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As with the case of many designer dogs or hybrid breeds, the history or origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer Poodle Mix is unknown or recorded, even though it is probable that it started in a dog shelter somewhere where accidental breeding commonly occurs. Understanding the breed requires looking into its parent breeds. It has its origin in 19th century Germany, resulting from breeding Pointing dogs, Tracking hounds, and Foxhounds, and was initially produced as hunting dogs. The German Shorthaired Pointer is agile and can carry on a long hunt, and has a strong sense of scent that makes for a great hunting canine. Being sturdy and energetic, the GSP also excels in various dog sports and agility training today. It is friendly with humans and fellow canines, has a coat that comes with a blend of white and liver, has floppy ears, and generally comes with brown eyes. Poodle: Like the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Poodle was initially bred as a hunting dog and had its origin in Germany. The breed underwent some development in France, where breeders reproduced and improved the Poodle by allowing it to excel as a waterfowl hunter. Poodles were used as circus performers to entertain people worldwide in the past. The American Kennel Club recognized the Poodle breed in .Today, this intelligent and energetic breed performs and participates in dog sports and agility competitions. Poodles continue to grow in popularity as companion dogs among many dog lovers in the United States and other countries. What does the German Shorthaired Pointer Mix look like? German Shorthaired Pointer Poodle Mix is sturdily built with a medium-sized body. Being an offspring of two different purebreds, it can resemble either the physical features of the German shorthaired pointer or the Poodle. Typically, it has dark brown eyes and a black nose on its medium-length face and has a proportionate and slender torso and head. The length of the coat is medium-sized, and the fur is wavy and a bit curled. However, this varies from one pup to another and depends on which parent breed is the most dominant. The coat comes in various colors such as cream, silver, black, white, brown, red, gray, and blue. An adult male can grow up to 20 to 23 inches tall and weigh about 45 to 65 pounds. On the other hand, a female GSP Poodle Mix can have an average height of 20 to 22 inches and weigh about 45 to 55 pounds. So since the GSP has an average lifespan of years and the Poodle with an average of 8- 15 years, the GSP Poodle Mix can have a lifespan of years on average. GSP Poodle Mix is a relatively new breed, and it will not be easy to locate a genuine breeder who breeds this fantastic dog. The more reputable the breeders are, the more the price and the healthier the pup will be. To get the best deal, visit the dog facility, examine the litter, observe the parent breeds, rule out any genetic health issues that could pass down to the pup, and ensure the breeder meets all your needs. The Vet Clinic could be the best place to start your search, as they may have information on reputable breeders and other dog rescue shelters or rehoming facilities. Again, avoid buying from Puppy Mills! Are German Shorthaired Pointer Poodles suitable for families? GSP Poodle Mix makes the perfect family dog for dynamic families having grown-up children who love outdoor activities. This highly energetic crossbreed dog loves the outdoors, and it will eagerly follow you when you go hiking up the hills or camping by the river. Although the German Shorthaired Pointer Poodle Mix is friendly and suitable for families with little kids, its massive size may unknowingly knock over them when they get super enthusiastic. Therefore, adult supervision is required for maintaining a peaceful home. German Shorthaired Pointer Poodle Mix is friendly and pleasant. Its amiable personality and well-behaved qualities allow the dog to get along with other animals. If this hybrid dog is adequately trained and well-socialized from an early age and exposed to other pets, it can live amicably with other canine animals, cats, and others. All dogs can develop genetic health problems because they are susceptible to certain diseases. However, the good thing about crossbreed dogs is that they are a lot fit and healthier than purebreds. Following are the common health conditions that the breed will likely suffer from: Bloat. Their large size, endless energy, and extreme cleverness may just be too much for some people. Our star ratings below will give you a better idea if the German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle will end up being your perfect pooch. But it can certainly be more of a challenge to know exactly how the puppies are going to turn out in terms of their appearance and temperament. The best way to prepare yourself is to become familiar with the traits and health conditions of both parent breeds. Poodle mixes are incredibly popular The Poodle is easily one of the most popular parent breeds for a whole host of hybrids. One example is, of course, the Labradoodle. Created in the s, the Labradoodle took the hybrid dog world by storm and paved the way for many other crosses using the Poodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat, a trait that they usually pass on to their offspring. This makes hybrid breeds with a Poodle parent a great choice for those with allergies, who may not be able to own a dog breed that sheds heavily. Thanks to the fact that Poodles also come in three sizes—standard, miniature, and toy—they can be crossed easily with other dog breeds, from the large German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle to the tiny Cockapoo. As such, we can thank the Poodle for a huge number of designer hybrid breeds, many of which have gone on to become incredibly popular! While the Poodle might now be the National Dog of France, the Poodle was originally bred in Germany over years ago. They were used as retrievers for duck hunts, where they excelled thanks to their incredible swimming skills, ability to think for themselves, and curly protective coat. The German Shorthaired Pointer has also been bred in Germany since the s, to help with bird hunts. They are versatile and willing to please and are never happier than when doing something active in the great outdoors. Both parent breeds are eager to please their owners, as well as being affectionate and kind. German Shorthaired Pointerpoodles will thrive with owners who can provide consistency and love in equal measure. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Whether you want to go backpacking in the mountains or camping by the lake, these dogs will love to be included. They also love to play fetch or learn agility and tricks with younger handlers. Their willingness to please means they can be more forgiving to amateur handlers than some other breeds. While they can be great dogs for families with smaller children, their large size does mean that they can inadvertently knock toddlers over with their enthusiasm. Younger children should always be supervised and taught good dog handling habits to maintain a peaceful and happy home for both dog and their owners. With that said, if introduced correctly, they can live happily with other dogs, cats, and smaller pets. German Shorthaired Pointers can be at risk of bloat due to their deep chests, and this is something that may also affect your German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle. While you might not feel like a long walk on a Sunday, your dog certainly will! These dogs make great partners for trail running, cycling, and hiking too. Your German Shorthaired Pointerpoodle is likely to love water, so retrieving games at the beach or lake is a great way to exercise this breed both mentally and physically. A securely fenced backyard is a great idea so you have somewhere for training sessions and games. Their intelligence means they can also quickly pick up bad habits, so puppy classes are an excellent idea to get you both working together consistently and effectively. Bored German Shorthaired Pointerpoodles are likely to turn their attention to finding something to destroy, so make sure you keep those brains well-occupied! Leaving it long can look pretty, but it can easily end up becoming tangled and matted, especially given how active this breed is. Any breeder will be happy to chat with you about these in more detail, as well as provide information on the health tests that the parent dogs may have had. Minor Conditions.

As such, they are recognized experts in facts and figures for many breeds of dogs. According to their data, most labrador litters contain between five and ten puppies, with the average being seven. In comparison to all dog breeds, Labradors are right in the middle. The average size of a litter of puppies, in general, is five or six dogs. The largest known litter of labradors ever recorded was 14 puppies , born to a black labrador in the United Kingdom in .Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! In short, probably not. Your vet can confirm pregnancy, give an estimate of how far along the pregnancy is, and give you an approximate due date. Humans and canines alike know the excitement of a first pregnancy. When it comes to labradors, this can also impact the size of the litter. Biological and evolutionary factors come into play and make first litters smaller. Expect one or two additional puppies from her first two. After the fourth pregnancy, the litter size tends to taper off. In addition to whether or not it is her first litter, the age of the mother labrador also affects the size of the litter. Generally speaking, the older the mother, the smaller the litter size. This fact is a little confusing, though, when you also consider that first litters are smaller. It means that a 3-year-old labrador will have larger litters than a 5- or 6-year-old labrador. So, if two female labradors have their third litter at ages four and six, the four-year-old labrador is likely to have the larger litter of the two. How Old is Dad? Believe it or not, the age of the father of the puppies can also impact the size of the litter. This is because of the viability of his sperm. When a female dog is in heat, her ovaries release several eggs that are ready for fertilization. However, if the male dog is older, his sperm tends to be less vigorous, meaning fewer will reach the eggs, and therefore fewer eggs will be fertilized, resulting in smaller litter size. A Labrador lounges on his dog bed Natural versus Artificial Insemination How did the mother dog become pregnant? Many labrador breeders and breeders for other types of dogs, as well prefer artificial insemination. It also takes the social interactions of the two dogs out of the equation. Some dog handlers and breeders hesitate to put their mama dogs in such a sensitive and potentially unpredictable situation. The bad news is that, while artificial insemination seems to be the more controlled and safe option, it usually yields fewer puppies. Of course, the breed of the dog is a significant factor in genetics. Does the Size of the Mom Matter? Not really. If you have a mom who is part labrador herself or is a purebred labrador but has puppies with another breed, some of these numbers and averages change. If your pregnant pooch is only part labrador, the size of her litter will also depend on what other breeds she contains. The general rule of thumb is that the larger the breed, the larger the litter. If your lab is a part German shepherd , expect a somewhat bigger litter. The breed of the father matters less, though. The breed of the father has more to do with the size of each individual puppy. Fun fact: the largest known litter of puppies ever recorded is a whopping .Unsurprisingly, the 15 male and nine female puppies were born to a Neopolitan Mastiff in , one of the most giant breeds around. Do Labs like water? Healthy dogs tend to produce larger litters. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Smaller breeds will usually have puppies in a litter, with a max of .Larger breeds will usually have 7 puppies in a litter, with a max of .A Norwegian study from revealed that the following factors have an influence on the amount of puppies a dog will have: Size of the breed. The bigger the breed, the more puppies in a litter. Age of the female. Younger and older dogs will have fewer puppies, that dogs in between these age groups. Method of breeding. Insemination will generally give fewer puppies than breeding done the old fashioned way. The most important factor when seeing the number of puppies was the size of the breed. The study was done on .Photo by Pixabay on Pexels. In the Norwegian study from , it was shown that a large dog breed such as Labradoodles will produce an average of 7. There have previously been claims of puppy litters with up to 20 puppies, but that has yet to be confirmed anywhere. More Info About The Amount Of Puppies The above-mentioned Norwegian study is the most comprehensive study done on litter sizes and mortality rates in puppies and is therefore the best source for any information on this subject. But there are other sources of information available, and we will try to summarize some of them below. Rule of thumb: There is an old rule of thumb that says that mammals, in general, will have half as many offspring as the number of teats the mom has. Other factors: Other factors mentioned include in-breeding, the age of the male dog, and diseases, and other health issues. Photo by Chevanon Photography on Pexels. A lot of us know that aunt in the family who claims to be able to tell the size of the litter just by looking at your pregnant dog from 30 feet away, but can you guess how many puppies your dog is having? People who work with dogs professionally such as vets, breeders, shelter owners, kennels, and so on, might be able to give a qualified guess. Mortality Rates In Puppies The same group of researchers who did the study above also made another study on the same .These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Labradoodles can have varying litter sizes, typically 4 to 8 puppies. Miniature Labradoodles tend to have smaller litters of 3 to 5 puppies, while Standard Labradoodles have larger litters of 6 to 8 puppies. Multigenerational Labradoodles fall within the average range. Parent size, health, and care during pregnancy influence litter size. It is essential to have veterinary assistance during the birthing process. The joy of welcoming Labradoodle puppies lies in the surprise and uniqueness of each new arrival. Labradoodle Labradoodle Litter Size Variability Like any other dog breed, Labradoodles can exhibit variability in litter sizes. The number of puppies a Labradoodle will have is influenced by various factors contributing to the breeding process. Parent Size: The size of the parent dogs plays a significant role in determining the litter size of Labradoodles. Generally, larger dogs tend to have larger litters, while smaller dogs may have smaller litters. Suppose a Labradoodle is bred between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, typically medium to large-sized breeds. In that case, the litter size may be larger than when a Miniature Poodle is bred with a Labrador Retriever. Health and Fertility: The overall health and fertility of the parent dogs can influence the litter size. Healthy dogs with no reproductive issues are more likely to produce larger litters. Breeding dogs screened for any genetic disorders or health conditions can help ensure healthier offspring and potentially impact the litter size positively. Genetics : The genetics of the parent dogs are crucial in determining the litter size of Labradoodles. While genetics can be complex, certain genetic traits related to litter size can be inherited. If both parent dogs come from a lineage with larger litter sizes, it increases the likelihood of having a larger litter. Individual Characteristics: Each Labradoodle has unique genetic makeup and personal characteristics. This individuality can contribute to variations in litter sizes even when bred from the same parents. It is common to have different litter sizes among different litters from the same pair of Labradoodles. Occasionally, Labradoodles may have smaller or larger litters that deviate from the average range. Nature has its way of surprising us with the joy and unpredictability of puppy births. When considering breeding Labradoodles or welcoming a litter into your home, it is essential to consult with experienced and responsible breeders. They can guide on selecting healthy parent dogs, ensuring proper care and nutrition during pregnancy, and offering professional assistance during whelping to safeguard the well-being of both the mother and the puppies. Labradoodle Labradoodle Average Litter Size On average, Labradoodles tend to have litters ranging from 4 to 8 puppies. Some Labradoodles may have smaller litters, while others might surprise you with larger ones! Miniature Labradoodles typically have a smaller litter, ranging from 3 to 5 puppies, due to the smaller size of the parents. Labradoodle Standard Labradoodles Litter Size Standard Labradoodles, which result from breeding a Standard Poodle with a Labrador Retriever, tend to have larger litters than their miniature counterparts. These litters usually consist of 6 to 8 puppies, though occasionally, there may be even more! The litter sizes of multigenerational Labradoodles can vary, but they typically fall within the average range of 4 to 8 puppies. Understanding these factors can shed light on how they impact the litter size. Dogs with good overall health, free from any reproductive disorders or genetic abnormalities, are likelier to produce larger litters. Regular veterinary check-ups, genetic screening, and appropriate breeding practices can help ensure the health and fertility of the parent dogs. Breeding Practices: Responsible breeding practices can also influence litter size. Experienced breeders carefully select compatible pairs based on their health, temperament, and genetic traits. Breeding dogs with a history of producing healthy litter can increase the chances of larger litter sizes. Conversely, breeding dogs with a history of smaller litters may result in consistently smaller litters. A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals helps support optimal fetal growth. Adequate nutrition can contribute to healthier and more robust puppies. Breeders and owners should work closely with veterinarians to ensure that the pregnant Labradoodle receives appropriate nutrition. Overall Care of the Mother: The care provided to the mother during pregnancy and whelping can also impact the litter size. A stress-free and comfortable environment, regular exercise, and sufficient rest are critical for the well-being of the pregnant Labradoodle. Adequate prenatal care, including regular veterinary check-ups, monitoring, and support during whelping, can promote a successful and healthy litter. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy and successful breeding program. They follow best practices, seek veterinary guidance, and provide appropriate care throughout the reproductive process. Labradoodle How to Care for a Pregnant Labradoodle Caring for a pregnant Labradoodle requires attention, diligence, and care to ensure the health and well-being of the mother and her growing puppies. Here are some essential tips to help you care for a pregnant Labradoodle: Veterinary Care: Schedule an appointment with a veterinarian experienced in reproductive health to confirm the pregnancy and establish a prenatal care plan. Proper Nutrition: Provide a well-balanced, high-quality diet for pregnant and nursing dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate type of food and feeding schedule for your Labradoodle. Pregnant dogs have increased nutritional requirements, so ensure their diet includes essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive weight gain can lead to complications during delivery. Exercise and Rest: Encourage moderate exercise to keep your pregnant Labradoodle fit and healthy. Regular walks and gentle activities help maintain muscle tone and prevent excessive weight gain. However, avoid strenuous exercise or actions that may put undue stress on the mother. Provide a comfortable and quiet space for resting, ensuring she gets enough rest and relaxation. Environmental Comfort: Create a quiet, comfortable, and secure space for your pregnant Labradoodle. Provide a cozy whelping box or nesting area where she can give birth and nurse her puppies. Ensure the area is warm, clean, and well-ventilated. Consider using soft bedding to provide comfort and insulation. Keep the environment free from hazards and potential stressors. Monitoring and Observation: Monitor your Labradoodle closely during pregnancy. Watch for any signs of distress, discomfort, or abnormal behavior. Keep an eye on her appetite, water intake, and weight gain. Note any changes in behavior, as these could indicate potential complications that require veterinary attention. Socialization and Mental Stimulation: Continue to provide socialization and mental stimulation for your pregnant Labradoodle. Engage in gentle play, interactive toys, and positive interactions with family members and pets. This helps maintain their well-being and reduces stress levels. Preparing for Whelping: Educate yourself about the whelping process and signs of labor. Prepare the whelping area with clean towels, blankets, and necessary supplies. Familiarize yourself with the signs of potential complications, such as prolonged labor or difficulties in birthing. Postnatal Care: After the birth of the puppies, continue to provide attentive care. Ensure the mother is nursing correctly and that the puppies are gaining weight. Monitor their health and consult with your veterinarian if any concerns arise. Each dog is unique, and circumstances may require additional care or adjustments. With proper care and attention, you can help ensure a healthy and successful pregnancy for your Labradoodle and the arrival of adorable, thriving puppies. Labradoodle Vet Assistance During Whelping Whelping, the process of giving birth to puppies, is crucial for the mother and her litter. Regular check-ups and professional assistance can help mitigate any potential complications. Labradoodle The Joy of Puppy Surprise One of the exciting aspects of welcoming Labradoodle puppies is the element of surprise! Each new arrival brings its unique personality and charm. Labradoodle Conclusion Labradoodles are charming and affectionate companions who bring wonder and surprise during their journey into this world. While the average litter size of Labradoodles ranges from 4 to 8 puppies, remember that individual litter can deviate from these numbers. The best way to embark on this heartwarming adventure is to seek guidance from reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of both the parents and their precious offspring. Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Popular Posts. From their friendly, playful personalities to their intelligent, eager-to-please natures, there are plenty of advantages to owning labradoodles. What Are Labradoodle Puppies? Not only was this new breed low-shedding and hypoallergenic, but it was also incredibly friendly and intelligent. Their sociable, affectionate natures make labradoodle puppies great for new owners and experienced pet parents alike. Most labradoodles require around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day, which can be easily fulfilled by walks or games. Intelligence: Thanks to their poodle parentage, labradoodle puppies are highly intelligent. Their natural curiosity and eagerness to please makes them fairly easy to train which is why labradoodles are common candidates for therapy dogs. Most mother dogs give birth to anywhere from one to 12 puppies at a time, with the average being just a few pups around five to six. It can be hard to single one puppy out — each one is adorable! Here are a few important factors you should look out for. Size Every new pet owner wants to go home with a healthy puppy. If a puppy is much smaller than its littermates, it may have a congenital or genetic issue that could affect its lifespan. On the flip side, if a puppy is the largest of the litter, it may be stealing food, which could mean it has trouble listening to commands. Personality The way a labradoodle puppy acts around its siblings and mother dog can be very indicative of its personality. When examining a litter, watch how the puppies interact with one another. A withdrawn, shy pup that keeps to itself may have aggression and biting issues in the future. An aggressive, independent pup that bullies other dogs may be reluctant to listen to commands. Meanwhile, a friendly, relaxed pup that gets along with its littermates will likely be easy to train. Playfulness The way a labradoodle puppy acts around its littermates can tell you a lot about its personality. But what about the way it acts around you? As you greet the puppies, observe how they behave. The puppies that rush forward and are interested in playing are more likely to be sociable and friendly. See if any puppies roll over on their backs — pets that exhibit this behavior tend to be more easygoing and trusting, which will come in handy while training. Gender For many prospective owners, the gender of their new puppy is probably inconsequential. However, if you already have a dog at home, gender may be an important factor to consider. According to many experts, male and female canines tend to get along better than two dogs of the same sex. Thus, if you have a female dog at home, you should consider getting a male pup and vice versa. Appearance Many prospective dog owners have a certain look in mind when searching for a new pet. For example, some people may want a puppy with a solid-colored coat, while others like multicolored pups. If you have any appearance preferences, look for a puppy that meets those expectations. Generally, you can expect labradoodle siblings to look pretty similar. However, there may be some slight differences — for example, one may have a traditional, golden curly coat, while another has a few spots of white. The only thing you can count on for sure is that all the labradoodles will share a distinguishable curly coat. Legs: Is your desired puppy walking and running normally? Any limping indicates a paw or leg injury. If this spot is larger than the size of a dime, the puppy may experience bone problems in the future. Stomach: Check to see if there are any protrusions or hernias around the belly area. Moreover, the puppy should not be scratching its eyes and ears excessively. Reputable breeders should answer your questions thoroughly and do everything they can to help you find your perfect match. Here are some good questions to ask. How Does the Puppy Behave in General? No puppy acts the same way throughout the entire day. The breeder will let you know if the puppy is a good match or if another puppy might be better for you. Before you take any puppies home, try to get some more specific information about them. For example, you could ask what activities a puppy enjoys. If you exercise frequently and want a labradoodle puppy that can keep up with your excursions, the breeder can direct you to an active puppy. On the flip side, if you prefer to stay in, the breeder can introduce you to a calmer, lower-energy puppy. For instance, if the breeder says a puppy likes spending time with people and learning new tricks, it suggests that the puppy will be more responsive to training. What Do the Parents Look Like? Generally, standard labradoodle puppies grow to be anywhere from 20 to 25 inches in height. You can get a better idea of what your new labradoodle puppy is going to look like by observing the parents. For example, if the parents seem too large, you might want to try another litter. In some cases, you may be able to meet the parents of your new labradoodle puppy in person. Are the Puppies Health-Tested? For example, ear discharge could indicate an infection, while a dull coat suggests skin allergies. Make sure the breeder health-tests all their labradoodles for common puppy diseases. Get a Labradoodle Today! There are probably plenty of healthy, friendly puppies within a litter that would fit well in your home. The best way to find the right puppy is by observing the litter, asking the right questions and working with a high-quality breeder. All our trained labradoodle puppies go through health and coat testing, as well as obedience training and housebreaking that meets therapy dog standards. Learn more by contacting us today! Australian Shepherd or Cattle Dog 3 to 6 Doberman, Golden Retriever or Pitbull 4 to 8 Cane Corso, Mastiff or Great Dane 8 to 10 or more Although some breeds of dogs can give birth to many pups, that does not mean that every puppy will survive the birth process. It is common for dogs to give birth to eight puppies, but only four or five survive. Some puppies can be born dead, while others may not survive the first 24 hours of life. Some aspects are genetically predetermined, while others have more to do with lifestyle and health. A giant breed of dog will often have a larger brood than a smaller dog breed. On average, a large dog breed will have seven pups in a family, while small breeds will only have three. Dog breeds such as Great Danes and Labradors can have litters of over ten puppies at a time. Their bodies can handle the development and delivery of many puppies better than other breeds. In addition, you need to consider the lineage of your dog. A hybrid dog may require a larger litter due to its diversity and gene pool. Contrarily, a dog that has been inbred may have particular traits that make them have fewer puppies in their brood. Image Credit: Michelle Raponi, Pixabay 2. Time and Conception Method Surprisingly, how your dog becomes impregnated might determine how many puppies she will have. Some dogs get pregnant naturally, giving them a higher chance of having a bigger litter, while others conceive through artificial insemination. Preserved semen kills many sperm cells during the freezing process, which reduces fertilization resulting in fewer pups in a litter. The impregnation date also determines the number of pups in a litter. Agronomists have discovered that the dogs that conceive within the 48 hours after they ovulate will have a high chance of a larger brood. A female dog can remain fertile until its senility. However, a dog is likely to have a larger litter during its early adulthood. Dogs are highly productive between two and five years of age, and their litter size will reduce as they become older. Number of Pregnancies A dog is ready to have another litter with each heat period. And, every time a dog gets pregnant , it has a better chance of having even more puppies with the next brood. You will often observe these larger litters on pregnancy numbers three, four, and five. The first pregnancy is a unique case since it is often small. Though most people believe that the dog is unfamiliar with the pregnancy process, there is no defined reason. As their hormones develop, your dog will experience stress and anxiety, affecting her developing eggs. But after your dog has gone through pregnancy once, she will know what to expect, thus reducing her anxiety. First, if your dog is not in perfect shape, it is likely not to have a larger litter. Second, having poor health can lead to complications during birth. Therefore, your dog needs to remain healthy throughout its whole pregnancy. Image Credit: Jan Dix, Shutterstock 6. Plus, it will determine how smooth the birth will be. If your dog does not get sufficient nutrients, the puppies may die unborn, or the dog will deliver prematurely. You can typically choose to enhance the food your dog is already taking with extra protein. The Father In rare cases, the father can also determine the size of a litter. Image Credit: Seaq68, Pixabay Final Thoughts A pet owner or breeder can select their breed , mate them at the optimum time and feed them high-nutritious food throughout the year. However, they cannot determine the size of the litter. That is up to the nature of the mother dog. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Factors that Affect Labradoodle Litter Size A black and brown Labradoodle up close Labradoodles, like all dogs, can have litters of varying sizes. The size of the litter depends on several factors, including: Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The size of the mother The age of the mother The health of the mother The quality of the breeding The size of the mother is one of the most significant factors that affect litter size. Generally, larger dogs have larger litters. However, this is not always the case, as some smaller dogs can have larger litters than larger dogs. The age of the mother is another factor that can affect litter size. Younger dogs tend to have smaller litters, while older dogs may have larger litters but also have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and birth. The health of the mother is also a crucial factor in determining litter size. If the mother is not in good health, she may have a smaller litter or may not conceive at all. It is essential to ensure that the mother is up to date on all vaccinations and is free of any underlying health conditions that could affect her ability to conceive or carry a litter to term. Finally, the quality of the breeding can also affect litter size. If the breeding is done correctly, with healthy, genetically diverse parents, the litter is more likely to be larger and healthier. However, if the breeding is done poorly, the litter may be smaller and may have a higher risk of health problems. The fur is usually clipped to 2 inches or less, making brushing and upkeep between trims a snap. A red Labradoodle coat. Labradoodles are a hybrid breed that results from the crossbreeding of a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. As with any other breed, the size of the litter depends on various factors such as the size, age, and health of the mother, as well as the quality of care she receives during pregnancy. On average, a Labradoodle can have a litter size of 6 puppies. However, it is not uncommon for the litter size to range from 4 to 8 puppies. Factors such as genetics, age, and size of the parents can also influence the litter size. It is important to note that the litter size of a Labradoodle can also be affected by the breeding method used. For instance, artificial insemination may result in smaller litter sizes compared to natural breeding. It is therefore essential to consult with a reputable breeder who uses ethical breeding practices to ensure healthy and happy puppies. When it comes to caring for a pregnant Labradoodle, it is important to provide her with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest. Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial to ensure the health of the mother and her puppies. Overall, the average litter size of a Labradoodle is around 6 puppies, but this can vary depending on various factors. By providing proper care and attention during pregnancy, breeders and pet owners can ensure healthy and happy puppies. Breeding Considerations for Labradoodles When it comes to breeding Labradoodles, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Another important consideration is the timing of breeding. Breeding too early can increase the risk of complications and health issues for both the mother and the puppies. When Breeding Can Start for Labradoodles When it comes to how many puppies a Labradoodle can potentially have, the answer will depend on when it first starts breeding. Before beginning a breeding program, one should consider the age of the potential parents. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, dogs should be at least two years old before being bred for the first time and this is especially true for Labradoodles, due to their health considerations. At two years of age, most Labradoodles have reached full physical and emotional maturity and can safely endure the stress of pregnancies and caring for puppies while they are still young themselves. Additionally, waiting until two years of age allows Labradoodles ample time to mature mentally and physically which leads to healthier offspring down the line. You should also be aware that pet insurance is often more expensive for a Labradoodle puppy that has not been neutered or desexed. Conclusion Labradoodles are a popular breed of dog, and many people are curious about how many puppies they can have. Based on the research, it appears that the average litter size for a Labradoodle is between five and six puppies. Breeders should always prioritize the health and well-being of both the mother and the puppies, and should never breed a dog simply for the sake of producing more puppies. Overall, Labradoodles are a wonderful breed of dog that can make great pets for families and individuals alike. Similar Posts. Progressive retinal atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is the malformation or deterioration of the retina over time. PRA can be inherited or late-onset and age-related, but both lead to complete blindness over a period of years. Pups with inherited PRA will begin showing signs of vision loss at months of age. Symptoms include: Loss of vision, starting with night blindness Anxiety about dark rooms or nighttime Dilated eyes that are very reflective of light Clumsiness No eye contact General anxiety and clinginess PRA can be diagnosed following a veterinary eye examination and ERG testing. Although there is no cure, it is not a painful or life-threatening condition, but it can be frightening. It creates a dazzling, light-colored, mottled effect in the coat that is very striking and beautiful to look at. This is dangerous because the lack of pigment doubles, which affects the eyes and ears and often results in vision loss, hearing loss, or both. Most Doodles are sweet-natured, so this is not usually a problem! How to breed Labradoodles When looking to breed Labradoodle pups, you first need to make sure that your parent dogs are healthy and of good temperament, as discussed above. Visible signs of pregnancy such as a swollen belly will develop at the week stage, and a veterinary ultrasound should be done to clarify the number of pups. The average litter size for Labradoodles is puppies. Birth can take hours. Signs of labor in dogs include restlessness, discomfort, contractions, and dilation. Breeders should have the number of the emergency vet on hand just in case, and be familiar with the signs of dystocia, or difficult birth. These include strong contractions for more than 30 minutes with no delivery, straining for more than 2 hours with no delivery, more than four hours between puppies, and