bernedoodle puppy rescue

This article is not going to go into the depth of canine coat color genetics, but rather keep things simple and within reason for most people. At the end of this article, I will add links to some sites that will be helpful for those interested in the genetics of coat colors. I want to start with our basic Labrador colors and their variations. Later we will discuss the so-called Silver and White Labradors and also talk about mismarking or unusual colors that can happen in the Lab. Black Labradors are solid black. A small white spot on the chest is permissible. Sparse white hairs in between the toes and footpads are common in some of the blacks. Some mature black Labradors will have a red or orange hue to their coats at certain times of the year. This is known as casting. Casting can occur when the Lab is shedding and the hair is dead but also can be a result of bleaching from prolonged exposure to the sun. Eye color on chocolates can range from yellow through brown. Darker coat and eye color are most desirable in chocolates. Washed out chocolate coats and light eyes are not attractive for this breed. The chocolate coat is hard to maintain in one uniform color. The sun easily bleaches the chocolate Labrador, giving him the appearance of various shades of the chocolate color scattered throughout the coat. Keeping the chocolate Labrador out of the direct sun or the use of mink-oil with sunscreen lightly spayed on the coat will help the chocolate Labrador look his best at all times. YELLOW: Yellow Labradors can range is shade from a very light cream all the way to a rich dark red color known as "fox red" with various darker shading along the ears, top line, tail and hocks. A small white spot on the chest is permissible, however will not be noticeable in the lighter shades of yellow. Yellow Labradors should have black pigment on the nose, lips and eye rims with the exception of newborn yellow as they are born without pigment but within the first few days of life, the black pigment will begin to come in. We call a yellow Labrador without pigment a "Dudley". The black pigment on the nose of mature Labs can fade in the winter-time to a brown or pink color, this is very different from a true Dudley, it is very normal and the black pigment will return with warmer weather. Yellow Labradors that lack black pigment all together will have brownish or pinkish colored eye rims, foot-pads, nose and lips and they will never turn black. Dudley Labradors is a direct result from the yellow Labrador inheriting two sets of chocolate genes we refer to as "bb". So technically speaking, you can look at this as a "chocolate dog in a yellow coat" or an "eebb". Unfortunately Dudley Labradors are disqualified from being shown and was excepted until the revised AKC standard in .The FCI or "world" standard does not disqualify for lack of pigment. One more note. .What a shame!! Nevertheless, this does not make any Dudley Labrador inferior. They are Labradors true and true. This does not mean that I think it is okay to breed a Dudley Labrador, rather saying that they are normal in every way with the exception of having the pigment of a chocolate. If you choose to breed your Dudley Labrador, then do so back to a quality black Labrador. Sounds confusing but it really isn't. To help simplify this, I have copied and pasted a paragraph courtesy of the Vet DNA Center that gives you some idea of how many color combinations can be seen within the breed. However, there are 9 possible reported genotypes what you cannot see for the E and B loci and therefore 81 possible breeding combinations. A small white spot, stripe or patch on the chest is very common and does not lessen the quality of a Labrador, nor indicate it is not pure bred. Sparse white hairs can appear on the tips of toes, between the footpads, on the heels, near the groin, and under the neck. However, if white spots are large and white markings are highly noticeable, then this is not typical and could indicate the dog may be mixed with another breed. Scarring can also result in white hairs on a Labrador. Splashing is described as a black Labrador with tan or yellowish hairs on the legs and sometimes neck and chest. This mis-marking looks as if the black lab ran through a mud puddle and was splashed with muddy water, hence the name Splashing. This is a mis-marking that had been noted in the breed for many generations. It is not wise to breed any Labrador that is splashed, as this will only perpetuate the gene for years to come. It does not affect the dogs ability to be an excellent pet or hunting companion. The black and tan is a serious fault and under no circumstance should this color be perpetuated. Mosaic is a very rare condition in which results in improper cell division that effects the color of the dog. Such dogs can be yellow with small or large black patches. I have only produced one Mosaic to date. Again, this is very rare and seldom happens. I tell people without trying to sound rude, that there is no such thing as a pure white Labrador. The color yellow is the correct term, but when people see a Labrador that is of the very light cream shade, they instinctively say, White. I have produced many Labrador pups that could be classified as white when pups but they always mature to have the tale-tale signs of shading of some from or another, either on the ears, back, etc. The shading is very pale and almost unnoticeable and pigment as black as coal but I am sorry to say, it is still classified as yellow and not white. The gene that produces pure white such as seen in the Maltese, white German shepherds, white boxers and other breeds does not exist in the Labrador. I do understand how people can easily use the term white lab when they see a pale yellow but white is not a term to be truly associated with the Labrador breed. Most of the "White Labs" being advertised from backyard breeders are lacking in suitable temperaments, proper size and seem to have more health issues. Thus said, breeding for a "specific color" will not allow you to advance in any other area. My best advice, stay away from persons advertising "White Labradors". It is nothing more than a sales pitch and is something frowned upon amongst reputable breeders, and other fanciers in the Labrador community. There absolutely no such thing as a pure bred silver, charcoal or champagne Labrador. These are dogs that early in the 60's and 70's, two kennels that bred both Labradors and Weimaraners began advertising Silver Labradors. The dilute gene is normal in the Weimaraner breed. It does not occur naturally in the Labrador. Those professing to breed and advertise dilute Labradors are misrepresenting the color of the dog on the AKC papers. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are a Labrador owner or thinking of introducing a Labrador into your family, you may have heard of a Dudley Labrador. There is quite a lot of mystique around these special pups, which means they can sometimes struggle to find a home or your breeder might ask for a premium for the pup. Read on to discover everything you need to know about these handsome dogs. They are just as good a choice for a family dog as any other type of Labrador. What Is A Dudley Labrador? A Dudley Labrador is a Yellow Labrador that is born without any pigment in their nose, eye rims, and feet, so they appear pink. They will have pale-colored eyes as well, usually blue or teal. There are three recognized colors of Labradors, black, chocolate, and yellow. Each of these dogs has two genetic loci that affect their pigmentation. The first of these loci is called the B loci, and can be BB, Bb, or bb. Any Labrador that inherits a BB or Bb will be black. Dogs that inherit a bb can be chocolate or yellow. Whether they are chocolate or yellow depends on the Ee loci, which can be EE, Ee, or ee. Of these dogs with the bb loci, those that inherit EE or Ee will be chocolate, and those that inherit ee will be yellow. But, those few pups that inherit both bb and ee loci will not only be yellow, but they will also be a Dudley Labrador. So, Dudley Labradors are a natural genetic occurrence, but they are relatively rare. There are also other Labradors that have reduced pigmentation, such as Black Labradors with a chocolate nose. This type of reduced pigmentation is just natural variation within the normal color range of Labradors. Pink Nose Lab All Labradors are born with pink noses. For the majority of Labs, their noses will turn black or brown during the first few weeks of their lives. However, because Dudley Labradors have less melanin, their noses, the rims around their eyes, and their feet stay pink for their entire lives. Dudley Labradors are not albinos, because this lack of pigmentation does not affect every part of their bodies. But Dudley Labradors are not the only pink nose Labs. As Labradors age, the pigmentation in their nose reduces. This pigmentation is produced by an enzyme called tyrosinase, which makes melanin. As this enzyme becomes less effective, their nose can turn pink as they enter their advanced years. This is completely normal and is not anything to be concerned about. This is more likely to happen in colder temperatures, as the enzyme works better in hotter climates. But if a younger Lab, which is not a Dudley, develops a pink nose when they are younger, this can be a sign of a medical problem such as a bacterial infection, allergy, or skin condition. In this case, it is an indication that you should talk to your Vet. Beyond their distinctive nose, Dudley Labradors are no different from any other Labradors. They have the same temperament and intelligence. They also have the same life expectancy and are predisposed to the same medical conditions as other Labradors, but they are not prone to any additional medical issues as a result of their distinctive noses. There has been some recent research into whether the color of Labradors influences their trainability or other behavior; responding to the anecdotal evidence, Chocolate Labradors tend to be more hyperactive, aggressive, and difficult to train. The study found there was no difference in the trainability or intelligence of Labradors based on their color. There is some evidence to suggest that Yellow Labradors, like Dudleys, might be slightly more aggressive towards other dogs than Black and Chocolate Labradors, but the difference seems to be negligible. There have been no specific studies carried out to see if Dudleys are different from other Yellow Labradors in terms of their intelligence and behavior. The one area where Dudley Labradors are different from other Labradors is they are not eligible to be show dogs or breeding dogs. Their pink noses are marked as a fault in the ring, which excludes them from competition. They are also not recognized within the Breed Standard by the Kennel Club. This means that the dog can also not be registered for breeding. From the AKC website: The nose should be black on black or yellow dogs, and brown on chocolates. Nose color fading to a lighter shade is not a fault. A thoroughly pink nose or one lacking in any pigment is a disqualification. So, while Dudley Labradors make an excellent pet for the home, they are excluded from competition and breeding. Dudley Labradors can be bought from all the same places as other types of Labradors, but they are pretty difficult to get hold of. Secondly, knowing the restrictions on Dudley Labradors when it comes to competition and breeding, many breeders will specifically control to exclude Dudley Labradors. If you are desperate to have a Dudley Labrador, you could ask a breeder to attempt to breed one for you. But you should expect to pay a significant premium for this service. You are more likely to find a Dudley Labrador among the litter of a non-professional breeder whose Labrador has become pregnant. If they are selling the pups, they might also want to charge a bit extra for the Dudley, as it is likely to be unique among the litter. So, long story short, actively hunting down a Dudley Labrador can be a challenging process. If your Labrador happens to produce a Dudley in their litter, or you come across a Dudley that needs adopting, they make excellent household pets. Yes, Dudley Labradors are relatively rare as you need a very specific genetic combination to produce a Dudley. Also, many breeders control for this gene and exclude it when creating new pups, as Dudley Labradors are excluded from showing and are also excluded from the breed registry. Dudley Labradors have the same life expectancy as all purebred Labradors , so around twelve years. The genetic quirk that gives Dudley Labradors their pink nose does not have a detrimental impact on their health. Are Dudley Labradors Albino? Like albinos, the pink nose in Dudley Labradors is caused by a lack of melanin, but they are not albino, as this does not affect the other parts of their body, and their skin and hair still contain pigment. Dudley Labradors suffer from all the same health issues as all purebred Labradors, but they are not susceptible to additional health issues as a result of their pink nose. Their nose may be more prone to sunburn than those of other Labradors. For this reason, extra precautions should be taken to avoid developing skin cancer in that area. Dudley Labradors will have light-colored eyes to match their noses, usually blue or teal. Their eyes will never be described as green, as this is not a color recognized for Labradors by the Kennel Club. The only purebred dog recognized as having green eyes is the American Pit Bull Terrier. As Dudley Labradors are considered among Yellow Labradors, Chocolate Labradors are actually the rarest color Labradors, though they do occur almost as frequently as Yellow Labradors. Black Labradors are roughly twice as common as the other two colored Labradors. