixed genetic setup. This accounts for its unique coat color and its eyes color. Unlike the common French Bulldog breeds, the blue fawn Frenchie keeps its blue eyes color even in adulthood. Most times, when you notice an adult Frenchie with blue eyes, it does not mean such a dog is suffering from an infection. It might simply mean that such French Bulldog is one of the rare breeds of the blue fawn French Bulldog. How To Get French Bulldog With Blue Eyes If you intend to get a Frenchie with blue eyes and you are not interested in getting an adult Frenchie, you might need to get in touch with your vet. Another reason you need an expert to assist you when getting a Frenchie with a blue eye is that the blue coloration in the eyes might result from an eye defect. You do not want to get a French Bulldog with an eye defect that might hamper the health of your puppy. Hence, it would be best if you had the assistance of an expert veterinary doctor. Your vet will help you carry out the necessary checks and medical examinations. It is advisable that if you are not sure of the bloodline of a blue-eyed French Bulldog, you should avoid such blue-eyed Frenchie. It is best that you take the necessary precaution whenever you intend to get a blue-eyed Frenchie. You should know that the blue-eyed Frenchie might also be at risk of various health conditions, which you should also consider when getting your Blue-eyes Frenchie. Health Issues of Blue-Eyed French Bulldogs Frenchies with blue eyes are quite adorable because of their dazzling blue eyes. However, it is quite hard to believe that their beauty is also their major flaw. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs are believed to be at risk of several health complications, and this is due to the genetic formation of this breed of Frenchie. Here are some of the health conditions which your blue-eyed Frenchie might develop; 1. Eye Problems A blue-eyed Frenchie is more prone to having severe eye problems at certain stages in its life, and if not properly managed, it might lead to blindness. This dent in the beauty of the blue-eyed Frenchie is due to the presence of the Merle gene, which is recessive in the blue-eyed French Bulldog. Some of the eyes related problems that are common with the blue eyes Frenchie includes; Juvenile cataracts: This eye problem is common among French Bulldog puppies. A juvenile cataract is hereditary, and this is why it is vital that you know the history of the prospective blue-eye Frenchie you intend to get. Entropion: This is another common eye-related problem that affects the eyelids of dogs, especially the blue-eyed Frenchies. The infection will irritate the eyes of the puppy and might ultimately lead to blindness if not properly managed. Cherry eye: This usually occurs due to swelling on the third eyelid of a dog. This infection is common among blue-eyed Frenchies. This eye problem can be cured by surgery. Other eye problems common among French Bulldogs with blue eyes include glaucoma, nuclear sclerosis, and anterior uveitis. Deafness Frenchies with blue eyes are known to suffer hearing loss at certain stages in their life; this is due to the lack of melanocytes, the melanin responsible for producing the cells in the ear region. When you get a blue-eyed Frenchies puppy, you need to carry out a test on it before six weeks old. The purpose of this test is to detect if your puppy is impaired in its hearing. If your puppy has lost her hearing and has become completely deaf, you will need the help of an expert to teach you how to communicate with your deaf puppy. It is also advisable that you get a dog tag for deaf dogs as this will be handy in social gatherings. These are the two common health problems that French Bulldogs with the unique blue eye might suffer from as they develop. However, in a situation where your French Bulldog has brown or black eyes and starts developing blue eyes, you need to have an urgent appointment with your vet. Sudden blue eyes development in your French Bulldog that initially has brown eyes might be a signal of an infection in your dog. To inform your choice of either buying the standard French Bulldog or going for the blue-eyed Frenchie, you need to know certain differences between them. Frenchies with brown eyes are healthier and physically sound; they are more agile and active. French bulldogs with brown eyes are more smart, alert, and cheerful, while blue-eyed Frenchies might lack these qualities. Final thoughts Finally, a Frenchie with blue eyes might lose its blue eyes if neither of its parents has the blue eyes gene. So if your French Bulldog has blue eyes, it will be best if you take adequate care of it, do not skip your appointment with your vet. Disclaimer : FrenchieBuddy. So, can French Bulldogs have blue eyes? Could it be that the S-locus and M-locus genes are the secret behind those beguiling blue eyes in some French Bulldogs? The answer to this question is a resounding yes. These genes indeed play a pivotal role in determining the eye color of these adorable canines. However, its influence extends beyond just the coat. When the S-locus gene is dominant, it can lead to lighter eye colors, including blue. This dilution can also affect the pigmentation in the eyes, resulting in blue or partially blue eyes. The genetic makeup of dogs is a complex tapestry woven from numerous threads, and the blue eyes in some French Bulldogs are just one intriguing pattern in this grand design. While the blue eyes in French Bulldogs are indeed a charming trait, they can sometimes be associated with certain health issues. For instance, dogs with the merle gene can be more prone to deafness and vision problems. People are willing to pay a premium for that touch of magic. Their unique charm and rarity have made them highly sought after in the canine world, often leading to a significant increase in their market value. The appeal of blue-eyed French Bulldogs is multifaceted. First and foremost, their striking blue eyes set them apart from the crowd. This unique feature, contrasting with their typically dark coat, creates an enchanting aesthetic that is hard to resist. In addition to their physical allure, the personality traits of French Bulldogs further enhance their appeal. Known for their friendly and affectionate nature, these dogs are excellent companions. Their playful demeanor and love for human interaction make them a favorite among families and individuals alike. The rarity of blue-eyed French Bulldogs also contributes to their high market value. The genetic factors leading to blue eyes are not common, making these dogs a rarity. This scarcity, combined with their unique appeal, often results in these dogs being priced higher than their brown-eyed counterparts. As mentioned earlier, the genes responsible for blue eyes can sometimes be associated with health issues. This gene is known to cause a dilution of pigmentation, which can affect not only the coat and eye color but also the internal structures of the ear and eye. As a result, dogs with the Merle gene, like Max, can be more prone to health issues such as deafness and vision problems. Deafness in dogs can be challenging to detect, especially in puppies. Signs may include a lack of response to noise, difficulty waking up, or excessive barking. Vision problems are another concern for dogs with the Merle gene. These can range from minor issues, such as increased sensitivity to light, to more serious conditions like cataracts or even blindness. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect any vision problems early and provide appropriate treatment. In addition to these, French Bulldogs, in general, are prone to certain breed-specific health issues. These include brachycephalic syndrome due to their short noses, hip dysplasia, and certain skin conditions. Owners of French Bulldogs, regardless of eye color, should be aware of these potential health concerns. For French Bulldogs, particularly those with the rare blue eyes, genetic testing can be especially beneficial. Genetic testing can help identify the presence of specific genes, such as the Merle or S-locus genes, which are known to influence eye color in French Bulldogs. For instance, the Merle gene has been linked to increased susceptibility to deafness and vision problems. By identifying the presence of these genes, genetic testing can provide potential breeders and owners with crucial information. This can guide decisions about breeding, help prepare for potential health issues, and inform appropriate care strategies. For example, if a French Bulldog is found to carry the Merle gene, owners can be proactive about scheduling regular hearing and vision check-ups. Genetic testing for dogs is typically conducted using a simple cheek swab or blood sample, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The process is non-invasive and painless for the dog. Results are usually available within a few weeks and should be discussed with a veterinarian to fully understand the implications. For potential breeders, genetic testing is particularly important. It can help ensure that breeding pairs are genetically compatible and that they are not likely to produce puppies with an increased risk of health problems. This is a crucial part of responsible breeding practices and can help maintain the overall health and wellbeing of the French Bulldog breed. From Puppy to Adult: Understanding Eye Color Changes in French Bulldogs As French Bulldogs transition from puppyhood to adulthood, their eye color often changes, usually around the age of 10 to 16 weeks. As the puppy grows and melanin production increases, the eyes gradually darken. By the time a French Bulldog reaches adulthood, their eyes will have settled into their permanent color, which is typically a shade of brown. This is usually the result of genetic factors, specifically the presence of the Merle or S-locus genes, as discussed earlier. This article will dive into everything you need to know about the rare blue-eyed Frenchie. Blue Eyes in French Bulldogs are commonly seen in merle or piebald dogs. This is because the genes coding for the amount and type of pigment produced will similarly affect the coloring of the coat and the iris in dogs. Blue-eyed dogs also have a higher incidence of being deaf. This blue-eyed double or extreme merle French Bulldog puppy has a higher likelihood of suffering from deafness, vision problems, infertility, and has an increased chance of suffering from skin cancer during her lifetime. Luckily this is not true for all blue-eyed French Bulldogs. In this article, we explain why this is the case. What Causes Eyes to Be Blue? When we talk about eye color, we usually refer to the color of the iris. The pupil is the part of the eye surrounded by the iris. The pupil is always black and expands and contracts in response to the intensity of light the eye is exposed to. The color of the iris in French Bulldogs is a direct result of the amount and type of pigment called melanin present. The pigment-producing cells melanocytes