blood with no delivery. Breeders should also have the necessary supplies for whelping, including a whelping box, medical scissors, blankets, and towels. Good breeding practices with Labradoodles When breeding Labradoodle puppies, breeders should adopt good breeding practices only. This means no inbreeding, or breeding of related dogs, and no breeding runts of litters. All parent dogs and their puppies should be treated with the highest quality of care, with safe, spacious housing, clean bedding, healthy food, and constant access to water to drink. They should also be sufficiently groomed, walked, socially and mentally stimulated, and receive all of the necessary medical care, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and preventative parasitic medications. Top tips when breeding Labradoodles When breeding your Doodles, be sure to take their genetic traits into consideration. For example; what size Labradoodle do you want? Which color? What is backcrossing? This means that the gene pool is kept large and healthy. How much is a Labradoodle puppy? The exact price tag will depend on a number of factors, including the breeder. In fact, smaller breeders tend to provide a much higher and personal level of care to their dogs than big-time breeders. Unfortunately, puppies are twice as likely to come from illegal breeders and inhumane puppy farms than legal breeders in the US. Pups bred from show dogs and working dogs will always be more expensive than those bred from regular pets, and rarer or more desirable coat colors such as pure-black Labradoodles , or the merle-patterned ones will be more expensive than more common colors or those considered less desirable such as the brown coat. Size can also play a part, as these days, Labradoodles come in all shapes and sizes , including the micro Doodle and the teacup Doodle, both of which are highly desirable and highly costly because of their trendiness and cuteness. When looking for a micro or teacup Doodle, extra care must be taken when selecting a breeder to ensure good breeding practices. This may be anywhere from fifty dollars to a few hundred dollars. The exact price will depend on the shelter you adopt from. Rescue centers that are well-known nationally may charge lower prices as they receive a good amount of publicity and donations. Whereas smaller, localized shelters may be more expensive. How to make sure your Doodle pup is healthy When you buy a Labradoodle pup from a breeder, always remember to ask for proper health documentation that proves they have been tested for the genetic conditions mentioned above and received all of their essential vaccinations. Make sure that the breeder was providing a high-quality food for Labradoodle parents and puppies , too! The adult dogs should look happy and healthy. They should be in good condition, have clean eyes and a shiny, well-groomed and clean coat. Some illegal breeders even forge health documentation, so you should always have new puppies checked over by a vet, just in case. With Doodles, your vet should pay particular attention to their joints and eyes. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states. We provide a full range of rescue services including the intake of boxers from shelters or owners, a thorough interview and adoption process and continuous follow-up with our adoptive homes, as well as providing assistance to any boxer home or other rescue that reaches out to us. NJBR, incorporated in November of , is comprised of volunteers with many years of experience in performing rescue work with other established groups. After careful consideration, we have made the decision to become an independent rescue group. We believe the establishment of New Jersey Boxer Rescue will enable us to concentrate our efforts within the state, and to better serve both boxers and owners in New Jersey and neighboring communities. Our volunteers include individuals who have rescue, dog training and behavior experience. Most importantly we are boxer owners who cherish and understand the breed. Adoption Policy Thank you for considering to adopt a rescued boxer. The adoption process is outlined in the steps below. Please note, each step is contingent on the successful completion of the one before it. Read our Adoption Policies than complete an Adoption Application The adoption application may seem long, but please understand each question is designed to assist in placing our beloved rescues in their forever home and to determine if the applicant is the best match for a particular dog. Our only reward is to ensure each dog is placed in their forever home. Telephone Interview A telephone interview will be conducted, in order to review points on the application, answer any questions or discuss a particular dog. If the interview goes well a home visit is then scheduled. Home Visit A NJBR volunteer will conduct a home visit in order to meet the family members, and other pets and to ensure that the home environment is suited for a boxer. Whenever possible a boxer will be brought along for the visit. Approved for Adoption After the home visit is conducted, and of course if all goes well, you will be approved for adoption. At this point we will do our best to match a boxer with your home and in the ideal case coordinate the adoption of the dog you selected on your application. If we do not have the right dog for you and you do find a dog with another rescue group, we will be happy to share our approval information. Follow Up A follow-up schedule is a part of our adoption package. We request that you keep in touch with us on a regular basis and we are always available to answer questions and provide support if needed. We especially love receiving pictures and updates on how your new family member is settling in. Please understand that all the steps are administrated by volunteers many of whom work full time, so your patience is appreciated.

Things to do with your English Bulldog South Carolina is a great place to live with an English bulldog. With its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and mild climate, South Carolina is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. Visit the Beaches South Carolina has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Your English bulldog will love playing in the sand, swimming in the ocean, and exploring the tide pools. Hike the Trails South Carolina has a number of beautiful hiking trails that are perfect for dogs. Your English bulldog will love exploring the woods and getting some exercise. Visit a Campground There are a number of dog-friendly campgrounds in South Carolina. Your English bulldog will love spending time outdoors and making new friends. Go Shopping South Carolina has a number of dog-friendly stores that are perfect for browsing with your dog. Your English bulldog will love getting some attention from the shopkeepers and trying on new clothes. The aquarium has a variety of exhibits that are sure to interest your dog, including a touch tank where your dog can touch starfish and sea urchins. Your English bulldog will love learning about the ocean and its creatures. Take a Day Trip South Carolina is located close to a number of other great places to visit. Your English bulldog will love exploring new places and meeting new people. So come on down and explore all that this great state has to offer with your English bulldog. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in South Carolina? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. What We Are About When we began we had one mission - to share our love of English Bulldogs with the world by raising the healthiest, happiest English Bulldogs out there. Every aspect of what we do is out of love for our English Bulldogs, not the business - and our outcomes prove that an ethical approach will triumph, even to the toughest of critics. We willingly submit each of our Bulldogs DNA to keep on file and to ensure the integrity of the breed. We feel very blessed to have the opportunity to be able to produce such. Every puppy is raised in a home setting. Our home and our nanny homes are thoughtfully designed to ensure our English Bulldogs are primed for success, but it is the round-the-clock love and care from our whole family, close friends, nanny homes and extraordinary veterinarian care that we provide which truly set our furry friends apart. By owning the only the best and healthy English Bulldog bloodlines, we can guarantee impeccable pedigree and Healthy pups. Extensive genetic testing, veterinary care, and a health guarantee means the only thing you'll have to worry about is choosing the perfect pup! Please take note we do not choose quanity before quality. If you are not on our waiting list please concider joining. We produce each litter only to better the breed, not our bank accounts. Each litter counts as a step closer to our goal and slow and steady wins the race. Welcome to the South Carolina state page on TrustedPuppies. With its beautiful coastline, charming cities, and a variety of dog-friendly activities, South Carolina is an ideal place to find and raise your new English Bulldog companion. Our mission is to connect you with the best South Carolina English Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our SC breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the vibrant dog-friendly scene in South Carolina, featuring welcoming restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Carolina Foothills Dog Show Cluster provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of English Bulldog canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. South Carolina, with an estimated dog population of around 1. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable English Bulldog breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in South Carolina. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your English Bulldog puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Both of which conduct yearly inspections and verify my dogs are all well cared for. I have been breeding Golden Retrievers since .I hold a degree in Animal Science. I have worked several years in an active animal hospital. I administer most of my own vaccines, conduct progesterone testing with my own machine determines best timing of breeding through collection of blood sample , and I conduct my own ultrasound at home for confirmation of pregnancies. I conduct natural breeding with all my dogs. Delivery of puppies also occurs at my home naturally unless an emergency health issue dictates otherwise. I am very passionate about the care of my dogs and strive to have the healthiest and happiest puppies possible. If you would like to see more detailed information about Hilltop Golden Retriever, please continue to read on and click through all the tabs of this website. Hilltop Golden Retriever Location: If your still unsure of where South Westerlo is located, we are about 25 minutes northwest of Catskill and 35 minutes southwest of Albany capital of NY. We are closest to Albany International Airport if you are looking to fly. If you are looking for a direct flight, you might want to look into Newark but would require a car rental and some travel time on the road. If you are traveling from decent distance away and in search of a hotel. If your early for your puppy pickup appointment and looking to get something to eat, a few minutes away in Greenville you can find the Tasting Lab or the Tiny Diner to sit down at. If you want something quicker check out the hot dog stand in front of the Tiny Diner or the Dunkin Donuts just up the road off of .I worked several years as a veterinarian technician assistant in a very active animal hospital. Over the years I learned so much and gained a lot of experience that has helped me excel as a breeder. While I was attending college, I ended up meeting my husband. He also shared my passion in dogs. She was my dream come true and truly encouraged me to be the breeder I am today. I fell in love with a dark female puppy from the litter. Over time and seeing so many families pleased with our puppies we wanted to grow. We felt that a large property was a must for our dogs to exercise and play. We ended up selling our first home and purchasing the house where we reside now. Technically our mailing address is in Greenville however we are in fact in South Westerlo within the hills of Albany county. Both of our families are from the area, so the transition was very supportive and the location is very easy to travel from or to the New York State Thruway or from Interstate I.Soon after our move we have spent so much time with creating the best environment and care for our dogs. Throughout the year we get visited by the state and AKC to verify our dogs are in the best care possible. Everything was thought of during this build. The building consists of two floors. Fans are optional throughout the entire interior. We have additional propane heaters that will work with no electricity. The floors have built in drainage and are covered in grippy flecked epoxy. Our dogs have constant access to water and have comfortable Kuranda beds to lay on. We have designated areas for our older puppies after mom is done nursing them. These areas consist of very nice over-sized play areas. The walls are made out of washable white plastic, and we use g-flooring with fresh wood chips for the bedding. The puppies have plenty of toys and their own Kuranda bed s that they love to lay on or hide below it. Our outside run area consists of a fully covered roof, so our dogs are protected from the elements, with lighting and fans. The play area has over feet of beautiful black chain link fencing. The large play area also offers a doggy playground area where they have plenty of toys to tug and pull on. About our Dogs: We strive to provide the best and healthiest lines of Golden Retrievers. We spend endless hours in search and communication with multiple breeders from all over the United States. Checking pedigrees and clearances prior to committing with a new line. We have made some amazing relationships with some of the best breeders, all of which share the same common goal of breeding healthy AKC Golden Retrievers. We raise and train all of our puppies within our home. We work with commands, potty training, and socialization on many different platforms and various environments. Early on we are verifying their personality and traits are conclusive with a possible prospect for future breeding. As time goes on, we decide if they are a good candidate or not for breeding. If they are a good candidate additional health testing is scheduled per their age. We conduct several medical tests to verify healthy lines prior to breeding. The health tests set us apart from most breeders that claim their dogs are healthy per a veterinarian check or that claim that they conduct DNA genetic health testing but nothing else. One of the first health tests that we conduct and one of the most important tests on all our dogs, is DNA genetic testing. We have used Animal Genetics in the past but have been shifting towards using Embark. This test allows us to verify we have the best pairing of parents prior to breeding and that we are not passing on bad genes that could be avoidable issues in the future. After our dogs turn 1, they proceed to get OFA testing of their eyes and heart. A specialist either looks at their eyes or heart to verify they have no health conditions that could be passed to their offspring. If we are lucky enough that our young golden passes, we will move forward to the next health testing stage. The next health test that we typically conduct once our young golden is 1. While they are sedated to have these x-rays we usually also have Penn Hip testing done. Also, per our vet the Penn Hip is a better test to know the overall health of the hips as they test the elasticity and movement rather then judging based on an image. Last health test we do is done at the age of 2 years old. As the dogs age their bones calcify, a dog with failing elbow or hips younger then 2 could very well change to passing once they turn 2. Under each dog there is a link from K9 data. Unfortunately K9 data will not allow preliminary testing information in the link which is the OFA elbow and hip test results if the dog is under 2 years of age when the test is conducted. However we do list the preliminary test results under each dog. Once we have the official results K9 data will be updated to reflect their latest test results. We are constantly conducting health tests and updating K9 data as well as the webpage. Lots of factors could play into why a dog could fail their OFA elbows or hip tests. It may not necessarily be genetic but instead could be from the environment that they are raised in. Limiting their jumping heights is extremely important. Simply slipping on ice can cause unforeseen affects to their overall development. It is also highly recommended for additional joint supplements as they grow, we prefer the use of NuVet supplements see link on website tab for further information on NuVet products. Lack of vitamin C in their food is another considered attribute to not having passing scores. All of these factors are highly overseen during the raising of our potential breeding dogs. Unfortunately, sometimes our dogs do not pass all of their tests. We sometimes keep them, but we also have found amazing homes for them. We are even more particular in their home placement as we know their personalities and what would be the best fit. They will be spayed prior or be contracted to be spayed soon after being placed in their new homes. We are very focused on ensuring we know our breeding stock through both their individual health and their genealogy testing. Our dogs and puppies get a lot of socializing. Daily they are engaged with our other dogs, our young sons, our friends, and other family members. They all get a ton of love and attention. This ensures they keep up on their house manners and it also makes it incredibly easier when pregnant moms deliver within our home. Our dogs are not kept outdoors like you might see with other breeders. We also have them go into large fenced in play areas where they play in large groups with each other. We do not show our dogs or conduct any competitions with them. When I am not raising my children, I am constantly spending time with my dogs or interacting with potential customers. My husband works many hours in his law enforcement career to dedicate any additional time in competitions, trials, or shows. Once he retires and the children are older, we may pursue that however it is not our current focus. Some of the lighter goldens that we have also known as English Creams do have championship titles in their bloodlines as does our darker red field goldens. Any of our puppies with proper training could and would be amazing for shows or hunting trials as its in their bloodline. About our Puppies: I usually make the determination of puppies after 30 days of a breeding. I have my own ultrasound machine and can get a good determination of how many puppies are present. It does not give me an exact count. Only way to really narrow down the number of puppies is by an x-ray, around the day mark. I do not conduct my own x-rays and that would require a visit to the animal hospital. To reduce stress on mom and the puppies we do not do x-rays. I get a final count upon delivery keeping mom where she is most comfortable. Delivery of puppies take place in my home around the days after being