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Chocolate Labradors are more hyperactive, aggressive, and harder to train than other types of Labradors. But recent research suggests this is not the case and that it is not possible to determine the trainability or character of a Labrador based on color. There is some evidence to suggest that Yellow Labradors might be more aggressive towards other dogs than Brown or Black Labradors, but the variation is too low to be considered highly significant. In fact, one of our puppies that we trained for nearly 2 years was a Dudley. After 2 years of training Dublin became a service dog and worked for another 6 years. In my experience there has not been any noticeable difference in the behavior of a Dudley Labrador vs other Lab colors. Final Thoughts Dudley Labradors are gorgeous Labs that lack pigmentation in their nose, the rims around the eyes, and paws. As a result, they have a pink nose, rather than the black or brown nose that characterizes most Labradors. This is an entirely natural, though slightly more rare genetic occurrence among Labradors. But, for some reason, these special Labradors have been excluded from the competition circuit, and they are also not recognized by the Kennel Club for breeding. But, despite this, these pups, if you come across one, make an excellent family dog. They are just as loving, intelligent, and playful as other Labradors. If you have any experience with Dudley Labradors, please share it with the community using our comments section. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Are Dudley Labs Rare? Yes, they are considered rare dogs because they require a specific type of genetic combination to be created. Breeders often prevent this type of Labrador from being created because Dudley Labs are not recognized by most kennel clubs, like the United Kennel Club or the American Kennel Club. They are also excluded from being registered as part of the breed because they are rarely produced. Yes, Dudley Labs make fantastic family dogs, just like any Labrador Retriever. Even though they can be highly active, Labs are a favorite among those looking for all-round dogs. A Dudley Lab is a friendly, outgoing, and active dog. Once properly trained, they would fit inside any home, even one with other pets and young children. They are more than happy to greet new people but will also be protective of their families when the need calls for it. One thing to keep in mind though is that these dogs are active and energetic. They require daily exercise or some form of physical activity to keep them busy; otherwise, they will turn destructive. They have been known to chew on furniture, carpets, and other things in the home when they have a lot of pent-up energy. You can stop them from doing this by giving them a toy they can carry around or chew on their mouth to keep them busy. This lifespan is about the same as any regular Labrador Retriever. As for health issues, a Dudley will suffer the same health problems common among chocolate, black, or yellow Labrador varieties. These include: Hip Dysplasia This is a heritable condition. For the latter, an X-ray will be required for the animal to be diagnosed. This results in a lot of pain for the animal and could lead to stiffening of the joints. The dog will be unable to move or bend the affected joint. This condition usually shows up on dogs as young as four months old. Epilepsy The Dudley Labrador can suffer from epilepsy, causing a mild seizure in the animal. Although it can be horrifying to watch a dog suffer seizures, the prognosis is usually very good. Acute Moist Dermatitis This causes the skin of the animal to become red and inflamed due to a bacterial infection. This skin problem is easy to treat with antibiotics, medicated baths as well as clipping and clearing out the hair in the affected area. Sunburn The only special thing owners need to keep in mind with a Dudley Lab is that they can be prone to sunburn because of the lack of pigmentation on their noses. Never use human sunscreen as it may be toxic to dogs. You can find specialty sunscreen for animals at your vet or pet shops. They are similar to any regular Labrador. Give them enough attention, healthy food, plenty of exercise as well as tons of love, and they will offer you the same devotion and affection in return. Prices for a Dudley Labrador can vary depending on the breeder. When it comes to money spent on a new Dudley Labrador puppy, expect to spend a lot more during the first year than in succeeding years. New dogs will require a lot. This includes new items, vaccinations and more. Again, this amount will vary because the prices and circumstances will be different. Sometimes you could be getting your Dudley for a specific purpose instead of as a regular family pet, and this will mean specialized training or other necessities you would need to spend on. However, you can occasionally find them among Labrador breeders or even in the rescue or adoption system. Here are several breeders you can check out: The Labrador Club — The Labrador Retriever Club is an organization and community dedicated to the Labrador breed. They have a breeder directory sorted by state to make it easier for you to get in touch with possible breeders when looking for a Dudley Lab. Ashland Labradors — A breeder based in Nashville, Tennessee that specializes in breeding Labradors of correct and low-key temperaments and ones that would make fantastic family companions. They are based in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Led by founder Donna Stanley, they specialize in the Labrador Retriever and ensure they are house-trained and with low-key temperaments. Marble Mount Kennels — Based in Greenview, California, this breeder has been in operation for 25 years. They focus on six traits when breeding their Lab puppies: great personality, beautiful looks, high hunting desire, proven pedigree, highly intelligent, and natural pointing instinct. If you prefer to rescue or adopt a Dudley, they do show up in the system. Lab Rescue — A non-profit organization that helps rescue, foster, and find forever homes for abandoned, abused, neglected, or surrendered Labs, particularly in the areas of Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina. American Lab Rescue — An all-volunteer non-profit, they not only focus on purebred Labrador Retrievers but also Labrador mixes. They focus on helping homeless dogs, whether puppies or adult dogs. Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida — Started in , this non-profit rescue focuses on rescuing Labradors and placing them in the right homes. Southern Skies Rescue — Not only does this rescue center focus on Labradors but also on other working dog breeds. They rescue these animals from high kill shelters and also taken in owner surrenders and strays. They are based primarily in Huntsville, Alabama. Based in Southern California, they can accommodate adoptions in this area only. The rescue focuses on abandoned or unwanted dogs and features an all-volunteer staff. Finally, always check with quality local breeders or animal shelters in your area to see if they have any Dudley Labradors available. Should You Get a Dudley Lab? A Dudley Labrador is a loving and gentle dog. They have an amazing temperament and will make fantastic pets. Not really. The only similarity the Dudley Labrador has with an albino is the lack of pigmentation around the nose, paws and eye rim areas. This lack of melanin does not affect the skin, fur, or other parts of the body. These areas will still contain pigmentation, so they cannot be classified as albinos. Can a Dudley Lab Compete in Shows? What Is the Rarest Labrador Color? Even if you see them fairly often, the chocolate Labrador is actually the rarest color type among Labradors. Their pink noses make them stand out at first glance, but they carry the same friendly, outgoing, and energetic personality as any other Labrador Retriever. Finally, a Dudley Lab serves as a fantastic family pet thanks to their intelligent and playful personality. These dogs care for their humans and will be a loyal companion to you and your family if you welcome them into your home. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Glad I did. This trait is recessive, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their offspring. While some people may mistake a Dudley Labrador for an albino dog, this is not the case. Albino dogs have a complete lack of pigment throughout their entire body, including their eyes. Dudley Labradors, on the other hand, have normal pigmentation in the rest of their body, but lack it in specific areas. Another way of explaining this is that their natural pigmentation is diluted, but still present. They are just as healthy and friendly as any other Labrador Retriever. However, some breeders may charge more for Dudley Labradors due to their unique appearance. But remember that by rights, breeders should not ask more Dudleys. This is because the color is a fault and even they are disqualified from showing. If breeders ask more for a Dudley, it is part of the trend to ask higher prices for dogs with rare colors, like lemon Beagles , or Lilac French Bulldogs. In conclusion, Dudley Labradors are a fascinating variation of the beloved Labrador Retriever breed. While their pink noses and lighter coat color may set them apart from other Labradors, they are just as lovable and loyal as any other dog. They are known for their pinkish nose and light-colored eyes, which set them apart from other Labradors. The Dudley variation is caused by a recessive gene that affects the production of pigment in the nose and eyes. This gene is present in Labradors, but it is usually masked by other dominant genes that produce a black or brown nose and dark eyes. Dudley Labradors are therefore relatively rare, and their distinctive appearance has made them popular among dog enthusiasts. The history of Dudley Labradors is not well-documented, but it is believed that the first Dudley Labrador was born in the early 20th century. The breed gained popularity in the United States in the s and s, and since then, breeders have worked to preserve and promote the breed. Today, Dudley Labradors are recognized by some kennel clubs, but they are not officially recognized as a separate breed, but it is not a color most Kennel clubs allow for showing. They are still considered to be Labrador Retrievers, but with a unique variation in appearance. Breeders continue to work to produce healthy and well-tempered Dudley Labradors, and the breed remains a popular choice for dog lovers who appreciate their distinctive look. This is due to the lack of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the skin and hair, in the nose and eye areas. While the Dudley gene is rare, the term only applies to yellow Labradors. Some chocolate or black labs may also have a brown or pinkish nose and some people also call these dogs Dudleys, but they are not really. In the picture below you can see a chocolate lab that may be mistaken for a Dudley because of its lighter nose. Remember, breeding two Dudley Labradors together can result in health issues, such as skin cancer, due to the lack of protection from melanin or color dilution alopecia. When it comes to the genetics of Labrador retrievers , the color of their coat is determined by two specific locations on their genes, called loci. There are two important ones to know about: the B loci and the Ee loci. BB or Bb: If the Labrador inherits these combinations, it will be black. EE or Ee: If the Labrador inherits these combinations, and it has bb from the B loci, it will be chocolate. Now, the Dudley Labrador is a special case where the Labrador inherits both bb from the B loci and ee from the Ee loci. This unique combination not only makes the Labrador yellow but also gives it specific characteristics that make it a Dudley Labrador such as a flesh-colored nose instead of a black one. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Are all Labradors with Pink Noses Dudleys? The pink nose in a Labrador is often confused with the flesh-colored nose of a Dudley, but they are actually different. Dudley Labrador: As explained earlier, a Dudley Labrador has a flesh-colored nose, lips, eye rims, and feet. This is a genetic trait that comes from inheriting both the bb combination from the B loci and the ee combination from the Ee loci. These specific genetic factors result in a lack of pigmentation in these areas. Age: As some Labradors get older, their noses might lose pigmentation, leading to a lighter or pinkish color. Injury or Illness: An injury to the nose or certain health conditions can also lead to a loss of pigmentation, resulting in a pink appearance. Dudley Labradors are medium to large-sized dogs with a muscular build. They typically weigh between pounds and stand inches tall at the shoulder. Male Dudley Labradors are usually larger than females. Dudley Labradors have a distinct appearance that sets them apart from other Labradors. They have a pink or flesh-colored nose, lips, and eye rims, which are caused by a lack of pigmentation. Their eyes are usually hazel or green, and their coat color can vary from yellow to chocolate. The lack of pigmentation in their nose and lips can cause them to be more prone to sunburn and skin cancer. Coat Type Dudley Labradors have a short, dense, and water-resistant double coat that is easy to maintain. They shed moderately throughout the year but may have heavy seasonal shedding. They require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid drying out their skin. They are eager to please their owners and are very loyal. These dogs are also very intelligent, ranking as the seventh most intelligent dog breed in the world, according to Dr. Studies show that many labs have a variation on the POMC gene which is linked to weight gain and hunger, leading to obesity in some cases. However, this also makes them highly trainable as they have a strong food drive. Studies have shown that Labrador Retrievers have a special affinity for water. In fact, they are often more attracted to water than to social stimuli. A pilot study published in ScienceDirect found that these dogs are more attracted to water than to social stimuli. Chocolate labs were more agitated when ignored and showed more excitability than black labs, and lower trainability and noise fear than both yellow and black labs. Dogs exercised for longer periods showed less aggression, less fear of humans and objects, and lower separation anxiety than dogs that were not as active. In other words, as dilute yellow labs, Dudleys can be some of the most trainable and easy companion dogs, but they may still need a lot of exercise if they come from working dog or gun dog bloodlines. Health and Lifespan Dudley Labradors are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of. One of the most common health concerns in Dudley Labradors is hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and mobility issues. Obesity is also a concern, as excess weight can exacerbate joint problems and increase the risk of other health issues such as heart problems. Atopic dermatitis, a skin condition that causes itching and inflammation, is another common issue in Dudley Labradors. This can be managed through proper grooming and diet, as well as medication if necessary. Other health issues that can affect Dudley Labradors include various types of cancers, limber tail, myopathy, and CCL Disease. Liver issues like shunts and nasal parakeratosis are also possible. To ensure the best possible health for a Dudley Labrador, it is important to provide them with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and routine veterinary care. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help catch and manage any potential health issues early on. Caring for a Dudley Labrador When caring for a Dudley Labrador, it is important to remember that they require the same level of care as any other Labrador Retriever. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to their unique physical characteristics. One thing to note is that Dudley Labradors have a pink nose and light-colored eyes, which makes them more susceptible to sunburn. It is important to apply sunscreen to their nose and provide them with plenty of shade on hot, sunny days. Another thing to keep in mind is their coat. Dudley Labradors have a yellow or cream-colored coat, which can be prone to matting and tangling. Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, is necessary to keep their coat healthy and shiny. When it comes to exercise, Dudley Labradors are active dogs and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include walks, runs, or playing fetch. However, it is important to avoid overexertion, especially in hot weather. In terms of diet, Dudley Labradors require a balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. It is important to provide them with high-quality dog food and avoid overfeeding, as they can be prone to obesity. Overall, caring for a Dudley Labrador requires attention to their unique physical characteristics, but with proper care and attention, they can live happy and healthy lives. Training and Behavior Dudley Labrador is a highly trainable breed of dog that responds well to positive reinforcement training techniques. They are intelligent, eager to please, and enjoy being given tasks to do. Early socialization and training are essential for Dudley Labradors to become well-behaved, obedient, and happy pets. Dudley Labradors are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are excellent with children and make great family pets. However, they can be overly exuberant and may accidentally knock over small children. It is important to supervise interactions between children and Dudley Labradors to prevent any accidents. Dudley Labradors have a high energy level and require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard are recommended. They also enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. When it comes to training, Dudley Labradors excel in obedience, agility, and retrieving. They have a natural instinct to retrieve and enjoy playing fetch. They are also excellent swimmers and enjoy water activities. Positive reinforcement training techniques such as clicker training, treat training, and praise are effective for Dudley Labradors. In conclusion, Dudley Labradors are highly trainable and make great family pets. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training techniques are essential for them to become well-behaved and obedient. They require regular exercise and enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. They are known for their pinkish nose and light-colored coat, which can range from cream to yellow. While they are not recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club, they are still highly sought after by families looking for a friendly and loyal companion. Families who choose a Dudley Labrador as their pet can expect a friendly and affectionate dog that loves to play and cuddle. They are great with children and other pets, making them an ideal family dog. However, it is important to note that Dudley Labradors may be more prone to skin problems and sunburn due to their light-colored coat and pink nose. Therefore, it is recommended that they are kept indoors or in shaded areas during peak sun hours. Dudley Labradors are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They excel in obedience training and are often used as service dogs due to their gentle nature and willingness to please. They are also great at retrieving and can be trained to hunt or participate in dog sports such as agility or flyball. In conclusion, Dudley Labradors are a wonderful choice for families looking for a friendly and loyal companion. While they may require some extra care due to their light-colored coat and pink nose, their intelligence and trainability make them a joy to have as a pet. Dudley Labradors and Other Pets Dudley Labradors are a popular breed of Labrador retrievers, known for their unique pinkish-brown nose and light-colored coat. Dudley Labradors are generally friendly and sociable dogs, making them great companions for other animals. With proper training and socialization, Dudley Labradors can coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. Some pets may be more territorial or aggressive, which could lead to conflicts with the Dudley Labrador. Where to Get a Dudley Labrador Breeders When looking for a Dudley Labrador, it is important to find a reputable breeder who takes good care of their dogs and follows ethical breeding practices. Some reputable breeders to consider include: Labrador Retriever Club: The Labrador Retriever Club is a great resource for finding reputable breeders in your area. They have a breeder referral program that can help you find a breeder who follows ethical breeding practices. They have a list of breeders who have been screened and meet their standards for responsible breeding. They have a breeder referral program that can help you find a breeder who specializes in Dudley Labradors. When choosing a breeder, it is important to ask questions and do your research. These organizations often rescue and rehabilitate Labradors, including Dudleys, and work to place them in loving forever homes. Lab Rescue of the LRCP: A non-profit volunteer organization that rescues, fosters, and finds homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned Labrador Retrievers. More details can be found on their website. Lus Labs: Specializing in rescuing and rehoming Labradors and Labrador mixes, Lus Labs provides a safe and loving environment for dogs in need. You can explore available dogs on their website. American Lab Rescue: Dedicated to connecting Labradors with the right families, American Lab Rescue has a list of available dogs, including potentially Dudleys, on their website. Labrador Retriever Welfare and New Forever Homes Group: This Facebook group serves as a community where individuals can connect to share information about available Labradors, including Dudley Labradors, that are in need of new homes. You can join the group here. These organizations are committed to the welfare of Labradors, and they may be able to help you find a Dudley Labrador to rescue and make part of your family. Conclusion In conclusion, Dudley Labrador is a well-known and highly respected breed of dog. With their friendly and loyal nature, they make excellent family pets and are often used as service dogs due to their intelligence and trainability. Throughout this article, we have explored the history, characteristics, and behavior of Dudley Labradors. From their origins as a variant of the Labrador Retriever breed to their unique coat color, Dudley Labradors have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the world. It is important to note that while Dudley Labradors may have a different coat color than traditional Labradors, they are still the same breed and should be treated as such. It is also important to note that while they may be in high demand due to their unique appearance, responsible breeding practices should always be followed to ensure the health and well-being of the dogs. In summary, Dudley Labradors are a wonderful breed of dog that make great companions and service animals. With their friendly and loyal nature, they are sure to bring joy to any family that welcomes them into their home. A Dudley Labrador is a Labrador Retriever with a pink or flesh-colored nose and eye rims instead of the typical black coloration. How rare is a Dudley Lab? Dudley Labs are relatively rare, as the pink nose and eye rims are a recessive gene trait. What is the difference between a Labrador and a Dudley Labrador? The primary difference between a Labrador and a Dudley Labrador is the coloration of the nose and eye rims. Labradors typically have black noses and eye rims, while Dudley Labradors have pink or flesh-colored noses and eye rims. Other than this difference, Dudley Labradors are physically and behaviorally similar to other Labradors. However, they may not be eligible for certain conformation shows or breeding programs that prioritize black-nosed Labradors. Are Dudley Labs worth more? There is no definitive answer to this question, as the value of a Dudley Labrador can vary depending on factors such as age, health, training, and pedigree. However, it is generally not considered a desirable trait for breeding or showing purposes, which may affect the perceived value of Dudley Labradors. Can I breed a Dudley Labrador? Yes, Dudley Labradors can be bred, but it is important to note that the pink nose and eye rims are a recessive gene trait. This means that breeding two Dudley Labradors together can result in a higher likelihood of producing puppies with health issues or other genetic defects. It is recommended to breed Dudley Labradors with black-nosed Labradors to reduce the risk of these issues. Final Thoughts Dudley Labrador is a beloved breed of dog that has captured the hearts of many people around the world. Throughout this article, we have explored the various characteristics and traits that make Dudley Labradors stand out from other breeds. We have learned about their unique coat color, their love for swimming and retrieving, and their intelligence and trainability. Potential owners should be prepared to provide their furry friend with plenty of physical and mental stimulation to ensure they remain happy and healthy. In conclusion, Dudley Labradors are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a loyal and loving companion. They are intelligent, friendly, and playful, making them an excellent addition to any