produce two different types of melanin, namely eumelanin, and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is dark brown or black, and pheomelanin is red or yellow. The amount and type of melanin determine the color of skin, hair, and eyes. In brown eyes, which are the most common eye color in French Bulldogs, the iris contains a large amount of eumelanin. Hazel eyes common in color dilute Frenchie coats such as blue have pheomelanin predominantly with some eumelanin, and blue eyes contain practically no melanin. Coat Color And Eye Color The genes for coat color are usually responsible for the amount of melanin in most body parts, including the eyes. This is why specific coat colors are closely associated with eye color. The amount and distribution of melanin in the iris can also be patchy and differ within patches in a single iris and between the irises of both eyes, similar to what we may see in certain coat patterns. Blue eyes are more prevalent in coat colors that code for decreased melanin production, such as piebald and extreme piebald. The merle coat color is also often associated with blue eyes, and merle Frenchies will often have either one blue eye or patches of blue in their eyes this is called heterochromatic eyes- see below. The two colors can occur in a single iris or differ between the eyes. This is the most common type of blue eyes in French Bulldogs. In this merle French Bulldog pup, both eyes have patches of blue in the iris. This is called heterochromia. Dogs with heterochromia may have one solid blue eye and one brown eye or specs of blue in one or both eyes. Blue Eyes Caused By Eye Conditions Eye conditions that cause corneal edema will cause a blueish-grey discoloration of the outer transparent layer of the eye. This is never normal, and you need to have your dog checked out by a vet to find the cause of discoloration as soon as possible, as some of the causes of corneal edema can cause irreversible blindness. Corneal edema can be a sign of eye conditions, including glaucoma, ulcers, canine hepatitis virus, and certain eye infections. Other eye conditions that may cause eyes to appear blue include certain eye tumors, advanced cataracts, and certain blood lipid abnormalities. As a general rule, if you notice a sudden change of eye color in your French Bulldog, you need to have it checked out by a vet. Most but not all puppies will have dark blue eyes when they first open their eyes at days old. However, their eye color will often change at around four weeks old. So, the dark blue eyes we see in very young puppies will usually change as they age and may continue to change until six months. There is a very high correlation between the genes for blue eyes and congenital sensorineural deafness in dogs. This is due to the genes coding for less pigment in the coat color, i. This deafness often only affects one ear and is often missed unless a BEAR test is done after the puppy turns five weeks old. It is considered unethical to breed deaf animals due to many behavioral problems such as anxiety and aggression associated with deafness. To read more on deafness in french bulldogs, please have a look at this article. Although blue eyes are more light-sensitive, and there seems to be an association between early decline in vision and eye color in humans, the vision of French Bulldogs with blue eyes does not differ from the vision of French Bulldogs with brown eyes. Blue eyes, however, are more light-sensitive than dark eyes. Similar to how the amount of pigment differed in different parts of the skin and coat of dogs, the same can happen in the amount of pigment in the iris. We often see a similar random pattern of the amount of type of pigment in the fur and the iris. Apart from a higher incidence of hearing disability in blue-eyed Frenchies, certain health conditions such as sterility and microphthalmos abnormally small eyes have been associated with blue-eyed Frenchies especially merle and double merle coat colors. In addition, melanin plays an essential part in protecting cells from damage by UV radiation i. Therefore, reduced melanin in and around the eyes is linked to a higher cancer incidence in most animal species. There is no association between eye color and gender in dogs. Blue eyes, although rare, are equally prevalent among male and female French Bulldogs. The genes for blue eyes are not sex-linked. If you are interested in learning more about the health-related differences between male and Female French Bulldogs, have a look at my article on whether male or female French Bulldogs are healthier. There is no difference in the intelligence of French Bulldogs with blue eyes versus French Bulldogs with brown or hazel eyes. It is a common preconception that dogs with blue eyes are more intelligent. This stems from the fact that certain dog breeds, such as Huskies, who have been bred to be trainable have blue eyes. Blue eyes are a rare and unique feature in French Bulldogs. Breeders may charge more for puppies with blue eyes due to the rarity of the trait and the high demand for blue-eyed Frenchies. Blue eyes are a recessive genetic trait meaning both the mom and dad need to carry the gene for blue eyes for it to be expressed in a small percentage of offspring. Since there are multiple genes on multiple different chromosomes coding for eye color, it can be difficult to predictably breed for blue eyes without compromising other aspects of ethical breeding. A good example of this is the correlation between blue eyes and deafness mentioned above. You can also read more on genes and congenital deafness in this article. Conclusion Blue eyes are closely associated with deafness in French Bulldogs. Often this can be avoided through responsible breeding. Unfortunately, the small and shrinking French Bulldog gene pool is riddled with genetic faults causing these poor dogs to have a poor quality of life. French bulldogs have been described as the least healthy dog breed in multiple dog health and longevity studies. In my opinion as a vet, rather adopt a non-brachycephalic dog breed and avoid getting a French Bulldog. Not only will you save thousands on vet bills, but your pup will have a much happier, healthier, and longer life! In which case, you might find the following article interesting:. Pin2 8 Shares Last week we had we had a Frenchie puppy come over to play with our own Frenchie, Claude. She is a week old French Bulldog puppy with the bluest of eyes. They are stunningly beautiful as you can see in the photos lower down the page. I remarked to her owner how blue the eyes were and asked whether they would change color at all. Do French Bulldogs eyes change color? Yes, Frenchie eyes do change color. When they are born, their eyes will initially be blue. Around 10 weeks, their eyes will then start to change color to brown. The exception to the rule is Blue Fawn Frenchies who can have blue or green eyes in adulthood. You can see a still I took from an old video of Claude below. This photo shows how blue his eyes were when he was younger. Regular readers of French Bulldog Owner will know they are now very much brown! French Bulldog blue eyes: Our Frenchie Claude had blue eyes as a puppy which eventually changed color to brown. Are French Bulldogs born with blue eyes? So, what can you expect with your own Frenchie? Well, all French Bulldog puppies are born with blue eyes. They will either be completely blue, or slightly different shades including grey, green, and brown flecks. At about 10 weeks old, the Frenchie eyes will start to change color. It will be a gradual process, and most will go through some shades of blue, green-grey, and then to the standard brown color. In this shot they look more of a grey-green color which means they are going through the change to brown. However, in certain lights they do still appear to be very blue. In most cases they will eventually turn completely brown. However, there is an exception to this rule; blue fawn French Bulldogs. This particular breed of Frenchie is very rare, being renowned for their colorings. They have a dilute gene which accounts for their coat color as well as their eyes. Some blue Frenchies will keep the blue eye gene more than other dogs. What color are French Bulldog eyes? What color eyes do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldogs have brown eyes as adults but will be born with blueish eye color. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. Why do French Bulldogs have blue eyes? There are certain eye diseases, some which are more serious than others, including: Anterior uveitis: this is a painful condition due to an inflammation inside the eye. Signs include your dog squinting, scratching, redness, discharge, or a change in color to a cloudy appearance. It can be treated, but in some very rare cases the eye will to be surgically removed. Cataracts: these can be caused by diabetes, eye damage, pests, or diet. They can be inherited, can come on quickly, or be a slow to appear. However, what you will notice is that the eyes will have changed color to a blue cloudy appearance. If not treated, cataracts can lead to blindness. You will notice a change in color to a cloudy blue appearance. You might be able to spot it early if you see a change in color to cloudy blue. There are different treatments available which will reduce the pressure, with the possibility with a complete eye removal. Nuclear sclerosis: this tends to occur in dogs once they reach the age of six. As with the other diseases listed here, it can be noticed first when the eyes change color to a cloudy blue appearance. As an age-related disease, your vet might decide not to treat it. Read this guide to health issues and what to look out for. Why are my French Bulldogs eyes red? This is something you should also look out for, as it can be a sign of a health problem. Red eyes in a Frenchie could be:. If the default eye color for most dogs is brown, why do French Bulldogs get blue eyes? However, genetics is the number one cause of blue-eyed French Bulldogs. If a Frenchie has a long history of blue eyes, they are likely to develop blue eyes. Here are the three main reasons Frenchies are likely to get blue eyes. This gene is responsible for random pigment dilution lightening of the nose, eyes, and fur. French Bulldogs without this genetic mutation are more likely to develop brown eyes. Melanin Levels Melanin levels can influence the eye color of French Bulldogs. Generally, dogs with higher melanin levels in their iris tend to have brown eyes. Conversely, a lower concentration of melanin results in lighter eye colors in dogs. Genetically, blue eyes in dogs do not mean more health issues. It is possible to have a perfectly healthy blue-eyed Frenchie. However, it is important to note that blue-eyed Frenchies may have an increased likelihood of significant health risks compared to brown-eyed Pit Bulls. Deafness Deafness, or hearing loss, is common in French Bulldogs with blue eyes. This health issue is present in certain dog breeds that carry the Merle and