bred, unless an emergency C-section requires otherwise. Typically, all our puppies are delivered naturally. Someone is always with the mother for the entire delivery. It is very strenuous but has the best outcome for both mom and pups. When all the puppies are born, we will post pictures on the Facebook page. We will then reach out to anyone on our waiting list. If by chance, there are any extra puppies we will make an announcement on Facebook after exhausting our wait list. Sometimes people back out and puppies do come up available at various times. During the initial few days into the few weeks mom and puppies are spending a lot of quality time together. We are keeping a close attention that everyone is gaining weight and seem to be progressing. The pups are handled daily by us. After about 2 weeks eyes and ears will begin to open. The fourth week they are starting to find their legs and moving around exploring. The fifth week if all are doing well, I begin the weaning process where mom is nursing less and less as I introduce kibble to their diet. We begin the deworming process and also begin the first vaccine. We do not travel with the puppies to an animal hospital. I feel it could be stressful for the puppies and creates an opportunity for the puppies to be exposed to other pet sicknesses. I have a traveling vet come and conduct full physicals on all of the puppies. You will receive a copy of her report in the puppy folder upon pickup date. We have outside play areas and toys for them to interact with. They will also be played with by children and handled by adults. They will have several toys to interact with. Obstacles will be in there play pens to learn jumping and crawling. Process Purchasing a Puppy: If you decide that you would like to move forward with getting a puppy, we recommend that you first look at the females and the males that we have. Sometimes the males could change if multiple females come into heat at the same time. We also have an additional tab where you can view planned future breeding so you can have a better idea of potential pairings. Next, I would like to have a phone interview so we can find out more about yourself and the home that a puppy of mine would be going to. In our discussion I would like to know which mother you were leaning towards and whether you prefer a male or female puppy. I can go over all additional questions that you may have including total costs. If both parties are fully satisfied, I will move forward with sending you over the contract. I sell all my puppies with limited AKC registration. Under certain circumstances I will offer full AKC registration for an additional charge. If you are wondering what the difference is between limited and full registration. Limited registration means you can never breed a puppy from me and it will be expected upon proper age that the dog is spayed. Full registration is only for breeders that want to purchase a puppy with intentions of breeding. I am not against giving another breeder full registration however it must be discussed prior, and all requirements must be met that I have. I do require the final payment to be in cash upon pickup of the puppy, so there no issues of bounced checks or issues with sending monies from one bank institution to another. No exceptions. I typically only reserve the first 3 females and the first 3 males as there are no guarantees of how many puppies are born. I go in order of when I am contacted. For an example if you contacted me in May for a female, and John Doe contacted me in January for a female from the same mother then John Doe will get first pick and you would get second pick. It seems to be the fairest method I have come across and will be moving forward with that process unless I discover a better way. I also reserve the right to have first pick so I can sustain my future breeding line as it dictates. I do not allow visitation to the puppies until they are ready for pickup. It also increases the chances for the puppies to get sick and potentially all die from a condition call parvo, as they are not full vaccinated. I have scheduled meetings with individuals that would like to meet me and the adult dogs fully vaccinated prior to making a commitment but not when I have current litters. I would recommend if you want to see the puppies earlier to log into Facebook and follow my page on there. I conduct live videos where you can see all the puppies. After a few weeks old we begin to collar them so you can tell them apart better. I do not place or pick certain pups for certain homes. Some people may not like that due to a puppies drive or behavior. I personally feel training is key to your dogs behavior. You have to spend time with this puppy and be consistent. Goldens just want to please you, but they will test you to learn their place in the household. If you lack experience in training dogs, I do recommend you work with a trainer and read literature so you can achieve the most success with your puppy. You will get an hour to choose your puppy. Please be mindful as I will have others scheduled after your hour of time is completed. I will need some of that time to go over paperwork that is required through the state to complete. I have no problems if you want to bring a trainer or conduct your own tests to see if one puppy might be a better fit based on their opinion. Please be respectful of my property and do not go adventuring around wherever you may like without me being present. Once you pick your puppy and all paperwork has been completed, you will be provided with vet records of your puppy and the vaccines that were previously given. At this time, I do not microchip any puppies. I personally feel the best time to microchip a puppy is when they are sedated which I recommend during the spay. We do require that you schedule an appointment with your vet within 14 days of the pickup date. You may want to schedule this prior to arrival as animal hospitals have been extremely busy. We will have gift bag for you. There will be some surprises in there for your pup, including enough puppy food for the next several days so you can either remain on it or gradually change the food to one of your liking. We highly recommend slowly changing the food over time if you decide to change it as they have extremely sensitive stomachs at this age. Sybil and Knox had a handsome litter of eight males 9. Reservations are now open. Pups can go home in 8 weeks! Toga and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around October .Three male and three female reservations are now open. Mercy and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around November 7. Golden Testimonials This is Rex. Age 2. A proud Saratoga Goldens sporting his new official Therapy Dog vest and badge. He loves bringing smiles and cuddles to everyone he meets. Emily Cal dark green is doing well and enjoying his new home! Thank you so much for such a happy and healthy puppy. He is so loved! Allie We love our little Emma aka Cream!! She is so smart and growing quickly before our eyes! She is very happy and playful, has imprinted on her big brother Cobe, easily climbs up and down stairs, walks on a leash around the property, enjoys the autumn leaves, sleeps all night, and is a joy to our lives! He spends a few days per week making visits to local schools, hospitals and retirement home. Everyone loves him! Ryan Daisy is happy and healthy in Massachusetts! She's especially in love with tennis balls and using them as excuses to dig under the fence we're working on that training. We're thrilled to have her as part of our family! Lock in your puppy price with a reservation deposit today. Please see our lower price on our link at the bottom of this page. We accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and cash. Reserving online ensures you get a puppy when they are ready to go to its new home. As responsible hobby breeders, we will not breed dogs with DNA deficiencies. We use the Golden Retriever DNA testing for six areas, including the eyes to ensure the best parental genetics in furthering the Golden Line. Every dog is different, and genetic mutations are always possible in any line, but we do our best to ensure healthy and happy puppies. Training a puppy takes time and patience, but you can do it! The companion and friend you develop in your puppy will be an excellent addition to your household for many years to come. Place a deposit down for your puppy to ensure you get your puppy from our next litter. Please read the details below: What are the advantages of a Saratoga Goldens puppy? Our Golden puppy parents are each genetically tested. Please view each mother's dog for her complete testing details. Our Goldens have a 1-year health guarantee as described in the reservation contract. Our Goldens are enriched with a daily multivitamin and are treated with supplements from Nutrivet as needed. You will also receive a bottle of vitamins with your puppy. Our Goldens are raised in a clean, safe property with our loving family. Our Goldens enjoy lots of sunshine and exercise. Our Goldens are exposed to other dogs and other animals, such as domestic rabbits. Our Goldens are veterinarian checked and will have all age-determined vaccinations Duvet Spectra 5, week 6 and worming before pick up. Just off I.Many customers make a memorable trip and enjoy the attractions in the Saratoga region when picking up their puppy to take home. Our Golden puppy online selection process in week six reservation 1 receives 1st pick, the 2 reservation gets 2nd pick and so forth. If necessary, our Golden 3 free boarding days after pick-up day. Standard boarding fee for extra days. Our Golden price is competitive with regional breeders. See price here. Online reservation deposit options include payment with any major credit card and Apple Pay. We will contact our waiting list once we have puppy litter news!

Jumping You probably noticed that all of the things above are unwanted behaviors. This can lead to heart problems, joint problems, and other potential health problems. These following suggestions for exercising your pup will cover both mental and physical exercises. Play tug with your golden Another good game to play with your pup is tug. This is also a great opportunity to work in some training, as you can teach your golden to drop it , take it, and even have them do sits or downs to resume the game. Play chase This is a great game to play, especially with puppies, since most puppies love nothing more than to chase or be chased. Get your dog hooked on chew toys Teaching your dog to love to chew on chew toys is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. Chewing releases feel-good endorphins and channels their chewing energy into an appropriate toy, instead of something in appropriate, like your household items. It can also help them relax, and put overtired puppies to sleep. Play with a flirt pole Using a flirt pole is great for young puppies because it allows them to chase and pounce a toy while you stay a safe distance away from their razor-sharp teeth. Oliver loves it, plus it takes a ton of mental energy to figure out how to get all of his kibble out of it. Other puzzle toys include the Kong Wobbler , snuffle mats , and food balls. This is a win-win since he loves the puzzle toys and it takes more energy to work for his food than to just gobble it up from a food bowl. Play hide and seek This is a great game that combines training and a little bit of exercise, but it does require that your golden knows how to stay. Just be sure to fully dry them off because goldens are susceptible to hot spots. Take your golden to doggy daycare After a day of daycare, Oliver is usually wiped out for the night, as well as half of the next day. Set up a doggy playdate If you have any friends that have nice dogs, or if you meet anyone in a local Facebook group, try to set up a doggy playdate. Your golden will love it! This is especially good for young puppies, since they need to be socialized with other dogs and you can make sure the other dog is up to date on their vaccines. Conclusion Since golden retrievers were bred to hunt out in the fields and marshes all day, they need a lot of exercise. How much exercise does your golden need per day? Have any questions about exercising your golden retriever? Let me know in the comments below. Related articles:. Incredibly active dogs, the best way to keep a golden happy and healthy is to take them on regular walks and outings. But how long should a Golden Retriever be walked? A Golden Retriever should be walked at least 1 hour every day. If easier for the dog owner, walks and exercise time for goldens can be broken up into two minute sessions daily. This, of course, is the recommended walking time for a healthy adult Golden Retriever. Keep reading to find out more! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Their job was to retrieve downed waterfowl, such as ducks and upland game birds during outings with their owners. These hunting excursions could last hours or even days, and golden retrievers were created to be able to last out in the field for long periods of time. These hunts included regular amounts of walking, running, climbing, and swimming. Even though most golden retrievers today are usually domesticated house dogs, they still have the genetic profile of a working dog and have been bred to be high-energy and very active. A long walk helps a retriever to relax its energetic mind and take in all the sights, sounds and smells they experience along the way. A golden retriever could literally walk all day long and cover dozens of miles. Fortunately for us, that much walking is not required. Ideally, a good walk for a golden can be 30 to 60 minutes in length. The daily walk with your golden retriever can be done all at once, or it can be done for shorter periods of time, multiple times a day. The speed of the walk should be pretty fast. A brisk walk is necessary because golden retrievers are difficult to fully tire out. Running with your golden, however, is not a requirement. How Long to Walk A Golden Retriever Puppy Golden Retriever puppies require daily walks as well, but you will want to reduce the duration and length, depending on their age. Golden retriever puppies require short 10 to 15 minute walks or no more than about 5 minutes per month of age. As a golden retriever puppy grows you can add an extra few minutes each month to your regular walking routine. Doing so will guarantee your puppy grows into a strong and healthy dog. Providing the proper amount of puppy exercise is also a great opportunity to introduce your young pup to other people and dogs. A regular shorter walk gives them a chance to become better socialized, which will make for a happier adult dog in the long run. Walking a Senior Golden Retriever For senior dogs, try walking approximately 30 to 45 minutes daily. As golden retrievers age, their bodies go through physical changes and begin to slow down. However, their joints need to remain mobile and their weight still needs to be monitored. So, they need to be walked, but not too much or it could be detrimental for their health and cause hip dysplasia. Dogs love routine. Try to plan a walk at the same time each day. Consistent walking throughout the week is considered healthier than one long weekend stroll. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Besides walking regularly, it is also important to have some high-intensity exercise and play to help exhaust your golden retriever and retain their muscle tone. Golden Retrievers need three types of regular exercise to thrive and be happy. Long walks — The longer the better within reason. Purposeful high-intensity activity and play — Activities such as playing fetch, swimming, or running off-leash. Mental exercise — Mental stimulation is a form of exercise as well and is absolutely necessary for a healthy golden. Find out which toys golden retrievers love to keep them mentally stimulated in our article here. The average adult Golden retriever needs at least 1 hour of exercise a day, ideally more. Their genetic bloodlines can also influence how much exercise a golden retriever requires. Golden retrievers coming from a working stock would need much more exercise than golden retrievers bred to be lap dogs. Failure to provide ample physical exercise and mental stimulation to a golden retriever can contribute to loneliness and behavioral problems. This can include aggressive actions, digging, constant barking, and even running away to have their own fun. Golden Retrievers are very food-driven breeds. Not exercising enough to burn off the calories they eat can eventually lead to them being overweight. Obesity can lead to extreme tension on the joints, possible injury to internal organs for example, the heart , and diabetes. Exercise is the pill that cures most golden retriever mental and behavioral issues, and a good long walk is at the top of the list. Generally, golden retrievers are obedient and typically have a strong recall if they are trained correctly. Proper dog training is the key to being able to successfully let your golden run off-leash. Alternatively, you can use a retractable dog leash to allow more flexibility while still retaining control during walks. A leash like this will give your golden plenty of room to run and explore, while staying in your control. To be safe, make sure the added weight is no more than 10 percent of their total body weight. Doing this is more than enough to fatigue a dog with endless energy, and it will help to strengthen their muscles without overworking them. Another option to increase resistance and wear your dog out and you too! Choosing a walking route with some challenges will increase the amount of exercise your dog gets from an outing. Hard surfaces such as these can be jarring on both the joints and paws. Instead, walk your retriever on a lush lawn or playground. Many major cities have dog walking areas or dog parks that are deemed safe. These waterproof booties will protect your dogs feet from the hot pavement, as well as ice and snow. Spread a little bit of this on their paws and it will take care of any cracking pads on their feet. This can be an issue on some trails and beaches, as well as sidewalks in the city. They are also incredibly smart, meaning they need to keep their minds busy as well as their bodies. To avoid boredom, it is imperative to have sufficient physical and mental activity. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks and purposeful play, for muscle building and mental relaxation is required for a happy and healthy golden retriever. Not doing so can result in an anxious and frustrated dog, which creates behavioral problems such as barking, digging, escaping, and overall aggressive behavior. Because golden retrievers are also vulnerable to being overweight, regular walking and a balanced diet can help regulate their weight and reduce their risk of obesity. In some cases, your new pup might not want to walk at all. You should walk your dog 3 times a day after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Puppies need just as much attention as any other pet because they are still learning how to behave. The length of time that you should go for a walk depends on the age of your puppy. Older puppies can go for longer, but younger ones may tire more easily so you should keep an eye on them. What are the benefits of walking a pup? Walking a pup is a great way to provide some much-needed exercise and time alone. If you have a busy schedule and don't have the time to take your dog on regular walks, consider hiring a professional dog walker or a neighbourhood friend. A lot of people are unsure about how long they should walk their dogs. Some people walk their dogs for hours, while others walk them for just a few minutes. As mentioned above, the answer is different for every person and dog. Generally, younger dogs might not have the energy that older dogs will. Try starting with an hour a day and finding a comfortable spot for you and your dog. What are the risks of not taking your pup for walks? If you have a new puppy, it is important for them to get exercise and socialization. If you do not take them for walks, they will feel too cooped up and stressed. They may also develop bad habits like chewing and digging. In some cases, they can even develop a bad habit of not wanting to walk at all. In other words, your dog might become lazy and it can be hard for you to get them into the habit of going on walks again. How much exercise does a pup need per day? A young pup needs an average of 45 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. For this, it's important to choose a time when the pup will have the most energy. Ideally, this should be in the morning or evening when they're most likely to be active. In order for a puppy to stay healthy and happy, it's important that they get enough exercise. Some dog parks allow you to let your dog run around freely. You could also play with your dog using dog toys. Try out a few of these and see what your dog enjoys best. The most important factor is the breed of the dog. Puppies from larger breeds will need more exercise, and therefore need to be walked for longer periods of time. In addition, as mentioned above the age of the pup is a factor too. Puppies that are older will be able to go for longer walks without getting tired, so their walks can last a little bit less than a younger pup's walk. The third factor that affects how long your puppy should go for a walk is the environment in which you live. If you live in an urban area with lots of sidewalks and parks, then your pup will likely be able to go on shorter walks than if they lived in an area with fewer sidewalks and parks available to them. Dogs need a lot of exercise. They are also capable of doing a lot more than just running around in the backyard. Dogs are not just pets, they are our friends and companions. They deserve to be happy and healthy too. That is why their owners should take care of their needs, including exercise requirements. The amount of exercise that your dog needs will vary depending on its size, age, and breed. If you have a small dog like a toy poodle or chihuahua then they will need less exercise than if you have a large dog like an Irish wolfhound or Labrador retriever. The short answer to this question is "it depends". It is important to note that there are many factors that determine the right amount of time you should walk your dog. The first thing to consider is the age and size of your dog. A puppy or a small breed dog might need fewer walks than a larger breed adult dog. The distance you live from a park or other area where your pet can go off-leash also plays a role in how often you need to walk them. In general, minutes per day should be enough for most dogs, but it's always best to consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations. What are the benefits of walking a puppy for longer periods of time? Walking a puppy is important, but walking a puppy for longer periods of time has some additional benefits. The first benefit is that it strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner. The second benefit is that you can get more exercise by walking your pup for an hour at a time, which means you'll be able to do other things that you enjoy. What are the risks of not walking a pup for long enough periods of time? It is important to take your pup for walks on a regular basis, even if it is just for a short period of time. If left alone for extended periods, dogs can become bored. This can lead to separation anxiety and other bad behaviour. What is the Correct Way to Walk a Puppy? It's a common misconception that all dogs need to be walked the same way. In reality, there are many different techniques for dog walking , and it's important to figure out which one is best for your furry friend. Remember that puppies may be very hyper and full of energy. They may want to run off in several different directions. When walking your puppy try to keep them calm and moving. And More! Training a puppy to enjoy their walks can be a challenge. The best way to train your puppy is by using positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a puppy to enjoy their walks. You should start with short, frequent walks and gradually increase the time spent walking every day. Eventually, you will be able to walk your dog for as long as you want without any issues! There is no set time for how long a puppy or senior dog should go for walks. A senior dog should be walked less often than a puppy, but they can still go on long walks. How long should a puppy be walked for compared to adult dogs? Dogs age much faster than humans, meaning that puppies should be walked for a shorter duration than an adult dog. Experts recommend that owners walk their puppy for about 15 minutes per day, and gradually increase the time as they grow. What should you do if your pup is not interested in going on walks? There are many ways to get your pup walking. I've found that playing with a favourite toy or throwing a handful of treats on the ground will usually do the trick. It's not easy to teach a dog how to walk on a leash. But don't give up, it takes some time and patience! Walking your puppy is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. So, start walking your puppy today! More Training. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Without adequate exercise, few puppies will be able to control their energy. Families see an out-of-control puppy and immediately think exercise is the answer to their problem. Often it is, but exercise can also be overdone. There is a balance. The information below has exercise guidelines for large breed puppies along with a broad range of various ways for your puppy to get that exercise. Make sure that you have a fenced area or that you are far from any place that cars or other dangers might be. For off-leash strolls, let the puppy set the pace. If he lies down, let him rest. Here are a few general guidelines. Keep in mind that puppies that are used to active lifestyles can handle longer excursions. Conversely, puppies that have not had opportunity to exercise off leash need to start off at a slower pace. For your average puppy, start off with minutes for an 8-week old puppy. Increase to up to 20 minutes for week old puppies. By the time your puppy is 6 months, the time can be increased up to as much as 45 minutes and for a month-old puppy, you can go for as long as an hour as long as you are going at a slow pace with plenty of opportunities for your puppy to sniff around. If you miss a week or two of the work, decrease your distance when starting back and gradually build up the distance again. This long distance exercise must be off-leash so that your puppy can take breaks and slow down as needed. The puppy must set the pace. Forced running on a leash is never good for a growing puppy. Leash Walks as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Leash walking can be a good form of exercise when certain criteria are met. First puppies need to be trained and socialized to the environment. Second, leash walks need to be done in a certain way. Leash walking can be overdone. One of the biggest causes of growth plate and soft tissue injury in young puppies is repetitive exercise. Leash walks for puppies must be broken up with training sessions or opportunities for free off-leash play or time to sniff around on the leash. At 3 months, you can go for 20 minutes and at 6 months, you can walk up to 30 minutes. You must be much more careful with leash walking since you and not the puppy control the pace. Leash walking provides an excellent way of combining a little bit of physical exercise with mental exercise, obedience training, socialization, and environmental desensitization. It is a fantastic way to introduce a puppy to his world. It gives a bit of exercise while at the same time giving opportunities for socialization and training. However, strolls on a leash are not enough. Puppies must have an opportunity to run and play. Again, off-leash walks are best if your goal in your walk is to provide adequate exercise. A week old Golden Retriever puppy will have a neck that is about 12 inches. Get a collar of any brand that includes 12 inches in the size range. An adult female will have about an 18 inch neck. A male adult will need a collar that fits a 20 inch neck. Similarly running on a treadmill or any other types of forced running are not appropriate forms of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Free Play as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Free play is always an excellent form of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Dogs and puppies of all ages can play as long they like in your safely contained yard. If your puppy is playing with another dog in the family, make sure you supervise their play until you are sure that they play well together and that the older dog is not too rough. End the play if the other dog is getting too rough, if your puppy is starting to annoy the other dog, or if your puppy shows signs that he is ready to quit playing. Strange dogs are not worth the risk. Getting on the ground or running around with your puppy can be one of the best ways to exercise your puppy. Fetch and tug can be options if played within certain guidelines. Whether you are playing tug or fetch or just running around with your puppy, there are a couple of rules that need to be followed. Instead, ignore him. Wait until your puppy is behaving. Then, once you begin playing with your puppy, periodically, stop the game and make him gain control of himself before resuming the game. Ask him to do a simple behavior such as a sit or a down. Then start playing again. We recommend teaching your puppy the game of fetch at a young age. Going and getting a toy, bringing it back, and giving it to you is easier to teach when they are young. Chasing balls causes puppies to twist, roll, jump, and tumble while trying to grab a moving ball. Instead, use toys. Then, combine your game of fetch with a game of tug. Tug is discussed in detail in another section. Once your puppy has learned to tug, teach your puppy a release command. Save longer throws for your dog until after he is over 2 years of age. Teach The Wait Command Once your puppy has learned to bring a toy back to you reliably, you can begin teaching your puppy to safely retrieve a ball. Before moving from a toy to a ball, teach a wait command. Playing fetch with a dog with a wait command is a tremendous exercise. It not only provides physical exercise, but it also provides a super opportunity for a puppy to learn self-control. Here is how to teach it. I like to use what is called a pull tab. A pull tab is a very short leash that you attach to a collar. Pull tabs are typically 6 inches or shorter. A pull tab is long enough to give you control over your dog, but short enough for the dog to be able to run and play with it dangling from his collar. Once the dog relaxes and I require a sit as well , throw the ball. When the dog is dependable with regard to waiting on the release, you can do away with the tab. Having a dog wait before chasing a ball is a necessity with puppies because it eliminates the problem of the dog twisting, turning, and diving for a moving object. Fetch is a great exercise for an adult. Once a dog is over 2, you can begin throwing balls and even add a Chuck-it ball thrower to your game. Tug as a Form of Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Tug is a very good exercise for dogs of all ages except for during the stage when puppy teeth are coming out and new adult teeth coming in to replace them. Make sure you stop before he looses his first teeth at around 4 months. Tug can then be resumed when all adult teeth are in. The most current training recommendations for tug no longer include the idea that the dog can never win and that you must always be in charge. This is not true. Consider a child racing his Dad down the street. The Dad lets the child win and the child beams. It gives the child confidence and makes him want to be faster and better. The same holds true with puppies. Let them win when they do a good job! The Release Once a puppy is tugging vigorously and understands the game, you can teach a release cue. Teach this by making the tug toy become motionless and no fun. Just keep the toy still until the dog opens his mouth on his own. Then immediately give the toy back to the dog and start the tug game again. Begin integrating the release into your play session in such a way that you are giving the toy back far more often than not. The dog needs to associate his releasing the toy with a restart to the game, not an end to it. It encourages forced running, jumping, and twisting, all bad for the growing puppy. Frisbee throwing can be dangerous for any dog, but especially for a puppy. We personally never play frisbee with our dogs. There are many other better exercise choices. Digging Digging is actually a very good exercise for a puppy though it may not be so good for your lawn! If you should have a place that your puppy can dig, maybe a soft spot in the corner of your yard, train him that that place and only that place is his digging spot. Puppies Should Avoid Full Flights of Stars Your Summer Brook puppy will be trained shortly before changing homes to safely navigate a set of 3 or 4 steps. If your set of steps is more than half a full flight, we require that you carry him up them until he is 4 months old. Even after this, we recommend keeping him off the steps as often as possible. Dogs tend to get excited and fly down them, often leaping over 4 or 5 of them at a time. This can result in injury. As with so many other repetitive or impactful activities, we highly recommend waiting until growth plates are closed. Baby gates can be a huge help until that time. Swimming Swimming is super exercise for a Golden Retriever puppy and most dogs enjoy playing fetch in the water. See our website page on teaching a puppy to swim for more information. This includes jumping up on and off of furniture until he is fully grown and growth plates are closed. Growth Plates and Exercise We have mentioned quite a few times on this page the importance of limiting certain activities with your puppy until his growth plates are closed. Some of you might be wondering what growth plates are and why they matter with regard to exercise. What Are Growth Plates? Growth plates are soft areas that are at the ends of the long bones in puppies. These growth plates gradually get thinner until they completely close. The closure of growth plates is brought on by hormonal changes during puberty. When growth plates close, they harden as they calcify and the rapid cell division stops. The growth plates become what is called an epiphyseal line. The epiphyseal line is sturdy and not so prone to injury as the growth plates. These are collectively referred to as soft tissue. In an adult, when there is a soft tissue injury, a sprain will result. However, in a puppy, the soft tissue is stronger than the growth plates. An injury that would only cause a sprain in an adult dog could cause an injury to the growth plate in a puppy. The soft tissue can actually pull the growth plate apart. Growth plate injuries can sometimes not heal properly and keep a dog from growing straight and strong which can subject him to problems for his entire life. Conclusion Although you need to be much more careful with the type of exercise you provide your puppy, exercise is still very important to a growing puppy. Appropriate exercise is key to building strong bones. Another key to good puppy development and a relaxed puppy is mental exercise. Give your puppy appropriate physical exercise and give your puppy a long life with healthy bones and joints. For more information on our puppies, see our page on Golden Retriever puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You might be concerned that this is a sign or some kind of anxiety, frustration, or deviancy. That said, if it is an uncharacteristic behavior that they seem to develop suddenly, if they seem to do it compulsively, or if it is very difficult to get them to stop, these can all be signs that there is something up with your dog that needs some attention. It is called this because it also looks a lot like what male dogs do with female dogs when they are in heat. But simulated mounting can be done in a huge variety of circumstances and with pretty much anything. Dogs may appear like they are humping the air, another animal or a person, or an inanimate object. While the behavior is most common in male dogs, and especially non-neutered male dogs and male puppies before they have been neutered, female dogs will also sometimes display this behavior. Why Do Dogs Hump? There are a variety of reasons why your dog might start humping the air or something else. Some are simple instinctive behaviors, while others are concerning. It is important to observe the situation that your dog is in, and what kind of stimulus they are exposed to, to determine the motivation for their mounting behavior. Here are the primary reasons that your dog might be humping the air and how to identify them. This can send their hormones into overdrive and cause a high level of frustration. Humping the air can be a way to release that tension. This behavior is also quite common in male puppies before they are neutered. While they are not yet ready to mate, the hormones are developing within them and they need an outlet, which humping can offer. This is not that different from human teenage boys. Male dogs that have been neutered may also hump for this reason, and not just in the roughly one month after the operation that it takes for their hormones to settle down. Male neutered dogs can still produce sex hormones. These are the dogs that are most likely to want to hump some of their favorite toys. In this case, it is more or less best to let them get on with it, and make sure to keep a bit of distance between them and any female dogs that might be in heat. Our female Golden Retriever who we never noticed hump anything in her first 6 years decided to hump our female Lab when she went into heat. If your dog reaches any levels or uncontrollable excitement, they might use humping as a way to release that tension. You will often see this if a dog has been at home alone all day and you finally walk through the door. They are so excited to see you that they might start humping the air,—or you. This suggests that you have a high-maintenance dog when it comes to sociability and attention, and that you should avoid leaving them at home alone for long periods at a time. If this is challenging because of work , it might be worth having a dog walker take them out during the day. Another scenario might be a dog that spends most of the day inside. When you let them out to do their business and get a bit of exercise, they can get so excited that they start