household. With proper care and attention, Dudley Labradors can make wonderful pets that will bring joy and happiness to their owners for years to come Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Breeding Labrador puppies with reduced pigment. Labrador Pigmentation Genetics All puppies are born with bright pink noses, which usually become darker in color over the first few weeks of their lives. A few yellow Labradors noses will remain the same pink color, some other noses will darken but only to a light brown shade, others will become completely black. The melanin in the nose cells will depend upon the genes that your puppy has inherited from his parents. Yellow Labrador noses come in a variety of shades, from pink, to brown, to black. Yellow Labradors will have one of three possible gene combinations in order to be yellow. Resulting in a darker color being shown on the skin. A Labrador with eebb will have a brown or paler nose. The tone of this nose will depend upon the shading of colors in their parents genetic backgrounds. It is possible to have adult dogs DNA tested, to find out whether they carry the right genes to produce Dudley puppies. Some show Labrador breeders will have this test carried out as a lack of pigmentation in yellow Labs is marked as a fault in the show ring. Beautiful Jack, the pale nosed Dudley Lab. Photo kindly provided by his loving owner, Rachel York. But many Labrador noses turn pink when they advance in years. This process is known as depigmentation and is quite common and not usually a cause for concern. When the yellow Lab is younger he will have a black nose and dark rims around his eyes. But as he ages and his coat begins to turn a little white in places, he may also lose pigment in his nose. Tyrosinase becomes less effective as your dog grows old. However, you may find that the fading of his nose is less noticeable in the warmer weather as the pigment producing enzyme works better in the heat. If your Lab cuts her nose, the resulting scar might be pink and not black or brown. Dudley Labradors are no different to their dark nosed Labrador friends. However, if you are going to buy a Dudley Lab puppy then you will need to be aware of a couple of things. Low pigmentation is linked to sunburn due to increased UV sensitivity. This is not a big deal if you live in a mild climate, and you can discuss with your veterinarian how to help your dog to reduce the chances of burning on those occasionally hot summer days. The show ring also penalises yellow Labradors for their pale noses, eye rims and feet. However, if you are looking for a loving family pet or working dog then a Dudley Labrador can make just as much of a wonderful companion and hard working friend as any other Labrador Retriever. Are you wondering what a Dudley Labrador is? A Dudley Labrador is a unique-looking Lab that has a slightly different coat color than the traditional black, yellow, and chocolate Labs. Dudley Labradors are not uncommon, but they are fairly rare. They were first bred in the late s and have since become popular with Lab lovers looking for something a little different. Although they do not have any specific health concerns, their unusual coloring means that potential owners should be aware of the fact that their coat is more prone to sunburn than traditional black or chocolate Labs. We also cover some important facts about owning a Dudley Labrador, including what to look for when choosing one and how to care for them once you bring them home. Keep reading to learn more about this distinctive breed! A Dudley is a rare outcome among the several possible breeding combinations that might result from Labrador breeding. Regular yellow Labs are born with pink noses, but very quickly after birth, they start to change color. Even though Dudley Labs are classified as yellow Labs, they are still considered purebred Labrador Retrievers. Unfortunately, Dudley Labs cannot currently be categorized as show dogs. They are robust, muscular canines ranging from medium to huge. Men typically weigh 65 to 80 pounds, but women typically weigh 55 to 70 pounds. Male canines can reach heights of .Dudley Labradors have a broad skull, solid cheeks, and a powerful muzzle. They also have even-sized noses that are black in color, while others have pink noses. The muzzle is slightly pointed at the tip and becomes broader toward the eyes. Their thick, full tail is carried level with their back and has sleek fur on them. They have straight, short, thick coats. They are protected from water, cold temperatures, and various types of ground cover by soft, weather-resistant undercoats. Labradors were the typical Newfoundland water dogs used as duck retrievers. They often went out on boats with fishermen, retrieving the fish that fell off the trawl. Their coats helped them to stay buoyant and warm in the cold waters. These tails helped them fulfill their primary function of retrieving better by acting as strong rudders when swimming. Dudleys also tend to be very loyal and protective of their families, but they are not usually aggressive toward strangers. Dudley Labs are excellent family pets and make great companions for active families. They may be a bit slower to mature than other Labradors, but they usually reach full physical and mental maturity around the age of two or three. Due to their intelligence, Dudley Labs can also be taught various useful tasks. Some are even trained to be service animals for those with physical disabilities. According to a UK study, Labrador Retrievers have an average life expectancy of 12 years. The survey also revealed that cancer and musculoskeletal conditions are the most typical killers of this dog breed. Although it looks excessively brief, it is typical for canines of their size. Larger dogs typically live less time than smaller dogs. The oldest Labrador known to humans was 19 years old. Also, have regular vet check-ups and take them to get vaccinated as needed. Health Concerns The health of the dog as a whole is unaffected by the Dudley nose. The same health problems that affect other Labrador Retrievers can also affect Dudley Labs. Although they are more prone to sunburns due to their lack of pigmentation, this could be a severe issue for dogs living in warmer climates because prolonged sun exposure increases their risk of skin cancer in later life. To protect their delicate noses in the summer, keep your Dudley Lab puppy out of the direct sunlight and apply dog sunscreen. Like all dogs, regular veterinarian visits are also important to ensure that you can address any underlying health problems early on. Obesity, ear, and joint issues are the most prevalent ailments afflicting Labrador Retrievers. Because they are driven by food, labs are more likely to be obese than other dog breeds. The likelihood that the dog will develop metabolic and respiratory illnesses, bone issues, arthritis, and heart and liver disorders increases with weight. When they are pleading with you for more food, it may be difficult to say no to their gorgeous expressions, but you must be strong and tell them when enough is enough. They are unique and special little pups that need extra care to stay happy, healthy, and active. Sunburn and hyperkeratosis are the two conditions they frequently experience due to their sensitivity and lack of pigmentation. The skin ailment hyperkeratosis causes pink noses and paws because it produces too much keratin. The skin becomes thicker and harder, eventually cracking and developing various illnesses. To maintain the smoothness and ensure the protection of the lovely pink nose, you should get an excellent nose balm. Additionally, spending money on paw balm is necessary, which will shield labs from infections and skin diseases. Taking them for walks and hikes is a great way to give them the physical activity they need. Playing fetch, Frisbee, or other games with your pup is also a great way to have fun while encouraging them to move and burn off energy. Positive reinforcement is usually the most effective way to train them and help establish a strong bond between you and your pup. Regular training can also help strengthen their problem-solving skills and allow them to learn useful tricks. A combination of high-quality dry or wet dog food and fresh vegetables and fruits should make up the bulk of their diet. Always provide them with clean water throughout the day and check that their food has all of the necessary nutrients for their age, size, and activity level. Dudley Labrador Retrievers are special and unique dogs that need a little more care and attention than other breeds. With proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and training, your Dudley Lab will be a wonderful companion for many years to come. However, they can also be quite spirited, so their training needs to be consistent and patient. Start basic obedience training as soon as you bring your Dudley puppy home, and use positive reinforcement whenever possible. Teach your pup the basic commands such as sit, stay, come and leave it. Be patient and consistent while training your pup, and reward them with treats or toys when they understand a command. You can also use games to keep them engaged and entertained while they learn. Socialization is also important for Dudley Labs and should start from an early age. Introduce them to different people, other animals, and new environments so that they become comfortable with them. Dudley Labrador Retrievers are wonderful companions that need consistent training and love to be around people. With patience and dedication, you can have a happy and well-trained Dudley Labrador Retriever. A: Many Labradors have a liver-colored nose that is unique to their breed. The darkness of the liver-colored nose can range from light brown to almost black, depending on the individual dog. However, Dudley Labradors typically have pink noses due to a lack of pigment. Q: Does a black Labrador have a higher risk of health issues? A: Black Labradors generally have the same risk of developing health problems as colored Labradors. However, some studies have shown that black Labradors may be more prone to certain conditions, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. Q: What Labrador has a brown nose and a black nose? A: Most Labradors have black noses, but some may have brown noses. In particular, Dudley Labradors are known for having a pink nose due to a lack of pigment. Some Labradors may also have white markings on their noses which is another unique trait of the breed. Q: Can a golden retriever and a Labrador have puppies together? A: Yes, golden retrievers and Labradors can produce offspring. However, the puppies may not be purebred, and it is usually not recommended as there can be health risks associated with a cross-breed. Q: Can I use paw pads for teaching my Labrador Retriever? A: Yes, you can use paw pads for training your Dudley Lab. They are a great tool to help teach basic commands as well as tricks. Additionally, paw pads are a great way to keep your pup entertained and help build their confidence in new situations. Q: What breed standard should I look for when buying a Dudley Lab? This includes a broad chest, strong legs and feet, a short coat that is thick and glossy, a pink nose, and a well-proportioned body. Additionally, Dudley Labs should have an even temperament and be excellent with children. Final Words Dudley Labrador Retrievers are fantastic pets for families and individuals alike. With their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly disposition, they make wonderful companions. However, it is important to be patient and consistent when training a Dudley Lab and give them lots of love and attention. With the right care and training, your Dudley Lab will be a loyal and loving companion for years to come. Please read our description and rules before posting your pictures. This group is open to the public and does not require an invite. For those of you that have never heard of a Dudley Labrador let us explain. A Dudley Labrador or liver-nosed yellow is one that has a lack of or light pigmentation on the nose, eyes, muzzle, and eye rims. Normally, a yellow Labrador will have black pigmentation on these areas, but Dudleys do not. It is a somewhat rare genetic trait that affects only yellow Labradors. This is not the same condition that creates a "snow nose" or "winter nose" where the originally black pigment will fade from the nose as the dog ages. For more information on Dudley Labradors please click below: www. Photos posted should be of yellow Labradors with light brown liver or pink pigmentation on the face and light brown, green or yellow eyes. Other dogs in the photos are fine, but there should be at least one Dudley in the photo. Chocolate Labradors, even though they can have the same pigmentation as a Dudley, are not considered Dudley Labradors. Yellow Labradors only. Please only post Labradors that have light pigmentation completely. If photos of dogs other than true Dudley Labradors are posted they will be deleted. Flickr's rules strictly prohibit using your account for commercial purposes of any kind. See Flickr's Community Guidelines for information. Rules: 1.