Piebald genes. Congenital deafness is linked to the merle gene, while the Piebald gene is responsible for spotted or multicolored coats on dogs. So, if your French Bulldog pup has blue eyes due to the merle gene or has a spotted color coat piebald gene , he may be at a higher risk of hearing loss. Affected Frenchies are at greater risk of injury, for instance, in road traffic accidents. You can rule out congenital deafness by conducting a BAER test in Frenchie puppies as young as six weeks old. Additionally, consider acquiring a collar specifically designed for deaf dogs and ensure your dog has an identification tag to promote awareness and safety for everyone in their vicinity. Blindness French Bulldogs with blue eyes may potentially develop vision defects. The presence of blue eyes in Pit Bulls can indicate that your pet carries the Merle gene, which is a dominant gene. However, it is essential to note that not all blue-eyed French Bulldogs will inevitably become blind. The likelihood of eye defects such as blindness is higher if both parents carry the Merle gene and pass it on to their offspring. This test can help identify whether your Frenchie carries the gene s for blue eyes, other genetic disorders, or complications. Given the susceptibility of eye problems in Frenchies, supplementing their diet with eye dog supplements like Zesty Paws eye supplement and using dog eye drops to provide long-lasting corneal protection and hydration can be beneficial. Lastly, French Bulldogs are prone to thickening and hardening skin on the nose, also known as nasal hyperkeratosis. Using a dog nose butter can bring relief or prevent it. Because Frenchies are susceptible to many health issues, we advise looking into pet insurance for French Bulldogs. While brown eyes in dogs derive their color from melanin, dogs with blue eyes have colorless irises that lack any pigment. The coloration of blue eyes is achieved through a similar mechanism as the blue color of water and the sky. This occurs because all the light entering the eyes of a French Bulldog is scattered back into the atmosphere, creating the optical illusion of a blue appearance. The mutation of the ALX4 gene in dogs with blue eyes seems to decrease pigment production in the eye. The lack of pigment causes the eye to appear blue. In general, the French Bulldog resembles a Bulldog in miniature, with a stocky and muscular appearance. Frenchies look active and intelligent, with a smooth coat and medium or small body structure. Males can grow between 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh 20 to 28 pounds. Female Frenchies have about the same measurements. A large and square head, with heavy wrinkles rolled above the extremely short nose, are common physical traits among French Bulldogs. They seem alert, curious, and interested at all times. Eye Color Characteristics According to the United Kennel Club breed standard for French Bulldogs, eyes in Frenchies should be dark in color, wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. In lighter-colored dogs, lighter-colored eyes are acceptable. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. Anything outside this description, including blue eyes, is considered a serious fault and not a standard. On the other hand, solid coat colors are determined by the levels of melanin. This alteration prevents the cells from producing a full-strength black pigment, resulting in various coat color shades ranging from gray, brown, tan, and everything in between. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs with brown, black, grey, and silver coat colors are probably the most difficult and rarest of all blue-eyed Frenchies. Because the melanin levels are full-on black or closer to the black pigmentation. Also, the Merle gene is less likely to be present among these color coats. Their brown eyes are due to high levels of melanin and the possible absence of the merle gene. These colors range from dark brown to light hazel, which may look greenish. You may find Frenchies with darker blue eyes, while others may have lighter blue eye coloration. The main reason for blue eyes in Frenchies can be found in M-locus and S-locus genes. Their dark eyes are due to high levels of melanin. A post shared by Zootopia Pet Sitter zootopia. As they grow, melanin increases, typically darkening their eyes. Some genetically retain blue eyes. Can French Bulldogs have Blue Eyes? Do French Bulldogs have Blue Eyes? French Bulldogs that have blue eyes into adulthood would likely have the Merle gene or, in rare cases, albinism. Do French Bulldogs Eyes stay Blue? Do French Bulldogs keep their Blue Eyes? Frenchies Blue Eyes normally would not stay blue into adulthood. Most Frenchies with Blue Eyes will start to have brown eyes as they grow older unless they carry the merle gene. Not all Blue French Bulldogs will have blue eyes as adults, but it is not uncommon for them to be a French Blue Eyed Bulldog when they grow old, with some having a bluish-green tint. How long do French Bulldogs Eyes stay Blue? Most French Bulldogs will have blue eyes until they are around 10 weeks old. Blue Eyed French Bulldog Yes and no. Blue-Eyed French Bulldog actually do not have blue eyes since their eyes do not have any pigmentation. It is just an optical illusion that makes it appear blue. On the one hand, yes, because some of them are carriers of the merle gene that can cause blue eyes. The French Bulldog Blue Eye glow meaning behind this phenomenon is because they have a light-reflecting surface between the optic nerve and the retina called the tapetum lucidum. It works like a mirror, wherein light gets reflected inside the eyes for them to easily see in the dark. French Bulldog Blue Eye glow, or red glow in some mammals, is an evolutionarily adaptive trait that allows them to be better hunters at night. Are French Bulldogs color blind? No, French Bulldogs are not color blind, but their eyes, just like most dog breeds, can only detect certain colors, such as, blue, yellow, and shades of gray. This is because they only have two color cone cells in the retina — yellow and blue, unlike us humans who have red, blue, and yellow color cone cells. Will Blue Eyed French Bulldog puppy change his eye color as he matures? Yes, Blue Eyed French Bulldog puppies will change eye color as they grow older. Typically, Frenchie puppy Blue Eyes only occurs in their first 10 to 12 weeks. French Bulldog puppy with Blue Eyes will eventually have brown eyes as they mature. This is due to increased melanin levels that a French Bulldog Blue Eyes puppy will eventually have brown or black eyes. On the one hand, the reason why a French Bulldog puppy Blue Eyes does not change is due to genetics. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Blue Eyed Frenchie genetics There are three 3 main genes that give some French Bulldogs their blue eyes. The first is the merle gene, or M-locus, which causes dilution of pigments in the eyes, nose, and fur. Second is if they carry the S-locus gene or the white spotting piebald gene that regulates pigmentation. This gene disrupts pigment production which makes some areas of the coat turn white or pink. There is no direct correlation between gender and blue eyes. The merle gene is the main reason why some Frenchies have blue eyes and the male and female percentage of this occurring is almost the same. What type of Frenchies commonly have Blue Eyes? There are four 4 types of French Bulldogs that have blue eyes. Puppy French Bulldog — All Frenchies are born with blue eyes, but they eventually turn into brown when their melanin production increases. Merle-gene carriers — This gene causes pigment dilution in the eyes. S-locus gene carriers — Carriers of this gene disrupt pigment production in some areas of the body. Albino French Bulldogs — A very rare condition wherein there is totally no pigment production in the body. Frenchie with Blue Eyes physical appearance Frenchie with Blue Eyes shares the same physical traits as most Frenchies. They are small domesticated dogs with heavy-boned and muscular body structures. The head is large and square-shaped with a deep, laid back muzzle. Eyes are round and the ears bat-shaped. Tail is short that can be straight or screwed. French Bulldog with one Blue Eye and one different colored eye: Is this rare? Some Blue Eye Frenchie will have a condition called heterochromia, where the two eyes are differently colored. This is considered rare, but does not pose a health risk to the Frenchie. However, if the color in either of the eyes changes from brown to blue when they are adults, it may be a sign that there is something wrong with their health. Various French Bulldogs with Blue Eyes French Bulldogs with Blue Eyes come in different colors, especially those that have a merle or piebald coat pattern. This is because Gray French Bulldog with Blue Eyes inherited genes from both its parents that have the recessive dilution gene. French Bulldog Gray with Blue Eyes has solid color throughout their coat with no markings. Grey French Bulldog with Blue Eyes usually has health issues upon maturing. This is because producing a Blue Eyed Gray French Bulldog is relatively difficult that requires two 2 copies of the dilution gene. Breeders also do not deliberately breed Blue Eyed Grey French Bulldog since they are prone to a host of health issues. French Bulldog White Blue Eyes also has dilution in their muzzle giving it a grayish-pink hue. Grey and white French Bulldog with Blue Eyes The coat of a Grey and white French Bulldog with Blue Eyes is predominantly white with gray piebald spotting on the face, back, shoulders, and rear end. Blue Eyed merle French Bulldog French Bulldog merle Blue Eyes has a light-colored body coat with irregular splotches of a darker color throughout the body. It is also possible to have a Merle French Bulldog with one Blue Eye, a condition called heterochromia. However, merle French Bulldog Blue Eyes can compete in other competitions, like agility and obedience courses. French Bulldog Black Blue Eyes can have white markings on the chest, face, and body. French Bulldog Black with Blue Eyes is rare and not a recognized standard color. Black Blue Eyed French Bulldog carries two 2 copies of the recessive solid black genes from both parents. Black French Bulldog puppy with Blue Eyes can either have dark brown or sapphire blue eyes as an adult. There is dilution in the noses and paw pads of a Lilac French Bulldog Blue eyes that appear brownish-pink. Cream Frenchies that has pinkish noses, lips, and paw pads can have blue eyes, while those with dark or black noses typically have dark brown eyes. Since their color is diluted, their eyes are most likely to be blue. Platinum French Bulldog Blue Eyes Platinum French Bulldog has a lustrous, cream-colored body coat with blue eyes and coat dilution in the lips and paw pads. Some Blue French Bulldog puppies Blue Eyes will retain their eye color into adulthood and some would have brown eyes. French Bulldog Blue Eyes full grown size, height, and weight Height.