humping the air. Up their daily exercise, and be sure to leave them with appropriate puzzle toys so that they have something to stimulate their minds while they are stuck inside. You can find our recommendations for the best puzzle toys here. Poor Socialization Dogs that have not been properly socialized as a puppy do not always know what to do in certain situations. They may resort to humping as a way to initiate engagement. This is a worrying behavior that can develop if your dog is not taught how to interact with new humans and other animals. The key to prevention is good training as a puppy. Training is also the answer to curbing this behavior in adult dogs. However, if the humping behavior has already become ingrained and habitual, you will very likely need the services of a professional trainer. Displacement Behavior If your dog suddenly develops humping behavior, and especially if they seem to hump the air spontaneously and not in response to anything, this can be a sign that your pup is dealing with stress and anxiety. Mounting is a way for them to release the tension that has built up in their body. When this is the case, you need to look at the underlying cause of their stress. It is most likely a traumatic event which hopefully you will know about or something that has changed in their lives recently. Dogs are very sensitive to change. If new people or animals join or leave the household, this can cause them stress. Even changes in the way the house smells can cause them anxiety. Have you changed your laundry detergent? Has something in their routine changed? Are they spending more time alone? Some of these are issues that you can address, but in other cases you might just have to wait for your dog to adjust. In the meantime, a little bit of air humping is an innocent and harmless way for them to let off a little bit of steam. Medical Issues In some relatively rare cases, humping can be a sign of medical issues, and moving in this way can be an attempt to alleviate some discomfort they are feeling in that area of their body. Some of the most common medical issues that might be at fault are urinary tract infections and skin allergies. You are likely to notice other symptoms when this is the case. For example, if they have a UTI, you might notice that the color or their urine is different, and that they look uncomfortable when peeing and may even cry out. They could also suffer a bit of incontinence. If you suspect your dog is suffering from a UTI or skin allergies then you should contact your vet to find the best solution for your dog. These include: Natura Petz Organics Urinary Tract Kit If it is a skin allergy, in addition to redness of the skin you will probably also notice frequent scratching and licking of the area. These include:. Dogs of any age may initiate humping behavior, whether with their littermates, other pets in their home, or unknown dogs they meet at the park or at daycare. Response to Stress or Overstimulation Humping can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs who are stressed, whether it's "good" stress or bad stress. This is usually the most common reason for humping that I see in my behavior consultations. Or a dog may become anxious in certain environments or when uncomfortable with what's going on around them, such as with other dogs or when new people visit your home. When there's a lot going on in the environment, a dog may become overstimulated and not know how to deal. A dog can start humping when they get really excited, such as when you arrive home after they've been alone all day or when guests come over to visit. This could happen when they are at a dog park or dog daycare, and there are a lot of different dogs and play styles that your dog can't control. Play Initiation Humping is a normal part of dog play behavior. It's not unusual to see a dog try to initiate play with another by humping or to see humping as part of wrestling. While it may be embarrassing to see your dog start to hump another, if it's just a short burst during otherwise appropriate play sessions, it's okay to let it go. However, watch for other signs of stress or overstimulation, as a dog may start humping during play when they feel overwhelmed or are policing other dogs' play. You'll also want to make sure that the dog being humped isn't showing signs of stress or dislike of being the target. Some dogs don't mind it if it's just a small part of the overall play, but other dogs can get very annoyed and lash out in response. Learn more about managing dog play here. Dominance I always hesitate to introduce the "dirty D word" when talking about dog behavior because it has been misused and misunderstood. And that misunderstanding of dominance has resulted in inhumane training methods being encouraged throughout the industry. With that being said, humping can be related to dominance or social status in dogs. BUT — the dog doing the humping isn't always the one trying to dominate the other. A more insecure dog may hump a more confident dog simply because they don't have the social skills to otherwise deal with the situation. And a confident dog may just let them! Typically, humping related to social status between dogs is seen along with other body language signals related to social status, such as posturing, submissive rollovers, or face licking. If a dog is humping a person, it's most likely to be stress-induced or overstimulation. Dominance between humans and dogs is rarely an actual thing. Humans are what we call "super dominant" over dogs — we control all the resources, after all — and dogs know this. Hormones Yes, humping can be about sex! Puppies approaching sexual maturity around 5—8 months old may start humping for reasons other than play or stress. Those teenage hormones are raging, and it's instinctual to mount and hump in response. Dogs can smell when a female dog is about to go into heat , and this can trigger the instinctual response to mount — even in neutered males. A dog may also find out that humping feels good and then engage in more humping, whether on another dog, a person, or a favorite pillow, to experience this "pleasure" even more. Watch this quick video to see a young puppy engage in humping with an adult dog playmate. He's likely starting to feel the urge as he gets closer to sexual maturity, but it's likely combined with the excitement and overstimulation after romping around and playing. Notice how the adult dog is rather permissive but does mouth at him to ask him to stop and then moves away. That's a great sign of a confident and well-socialized dog who knows how to interact with puppies well. Here's another video example of a dog in a daycare setting who was five months old. His increase in humping was most likely caused by hormones but could also have been a learned play behavior combined with overstimulation. His humping became an issue because it was so obsessive — and he was a large and strong dog — he was dismissed from daycare a month prior to the neutering age requirement. Note: You'll notice that the dog he is humping is rather permissive and doesn't seem bothered by being humped. The daycare attendants in this video allowed the humping to continue as long as it did so they could get video footage to show the dog's owner. However, there are a few possibilities to consider and rule out just to be sure: Urinary tract infections: These are generally painful and may cause pain and swelling of the genitals. Humping may help relieve this discomfort. Skin infections: These types of infections are often itchy and cause irritation. Humping may be an alternative to chewing or licking to relieve discomfort, pain, and frustration. Priapism persistent erection : When erections last for an extended period of time, it can be painful, and instead of licking, some dogs hump to ease the pain. How to Stop Dog Humping Humping, while a natural behavior, can become a problem for the following reasons: The other dog or pet may not tolerate humping and react aggressively to make your dog stop. A large dog can hurt a smaller or older dog in their enthusiastic humping efforts. Frequent humping, especially when young, can become a lifelong habit if not stopped. If caused by stress, a dog can become more fearful and anxious over time if not addressed. Humping may escalate to more reactive behaviors. Chronic stress affects your dog's health as well. It can lead to high blood pressure and other medical issues. Most people don't appreciate being humped by a dog and the larger the dog, the more likely they may knock over or injure someone. Young children, the elderly, or immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of infection if accidentally scratched while being humped by a dog. Even if the humping is mostly a non-issue such as play-related humping , other dog owners may not like or want your dog humping their dog. Having your male dog neutered can certainly help reduce hormone-related humping. However, it's important to address your dog's humping behavior prior to neutering if it is driven by hormones. Not because it's not "okay" — remember, it's a natural and instinctual behavior. But hormone-driven behaviors can become lifetime habits even after neutering. If a dog rehearses humping behavior over and over, it becomes self-reinforcing and will not just disappear after being neutered. Address Your Dog's Stress It's important to consider the environmental factors that may be causing your dog stress or simply being too much for them to handle all at once. If these situations trigger humping behavior, you'll want to address whether taking your dog to the dog park or daycare is appropriate. Instead, you could set up playdates with other dogs that your dog is more comfortable with or plan your visits to the park when there are fewer dogs. This can be especially helpful for dogs who hump as a way of policing other dogs' play. If they hump people or other pets, you can reduce excitement and stress through management and training — keeping your dog in a separate area until they've calmed down or for the entirety of the visit if the stress is fear-based , and working on desensitization and counterconditioning with a certified dog trainer or behavior consultant. Providing other self-soothing activities for hyper or anxious dogs can go a long way in preventing the humping from even starting. Interrupt and Redirect Your Dog To stop humping, try to be proactive in managing your dog. If I see a dog that is starting to mount or hump, I'll simply use their name recognition cue to interrupt and get their attention. Then I can redirect their attention to a different activity if necessary. I may allow them to go back to play, or I may have them take a break for a few minutes to calm down. If your dog doesn't respond to their name or call away cue, then you need to go and get them. Give them a break for a few minutes before letting them go back to play. If they resume persistent humping, they are likely humping due to overstimulation, stress, or hormones. In this case, group play may not be a good choice for them while you work on addressing those issues. Here's an example of me calling a dog during play who was starting to hump a playmate: Provide an Alternative 'Target' If your dog has taken to stress humping on pillows or other household items, or even humping people, sometimes the easiest solution is to give them a designated humping pillow or stuffed animal. This could be something you do as a stopgap while you address their underlying stress or overstimulation, or can even be a long-term management solution for some dogs. Don't Punish Your Dog for Humping Humping is a natural dog behavior and can be a sign your dog needs support if they are overwhelmed or stressed. Yelling at or otherwise punishing a dog for humping not only won't fix the problem, but it can have some unintended consequences, such as increased anxiety, damage to your relationship, or escalation into aggressive behavior. Focus on calmly interrupting your dog's humping and then addressing the real reason they are engaging in this behavior. Does your dog hump a lot? What do you think causes your dog's humping? Let me know in the comments! With over 13 years of experience, she has had the opportunity to work with hundreds of dogs on a wide variety of training and behavior issues. Beyond her one-on-one consultations through Pupstanding Academy, she also teaches group dog training classes at Seattle Humane. Her specialties include dog aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, and puppy socialization. She has also completed the Aggression in Dogs Master Course. When she's not geeking out about dogs, you can find her reading, hiking with her two Cardigan Welsh Corgis, or paddleboarding. Canberra, Australia Humping isn't necessarily a sexual behaviour. It's not dominance. It's often a play behaviour or an attempt to initiate play. It's not a hugely polite way of doing it, but it's well intentioned.My dog Obi is 4 and he was desexed at 7 months. There are some individual dogs that he will always want to hump, without fail. Usually these are chocolate Labradors also desexed but there was also one very elderly male Border Collie at our dog club that was a humping magnet we just had to keep Obi on lead around this old doggie. With all the dogs he humps he's trying to get them to play a chasing or wrestling game. So, humping can be a behaviour that is directed at certain lucky individuals only and it can be a play thing. If it is a play thing, it is most definitely not going to be resolved by neutering. But if there are other reasons you want to neuter then go ahead. In the meantime, building a strong recall cue or 'leave it' cue are better alternatives - or just removing your dog off the other dog. And don't worry, your dog is totally normal and it is definitely not something he's doing to be dominant. Think of it as a slightly goofy, slightly socially inept way of sending out a party invitation - that's all it is really. Arousal The cause could be that it is aroused. You can reduce this behavior by getting it neutered or you can try the ignore or redirect techniques mentioned in the section below. Dominance It could also be the case that it is a power play where your Labrador is trying to figure out how much power it has and to exert its power over you or other dogs. As mentioned on pets webmd the Labrador that is doing the humping might not be the dominant Labrador. Rather, it might be unsure of its status and it is doing the humping to figure it out. If this is the cause then there will likely be other signs of dominance-seeking behavior such as not being willing to listen to your command, aggression or other power plays like trying to sit on you or where you would normally sit or trying to lay down in a position higher than you. Regardless, you should take measures to prevent this. You can do that by doing lots of training with it so that it sees you as the one in charge. Labradors will often show their levels of excitement by doing outlandish things like humping or rolling in the grass or even mud. If your Labrador only seems to do the humping when it gets excited then excitement is likely to be the cause. Situations, where it might get excited, could include when you are playing with it or when you arrive home. To prevent this kind of behavior you should make sure to give it lots of exercise so that you can reduce its hyperactivity and to train it not to by trying the ignore or redirect techniques in the section below. You could also try getting it neutered if you can. Attention It could also be the case that it does it in order to get extra attention from you. This would be more likely if it does it more when you have not been giving it much attention and if you tend to give it more attention when it does it. Instead, it would help to give it attention throughout the day by training it, walking it and playing with it. But, it would help to stop rewarding it with attention when it starts misbehaving unless necessary. Stress The cause could also be that something is causing it to be stressed. If this is the cause then it may have come on suddenly after a recent stressful event or it might be due to something that happened when it was young. Some things to consider when trying to figure out if this is the cause would be whether or not there has recently had a stressful event like losing a friend, changing its owner or changing its home. Neuter it The first option that you could consider would be to neuter it. There are also a number of other benefits to neutering your Labrador such as allowing it to be more healthy and reducing its urge to roam so it would help to consider it anyway. Get up and ignore it Since your Labrador might be doing it in order to get extra attention from you, one option would also be to stop giving it attention when it starts doing it. By doing so, you should be able to teach it that humping you will not result in it getting attention from you. Try the redirect method Another option would be to train your Labrador to do something else such as to roll over and to tell it to do that as soon as it looks like it is about to start humping. Doing this could get it out of the habit of trying to hump you. Give it lots of exercise It would also help to give it daily exercise so that it is fully stimulated. Generally, it is recommended for adult Labradors to get at least an hour of exercise per day. Give it distractions Another option that you could try would be to take its mind away from humping. You can do this by giving it lots of toys and bones to play with. If you wait until it is older then getting it to stop doing it will be a lot more difficult since the habit will be more ingrained. Avoid punishing it If you punish it when it misbehaves it might not understand why it is being punished. Instead, it would help to reward it when it is being well behaved and to use positive reinforcement training to get it to change its behavior. How To Stop Your Puppy From Humping December 6, Both male and female dogs hump for a range of reasons, many of which have nothing to do with sexual desire. Why is my puppy humping? Because of this, it can continue into adulthood, even if your dog is female and has been desexed. Some dogs respond to stressful or exciting situations by mounting things. It may also happen if your puppy is scared at the dog park. Sexually motivated mounting is usually accompanied by certain body language: tail up, panting, whining or pawing. What age does a puppy start humping? At around 6 months once your puppy reaches their sexual maturity, their humping will grow more sexually charged. Is it normal for a puppy to hump? Overall, male and female humping is usually a way to alleviate excitement during play, stress relief or an expression of dominance. If your adult dog has begun humping recently, it could be a symptom of a medical related issue. If humping suddenly appears or grows more frequent, it could be a sign of a urinary incontinence, a UTI, skin allergies or priapism. Why is my female puppy humping? It is not uncommon for female dogs to hump often if they have not been spayed or desexed. Female puppies tend to have their first season anywhere between months old. However, humping in female dogs can still just be the result of them attempting to assert social dominance and honing their social interaction skills. Here are some suggestions on how to stop your dog from humping. Tough love Humping is usually caused by anxiety or over-excitement.