Is the Boxer Bulldog mix the best pet for your family? What is a Boxer Bulldog? But, as dog fighting ceased over the years, the American Bulldog and the Boxer developed into calm and affectionate family pets. The Boxer Bulldog mix has none of the aggression its parent breeds used to have. Bulldog Boxer crosses make excellent watch dogs as they are naturally alert, swift, and protective of their masters. This American Bulldog Boxer breed is a high-energy, curious dog that needs to always have something to do. Otherwise, they will get destructive when bored. Bulldog Boxer mixes are intelligent and athletic, and they love to play and be around their human family. What does a Boxer Bulldog mix look like? The Bulldog Boxer mix is a large dog , with a muscular body, a wide chest, and a medium-sized tail. As we mentioned above a full grown Bulloxer weighs around 70 to 90 pounds 31 to 40 kg and is about 22 to 27 inches 56 to 69 cm in height. American Bulldog crossbreeds tend to share the same stocky body. Check out the American Bulldog Pitbull Mix , for instance. Many Boxer Bulldog mixes have the signature Boxer look we all love, with a square-shaped jaw, a short muzzle, and short floppy ears. How difficult is it to take care of a Bulloxer? Caring for this crossbreed is easy. Checking and cleaning its ears once a week will also keep ear infections at bay. How do I train a Boxer Bulldog mix? Early socialization and obedience training are necessary for Boxer Bulldog puppies to grow up as happy and well-behaved dogs. Socialization prevents them from becoming overprotective and aggressive towards other people and pets. Here are a few things you need to remember when training these pups: They are intelligent and eager to please their owners. Clicker training works best for this breed. How long do Boxer Bulldogs live? Like we mentioned on the fist paragraph as well, the average Boxer Bulldog mix lifespan is 10 to 15 years. An adult Bulldog Boxer needs 3 to 4 cups of good-quality dry dog food, divided into three evenly spaced meals daily. This pooch need to be active as they can be overweight. Bulloxers need 30 to 45 minutes a day of play to maintain a good weight and maintain their muscular build. Their short muzzles and short hair make Boxer Bulldog mixes uncomfortable in cold weather, and they may also suffer from skin diseases and joint problems. How much is a Boxer Bulldog mix? Given the price of Boxer Bulldog puppies, it is important to find a good breeder should you intend to buy your own pup. If finding Boxer Bulldog breeders proves to be challenge, you may check these breeders of American Bulldogs and Boxers:. These loving dogs with a charming disposition might get destructive when separated from their family for a prolonged period. Because of their inherent alertness and courageous nature, the Boxer-American Bulldog mix is always aware of their surroundings. They can be suspicious of strangers and become aggressive to unfamiliar people only when they are perceived as threats. These dogs attain maturity slowly and may behave like boisterous puppies for some years. They are usually patient with children as well as small dogs and puppies. However, they may have trouble getting along with large adult dogs. Care Exercise Being very playful and exuberant, the Bulloxer is always active indoors. To satisfy its need for exercise and keep its muscles toned, take your pet for long walks, play fetch, or get it involved in agility, flyball, and other dog sports. Grooming As it is a light shedder, its coat does not require much grooming. Weekly brushing using a rubber grooming-mitt or bristle brush will help keep its hair under control. Bathe your Bulloxer only when needed. Trimming its nails once a month and daily brushing its teeth are some of the other grooming needs. Health Problems Although the Bulloxer is generally a healthy and physically active breed, some dogs may get affected by a few health issues. These include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, bloating, intestinal problems, heart conditions, and cancer. Training Clicker training: Since the Bulloxers might be headstrong by nature, using harsh methods to make them obey to commands could induce behavioral problems. They tend to respond better to clicker training, which is a simple method of training based on positive reinforcement techniques. Follow a click-treat-click-treat pattern so that your dog can associate the noise of the clicker with a reward. Make sure that the clicker is held out of sight. House training: Establish a regular schedule so that your Bulloxer puppy learns when to play, to eat, and to potty. Since a pup can control its bladder hours, you should take it frequently to a specific spot outside, where it can eliminate. Feeding An adult Bulloxer needs cups of dry dog food a day. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Valley Bulldog Highlights The Valley Bulldog is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Boxer or English Bulldog parents. The main colors of Valley Bulldogs are; red, tan, brindle, white, and fawn. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. Valley Bulldogs love kids and are great playmates for active older children. They may be too rambunctious for toddlers, however, and can accidentally knock them down in play. Always supervise play time. Valley Bulldog History The Valley Bulldog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boxer and English Bulldogs in the mid s, in Nova Scotia, Canada. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems and create an active, friendly companion dog. They continued to create Valley Bulldogs as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Valley Bulldog breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Valley Bulldog rescues, or check with breed-specific Boxer and English Bulldog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. That said, as a mix between Boxer and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Valley Bulldogs to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 50 to pounds and range in height from twelve to 25 inches at the shoulder. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Socialization helps ensure that your Valley Bulldog puppy grows up to be a well-rounded, outgoing, friendly dog and stays that way. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly and taking your dog to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Also, you should make sure your dog is clean between the folds of their skin to keep them from getting infections. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Valley Bulls are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Valley Bulldog Feeding An ideal Valley Bulldog diet should be formulated for an active, medium-sized breed. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main colors of Valley Bulldogs are ; red, tan, brindle, white, and fawn. A good brushing per week will probably do. They may self groom and are considered a pretty clean dog. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Boxer and English Bulldog. Valley Bulldog Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Valley Bulldogs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boxer or English Bulldog breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Its chest is broad and thick, and the head is in a square form. This hybrid has a short muzzle with a slight underbite. It can come in different colors or a combination of colors. These dogs are very energetic, playful, and loving but may also be stubborn at times. It is very loyal to and protective of its owner and will do anything to protect them from harm. You will have to show it a lot of love and affection for you to get the same from it. Although they are generally very friendly with others, you will have to train them consistently and socialize them early. If not properly socialized, they may become aggressive to those they think are threats. They enjoy playing around with their owners so it would be best to bring them out to do exercises from time to time. It needs to spend its energy on physical activities, or else they can become destructive at home. Never let them get bored or leave them all alone in your house because you might have to clean up a lot of destroyed objects when you get back. They are also prone to suffer from separation anxiety. Bulloxers are quick learners, but when your Bulloxer becomes stubborn, you will have to establish your dominance on it to make it listen to your commands. It is very strong-willed, so you have to be very confident when you are dealing with it in training. One thing you have to know about is that this hybrid often produces sounds and smell from multiple orifices on their body. Bulldog Combined with Boxer Puppies for Sale If you are sure that a Bulldog Boxer Mix is the right dog for you, then you have to find a reliable and reputable breeder. Nowadays, it is tough to find a breeder that you can fully trust. It is highly essential to get your puppy from a legitimate breeder since the way they were treated and raised to that point may have a significant impact on its personality, behavior, and as well as its health. There are thousands of breeders all over the globe, but only a few thousands of these are trustworthy. In selecting a dog breeder, you have to assess and analyze a lot of factors. You should visit their facility and see the space in which the dogs are kept in and check out what kind of food they are feeding the dogs. Try to assess the care and attention the breeders put into both the parent dogs and the puppies. You make sure that the breeders are knowledgeable about the hybrid, Boxer combined with Bulldog. There is no strict schedule that you have to follow. You only need to bathe your Bulldog Boxer when they are dirty. It is also not good to shower them often since it will affect the natural oils they have on their skin. Make sure to wipe its ears from time to time. Bulldog Combined with Boxer Health Problems Overall, a Bulloxer is quite a healthy crossbreed for its size and is not likely to suffer from many health issues. However, they are prone to obesity, which is why you have to regulate their food intake. A few Boxer Bulldog dogs have been known to develop different kinds of cancer, but it is rare for this to happen. Although they are not inclined to contracting many diseases, it is still essential to bring your pet to the vet frequently to have a general check-up. Here is a list of common canine ailments that they may suffer from throughout their lives: Hip Dysplasia — This is a common occurrence in dogs of this size. Because they are heavy, their joints have a tougher job in supporting their bodies. This condition will bring your pet a lot of pain, which is why you can opt for your Bulloxer to get surgery to correct it. Bloat — The cause of this disease is unknown. As soon as your Bulloxer exhibits symptoms such as shortness of breath, bring him to the vet immediately. Epilepsy — This term is used to describe multiple episodes of seizures. The most common cause of seizure in a dog is idiopathic epilepsy, which is usually a genetical predisposition, but there is no exact cause known. Your pet may not feel pain during an epileptic episode but will feel confused and may panic. Try to observe your dog, and if it has more than one seizure per month, then you have to get treatment from a veterinarian. Boxer Bulldog Mix Food Requirements The Boxer Bulldog is a larger than average dog, and it will require three to four cups of dry dog food daily. Try to avoid feeding your pet one big meal and instead divide the amount of dog food into two separate meals because Bulloxers are prone to bloating. Make sure that you give it dog food of high quality and one that contains all the nutrients it will need in a day. Remember to check all the ingredients in the dog food before purchasing them. Choose the product that has nutritional additives such as vitamins and minerals to keep your pet healthy. Since this crossbreed is likely to suffer from joint issues and pain, try to find food that has chondroitin and glucosamine. Do not buy products that contain unknown meat-meals or byproducts and those that contain various unnecessary additives like dyes. These dyes usually trigger food allergies of the dogs. It also contains different kinds of healthy fruits and vegetables such as pear, spinach, green, carrots, and blueberries. Nulo Adult Salmon and Peas This dog food has deboned salmon, turkey meal, and chicken meal as its protein source. This product leaves out any ingredient that may trigger allergies. It also does not have any grains, corn, wheat gluten, soy, artificial additives, colors, or flavors. It provides a balanced diet for all dogs. Also, it does not contain any soy or fillers, such as grain and gluten. You would not have to worry about your dog missing any nutrition because this dog food has all the nutritious ingredients that a Bulldog Boxer needs. Bulldog Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements Because this hybrid is very playful and enthusiastic, they will become very energetic inside the house, which is why you need to allow it to spend its energy outside through physical activities such as walking, jogging, or running. It loves stimulating its brain, so try to have them go through obstacles set up in your backyard from time to time. Your Bulloxer will need at least minutes of exercise per day. Be careful not to overwork and exhaust your pet because it might have breathing problems. You can utilize different types of toys and kinds of activities. Tennis balls are one of the toys that Bulloxers enjoy playing with the most. They love running around and fetching these balls, but after a couple of times of throwing, your arm will get very worn out. This device allows you to play with your pet companion for an extended period without wearing out your muscles. Boxer combined with Bulldog dogs have no problems with playing by themselves. Although they want you to participate in their playtime, they are still happy getting preoccupied with a toy. This toy is perfect for when you are suddenly too busy to play with your furry friend physically. It is a very sturdy ball and also glows in the dark, which makes it very attractive to your Bulloxer. This product is shaped like a football and is perfect for a game of fetch. It has deep ridges, which make it easy for dogs to pick up and carry. Your pet may play with this toy in the pool since it floats in water. Also, it comes in bright colors, thus, increasing its visibility. Boxer Combined with Bulldog Training Your Boxer Bulldog Mix dog is generally quick to train since it is smart and a fast learner, but they may, at times, be stubborn. Bulloxers have an independent trait, so they will do whatever they want to do if they feel like you are less confident. When you are dealing with this hybrid, you have to establish your dominance throughout the training session. There are two essential pieces of training that you have to do with your Boxer Bulldog, namely: Clicker Training. It utilizes positive reinforcement techniques. Researchers have proven that this method works exceptionally well for Bulloxers. Because Bulldog Boxer dogs are sometimes headstrong, harsh training techniques will not work and would bring about bad behavior. You should follow a click-treat-click-treat pattern so that your dog will understand that the sound of the clicker is associated with getting a reward. Do not let the pet see your clicker. House training. You have to establish a schedule for your pet to play, eat, and to go potty. This training is essential to maintain peace inside the home. Boxer Crossed with Bulldog and Families Bulloxers are excellent family dogs because they are very affectionate and very protective of their owners. They have a high sense of awareness of their surroundings and can be aggressive when they perceive something as a threat. This piece of information is vital to those who are looking for guard dogs. They are playful and enthusiastic, which is why they will also get along with children. Usually, these dogs are very patient with kids, but you might not want to leave them alone with very small offsprings. If you ever decide on getting a Boxer Bulldog mix as your furry companion, expect to feel more warmth and happiness in your household and your life. American Bullboxer Description The Bulloxer is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Boxer and the American Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in any of the breeds in the hybrid. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She loves to camp, hike, swim and sleep! At 6 months old he was about 65 lbs. Great personality and very smart. Too smart if you ask me. His father is a registered American Bulldog who weighs about lbs. I think he can do it! I know he makes me laugh. His dad is a lb. American Bulldog and his mom is a lb. He loves to play catch and he runs faster than any other dog at the dog park. He is very loving and has a sweet demeanor but definitely has a lot of energy and is a bit hard-headed. He is a wonderful addition to our family. He's still the fastest dog I've ever seen, and has grown to have the best personality. He watches television with us and plays with everyone friendly to him any chance he can get. All he wants out of life is the thrill of playing in the shallow waters and cuddles. All small breeds.Japanese Chin, Cockapoo and a teacup Shih Tzu. And I have 2 small kids. She is around 55 pounds or more in this picture. We just love Roxy. She is a sweetheart. She currently weighs 65 pounds. If all Bulloxers are like Roxy I don't think I would get any other type of dog again. She is so loving and kind to all of us. South African Boerboel Puppies Puppies are vet checked, dewormed with first vaccines and docked tails. These happy girls will come vet checked, first shots and dewormed. If you're looking for a sweet.There is an incredible fawn female. She is extremely sweet and loving. Please Contact Mother American bulldog , not sure of fathers side Winnipeg Mother is a purebred American bulldog boxer , father is mixed breed no pictures of him got pictures of mother , 4 puppies LEFT 1 male brindle and 3 females. Mom is an American Bulldog and dad is a Boxer. Both parents have amazing temperments. If you like lots of snuggles then these babies are for.We have remaining: 1 brown female 1 brown male 1 brindle female 1 brindle male They come dewormed. One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.There are 3 girls available. They will come fully vet checked with first and second shots, de worming and a clear bill of health.Please Contact Pocket Puppies Belleville I have a gorgeous litter of pocket puppies ready for their new homes. They will come fully vet checked with first shots, de worming and a clear bill of health from a.There are 3 girls and 2 boys available. Puppies will be ready to go home on August 11th. They will come fully vet checked.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Some of my favorite things are to play in the backyard with my ball, Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.One litter will be ready to go on September 8th with 8 weeks and half old. My other litter will be.They are 15 weeks old and have.Excellent with kids and other dogs. Very lovable gentle lil bulldog Both parents are super short , stocky with excellent bloodlines.He is very playful and is 7 weeks old. Vaccinated and de-wormed fully. Pee pad trained. He is peepad trained and goes outside to potty. Browse other categories in Pets in Canada.