You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot. You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. German Shepherds may also need professional grooming. To hel.What size crate do you need for a German Shepherd? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health i.Are German Shepherds easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to.Show more Are German Shepherds good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.

Crate training will have many benefits for your bulldog, including protecting him from household hazards and reducing his separation anxiety. It should be either 24 x 30 inches 61 x 76 cm or 24 x 36 inches 61 x 91 cm for a French bulldog, and either 42 x 30 inches x 76 cm or 42 x 36 inches x 91 cm for an American bulldog. This will allow you to increase the crate space as your puppy grows into an adult. The crate should be a place of safety and comfort for your bulldog. Place his favorite blanket and toys in the crate. You can also place a quilt or sheet over the crate to make it feel like a cozy den. A bowl would preferable, since he wouldn't be able to pull it out of the crate very easily. Leave the door open during the early stages of crate training so he can explore the crate at his leisure. Once your bulldog is comfortable entering the crate on his own, work on closing its door behind him. Start with closing the door for only a few seconds and then letting him out. If he starts whining or crying, wait until he calms down before opening the door. When he can handle a few seconds, close the door, leave the room, and return after random lengths of time e. Remember that puppies cannot hold their bladders for very long, so you should not leave your puppy bulldog in the crate for long time periods. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source When you are home, spend time with your bulldog while he is in the crate. Bulldogs are friendly and sociable dogs; interacting with your bulldog will keep him from getting lonely. Always remember that the crate is a place of safety and comfort, not punishment. Your bulldog should always have a positive association with the crate. Easy Bulldog Training Step-by-Step Guide Bulldog training may seem daunting when you first get that adorable puppy, that is why this guide will break down the process in simple and easy to follow steps. The secret to a well-behaved bulldog is to start with training as early as you adopt him. Early training helps the puppy better develop his brain and habits potty training, leash training, socialization and more! Bulldogs as pets are a great choice because they are a happy and relaxed breed. This was a cruel sport that was, fortunately, banned almost years ago. The breed retains its strength but has become a calm and amusing breed. I have personally worked with many bulldogs and non of them were stubborn at all. The stubbornness of a dog comes from not understanding its owner. The training methods outlined below will help you communicate with your bulldog successfully! As you train, keep an eye for some common British bulldog health problems like respiratory problems, overheating and skin allergies. Bulldog training can be fun and easy! Bulldog Puppy Socialization Socialization is the single most important exercise you need to do with your puppy and you have only a few months to work on it. It involves showing your puppy the world he will be living in and making positive associations with the things, animals and people in it. Every single new event, person, animal, object or sound your puppy encounters should be followed by a treat. This will make every association positive and you puppy will learn no to be fearful of new things. Learn more about socialization exercises for your bulldog puppy dog. Bulldog Potty Training Probably the second most important task is to teach your bulldog puppy to potty in one place or outside. Puppies are very smart and can learn simple things very easily. Potty training requires patience and perseverance. The main idea is to create a schedule or habit for your puppy to follow. A bulldog puppy can hold his bladder 1 hour for every month of life tops! If he has accidents, simply clean them up with an enzymatic cleaner and move on, do not punish your bulldog. Learn more about potty training schedules and techniques to teach your bulldog to potty outside in as little as one week! Teaching your bulldog puppy to moderate his biting Puppies are curious creatures and they like to explore the world with their mouth! This means that your puppy may want to bite your hands, shoes, pants, couch, table legs and even walls! There are two important things to teach your puppy about mouthing: To bite gently without hurting you , To chew only his own toys. Crate training your bulldog puppy can also help prevent home destruction and teach your puppy that the only things available for biting are his own dog toys. They are smart dogs that can learn as much as any other dog breed. Follow these steps to teach your bulldog the basics of obedience training. Positive Bulldog Training Positive bulldog training is about rewarding your dog for doing something right and ignoring your dog when he does something wrong. Positive training also involves actively teaching your pooch the things you would like him to do instead of expecting him to know on his own. There are two training methods that are very useful to teach your furry friend obedience: luring and capturing. That is why punishing or rewarding a dog for something he did in the past does not work. To help with timing, dog trainers use a marker word or a clicker. A marker word is used to mark the moment the animal did something correct and it is followed by a treat. The use of the word helps you have better timing, which in turn helps your bulldog understand what you are rewarding for faster. To teach your pooch the meaning of a marker word, all you need to do is say it and follow with the delivery of a treat. Good boy! Practice repetitions, 2 to 3 times a day and you will notice that your pooch will start responding when he hears that magic word! Bulldog training STEP 2: Teaching your bulldog its name One of the most important things to teach your bulldog is its name. This is always neglected, you name your bulldog, then assume he will understand that is they way you call him. Unfortunately, this is not true and recognizing its name is one of the most important things a dog should know. If your puppy doesn't look at you when you call him, how is he going to do what you ask? Teaching a dog its name is super easy, here are the steps: Say your bulldog's name As soon as he looks at you, say your marker word or click! Immediately afterwards, give him a treat! Repeat many times and in different places and situations. Bulldog training STEP 3: Teaching your bulldog basic obedience commands Now comes the fun part, training your bulldog to respond to basic commands. By: David Codr Published Date: March 2, For this Omaha dog training session we went over the bucket game to help 2 year-old Olde English Bulldog Ope develop some self control and help with his problem of jumping up on guests. As soon as he did, one of his guardian started to call him away from me. A few minutes later when we sat down and Ope started to get into my bag and jump up on me again. The guardian repeated her previous action; calling up over away for me and this time petting him. The problem with this is that any attention is validating to a dog. You have a window of about two seconds to correct or reward a dog and whatever happened right before you give them attention or pet them is what the dog thinks the petting is for. This is one of the most common mistakes I see people make with thier dogs. I pointed this out as well as sharing a number of other dog behavior tips throughout this session. Dogs need physical or mental stimulation every couple of hours, otherwise they get bored which usually leads them towards unwanted behaviors like chewing, barking or jumping up. If you want a dog to stop jumping up on people, you have to keep them mentally and physically stimulated, usually doing somehting for them every hours. I recommended that his guardian start feeding him out of a snuffle mat and other food dispensing toys , do some cent games, get him some ingestible chew items, use kongs filled with peanut butter and a lick mat when guests are home as well as some creative forms of exercise. One of the creative forms of exercise is something we stumbled across towards the end of the session. Ope gets to sleep with his guardians in their bed, but recently has started to try to take positions in the bed that make sleeping a challenge for the humans. I showed the humans a simple way to condition Ope to want to sit and lay down in the portion of the bed that they want him to sleep in. This involves calling him up onto the bed, using a marker word to communicate when he got to the desired position and then giving him a treat. Because the bed is on a frame and Ope has shorter legs, this exercise of calling him up and down off of the bed quickly wiped him out. I recommended that the guardians practice this bed exercise a few times a day, especially anytime that he starts to indicate that he has too much energy like jumping up on guests, zooming around the room, etc. The guardians can also practice this exercise in advance of zoom calls or anything else that they need to do an undisturbed. Proactively getting your puppy or adult dog exercise or mental stimulation is a very simple and effective dog behavior trick many dog behaviorists use. I also showed the guardians how they could use delayed gratification to help the dog practice a little self-restraint and self-control. Anytime you have a dog that likes to jump up on people or engage in unwanted behaviors, finding ways for them to practice restraining themselves is a great way to help a dog develop self-control. You can learn how to use the bucket game to help your dog settle down and develop some self-control by watching the free positive dog training video below. Within 20 seconds he was zeroed in on the bowl and his breathing and movements slowed way down. The best part of this trick to calm a dog down is that anyone can do it, even if you arent a professional Olde English dog trainer. If the guardians can get into a habit of making Ope wait, then moving the bowl horizontally five times without getting up out of a sit before lowering it, he will quickly adopt a new behavior of sitting quietly waiting for