Learn more » Pet owners are always trying to find the perfect schedule to keep their pets happy and healthy. Staying on a routine when it comes to feeding, walking, and hygiene are all part of this. When it comes to bathtime, however, things can be a little hit or miss. Some dogs love bath time. Others hate it. Pugs are known for having sensitive skin and facial skin folds that need special attention. But how often should a Pug be bathed? Some dogs may need a bath more often if they roll in something unpleasant, while others can do with just a few baths per year. So, sticking to a particular schedule of bathing your Pug will be difficult, as it will greatly vary in individual dogs, depending on their lifestyle and their skin health. Daily cleaning and checking of their facial skin folds is another matter altogether. Read on below to learn how this schedule works, tips for bathing your Pug, and when to detour from your schedule. The AKC does not consider their coat double. These layers grow independently of one another and require different care. Occasional bathing and regular weekly brushing are required to keep your Pug looking and smelling their best. Frequent and unnecessary bathing will disrupt this fine skin balance and cause the skin to become irritated and dry. Brushing gently and regularly is an efficient way to remove loose hairs during shedding. However, if your Pug gets dirty, rolls in the mud, or finds their way into something stinky, tossing them into the bath may be the only solution. A Pug with skin issues may need a different approach, and we will go through this in more detail, so continue reading. Those wrinkles, alongside the ones around their tail base, require special care, however. Naturally, these warm hiding places can be the breeding ground for unwanted infections. Wanting to be a great Pug owner, regular daily inspection and cleaning of these areas when required, or a minimum of several times each week, if not daily, is crucial in picking up any signs of an infection early on and preventing skin fold dermatitis or even deep skin infection called pyoderma. Having a routine for wrinkle care can keep you on track with their skin health. Make sure you clean them thoroughly and gently, without causing any skin irritation. One of the most important things to remember about Pug wrinkle care is drying. After a bath, wrinkles need to be focused on when it comes to drying. Leaving them wet is one of the primary causes of the fungal infections you want to avoid. Dabbing them gently with a clean towel is the best way to do this. Image Credit: fongleon, Shutterstock 1. Choose a Bathing Area The first thing you should do when bathing your Pug is choosing the right area. When this is the case, since your Pug is a small dog, you can always use the kitchen sink. Either way, make sure your pup is comfortable before bath time starts. Gather Your Necessities Before you pop your Pug into the water, you should have everything you need on hand. Harsh shampoos cause dry skin and irritation. Instead, you should opt for using shampoos and conditioners designed for sensitive skin and recommended or prescribed by your vet. Another good option is to use plant-based products which are often less damaging, but make sure they have been checked by your vet first. Do not get any water in their ears, as this may irritate them and lead to an ear infection. There are appropriate ear cleaners your vet can prescribe for regular ear hygiene. Image Credit: Ihar Halavach, Shutterstock 3. By removing loose hairs, you can focus more on washing away dirt. The last thing you want to do is burn your Pug. Instead, run the bath or sink with 2 to 3 inches of lukewarm water that will be comfortable for your dog. Image Credit: Natali Kuzina, Shutterstock 5. Then you can place them in the water and thoroughly wet the skin. If you have a spray nozzle this process is much easier. If not, you can easily use a cup or bowl to help out. When your Pug is wet, apply the shampoo and massage their skin gently but thoroughly. Medicated shampoos usually need to stay on for minutes to take effect, as they are antibacterial and antifungal, but it will depend on the individual product. Your vet may recommend washing the whole dog or just certain areas of the body where the issue is, and they will instruct you on how frequently to do so. Make sure all the shampoo is rinsed away before you apply the conditioner. The conditioner needs to stay on for at least 2 minutes before being thoroughly rinsed away. Then bathtime is finished. Keeping your pet's skin and coat clean and healthy is very important, but finding a great shampoo can be harder than the actual grooming! We love our Hepper Pet Shampoos because they makes grooming so much easier. These pH-balanced formulas are made with natural ingredients like oatmeal, cucumber, and aloe. They are free of phthalates, sulfates, and soaps and very gentle on your pet's skin. Now you just need to decide which formula is best for your fur baby! This can be made worse by bathing as things like scented shampoos can act as an irritant, and frequent washes that serve to strip their skin of its natural oils. With that in mind, how often is too often when it comes to bathing your Pug? How often should you bathe a Pug? You should only bathe a Pug every 2 to 6 months in order to maintain a balance between their skin health and hygiene. So, in practical terms, if your Pug gets his coat muddy, and he starts to stink, you need to give them a bath outside of the regular bathing schedule. How to bathe your Pug in 5 simple steps Smaller Pugs can be bathed in a usual bathtub with a shower, but if you have a smaller Pug or a Pug puppy, you can bathe them in a sink with a sink sprayer. I would not bother filling up the tub. This is especially important if your Pug is young, anxious or not a very confident swimmer. This is how you can bathe a pug. Use a specialist dog shampoo Then, get a gentle, soap-free dog shampoo and use your fingers to lather and work the shampoo into the coat. As mentioned, Pugs have extra sensitive skin, which is why a soap-free shampoo is the best option. What is the best shampoo for a Pug smell? It also helps to moisturise their skin, and smells great too. Rinse the shampoo away Rinse the shampoo out and repeat the process as many times as necessary to get all of the dirt out. Give the conditioner no more than two minutes to set and then rinse again thoroughly. Dry your Pug thoroughly To avoid that nasty wet dog smell, you need to dry your Pug completely. Dry your dog with either a towel or a hairdryer on the lowest setting. This is their way to get water off their coat and out of their ears. Additional Pug bathing and washing tips Now you know how to bathe a Pug, I wanted to get into a little bit more detail about how you wash some specific parts of their body in the bath or shower. This includes the outside ear flaps and the corners of the eyes to get rid of any stubborn tear stains. I would do this instead of pouring water on their face — not many dogs like this! Specially made dog ear-cleaning solution contains ingredients that helps to break down and remove wax, as well as anti-bacterial agents that soothes inflammation and prevents infection. You should apply this solution to a damp cotton ball and gentle wipe the inside of the ear use a different cotton ball for each ear in order to prevent spreading infection and check for any injuries, infection, inflammation or scrapes. If you notice something unusual, apply antibiotic ointment and go to your vet in order to seek further advice. If you cut into the quick, this will cause bleeding and extreme pain for your dog. It will also make it incredibly difficult to cut their nails in the future. After cutting the nails, give your Pug a treat so that they have positive associations with the experience. The top layer is thick, waterproof and usually a brown colour, whilst the bottom layer is softer, more sensitive and yet also dense because it acts as an insulator. It is usually white and is more likely to shed during the winter months. Luckily, with Pugs being short-haired breeds, their coat, despite its complexities, is reasonably easy to care for. Brushing: Brush out dirt, prevent shedding and distribute natural oils throughout your Pug by brushing them at least once a week with a bristle brush, a hound grooming glove or or a finer brush if you want to remove excess dirt or hair. Brush your Pug more frequently — up to three times a week — during shedding season. You should also pay attention to any fur around the feet or on the pads of the feet that you might want to trim for tidiness. Freshening up: To keep your Pug clean between baths, doggy dry shampoo is quick and easy to use — you just need to sprinkle it on your dog and then distribute it with a brush. You can also use a spray-on dog conditioner in order to keep the coat looking shiny. Conclusion Although you should always keep in mind the allergies and skin issues that come with owning a Pug, bathing them can be a rewarding bonding experience that helps to keep them squeaky clean, happy, and free from infection! With any dog, it is important to strike that balance between not enough grooming and too-much grooming. Whilst it is important to ensure your dog is clean, tidy and healthy, over-bathing can cause its own issues, making it ultimately more counterproductive. You might also like…. This is your chance to thoroughly clean your puppy or dog to remove body oil, dirt, and debris, slather the entire body with products that will promote healthy skin and fur, and use something to control odors and keep your Pug smelling nice. There are some bathing missteps that can actually cause issues such as overly dry skin, skin reactions like itching or rash, or striped fur, and not properly drying your Pug can contribute to skin yeast infections. So, this article will cover the exact steps to successfully bathe a Pug for maximum benefits. How Often a Pug Needs a Bath Most Pugs need to be given a bath once every 3 weeks, even if they appear to be clean and smell just fine. Baths are given at this interval because the body is constantly producing oils that are excreted through the hair follicles. These serve as a natural barrier from external elements and help keep a dog's skin moisturized. But, these do not evaporate; rather, they accumulate. At about the 3-week mark, there is enough body oil on a Pug that skin pores can become blocked and a bad smell can develop if these are not washed away. A bath, done properly, will effectively wash those oils away without stripping the skin and fur, leaving your Pug with a 'clean slate' that will mark the beginning of the 3-week cycle. Another thing that happens during a bath is that loose hairs are freed. And, while the same time interval does not apply to this method of removing dead hairs from a Pug's coat as it does in regard to body oils, it can be advantageous for this to occur every 3 weeks since this can decrease the amount of work you do when brushing the coat to keep shedding under control. Note that you can give your Pug a bath more often than this if the circumstances warrant it; for example, if your Pug rolled around in a muddy puddle or otherwise got so dirty that spot-cleaning won't work or if there are skin issues that require the use of a specialty shampoo. Where to Give a Pug a Bath Young puppies, due to their size and possible fear of water, often do best when given a bath in a kitchen sink. Everything should be removed from the sink and it should be cleaned well and rinsed out. Adult Pugs can also be given baths in a sink, if it is large enough. But, many do best with baths in a bathtub. If the weather is warm enough that an outside water hose will not be too cold, baths can be given outdoors as long as you have a clean area to do so with one option being a small kiddie pool. Supplies Needed When Giving a Bath Of course, just wetting a dog down does not qualify as a bath since it won't accomplish the mission of removing body oils, dirt, and debris and applying products that are good for the skin and coat. So, you will need a few things: 1. A brush or mitt for pre-bath grooming. Since baths will loosen a whole bunch of hairs on this high-shedding breed , it's a good idea to go over the coat right before you give your Pug a bath. This will help keep the amount of hairs freed during the bathing process to a manageable level. Though you can use a slicker brush, you may find that a mitt like the Delomo Enhanced Grooming Glove makes this much easier. And, it's great to be able to accomplish this without having to hold onto anything. The goal is to use something that will cleanse away oils, not just skim over them, and be good for a Pug's skin. At the same time, steer clear of soaping agents as these can be very harsh, causing dryness; instead, opt for plant-based cleansers. Certain additives should be avoided which are known to cause irritation or allergic reactions; this includes synthetic preservatives, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, polyethylene glycol, and artificial perfumes or dyes. In addition, the pH balance should be between 6. Wash-out conditioner. When a dog is given a bath, this triggers the hair cuticles the protective outer layer to open up. This is great, since they can be properly cleansed. But, a wash-out conditioner should then be used to smooth these back down. If not, a Pug's fur will be vulnerable to outside elements that can quickly lead to overly dry fur; it will lose its shine and have an unpleasant straw-like texture. One recommended product is Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Conditioner which does a great job in smoothing down the hair cuticles and is excellent for keeping the skin and fur properly moisturized. A scrub brush. This is optional; however, particularly for adult Pugs, you may find this to be very useful. All fawn Pugs and some black Pugs have very dense double-layered coats. It can be very tiring on the hands to work shampoo all the way down through the thick layers of fur to the skin where it needs to do its job. And, a bath brush can be a great way to snag up all of the hairs that typically become loose when Pugs are given baths. This has uniquely designed rubber tips that are awesome at latching onto dead hairs while offering a pleasant massage, a slip-through hand guide so that your hand doesn't cramp up, and it's very durable. Cotton balls. Though Pugs have folded ears that somewhat help keep out external water, any water that does enter the ears can lead to ear infections. So, it is best to play it safe and loosely place cotton in the opening of the ear canals to act as a barrier. Two thin washcloths and an absorbent towel. One washcloth will be to clean your Pug's face, including around the eye area and wrinkles. The other washcloth will be used to dry your Pug's ears and in between the toes since these two areas are prone to skin yeast infections when moisture is left behind. The towel, as you may have guessed, is to dry your Pug's body. A non-slip mat optional. If you find that your Pug slips and slides around, and particularly if this startled your dog or makes giving baths difficult, place a non-slip mat into the sink or tub before you start to help your Pug keep their footing. Step-by-Step Instructions for Giving a Pug a Bath Prep: 1: Give the coat a good brushing with a slicker brush, grooming glove, or other chosen grooming tool to remove dead hairs. This includes the shampoo, conditioner, bath brush, washcloths, and towel. Bathing Instructions: 1: Fill the tub or sink with 1 to 3 inches of luke-warm water before you place your Pug in. Test the temperature with your inner wrist. You can tear away pieces from a cotton ball to do this. Do not place the cotton deep. Ideally, this is done using a spray nozzle, but if you do not have this option, you can use a small bowl or cup. At first, water may roll off the coat and body oils may prevent water from getting through the coat, so make sure that the coat is thoroughly soaked. You will want to apply this liberally since skimping on the shampoo can lead to only partial cleansing of body oils. Then, use the washcloth to scrub the underbelly and genital area. Using a nozzle works well to reach down through the coat to make sure all the shampoo is appropriately rinsed out with no residue left behind. Use a generous amount to cover all areas of the body. Massage this in for 2 to 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly. Remove your Pug and allow them to shake to remove excess water. Then, wrap your dog in an absorbent towel, patting and gently rubbing in the direction of the fur growth. Remove the cotton from the ears. Use a thin, clean washcloth to dry the outer ears and the inner ears as far in as you can comfortably go and in between each of the toes. Did you find this article to be helpful? You'll also be able to suggest a topic for us to write about; we always look to Member suggestions. You may also like: Pug Dog Grooming - An overview of every grooming task that needs to be done to keep a Pug clean and well-groomed. Taking Care of a Pug's Teeth - It's very important to keep your Pug's teeth clean and free of plaque. This can usually be accomplished at home if these tasks are done on time. Pug Dog has a Bad Odor - A list of the possible reasons why a Pug may smell bad and exactly how to remedy this. Pug Wrinkle Care - The facial folds of this breed need to be kept clean and dry or yeast infections can develop. Read how to care for the wrinkles and treat possible issues. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Do Pugs Like Baths? The answer will vary, but most Pugs will actually enjoy the process. Which is great, because Pugs have a tendency to stink. Their adorable wrinkles are a trap for bacteria and food, which will cause them to stink. Before you get your Pug ready to bathe, you need to check this article out for the best shampoos for Pugs. But over time your favorite human shampoo can cause havoc to your dog. Human shampoo is made specifically for humans. The human acid mantle has a pH of 5. You should also avoid using shampoos that DO NOT contain any added fragrances like eucalyptus, citrus, lavender, and chamomile. Stick with oatmeal baths for dogs. Can Pugs Clean Themselves? All dogs lick themselves for various reasons. Overall, dogs are clean animals, but unlike cats, they lick themselves for various reasons. When your dog licks himself, it represents a different type of cleaning, specifically, cleaning a wound. A dogs saliva contains certain enzymes and bacteria that can help speed up the healing process of an open wound. Bathing your Pug will depend on several different factors, such as how often they spend outdoors rolling around on the grass. If your Pug spends time outdoors in the sunshine and fresh daily air, without rolling on poop or grass, frequent bathing is unnecessary. Excessive bathing can lead to dry itchy skin problems. More often than not, your Pug will just require a good brushing to help remove some of that excess hair. We used to give Mindy baths outside using the water hose all the time during the Summer months. These steps will make the process so much easier for you. Read this article to find out how to properly groom your Pug. It will create consistency and help calm your Pug during the bathing process. When I gave Mindy a bath in the tub during the winter, I found it so much easier to get into the tub with her. Bending over the bathtub can be difficult on the back and knees. Avoid washing them on the grass or a muddy area, which will just be counterproductive. Brushing them before a bath will help remove some of that excess hair that they will come loose during the bath. Not only that, but it will help make the cleanup process a lot easier after the bath. If water enters their ear, it can lead to ear infections, as the damp water loves warm environments to grow. While bathing Fido, be careful not to get water too close to their ears. If so, you need to ensure that you use lukewarm water on your furbaby. You want to use water that is not too hot or too cold. Pugs tend to have sensitive skin and if you use water that is too hot, it can cause irritate their skin or possibly even burn them. When we put her in the tub, she had trouble standing because her claws kept slipping. A non-slip mat can prevent them from slipping and make the bathing experience more pleasurable. Talk to your Pug in a calm and reassuring tone to let them know they are doing a great job. Avoid using shampoos that have chemicals that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. The best way to do this is to avoid using soap on the head or facial areas. We always used to rinse Mindy twice to ensure that all the shampoo and conditioner were out of the coat. However, the bath will loosen up the hair on your Pug. If your hair dryer allows, switch it to the neutral heat or cool air. Personally, we used a towel on Mindy and she loved it. After the bath, we would hold a towel up and Mindy would run up to us and we would wrap the towel around her and rub her dry. Leaving the face moist can lead to bacterial infections. Like us, a bath makes us feel refreshed and clean. Your Pug feels the same way and their excitement will show you that they actually enjoyed the process. If they start to associate a bath with positive reinforcement, the whole process will be easier. They will stop fighting you and will eventually remain calm during bath time. Get a good grooming brush and brush them quickly after their fur completely dries after the bath. A brush will not only remove the loose fur but will make their coat shine. Related Questions Can I bathe my Pug daily? Too much bathing can be bad for Pugs. They require natural oils that are produced by the skin to help promote hair growth. Too much bathing can lead to dry itchy skin. What is the best shampoo for Pugs? Choose natural shampoos like Oatmeal baths for dogs. These all natural products do not contain any harmful fragrances that can cause your harmful side effects for your dog. The minimum age for a puppy first bath is 8 weeks old. If your Puppy gets into the mud, or rolls around on the grass, use a damp cloth or hypoallergenic baby wipes to clean them. Related Articles for Pug Grooming. This square and cobby breed comes in fawn, silver fawn, apricot fawn or black, with a well-defined "mask" on his muzzle. A popular companion dog, the pug also excels in the show ring. They are comfortable in small apartments because they need minimal exercise, but the breed can adapt easily to all situations. The Pug sheds, but its short coat requires little grooming. Grooming A Pug does require regular bathing and grooming. This outgoing and loving little dog can be bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every six weeks depending on his lifestyle. With this short-coated breed, regular bathing is essential to maintain healthy skin and coat. Lightly card the coat to help accelerate shedding. Once you have selected the best products for your Pug, it is bath time! Use a grooming mitt and massage in a circular motion to stimulate the release of natural oils. This will also aide in the removal of any excess, loose hair. In order to keep the fine, smooth coat in prime condition, it is always beneficial to use a hydrating spray following the bathing and drying process. This allows the skin and coat to lock in moisture to help maintain perfect hydration. General Health Care Prep work is the foundation of all grooming. Prep work includes ear cleaning, nail trimming, anal glands, and proper dental hygiene. Mastering these skills sets the professional pet stylist apart from the rest. Prep work should be done before every bathing and grooming appointment. All dogs need to have their ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Proper nail care is also very important. Long, unsightly nails are uncomfortable for the dog, as well as anyone they might jump on. Long nails also compromise the shape of the foot. Trimming the pads of the foot helps give the dog good traction on different surfaces and can minimize the amount of dirt the dog tracks into the house. It also affords the opportunity to treat and condition the paws from cracks and abrasions. Anal glands should also be checked and expressed if they are full. Some caring pet owners prefer to have the anal glands done by their veterinarian. Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy pet as well. Nutritional Care In order to maintain healthy skin and coat as well as overall health, it is important to provide good nutrition to your dog through a well-balanced diet, vitamins, and healthy treats. Do they require a lot of grooming? If you are not a fan of cutting hair, then you have made the right selection of choosing a Pug. This smooth, short coated, even tempered little dog requires minimal grooming. Regular baths are necessary to help keep this under control. What is a common problem in Pugs? The Pug, like other purebred dogs, has its fair share of health concerns. In general, the eyes, skin, orthopedics, and brain are the primary focal points for health concerns. Corneal Ulcers, Dry Eye, and Proptosis abnormal protrusion or displacement of an eye are more common eye problems in Pugs. They are also prone to several skin issues such as allergies, Demodectic Mange, Staph and Yeast infections, and Celestially which is also known as Walking Dandruff. Do Pugs shed or cause allergies? Pugs do shed quite a bit to their short coat. This breed is probably not the best dog to bring into your home if you suffer from allergies. However, if your heart is set on a Pug, you should spend some time around the breed to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction. Are Pugs good with children? Pugs and children make a great pair. However, there are a few things to be aware of when having a small child and a Pug. Pugs are susceptible to breathing problems and this is compounded in hot weather. Making sure your Pug always has plenty of fresh water and does not over exert themselves is not a natural thing for children to be aware of. And lastly, Pugs will eat anything and everything. A child will need to be taught what a dog should and should not eat. On the positive side, a Pug can be a great playmate and a great companion for a child. What if I have a show dog? Whether you have a show dog or a companion quality dog, the same basic care is given regarding nutrition, socialization, and hygiene. The difference is the conditioning of the dog and conformation training. It is always quite helpful if your breeder can help mentor you to lead you in the right direction upon entering the wonderful world of dog shows. A great place to start is with the national breed club like the Pug Dog Club of America, www. May we suggest.Yes, you do need to bathe your Pug. This breed has very sensitive skin meaning that some products may cause irritation. Top tip: avoid scented or perfumed products. Look for doggie-friendly soap products with only natural ingredients. Bathing is essential to keep your Pug clean. This is super important for keeping your Pug healthy and reduces the buildup of unpleasant odors. Keeping your Pug clean helps to reduce shedding, condition the skin, and prevent yeast and fungal infections of the skin. Plus, your pooch will come out smelling like roses. Opinion varies on this matter, I like to bathe Sid 4 every weeks. The general agreement is that you should not be washing your Pug too frequently so forget daily or weekly bubble baths. Pugs do not need to bathe as much as we humans. Unless there is a medical reason why they require frequent bathing e. These oils have natural moisturizing properties and protect the coat from the elements. If you bathe your Pugs too much, you can damage this natural balance, leading to unpleasant symptoms like dry skin and poor coat quality. In between baths, we recommend keeping up with a regular grooming routine. Regular brushing is great for improving coat quality and giving your pet a polished look without reaching for the shampoo. This is a very common question. In the dog world, baths are a love it or hate it ritual. If your Pug hates baths with a passion, then there are some steps you can take to make sure they get clean without any unnecessary trauma on your part or theirs. Make bathtime as pleasant and comfortable as possible with a lukewarm bath. Not too hot, not too cold. Use a soothing voice If your Pug is anxious or restless, keep them calm by using a soothing voice to talk to them. Offer plenty of affection and reassurance. If they like belly rubs, give them belly rubs. If they like being scratched behind the ears, scratch them behind the ears. Make it fun Make bathtime fun by bringing out floating dog toys. This will distract your Pug from any nerves they are feeling and will hopefully keep them entertained whilst you do the work. Reward with a treat Last but not least, have a treat ready to reward your Pug for getting through the process. We all need a little boost from time to time. Your Pug needs a bath. So, what should you do? Use luke-warm water, not hot or cold. If your dog is sensitive to sounds, drawing all of the bath water before you bring your dog into the bath may make it a more positive experience for them. A non-slip mat may help your dog feel more secure while you bathe them. Some people find it helps pugs to stay calm if they put some peanut butter on the side of the tub for their dog to lick while they are bathed. Talk to them calmly and positively throughout the experience to make it more positive. Use a dog-specific shampoo. Better safe than sorry! Use a water-safe brush to make sure your dog gets well-shampooed. We had the kong shampoo brush and liked it. If you have a handheld shower attachment using this can help get a really thorough rinse. Use a washcloth or cotton balls to dry out their ears thoroughly after a bath to avoid infections. Thoroughly dry their face wrinkles to avoid infection or irritation. Otherwise, just keep towel drying them. How Often To Bathe Your Pug Opinions on how often pugs should be bathed vary from about every 3 weeks to only once every six months! You want to bathe your pug before they get stinky, but not so often as to dry out their skin. We bathed our pugs monthly, just before we gave their flea medication. Dog Shampoo For Pugs Use a dog-specific shampoo on your dog rather than a human shampoo or soap. The PH levels of human shampoo are different than those formulated for dogs. For a while we lived in an apartment that only had a stand-up shower, and our pugs really disliked the shower head sprinkling down on them. So we would fill a plastic tote with a couple of inches of water and bathe them in there! You could use your kitchen sink if your pug will stay in place well. Even if you have a full sized bath, you may find that bathing puppies can be easier in a sink. Do Pugs Like Baths? Some pugs may enjoy their baths, but mine both disliked them! Regardless of which pug I bathed first, the one that was not getting bathed first would go hide! Frank knew that if Beans was getting a bath now, he was next, and Beans knew the same if she saw Frank getting a bath first. Beans would huff and sigh when I first put her in the bathtub, but would accept her fate. Frank on the other hand, would shake, wimper and cry throughout his bath usually.

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