Conclusion Preparing to Buy a Goldendoodle Puppy Before choosing your new puppy and bringing him or her home, you should first get to know the breeder. You will also want a breeder who introduces you to the parent dogs. Parent dogs give you a glimpse of what your Goldendoodle puppy will grow into both physically and socially. Two super small brown or chocolate Goldendoodles Depending on how long the puppies stay with the breeder, they might have already given them their first round of vaccinations and dewormed them. Good breeders also provide a comfortable and spacious area for the parent dogs and puppies, which you should observe upon arrival to their home and grounds. Dirty or cramped quarters or other adverse conditions may cause traumas that will surface later in the developmental process. To ease the process of bonding and proper nourishment when you bring your Goldendoodle puppy home, breeders should supply you with all the information you need to make the transition as smooth as possible. You should ensure that breeders are forthcoming and knowledgeable on best-care tips and habits. What kind of food or formula is the puppy currently eating? Have you vaccinated the puppy? If so, is there a second round of vaccinations, and when is it? Do you have a certificate of health for the parent dogs and the puppy? Have you dewormed the puppy? How social is the puppy with their brothers and sisters? Puppies, like all animals, are a product of genetics and their environment, so a loving and caring breeder is an excellent indication that your Goldendoodle will likewise be loving, healthy, and happy. What size Goldendoodle are you after? The size difference between a Mini Goldendoodle and a Standard Goldendoodle can be staggering. If you need to pick up your dog to put them in the car or bath them — you do NOT want a standard or medium Goldendoodle! They will be far too heavy for the average pet parent. Ask to see the statistics of the parent dogs. Check the weight and height and find the average between. This is a best estimate if these parents do not have any previous litters to compare to. What generation of Godlendoodle are you after? The difference between a F1 Goldendoodle and a F1b Goldendoodle can be huge. This is the type that has the highest likelihood of having a hypoallergenic puppy coat. Go in depth and learn about the different generations of Goldendoodle dog and the differences in this guide. We also have a predicitive guide on how to tell what type of Goldendoodle coat your puppy will have curly, wavy, or straight. Just as you asked the breeders feeding and sleeping schedules , your vet will have even more information on training, nutrition, and other areas of pet care. What to Look for in a Goldendoodle Puppy You want your Goldendoodle puppy to have the best life possible with you and your family, so there are various variables that you should investigate and anticipate in your search for the best Goldendoodle puppy. We will go over the most important factors to look for in a Goldendoodle puppy in the following sections. Physical Health and Genetic Predispositions Wavy coat F1b Goldendoodles are typically non-shedding while still maintaining that teddy bear look. Medical records will show if either parent dog has suffered from conditions or diseases that may be genetically inheritable. Breeders usually do genetic screening for genetic diseases or conditions common to poodles and golden retrievers. Ostensibly, if breeders present you with health certificates for the parent dogs, this means that they do not have any severe genetic conditions. If you notice any genetic conditions the parent dogs have suffered in their lifetime, this indicates that their puppies are more likely to exhibit similar ailments. These are the most common issues that Goldendoodles face, for which you should do an independent screening with your primary vet: Hip Dysplasia. Soon it would be time to select the one I wanted. How can I stand in a room full of heart melting adorable puppies and automatically know which one I want to bring home. The thought terrified me. What if my selection was really not the right one? I allowed the puppy to choose me! I thought I was making all the right decisions. I had no knowledge of what evil lurked out there with puppy mills pretending to be reputable breeders anotherstory anothertime Leo on the other hand, was my lone star. He was the only pup. With a little more knowledge under my hat I did my due diligence before I even contacted the breeder. He was older 6 months and to me unlike a younger pup — I believed once we spent some time together we would either have a love connection or not. A place all too familiar, you see Dr. However, when I realized I was ready to love, cherish and care for another tail wagging doodle, I knew I had specific desires. I wanted to start this journey from the beginning of his life. I wanted a puppy — born in the winter, so I went to a reputable and responsible breeder… But regardless to where puppies come from, we want them to be healthy. Does he cough or sneeze a lot? Body Condition: does he look well fed? Genitals: does he have feces or pus visible to his genital region? Coat: does he have excessive dandruff, dullness, greasiness or bald spots? Hearing: does he respond when you clap your hands? Vision: does he notice a ball when it rolls within his field of vision? Does the puppy seem to like people? Does the puppy like being handled by people? Does the puppy seem overly sensitive to sights and sounds? Think about it — who best to give me guidance and insight based on time spent with the entire litter? Kelly — the breeder! The ultimate decision should always be yours, but with one as serious as this, I welcomed the assistance from the person who loved them first. Here are just a few that I found interesting and informative:. Flat coats are quite commonly seen in F2 Goldendoodles. These coats are easy to maintain when compared with curlier coated types. However, if you want a Goldendoodle that has the traditional teddy bear look, a flat-coated dog is not for you. Also, these dogs are moderate to high shedders and are, therefore, not recommended for a family with allergies. However, unlike flat-coated Doodles, the straight coat type does have furnishings and the fur tends to be fluffier in texture. Straight coat Goldendoodles are also referred to as loose coats or hair coats, and these pups have coats that are most like a Golden retriever. Also, these dogs do tend to shed quite heavily, making them unsuitable for those with pet allergies. So, if you take on one of these Goldendoodles, you must also be prepared to vacuum your carpets daily! Wavy Coat Image Source: Instagram. A wavy or shaggy coat is the most common type of Goldendoodle coat type, and they are also sometimes called fleece coats. In fact, the wavy coat occurs in all the most popular generations of Goldendoodles, including F1, F1b, and multigenerational dogs. Wavy Goldendoodles can be minimal shedders, although F1 and F2 dogs tend to be moderate to heavy shedders. So, to be certain as to whether your puppy will shed or not, always choose a reputable breeder that has had all their breeding dogs DNA tested. Curly Coat Curly coats are created when the puppy inherits a curl gene from each parent. These dogs have very dense, fleece-like coat characteristics that most closely resemble the coat of the Poodle parent. You will most commonly find curly coats in an F1B Goldendoodle or some of the multigenerational Goldendoodles. However, most owners prefer to have their dogs shaved or clipped. Curly Goldendoodles are minimal to non-shedding coats, which makes these dogs extremely sought after by people with pet allergies. If you leave the coat to grow without having your dog clipped, the curls will become very dense, making it difficult to gauge their length simply by looking at the coat. That said, eventually, the hair will stop growing. To make matters even more confusing, Goldendoodles commonly change color as they mature. Generally, if the puppy has a smooth face without furnishings, he will most likely have an improper or flat coat. Goldendoodle Coat Stages As previously mentioned, Goldendoodle puppies begin shedding their puppy coats once they reach around six months of age. By the time your puppy is eight months old or more, he will have his final adult coat. The final coat is usually not as soft and fluffy as the puppy coat. The coat change can be gradual or sudden, taking a matter of weeks or several months. Also, some super-soft adult Goldendoodle coats are virtually indistinguishable from the puppy coat. Until recently, crossbreeding dogs generally gave unpredictable results with the puppies taking more after one parent than the other. Now, DNA testing is commonly used by good breeders to determine what kind of coat their puppies will have. However, there are a few tried and tested methods of determining what kind of coat the puppy will have as an adult. That can be a good indicator for the coat type your dog will have as an adult. Generally, a prominent mustache is a clear indicator that the puppy will have a curly coat. Dogs that will go on to develop wavy coats tend to grow a shaggy beard around the muzzle. Straight-coated Goldendoodles usually have short, neat hair around their snout. If the puppy is anything other than an F1, first-generation pup, look at both the parent dogs. Generally, puppies take after one parent dog. However, genetics always have the final say when it comes to coat types. Inspiration For Names! One of the fun things about owning a Goldendoodle is choosing a name for your dog. For a few more ideas on what names you can choose for your Doodle puppy, check out this guide! Most people think of the Goldendoodle as having those classic teddy bear looks that everyone finds so adorable. However, not all puppies go on to develop that wavy or curly coat and furnishings that are so desirable. And, of all the generations, the F1B Goldendoodles are much less likely to have a significant coat change as they mature, although the coat coarseness and density are quite likely to increase. Interestingly, English Goldendoodles are more likely to have that boxy teddy bear features than American Goldendoodles. However, both kinds can develop the teddy bear appearance with the correct furnishings. Dogs with any of the three types of Goldendoodle coats can be with or without furnishings. F1 Goldendoodles are most likely to be without furnishings. That involvement entails providing access to the very latest research and expert guidance on canine reproduction, breed development, and puppy development. However, through the careful selection of mates, a good breeder can produce that adorable Teddy Bear look that people love so much. Shedding intensity can also be predicted through careful DNA research and careful breeding. The S gene that gives the dog a short coat is dominant. Doodle coats can be curly, straight, or wavy, depending on the number of curl genes that they take from their parents. What Are Furnishings? Commonly known as the F gene, the gene, RSP02 is responsible for those furnishings. Improper Coat A coat that has no furnishings is known as an improper coat or IC. Goldendoodles that have Ff or F IC or one copy of the furnishings gene tend to be lighter shedders than dogs that do have furnishings. I hope you enjoyed this guide! What kind of coat did you think your puppy would grow, and how did it actually turn out? Tell us in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. By Dr. There are many great breeders out there that you can buy a puppy from. There are also so not so great places you can get a Goldendoodle. When looking for a Goldendoodle puppy, this article will help you pick out your perfect puppy. There are many things that you need to consider. This will help make sure that your puppy is healthy and exactly the puppy that you want. What to look for in a Goldendoodle Puppy? There are a few things that you need to check out in order to make sure you are getting the best puppy for yourself. These are: Physical Health Health and Genetic issues of the Parents Personal Preference Breeding Qualities By checking all these out in your Goldendoodle, you will make sure that your puppy is perfectly healthy and exactly what you want. These puppies are going to be members of the family, and you want to make sure that they will fit in wonderfully and be as healthy as possible. Physical Health Check When you are looking at what puppy you want, you will want to thoroughly check over everything about the puppy that you are picking out. While most people who are buying these dogs are not vets so they do not know everything that you needed to look for these are common things that you should examine to make sure the puppy that you are picking out is as healthy as possible. Energy Level: look at the energy level of your puppy. If the Goldendoodle puppy is very active and playful, this will be their personality. If they are lazier as a puppy, they may not be as energetic once they are grown. Sometimes these dogs may be sleeping, but they are usually very active. Also, make sure your dog is moving around. If a puppy is sick, they typically are very lethargic and do not really come to see people when they come near. These will be bright and alert. They should not be any matting or redness in the eyes. If they have been adequately cared for, there should not be any dirty or eye discharge around their face. Breathing: Watch your Goldendoodle puppy breathing. They should be breathing at a regular rate. You should also not hear any wheezing or noise when they are breathing. If you notice that your Goldendoodle puppy is making a wheezing