his food. I would recommend that the guardians practice this exercise as well as use a snuffle mat to feed him. I would do this exercise first with half his kibble, and then put half of his food into a snuffle mat after the bucket game. I shared a number of other dog behavior tips in this in-home Omaha dog training session. To make sure that it was easy for oops guardians to remember them all, we recorded a roadmap to success video that you can check out below. Share this:. Home » Puppy Training for the first 8 weeks home Puppy Training for the first 8 weeks home Training for puppy for your first 8 weeks home Olde English bulldogs are affectionate, friendly, courageous and intelligent. However, there is one trait that bulldogs also tend to exhibit — bullheadedness. They can be incredibly stubborn, which makes training them somewhat difficult. Purchase a crate. Some people think a crate represents incarceration, but a responsible dog owner knows that a comfy crate is a haven for his or her bulldog. If there is a lot of activity in your home, your bulldog will appreciate having a place to get away from it all. Because dogs of all breeds dislike soiling the areas they sleep in, a crate can be an invaluable tool when it comes to house-training. Buy a crate the just fits the puppy as he grows. If the crate is too big the puppy will soil an area at the opposite end of the crate from his sleeping spot. Crate Olde English bulldog puppies when you must leave them on their own. No dog should be left in a crate indefinitely. Remember this is a tool, not a prison. Bulldogs are smart and, again, stubborn. Schedule meal times to prevent accidents. English bulldogs love food and will eat until they get sick if not carefully watched. Fill a bowl with high-quality puppy food using the feeding chart on the puppy food bag to measure the correct amount by weight I recommend Canida and allow the puppies to eat for 10 minutes twice daily. If there is any food left in the bowl, save it for the next feeding. Take your English bulldog puppies outside for plenty of potty breaks. English bulldogs have small bladders and should go out every hour initially, working up to every few hours. Generally speaking, a pup should be able to hold it for one hour longer than its age in months. Take your English bulldog baby outside after naps and meals, as well, to prevent accidents in the house. Praise each puppy heartily after it has gone potty and offer a small treat as a reward. Bathe puppies at least biweekly using a mild antibacterial antifungal shampoo to cut down on dirt and grime in their skin folds, and dry thoroughly, including spaces in between wrinkles. Wrinkle cleaning is recommended twice a week for Olde English Bulldog puppies. Teach your puppies to walk calmly on a leash. English bulldog puppies can be stubborn, but a leash will help guide the puppies and keep them under control. Let the puppies drag the leashes around to get used to the feeling of something behind them. Once they stop paying attention to the leash, pick it up and follow the puppy. Walk backwards a few steps, tempting the puppy with the treat. Train each puppy in basic obedience commands once it is acclimated to the leash. When you interact with your puppy, you want to: Use a firm — but not angry — tone of voice. Reward with praise, toys or treats. Be consistent. Inconsistent training is poor training. Expect accidents and mistakes at first. Your puppy is like a toddler just learning how to walk. Most vet clinics and pet supply stores offer puppy training classes for the whole family. I strongly encourage all new puppy owners to attend. Its great socialization and gets the whole family on board with the training. About Us As the premier breeder of Olde English Bulldogges in the Southeast, we love providing families and individuals of all ages with healthy, happy puppies from this amazing breed.

Top Labradoodle Rescues in Maryland Considerations for Rescue Adoption Rescue animals can have a past that has led to trauma or anxiety. Therefore, patience with newly adopted animals is essential, as they may take time to adjust. Just as it takes time to build a relationship with other people, it will take time to build trust with a new pet. After adoption fees, you should expect other planned and unplanned expenses. To be prepared for anything, you should have a rainy day fund for any pet costs down the road. This amount is dependent on where you live and the age of the dog you adopt. Sometimes dog adoption fees include veterinary and medical costs. You will also need to buy a leash and collar, toys, a crate, food, water bowls, treats, and dog food. Extra expenses include vet visits, medications, insurance, training, dog walking, and pet sitting. Also, check out the Price of a Labradoodle for more information on the cost of Labradoodles. Getting Approved By a Rescue Rescues carefully choose what homes will provide lifelong care to each animal, and their standards are often high. The process of getting approved by a rescue can be a long one, but there are some things you can do to speed it up. Answer all applications questions honestly and in detail Check with your landlord if you can keep pets in your home Install a fence or show that you have access to a fenced area—or show that you can walk the pet often Pick out a trainer and veterinarian to show you have prepared for adoption Schedule a playdate with the pet you are interested in What to Know Before Adopting a Labradoodle Before your family plans to adopt a labradoodle, you should consider whether the breed is the right fit. The Labradoodle was first bred for those who wanted an allergy-friendly dog with service dogs abilities. As a result, they rarely shed and are in tune with their environments. The fur of a labradoodle is usually curly, and the color ranges from light to dark. Overall, Labradoodles are a healthy breed but are inclined to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. They are friendly and outgoing dogs who love socializing but are equally as calm—making the labradoodle the perfect dog for those who like to play and relax. Helpful Tips for New Dog Owners Labradoodles are high-energy and loving, require little to no grooming, and their size is perfect for families with small children. Be prepared for the costs of a pet, including training, veterinarian costs, toys, food, collars, crates, beds, and more. Reach out to the rescue when you have questions. Be patient with training; it takes time for puppies and dogs to acclimate and learn in a new environment. Be aware of the time commitment—having a dog will change how you structure your day and travel plans. Plan on going on more walks to give your new dog the necessary exercise stimulation. Take time off when you adopt a dog to ensure they get the attention they need. Conclusion The average lifespan for a labradoodle is between years. Many dogs in shelters have lived through some tough times, so you must be ready to care for them to meet their needs. Leave us comments or suggestions you may have for excellent adoption agencies in this area. We look forward to reading your thoughts! Please share this article with friends and family members you think would be interested in adopting a labradoodle in Virginia. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Age 84 looking for a medium size labradoodle, 20 to 40 pounds. Trained ready for a friend and companion. If any are available please contact me at [email protected] , of .Thank you, Share A Story! Doodle Rescues In Virginia A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. Doodle Rescues In Virginia With higher interest in the Doodle crossbreed, there are a lot of people searching for a way to adopt this beautiful dog. Essentially, Doodles are Poodles mixed with any other dog breed. What you always get from this mixed breed is the high intelligence and friendly attitude of a Poodle with some other features. However, if you are searching for a rescue in Virginia, we have you covered. We prepared a list of the 7 most reputable Doodle Rescues In Virginia for you to adopt your future Doodle. Keep in mind that you will need to find your Doodle at a non-breed specific rescue in Virginia, unless if you are willing to travel out of state to the nearest Doodle specific rescue. More specifically, this rescue is dedicated to saving Labrador Retrievers, but also their mixed breeds. What does this have to do with Doodles, you may ask? One of the most popular and sought-after Doodle sort is a Labradoodle. This is mostly because Labradoodles are very friendly, they make great service dogs, and they also have a hypoallergenic coat! If you are looking to adopt one of these Doodles, this rescue might be a good place to start the search. Today, with the help of many volunteers, this organization manages to rescue more dogs, such as Lab crossbreeds. You can find success stories of Doodles adopted from this rescue, such as this one. After you find your Doodle, you will need to complete an adoption application. After that, you can expect to get called for a phone interview. They will want to interview all the grown-ups in the household. LRGR also checks with your current or past veterinarian for positive reports. Rescue and Adoption Details. I love you already! Actually I love everybody! I found myself in the shelter because I went out looking for more friends and I got lost. The shelter said I was a lab mix about 45 lbs. And be jealous ladies, I have this beautiful permanent eye liner that make my eyes so big and pretty! My foster mom says I've got the beauty and the brains! I'm perfectly potty trained and crate trained. I have already learned how to sit in just a 2 days. I need more practice on walking on the leash but we will work on that soon. I'm working on that too. Cheerio does great with dogs of all sizes but she does not like to share her food and needs to be fed separately. She would do best in a home with no small children just because she gets excited and could knock them down. Older children that she could run around with would be great for her! She loves to run and play and she loves lounging in the kiddie pool during the warmer weather. An adoption application and adoption contract are all required. If you would like more information or an adoption application, please email us at sgdrsa outlook. Please note that visual breed identification in rescue dogs is unreliable so for most of our dogs we are only GUESSING at predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label.

They are also popular choices for families with allergies, as they do not shed as much as other breeds. Poodle Mixes come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, making them one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds. While all Poodle Mixes share some common features, their individual personalities can vary widely. Some Poodle Mixes are confident and outgoing, while others are more reserved and shy. Some breeds tend to be independent thinkers, while others are more eager to please. The best way to determine what personality type is right for you is to meet with a local breeder or rescue organization that specializes in Poodle Mixes. Poodle Mix Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Poodle Mixes for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Poodle Mix puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Of course, not all Poodle Mixes will develop these conditions, but it is important to be aware of them. Finding a Poodle Mix puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Regardless of the type of Poodle Mix you have, there are a few things you need to know about coat care. First, regular brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Finally, Poodle Mixes need to be groomed every weeks by a professional groomer. This includes a bath, brush out, trimming of the coat, and nail clipping. By following these simple coat care tips, you can help your Poodle Mix look and feel his best. Meet Poodle Mix Puppies for Sale. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Cheyenne, WY? We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Poodle puppies for sale near Cheyenne? Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, adaptability, and loyalty, making them a great choice for a canine companion. Interestingly, they come in a variety of sizes too! Standard Poodles weigh a hefty pounds, while Miniature and Toy Poodles typically max out at 18 and 10 pounds, respectively. This makes them great companions for people who may not have a lot of space in their living situation. Moreover, Poodles boast a wide range of coats, from wiry to curly to a combination of both style. Are Poodle puppies for sale in Cheyenne non-shedding? Poodles are considered a hypoallergenic breed and generally have low-shedding coats. While they are not completely non-shedding, they do have much less shedding than other breeds. Poodles do require regular grooming to help keep their coats healthy, and while this entails some light to moderate shedding, it is much less than other breeds. In comparison to other breeds, poodles are considered a low-shedding breed, making them a great choice for households with allergies or those seeking a low-shedding dog. What should I not feed Cheyenne Poodle puppies for sale? Poodles are intelligent, active dogs that require regular nutritious meals to maintain their health and energy. Unfortunately, there's a long list of foods and snacks that are potentially dangerous for Poodles to eat. Common human food items such as grapes, avocado, macadamia nuts, and onions can be poisonous for dogs. Some other foods to avoid are chocolate, candy, and anything with caffeine. Raw dough, strong cheeses, and fatty meats can cause health issues such as pancreatitis. Am I ready to adopt Poodle puppies in Cheyenne? Preparing your home for a new Poodle will involve both changes to the environment and the development of proper behaviors in both you and your pup. To help your pup feel comfortable in their new home, make sure to provide it with plenty of toys, a safe and secure area, and establish routines for sleeping, meal times, and potty breaks. Additionally, it's important to socialize your pup by introducing it to different people and other animals in a positive way. Lastly, ensure that all household members practice patience and reward good behavior during the training process. Are Poodles for sale in Cheyenne considered small dogs? Poodles are indeed considered to be small dogs. Generally, they weigh anywhere from 6 to 9 pounds and stand between 10 and 15 inches tall. Poodles come in three standard sizes: the Toy Poodle stands under 10 inches in height, the Miniature Poodle stands between 10 and 15 inches high, and the Standard Poodle typically stands more than 15 inches tall. They may appear to be larger due to their distinctive coat and haircut, however, that does not outweigh the reality that they are small. Poodles are known for being intelligent, loyal, and active. Do Poodle puppies near Cheyenne like to swim? Poodles, especially Standard Poodles, often enjoy swimming in pools or lakes! Poodles are a highly active breed, making them ideal companions for outdoor activities. Water-based activities are a fun way to release energy and stimulate the mind. They are known for being brave swimmers, and enjoy playing fetch in the water, as well as swimming laps. Also, because of their unique fur texture, they have natural buoyancy, making them natural-born swimmers who can keep up with the best of them. Are Poodles in Cheyenne good family dogs? Poodles can certainly be great family dogs, as they possess the intelligence, adaptability, loyalty, and patience that can make them an ideal companion. They are generally non-aggressive, and thrive when given plenty of love and attention. They also have a hypoallergenic coat that won't exacerbate allergies, making them a good option for families with members who suffer from sensitivities. As a highly trainable breed, they are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement. Are Cheyenne Poodles for sale considered smart dogs? Poodles are known for their intelligence, so it makes sense that people often ask if they are smart dogs. Studies have proven that poodles have a superior capacity for understanding and problem solving and take into account their owner's wishes and instruction better than that of other breeds. On average, poodles are able to learn commands at a rate that is twice as fast as that of other breeds. Furthermore, poodles have been known to excel in performing certain activities such as agility exams and obedience competitions. Therefore, it is fair to say that poodles are smart dogs.

So Many Options! Where To Get a Labrador? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Except, you remember hearing you should only buy from professional breeders?! But that puppy in the pet store was so achingly cute! This article discusses the things you should consider before making that life changing decision. From dedicated experts who breed pedigree dogs to work or for show, to those who breed too many puppies, litter after litter purely for sale without love nor care for the health of the mother or quality of the litter. For how to recognize who the good breeders are, read our article: Labrador breeders — How to find the good ones! Buying from a good, responsible breeder is without doubt the best source for a quality, healthy Labrador puppy. They care about the overall welfare of the breed, as well as the health of the mother, quality of the litter and giving the puppies the best start in life. Responsible breeders: Guarantee a purebred and pedigree Labrador. Screen the parents for health problems before breeding , so puppies will be as free as possible from inherited diseases. Selectively breed aiming for conformance to the breed standard, so your lab has the most chance of looking like the perfect lab. Carefully socialize puppies from birth so they are well-adjusted and confident before sending them to a new home. Help buyers to select the right puppy from the litter to suit their personality, hopes and expectations. Helping you to get the puppy of your dreams. Provide expert help and advice on caring for the dog from puppyhood right through to adulthood. When you go to a good breeder you should expect lots of questions. They will also help to match you to the perfect puppy that suits your personality, preventing you from getting the wrong dog on impulse. You know the cute but feisty one that got your attention by barging through his litter mates to run up to you and be the first to say hello? Well, he may very likely become a dominant and strong-willed dog! You May Need Patience You should note that many breeders will have a long waiting list for their Labrador puppies. Then this may not be the right way for you. But this is a good thing! And nobody should buy a puppy on impulse, it must be a well thought out and reasoned decision. Maybe you would like to give a lucky Labrador a second chance at life and happiness? Adopting an Older Labrador From a Rescue Kennel Can Have Many Benefits: They will have been house trained already — No getting up in the middle of the night to relieve your puppy…or cleaning your floor after the inevitable mishaps. An adult Labrador will already show signs of any underlying problems so you can avoid this. Many will have received a decent amount of training already — Saving you lots of time and work. Having said all that… There are Some Obvious Risks! Or perhaps due to health problems that developed. Some may have faced abuse and neglect leaving them with psychological scars. Behavioral problems are sometimes well hidden, and aggression may only surface in very particular situations only. But if you are patient, understanding and can inject some routine and love into one of these dogs lives, they can become absolutely wonderful pets. There are also different types of rescue center and animal shelters. You will be able to get a feel for the level of the center when you visit and how professional they are and the staff to dog ratios. The Process When rescuing a lab, a good, well staffed shelter will ask you to visit and spend time with your potential pet. They will have assessed the dog and will tell you all they know about the dogs history and temperament. They will ask you lots of questions to find out whether you and your lifestyle are a good fit for a Labrador. They will want to meet you and your whole family. They will want to see how the people the Labrador is to live with interact with it and how the lab interacts with them. And that your choice of dog is well suited to you and interacts well with you on visits will they eventually allow you to adopt. Rescuing a Labrador can be a very good choice as long as due care is taken to pick the right one. And you will earn many karma points for doing a very good deed. It is a massive risk to take a puppy from a litter like this. These dogs have more than the average number of inherited diseases and behavioral problems. So although you will be saving a bit of money compared to paying out to a professional Labrador breeder. Or you might even be saving a dog from being given to a rescue center and possibly eventually being put down. You just might be letting yourself in for some expensive surprises in the way of vets bills or behavioral specialists later. But having said that, of course many of these puppies do become very good pets indeed. In fact a few places in the world have now banned the sale of puppies from pet stores. In these places, dogs are often bred in poor conditions, sometimes kept in small wire cages and given very little chance to socialize and little if any personal contact with humans. Have you had any good or bad experiences of getting a Labrador from any of the places listed above? Is there anything you would like to add about the pros and cons of the various places you can get yourself a Lab? Please let us know in the comments section below and you just might help people reading this article to make the right decision! Related Article:. When you click an affiliate link and make a purchase from the merchant we will earn a small commission. That commission is paid by the merchant and not the customer. This does not affect the price of the products you buy. You can read our full affiliate disclosure by clicking here. Want to know how to buy a labrador puppy? We have a deep dive for you today with all the details you need to know before you move ahead. Labs are typically very friendly, loyal, and trainable. Labs have been a popular choice for years among families with kids and singles alike. Although just about any Lab will be a fantastic go-with companion, selecting a puppy is always a tough thing to do…they are all so cute and they all want a loving, forever home. You have some options. There are options and you should check them all out: Reputable dog breeders Local rescues These three are usually good Lab purchase and adoption sources. Also, classified newspaper or magazine ads and local organizations sometimes prove to be good sources. But, be careful! Not all pet ads are placed by honest or knowledgeable sellers. How To Buy a Labrador Puppy Buying from Breeders Buying from a reputable breeder is very important—there are some bad apples out there so get references and do a background check. The breeder should only sell dogs he knows to have clean pedigrees and zero health issues. Finding a Reputable Breeder Do your research. Check with local dog breed clubs or breed organizations. These organizations may offer a breeder referral service that can give you good breeder leads in your area. Also, ask for good breeder recommendations from other Labrador owners or local veterinarians. Discount those with any obvious red flags like negative reviews or no clear explanation about their services. Ask the Breeder After refining your list of potential breeders then ask the following friendly questions: Can I visit your facility and see the puppies and their parents? Do you have health and pedigree papers? What are your dog breeding business core policies? What kind of socialization and training do you give the puppies? What are your health guarantees, if any? What is your refund policy? An honest breeder will answer these questions. And, they will give you all the documents, including health certificates, at or before the time of sale. Walk away if the breeder has no papers or makes excuses for not having them. Buying any puppy is a big deal—only buy a healthy and well-adjusted puppy from a reputable breeder. Preparing for Your Puppy Preparing for a new Labrador puppy is an exciting time—it can also be overwhelming. Following are some things to prepare for your new Lab pup. Puppy-Proofing Your Home Before you bring the Lab puppy home, first make sure your home is puppy-safe. Think about it carefully—puppy-proof your home like you would for any baby. Excited puppies will pee so protect your valuables and be ready to clean up accidents. Puppies, like little kids, are curious and excited when they come to a new home. For a handy guide on pet-proofing your home. Do not buy a retractable leash, they are dangerous. Food and water bowls Choose non-tip pet bowls that are the appropriate size for your puppy. As the puppy grows get bigger bowls. Never give your puppy table scraps, left-overs, alcoholic drinks, sugar, salt, spices, or chocolate. Crate or carrier Buy a pet crate or carrier that is the appropriate size for your puppy. Use it for training, traveling, and napping only. It is not a dog house! Avoid cheap, foreign made pet toys. Do not buy artificially flavored or salty treats. Here are some important things to keep in mind: Puppy Temperament The temperament or disposition of your newly acquired Labrador puppy needs to be watched closely for any unwanted behavior. Things like nervous barking, growling, biting, or fidgeting are indicators that something bothers or frightens the puppy. In fact, before you even bring the puppy home, first observe his or her demeanor around littermates and when being handled by people. Then, think about the temperament you really want in a dog. Some Lab puppies are more forceful, playful, and energetic, while others are quieter, laid back and less active. Look for a puppy with clear eyes and a shiny coat. These are obvious signs that the pup is well-fed and not sick. Then, check for any outward signs of injury, infection or parasites. Check the other littermates to be sure the whole litter looks healthy and well-fed. You should notice things like normal size, eyes and nose, body temp, coat type, and coat color. If there are one or more fur white spots, then the pup is not a purebred. Be mindful that some coat colors may be temporary due to diet factors, skin allergies, or other temporary health issues. But, ask questions and do your research before buying. Buying the right Labrador puppy for you takes your careful consideration of several factors. Take your time and do your research to ensure you find the perfect furry companion for you and your family. Bringing Your Puppy Home After picking out your beautiful Labrador puppy—the time has come to introduce the excited pup to its new home. Here are some tips to help make this as smooth as possible. No by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The First Few Days Your new puppy may feel tense or even pensive about their new surroundings. After all, it is a big change from what the puppy knows. Expect the pup to mess on the floor once or more—oops accidents will happen, so be prepared for this—lots of towels, no anger. You have to give your Lab pup time to adjust and feel right in his or her new digs. Here are some things you can do: Make a quiet space for your puppy to rest and sleep. A crate is perfect for this. Have lots of toys and teething chews to keep your pup busy. Establish a routine for feeding, potty breaks, and playtime. Introduce your puppy to family members and other pets slowly and carefully. Be patient and understanding as your puppy gets used to their new home. Training Your Puppy Training your puppy is key to being a responsible pet owner. Here are some tips to help you train your pup: Start with basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise, never use punishment. Always be consistent with your commands, praise, and discipline. Establish a potty training routine for you and the pup—stick to it. Socialize your puppy in a puppy training class and a safe dog park. Bringing your new Labrador puppy home is a very exciting time. But, you need to be prepared and patient. Good preparation and training will help your puppy quickly become used to his or her new home. As the founder of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, he has transformed the lives of over , dogs and their families. Final Thoughts So today we have walked through the answer to the question, how to buy a labrador puppy? Always check out prospective sellers or breeders carefully. Make sure your puppy is from a reputable source, not a puppy farm. Be prepared for the time, effort, and expense that comes with raising a puppy. Lab puppies are a pure joy, but they need a lot of attention and care. You need to think about your lifestyle and living situation to be sure that you are a good fit for a Lab. Puppies grow into adult dogs—be prepared for that. The shelters are full of Labs that were abandoned because of owner ignorance. However, If you really want a great dog and raise your pup right he or she will mature into a happy, healthy, and well-behaved companion for many years to come. Instant Download Add your name and email below and the planner will be sent direct to your inbox. Send me the Planner! They are also very high energy. Labs are intelligent and well-tempered for becoming service dogs. You may have seen a Lab working as a guide dog or alongside a police officer. Labradors come in three distinct colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. There is no real difference between these sub-breeds aside from color. However, chocolate Labs and yellow Labs do tend to be favored as show dogs, while a black Lab is more likely to be raised as a hunting dog than a chocolate or yellow one. Labrador Retrievers are famous for being friendly and companionable to both humans and other dogs. This makes the Labrador an ideal breed to keep as a family dog. There are factors, however, which need to be considered before choosing a Labrador puppy. Bringing home a beautiful black Lab puppy? Check out hundreds of great black dog names here! The amount of maternal care a pup receives prior to adoption influences the adult temperament of your Labrador. A responsible breeder will not remove your puppy from its mother before it is ready. In the study, Labs belonging to extroverted owners had better social skills than those belonging to introverted owners. You may also look through your local classifieds for unregistered litters, although we do not recommend it. Even though Labradors are a generally healthy breed, it is important that both parents get screened for any health issues prior to breeding. Adopting from unregistered litters will also significantly increase your chances of encountering a puppy mill. No matter where you adopt from, it is essential that you meet both parents and access a history of good health for each parent before adopting a puppy from the facility. In other parts of the world, use the puppy search tool on the website of your regional kennel club or equivalent authority. You may also ask a local veterinarian for a reference to a quality breeder. Another option is to keep an eye out for someone with a purebred Labrador and request information on where they adopted from. Registered breeders use only top-of-the-line animals as parents. Puppies from responsible and registered breeders are given the appropriate amount of maternal care and not released to a new home until they are physically and mentally mature enough to do so. This lays the foundation for an affectionate and even temperament in adulthood. The cons of adopting from a breeder are higher costs and often longer wait times. Responsible breeders require a pre-adoption home check to ensure that their puppies are appropriately homed. You may also need to travel some distance to find the right breeder. Registered breeders usually breed a maximum of only twice per year. This maintains parental health and allows sufficient time for the puppies to progress. These breeders often have waitlists for upcoming litters before they are born, sometimes before the parents are even bred. While these practices maintain value, they also mean the puppies will cost a little more and take longer to bring home. Private Ads Private ads for puppies can be found in online classifieds or in your local newspaper. You may also spot them on the bulletin boards of various local businesses. The benefits of sourcing a puppy from a private ad is that the breeder is likely be located nearby, and the puppies will be available relatively quickly, if not immediately. The cons of taking this route is that you do not have pedigree parents to your puppy, and the risk of health complications down the road is much higher. Puppy farms will often advertise through private ads. For these reasons, we do not recommend sourcing a puppy through a private ad. Pet Shops We do not endorse purchasing puppies from pet shops, because the credentials of both parents and breeder cannot be provided. Parents of pet shop puppies may have been overbred, mistreated, or in less than optimal health. It is impossible to know without verified records. The puppies themselves could have experienced conditions and trauma that will negatively impact their behavior in adulthood, such as being separated from their mothers too soon or physical abuse. Avoiding Puppy Farms Puppy farms are unregistered breeding establishments that mass produce puppies in order to generate the highest amount of revenue. These farms, or mills, severely mistreat their animals and often produce puppies with little socialization skills and significantly increased health risks. To steer clear of these facilities, avoid pet stores, which often source stock from puppy farms because of the low cost. Also avoid any online advertisements for puppies at a low cost. If you do source a puppy from an online ad, call the breeder in advance and ask questions about the puppies, parents, and establishment to screen for any inconsistencies with industry standards. When you visit the breeder, if it comes to that, ask to have a look around and meet both parents in person. Is the space open? Do the parents look healthy? How many other dogs and puppies are there on the premises? Health Tests While Labs are generally healthy overall, it is important to confirm the parental health prior to breeding. If the breeder cannot show you certificates of health for both parents, adopting a puppy from those parents poses a risk for complications later on. The American Kennel Club recommends Labrador Retrievers get screened for: any hip and elbow defects that could indicate dysplasia heart disorders out of ordinary muscle weakness degenerative eye conditions. Make sure that the breeder can demonstrate certified health in each of these areas for each parent. The initial cost of requiring this level of screening for your puppy may be higher, but it will save you on veterinary bills down the road. Choosing Your Puppy Labrador Retrievers are friendly by nature and tend to get along well with other dogs. This breed very rarely shows aggression and must be provoked to do so. When it comes to children and other pets, a Labrador puppy would be a valuable family addition. Labs are companionable and socialize well. The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy breed and will need enough time and space each day to receive sufficient exercise. These exercise needs will continue to grow as your puppy matures. A Labrador is not designed to be an inside-only dog. This breed needs lots of activity to stay mentally and physically fit. Consider that your fully grown Lab will be between .We recommend that you take your Lab out for daily outdoor activities such as swimming and fetch. A Labrador that does not receive enough exercise time may rebel by engaging in destructive behaviors within the household. However, remember that the best-quality Labradors come from responsible breeders that produce only one or two litters per year. These breeders often have waiting lists due to high quality puppies and infrequent production. If you want the best which you should! Labradors are wonderful family dogs with lots of love for humans and other dogs. They are one of the lowest risk for health complications when properly screened, making them ideal as a long-term energy-filled companion. Considerations before jumping into the adoption of a Labrador puppy are how big your puppy will be when it reaches adulthood and the daily rigorous outdoor exercise it will require to keep it in peak physical and mental condition. Read more about Labradors here in our guide to Labrador lifespan! References and Resources Bray, E. University of Pennsylvania .Graham, L. Temperament and Personality in Working Dogs. CRC Press .Kuroshima, H. Kyoto University .Print Looking for a new gun dog or duck dog? Many people start their search with good intentions. They want to find a good quality pup that will serve as a hunting companion as well as a family dog. However, somewhere along the way they end up just picking up a cute puppy that the family could not resist. Maybe, but it is a needle-in-the-haystack approach. While there is no guarantee that any puppy you bring home is going to grow into a well-mannered hunting partner, there are ways to stack the odds in your favor. Today, we are going to discuss the process I go through when looking for a new puppy. These are my opinions, so take it for what it is worth, but I do have extensive experience buying Labrador puppies. I have been doing this for over 30 years and I rarely have a puppy that does not work out. Research puppy litters I buy my puppies based on pedigree. I want proven working parents. This means that I want to see that either the mom or dad, preferably both, have AKC retriever field trial titles , AKC retriever hunting test titles or UKC retriever hunting test titles behind their names on an official pedigree. Be sure you see field trial or hunt test titles. Sometimes you will see AKC show titles or other titles like agility. These are NOT the same as field trial or hunt test titles and are generally not something you want to see on the pedigree of a hunting or competition dog. There are many places to search for litters on the internet. And many sites offer the ability to limit your search by state. However, do not be afraid to look for puppies further away from you. If the litter has a great pedigree and is exactly what you are looking for, you can always have the puppy flown or shipped to you. Some of the sites that are good for looking for litters are: retrievertraining. Again, I am not saying that great dogs cannot come out of these places but rather that the odds are not in your favor. Why are hunting titles important? Hunting titles tell you that the dog has proven its ability to perform at a certain level. It also tells you that the genetics are there. If the parents can perform at a Field Champion or Master Hunter level, there is a good chance the puppies will also have that ability. Do all your research prior to going to look at the puppies Everybody loves puppies. They are cute, cuddly and so lovable. That is why I recommend that you do not ever go look at a litter that does not already meet your standards regarding pedigree. It is just too easy to end up bringing one home. And if you have kids or a spouse involved, I guarantee that any litter you go look at you are most certainly going to end up bringing home a puppy. Does color make a difference? Well-bred puppies are available in each of these colors, and we have trained excellent hunting dogs in each color. However, you may now see litters advertised as fox red or white. These colors are not recognized by the AKC and you should beware of purchasing a dog based solely on color. In addition, there are now Labs being sold as silver, charcoal and champaign. These litters are technically not pure Labrador Retrievers. They are often referred to as dilutes because the genetics have been diluted to produce these colors. Many trainers will not train dilutes because of the many health problems and genetic issues that go along with these breeds. There are, unfortunately, people breeding pups specifically to produce a specific color without regard for temperament and the betterment of the breed. We prefer to stay away from litters that do not have a proven pedigree and have been breed specifically for color. In addition, our experience training dogs from these types of litters has proven to be a struggle. How much does a good puppy cost? For many people this is a defining question. So, a new hunting partner can be a significant investment. But for us it is worth it to stack the odds in our favor. Find a great retriever breeder Unfortunately, not all breeders are equal. Over the years, some breeders have stood out to us as exceptional. They go over and beyond just taking good care of the puppies. You can tell they really want their puppies to turn out great and they take steps, while the pups are very young, to help ensure their puppies have a good strong foundation that will help them succeed in the future. Beyond the breeding of quality dogs, the difference is in the socialization of the puppies. As I talk extensively about in Raising a Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog , socialization is an essential key component in training a retriever puppy. Breeders that go out of their way to socialize young pups are worth their weight in gold. The truth is that raising puppies, done the right way, takes a lot of time and commitment. We specialize in training and prefer to let others specialize in doing a great job raising litters. Ask prospective breeder the right questions When you call and talk to a breeder about an upcoming litter, it is important to get answers to some important questions. If the pedigrees are not available online, be sure and request one from the breeder. How often do you breed? How often has this mother been bred? When looking for a great hunting dog puppy, you want to avoid puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeders that are just pumping out puppies for money and without concern to the overall health and betterment of the breed. Responsible breeders have a plan for the litters they are producing and will be able to talk to you about why the litter is worth the money they are asking. What breeds do you breed? Look for a breeder that specializes in Labrador Retrievers or whatever breed you are looking to purchase. What does your health guarantee cover? Responsible breeders will offer you a health guarantee for the puppy. While what this guarantee covers may vary, with Labrador Retrievers some of the things you want to make sure the health guarantee covers includes: Hip dysplasia Eye issues In addition, you may want to make sure that the parents have been genetically tested for other genetic diseases such as Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and Centronuclear Myopathy CNM. What do you do to socialize the puppies? Asking this open-ended question can give breeders a chance to tell you about the work they do socializing the young pups before they are ready to go home. Or, you may want to follow up with more specific questions such as: Are the pups exposed to children at all? Do you take the pups to different locations during the day? Do the puppies get outside time, what does that look like? The goal is to find out if the puppies are getting socialization and exposure to new and different things on a regular basis. Pups that get this exposure tend to adjust more quickly to their new homes and new situations later in life. Have you done this specific breeding before? How did those puppies turn out? Breeders that are working for the betterment of the breed, may breed a set of parents more than once. If this is a repeat breeding, it is likely that the breeder will know how previous litters performed in the field or in competition. Serious Labrador Retriever breeders often keep track of how their puppies perform as they age. Alternatively, you could ask for references and talk to previous buyers to find out what they think of the breeder and the puppy they bought. Should I meet the prospective dog parents? While some people might tell you that you should meet the prospective parents of the puppies, I do not see a lot of value in this. Some good breeders do not own both the parents. Often, they work with other breeders so both the Dam and Sire may not be onsite. And if you are basing your pup purchase off pedigree first, as I would recommend, you already know the most important things about the parents. If looks are important to you, then photos of the parents will show you what you need to know. Choose a retriever puppy from the litter Once you decide on a litter, the waiting begins. Ask the breeder to provide videos and photos of puppies as the grow. This is a great way to see the puppies progress and you can see some personality traits in the different pups. If you did all the work in researching pedigree and breeders, you already have stacked the odds in your favor. You know that the litter is a good one and that the puppies have a good chance of turning out to be great hunting partners. This is important because it takes a lot of pressure off when it is time to pick the puppy from the litter. When you do go to the breeder to pick your puppy, take a few minutes to observe the puppies. This will allow you to see some personality traits. Understand though that this is only one snapshot in time. The puppy that is active at this time, might have been sleeping right before you showed up. Or, the one that is sleepy may have been running around like crazy just minutes before. At Otter Tail Kennels, we often look for a puppy that likes people. A puppy that chases a child around the yard or runs to the owner when they walk away is attractive to us because we want a people-centered dog instead of a dog that prefers to spend its time with litter mates. But this is not an exact science by any means. That is why we rely on the fact that we have done our homework and know the entire litter has promise. Final thoughts on how to find a good Labrador puppy Any time you set out to buy a puppy, you do not know how the journey will end. There are a lot of unknowns. You cannot tell for sure what the puppy will look like as an adult, and you cannot tell if they will be a great hunter or a great family dog. What you can do is stack the odds in your favor. Find a great litter from a great breeder and select a puppy from that litter. Once you do that, you are on your way to having a great duck or gun dog. Then the next important step is to socialize, expose and train the puppy. Read how to do that here. Have questions about finding a great retriever for your hunting and family needs? I am here to help! You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs and services I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. How to find a good Labrador puppy.