sound, they may have an upper respiratory infection. Make sure that they are clean and do not have an odor. A dog with an ear infection or ear mites will have black debris in the ears, and they will have a very strong unpleasant smell coming from the ears. Body Condition: Make sure that your puppy looks overall health. They should be at a good weight and not look malnourished. If your puppy did not eat a proper diet early in life, they could have a lot of health problems as they start to get older. There should be no redness or discharge. If they are a boy, you should be able to feel both testicles. If a dog only has one, the other one has not descended. If this does not happen, your puppy will be cryptorchid. This testicle that does not descend could turn cancerous and cause many problems for your Goldendoodle later in life. Coat: Make that your Goldendoodle puppy has a beautiful shiny coat. They should not have any fleas or ticks. They should not have any bald patches of skin. Sometimes puppies do play rough with each other, and they may have a minor scratch on them, but there should not be a large bald spot on your new Goldendoodle puppy. If your puppy does have a bald spot, they can possibly have Demodex, a type of mange that they get from their mothers shortly after birth. While this can easily be treated by your veterinarian, it can be very itchy for your puppy. There should not be a bulge around their belly button. This would be an umbilical hernia. These can easily be fixed by a veterinarian, but it would be an extra cost you would have to spend on your new Goldendoodle puppy. Hearing: Some puppies can be born deaf. It is straightforward to test to see if your puppy can hear when your puppy is playing whistle very loud. If your Goldendoodle puppy can hear, they will quickly turn around and come toward you. Dogs who cannot hear will continue doing what they were doing. Vision: Vision problems are commonly seen in poodles. Make sure that your new puppy can see. You can observe your puppy running around and notice if they have vision problems. Your new puppy should be able to quickly move around objects without running into them. These are simple observations that you can quickly make about the puppies that you are looking at buying. This will help make sure that you are getting a healthy puppy. You do not have to be a vet to be able to notice that there is something that is just not right with a puppy. Remember to trust your instincts when picking out a puppy; if it just does not seem right, it probably is not the right puppy for you. Behavior Around People and Other Puppies When looking for a new puppy, you will want one that is great with people and other dogs. You can watch how the puppies act in different situations. This will help make sure that your new puppy does not have any unwanted traits. You will want a puppy that is well rounded and approaches you as you walk near the puppies. Your new puppy may be hard to pick out as most Goldendoodle puppies tend to have a very outgoing personality. There are other tips that you can use when picking out a Goldendoodle puppy. How does your puppy act with other dogs? Watch your puppy around other puppies. Make sure that it likes being around other puppies, especially if you have another dog in the house. You can quickly see if your new puppy will be the leader or stand back and let other dogs take control. You can also tell if a puppy is going to bully other dogs and continuously pick fights. Does your puppy like other people? If you spend a lot of time with friends and family, you will want to make sure that your new Goldendoodle puppies love to be around people. Watch as your dog interacts with you and other people who are around. Does your puppy like being touched? If you want a dog that loves to snuggle on the couch and be around you all the time, make sure your puppy also likes to be touched. When you are sitting near all the puppies, the ones that come up to you and want to be in your lap usually turn out to be lap dogs. The ones that are doing their own thing are often more independent and may want to spend their time napping in their bed rather than snuggled up to you on the couch. Pick up the puppies and see how they act. Do they nip at your hands and wiggle around as soon as you touch them? By interacting with the puppies, you can quickly gauge their personalities. Be careful not to pick the shy puppy of the littler. These may be fearful, which is a behavior that is very hard to change. Is your puppy sensitive to sounds? If you live in an area where there are a lot of thunderstorms or your house is noisy with the kids. You will want a puppy that is not sensitive to all these loud sounds. If you clap your hands and your puppy runs away , they may be afraid of loud noises and would do best in a quiet house. Make sure that you are answering these questions when looking for a new Goldendoodle puppy. These will help make sure that your new Goldendoodle puppy is excellent around other people and dogs. Many times, you can help train your Goldendoodle to accept new people and pets, but if your dog already loves other people and pets makes it much easier. If you are planning on getting a new Goldendoodle puppy and you already have a pet or kids, take your dog and kids with you to help pick out a new pet. Many times, it helps to know what puppy your dog and kids already bond with before bringing them home. Genetic Health Many traits and problems can be passed from parents to offspring. If you see any genetic conditions in their health record, then you know that the puppies may also have these problems. The breeder can test the parent for the potential to have any genetic conditions. Any reputable breeder will have their dogs tested for genetic conditions before breeding. Some testing will need to be done by a specialist, and some can be done by your regular vet. This condition is usually inherited but can be due to poor nutrition, overweight, or inadequate amounts of exercise. What is Hip Dysplasia? Hip dysplasia is caused by abnormal development of the hip joints. The hip joint is a ball and socket type joint. A Goldendoodle with hip dysplasia is caused when the socket that is in the pelvis is not deep enough for the ball, which is part of the femur to stay in place. When the hip joint is shallow, the femur to continually come in and out of place, causing looseness and instability in the hip joint. The femur will rub on the pelvis while moving in the socket. This causes arthritis to build up around this joint. This arthritis can be excruciating. This will put extra stress on the knees and ankles, causing them even more orthopedic problems. While there is a treatment to make this less painful, there is nothing that can reverse this condition. How is Hip Dysplasia Testing done in Goldendoodles? Dogs under two years of age can only be a preliminary screen for hip dysplasia. They cannot get their full hip certification until they are at least two years old. Once your dog reaches two years of age, you can take them to your veterinarian for the entire test certification. The hips will be grades as excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate, and severe. To pass OFA hip certification, your Goldendoodle will need to receive an excellent, good, and fair rating. They will then receive a certification number. Elbow Dysplasia in Goldendoodles Elbow Dysplasia is similar to hip dysplasia, and they can inherit this condition from their parents. This can be seen in both Poodles and Golden Retrievers. What is Elbow Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is caused by one of three different problems. These are: Fragment medial coronoid process of the elbow, Osteochondritis of the medial humeral condyle and Ununited anconeal process. This extra growth can lead to the elbow becoming displaced or out of the socket. This can cause the elbow joint to develop abnormally, leading to a life of pain, inflammation, and arthritis in the elbow. Goldendoodles with elbow dysplasia may have no obvious signs at all, but it can be so severe that your Goldendoodle is not putting any weight on that leg. There are many treatment options that you can do to help decrease the pain and inflammation if your dog does develop elbow dysplasia. How is Elbow Dysplasia Testing done in Goldendoodles Elbow dysplasia testing is done very similar to hip dysplasia, where your vet will take 4 different radiographs of the elbows will be submitted to a veterinary radiologist. Just like with hip dysplasia, your dog cannot get their full certification until after they are two years of age. Elbow dysplasia is graded as normal or abnormal with abnormal being broken down into 3 different grades: Grade 1: Minimal bonny changes Grade 2: a bonny proliferation of 2 to 5mm Grade 3: a severe degenerative joint disease where bonny proliferation is greater than 5mm Only dogs who have a normal elbow will pass certification and should be used for breeding. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia testing can be done on your Goldendoodle to see if they have the potential for developing hip dysplasia. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA , and your veterinarian, can use x-rays of the hips to help decide if your dog is predisposed for hip dysplasia. Goldendoodles who do have hip or elbow dysplasia should not be used for breeding. These are genetic diseases that are passed from parents to offspring. When looking to purchase a Goldendoodle puppy, you should see if their hips and elbows are OFA certified. This will help you determine if these will be problems that your new Goldendoodle puppy may develop later in their life. For a Goldendoodle to be tested for elbow and hip dysplasia, they will need to see a veterinarian. Not all veterinarians test for this disease, so call your veterinarian and make sure that they can test your Goldendoodle for hip and elbow dysplasia. Your dog would have to be sedated to get the perfect radiographs for submission. Specific views must be taken of the hips and elbows. To take these radiographs, your dog will not experience any pain but will need to be perfectly still. These radiographs will be sent off to for boarded radiologists to review. It can take a few weeks for the radiologist to review the x-rays and get you the results. Poodles are known to get Progressive Retinal Atrophy. This disease causes the retinal in the eye to slowly deteriorate. Once the retina is gone, your dog will be blind. This is a no treatable or preventable condition. This disease is thought to be genetic, and dogs who have this problem should not be breed. This testing has to be done by a Veterinary Ophthalmologist. Most of the time, the dogs have a disease called Dilated Cardiomyopathy. This is when the heart does not function properly, causing the heart to overwork. The ventricles of the heart will become dilated, causing the heart to have to work harder to get blood pumping all around the body. This is usually a fatal disease but can be managed with daily heart medications. If the Goldendoodle that you are looking at purchasing has these issues, it would be best to look at another breeding pair. A responsible breeder will test for these traits and not breed any dog who has tested positive for any of these issues. Personal Preference Many people have a personal preference for what they also want in a Goldendoodle puppy. Some people want a specific color or a particular hair type. Some people want a big dog, while some like the smaller Goldendoodles. By looking at how Goldendoodle puppies were bred will help you to pick out the perfect Goldendoodle puppy. Breeding Qualities There are a few different types of Goldendoodles. These are all determined by what the parents are mixed with or if the parents are pure-bred dogs. These are common ways that Goldendoodle puppies are made. F1 Goldendoodles. These Goldendoodles are made by mixing a pure-bred Poodle with a pure-bred Golden Retriever. These dogs have all of the traits that many people think of when they think about a Goldendoodle. These dogs will be shaggy and curly. They will have the teddy bear look that most people want. F1B Goldendoodles. You will get this mixture when you cross an F1 Goldendoodle with a pure-bred poodle. These Goldendoodles do not shed and tend to have hair that is more like the poodle. This breeding is the most hypoallergenic of all the breeding possibilities. If you have horrible pet allergies, this breeding would be best for you. You will also see more color variations in this breeding. The hair type commonly seen with this breeding is more like a poodle. F2 Goldendoodles. F2 or second-generation Goldendoodles are made by breeding two F1 Goldendoodles. These dogs tend to have hair more like a Golden Retriever and usually shed a little more but nowhere near as much as a Golden Retriever does. These Size of your Goldendoodle The size of your Goldendoodle will also depend on the parents. While most Golden Retrievers are 60 to 70 pounds, Poodles come in many different sizes such as Toy: 6 to 9 pounds Minature: 15 to 17 pounds Standard: 45 to 70 pounds If you want a smaller Goldendoodle, make sure that the poodle parent is also smaller. If you want a Goldendoodle that is on the larger size, make sure that the poodle parent is a Standard poodle. Most people have Goldendoodle, around 30 to 50 pounds. Some as they are breeding a miniature poodle with a Golden Retrieve. Some people love the tinny Goldendoodles and will look for a toy poodle that was bread with a Golden Retriever. By looking at the breeding of the parent, you should be able to pick out the perfect traits that you want in a Goldendoodle. When should you take your Goldendoodle to the veterinarian for the first time? As soon as you get your puppy, you should take them to the vet for a checkup. Most reputable breeders and other adoption organizations will allow you about 72 hours to return your Goldendale puppy. They will usually allow you to exchange the puppy for another one if there is a health problem that your veterinarian notices. It is advised to make a vet appointment the day your plan on picking up your puppy to help quickly identify any issues that your Goldendoodle puppy may have. Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam on your Goldendoodle. These are the steps veterinarians take to examine your new Goldendoodle puppy. Not only will your veterinarian completely examine your dog and let you know of any potential problems, but they will also check the records that the breeder provided you for your Goldendoodle puppy. They will give your puppy any vaccines they need and prescribe heartworm and internal parasite deworming. At this visit, it is a great time to discuss any potty training and other questions that you may have on the health of your new Goldendoodle puppy. By starting your new Goldendoodle off with a trip to the vet will get them set up on a great schedule to keep them healthy. Your vet can advise you on diets, feeding, and spaying and neutering your new Goldendoodle puppy. There are many different things that you need to consider. Do you have kids? This guide should help you make the correct choice when picking out your new puppy. By looking at the overall appearance of your puppy and taking into consideration the breeding and potential genetic testing, you will be able to pick out the perfect Goldendoodle puppy for your family. Making sure that your new Goldendoodle puppy is healthy and happy will start you out on the right track to a healthy and long life with your new furry friend. My two daughters and my Goldendoodle all use this same brush daily. I was kind of surprised at how good it is that it is inexpensive on Amazon. Updated: Oct 22, There are few things more exciting in life than deciding to get a new puppy. But how do you know which puppy will be perfect for you? Recently we outlined a list of questions you should ask before you get your puppy. Equally important, what kind of puppy will be best suited for you and your lifestyle? As South Carolina doodle breeders , we have years of experience under our belt and we are here to help make the very best decision for both you and your new best friend. When it comes to picking the right puppy from a litter, many people often find themselves considering the value of Nature versus Nurture - the age old debate! We have talked at length about the nurture side of the equation in previous blog posts i. While no one knows exactly where to draw the line in the age old nature vs. The first step is to decide which litter is the best fit for you. Most people choose their doodle litter based on color, coat texture, etc. Most breeders adore their parent dogs hence why they want to create more of them! For example, at JLDD we love all of our parent dogs for different reasons, but we also recognize not all are created equal. Others we might recommend for people desiring a more active companion or a dog that can be a real athlete fetch, agility, etc. Ideally, you will find an experienced breeder who can help guide you in this regard…performing a temperament test on each pup can also be very telling. At JLDD we have various exercises that allow us to rank each litter based on attributes including trainability, dominance, etc. But even if your preferred breeder does not do a temperament test, there is a lot you can tell on your own when you go to visit a litter! Well-socialized pups should be willing to approach a new person some may do so more excitedly than others , but all should be curious and accepting of human interaction. A puppy that is very shy and attempts to hide from human interaction will need a lot of patience and training. Learn more about doodle exercise needs here. Dogs that are very confident and more on the dominant side may be repeatedly jumping up, less inclined to be held on their backs, etc. They may also not be a good fit for a home that already has a dog — typically more submissive pups integrate more easily into a home with another dog. A pup that is interested in human interaction but is a little slower to approach may prove to be a more reserved dog. There are other simple techniques you can employ when meeting a litter of pups. Make a strange sound such as whistling or jingling your keys and see which pups respond with curiosity. Again, this would be a marker of a confident dog who will be outgoing and eager to participate in training. Independence is another trait to keep an eye out for. Also, any pet owner should be aware of doodle separation anxiety symptoms. Some people want a dog who can enjoy some time in the backyard by themselves. Others are looking for a shadow — those looking for an emotional support animal often want a dog that scores very high on affection and low on independence. Picking a Good Puppy Out of a Litter Is Easier When Breeders Have a Matchmaking Process One thing that sets our adoption process apart from other breeders is that we like to pair our clients with their new dogs, like matchmakers! Begin by filling out an application so we can learn more about you, such as whether or not you live with young kids, your activity level, what you're hoping a new dog will add to your family, etc. Choosing a new pet is a major responsibility and not all puppies are the same, so why should we treat them like they are? Remember, any pup that has been well socialized and comes from happy, healthy parents, will likely make a wonderful family pet. And nurture will bring out the best in any pup! We hope this post has assisted your search for a new pup. Let us know at contact jennaleedoodles. Post not marked as liked3 Recent Posts.

Starch They Are Inactive or Obese Frenchies who have extra weight are much more prone to chronic farts, as silly as it sounds. So keep your Frenchie at a healthy weight with constant exercise. Even daily walks will help you with this. When Frenchies roll in their poop, it can be their canine instincts, or they just like doing it. Not surprising since dogs like gross stuff and Frenchies are no exception. If you want to understand this odd behavior more, here are some explanations that may help you. By hiding their scent with poop, their prey cannot detect them and run away. Although your Frenchie does not need to hunt , this instinct is still passed down today. To mark their territory, they may rub their scent on it to override the smell. This can be a warning or a signal that your Frenchie was there. By letting the pack smell them, the others will know where the returning dog was. Your Frenchie considers you as part of their pack. And because of this, they may want to let you know where they went. If your Frenchie has a hard time pooping, there are a couple of ways you can help them. You can try out the tips below. But if your Frenchie does not improve the next day, you should visit your vet. Never give your Frenchie an enema or laxative. You should only do so if your vet recommends you to. So you can add more fiber into their food to make them poop! You can feed them pumpkin, pears, apples, or any food rich in fiber. Add this to their meals, and see if there are any improvements. Make sure not to feed them too many fruits, though. While they may help, fruits are high in sugar. Make Them Drink More Water Sometimes, the solution may be as simple as increasing their water intake. Dehydration can make your Frenchie constipated. This is because their body will suck the moisture from their feces. And that makes it difficult for your Frenchie to poop. Try Giving Them Milk Milk is a great laxative for humans as well as dogs. But remember, some dogs are allergic or intolerant to milk. So you should only do this if you are sure that your Frenchie does not suffer from these. Their bowel movement will also see the benefits of exercise. Even a quick stroll with your Frenchie will help stimulate the movement of their poop. This will also help your Frenchie know what to expect since they like routines! Frenchies are notorious for being a stubborn breed , which is why it is challenging to train them. But they are also an intelligent breed, which makes it easy for them to understand your commands. When their stubbornness kicks in though, they may not want to listen to you. So you have to keep these in mind. Do not worry though, you just have to be consistent with training and do a lot of repetition. Make potty training fun too, as Frenchies learn best with this. Reward them for their good behaviors, but do not punish them when they make mistakes. Making your Frenchie fear you will do more harm than good, especially when potty training. Fear and anxiety can increase the likelihood of them making accidents. It is generally thought that female Frenchies are easier to train than males. The difference is in their personality and temperament. Male Frenchies are independent, mischievous, and energetic. They tend to have an alpha-dog mentality and may try to assert their dominance over you. This is a problem when potty training them. They will try to fight for that alpha spot, even with you. So male Frenchies may need more patience when you train them. Female Frenchies are docile, shy, and calm. This is why many consider them as easier to train. But you must take these with a grain of salt as these are only general observations. Frenchies have varying personalities within the same sex, so use these as a guide. You can start potty training your Frenchie as young as 8 weeks of age. Starting this early will be easier and may give you better results. Training an older Frenchie can be harder since they are set in their ways already. Other than that, you need to consider that it will take a lot of time for them to be completely potty trained. So the earlier you do this, the earlier they can complete this. It may take you 8 to 10 months to fully potty train your Frenchie. But this depends on how consistent you are in training them. Some Frenchies may take longer than this, while others will learn earlier. Some claim that it will take about 1 to 4 months to potty train a Frenchie pup. While others say that it will take up to 8 to 10 months. There is no cut and dry answer to this, so be consistent and patient as your Frenchie learns. Make sure you have a potty pad, treats for rewards, and a dog leash. Now, prepare yourself and gather all your patience. This can be a frustrating journey but you will get there. Below are some steps you can follow to successfully potty train your Frenchie. Step 1: Set a Schedule You need to be consistent in your timing so that your Frenchie learns when they should do their business. Take them out first thing in the morning, after their lunch, and after dinner. It is also a good idea to take them out after playing or drinking water. That way, you give them more opportunities to poop or pee. Step 2: Know Their Body Language Eventually, you will be able to tell if your Frenchie needs to potty with some signs. This can be pacing around, whining, barking , and staring at you in the eye. Knowing these will be helpful so you know when to take them out outside of their schedule. This will help them avoid accidents as well. This can be your garden or a designated potty place for them in your home. Even if they have outdoor access, it is best to train them with potty pads as well. During the nighttime, they cannot go out by themselves. So a potty pad will come in handy when they want to relieve themselves while you are asleep. Step 4: Use a Command Word The moment they start to relieve themselves, say a command. Make sure that it is simple enough for your Frenchie to understand. Saying a command when they go potty will help them associate it with the action. So do not forget to do this, soon, they will understand the meaning. This will help them to associate the command and action with something good. And this makes them more likely to repeat this good deed in the future. Now, repeat all the steps until they learn. Remember, be consistent with the timing, command, and treats. This time though, you may also need a crate to train them. Keep in mind that Frenchie pups do not have full control over their bladders. This happens when they are at least 4 months of age. So expect some accidents here and there. So here is how you should potty train your Frenchie pup: Step 1: Follow a Potty Schedule Whatever their age, your Frenchie needs to go at the same time each day. This should be first thing in the morning, after dinner, and some potty breaks throughout the day. Since Frenchie pups need to pee more, take them to their potty area after they play and drink water too. Step 2: Keep Them in a Crate This is important if your pup still does not have complete control over its bladder. Other than a crate, you can also block off a section in your home and keep them there. Puppies need constant supervision, or they will pee all over your home. By keeping them in one area, you will limit their accidents. Like in the previous section, this includes pacing, circling, barking, and staring. Keep in mind to make them go potty in the same area all the time. In time, they will learn that this is the only area you allow them to relieve themselves. That way they will associate the words with pooping or peeing. This positive association with the training will set you up for success. They will be more inclined to do the good deed again, which can speed up the training process. It can be harder to train them since they are set in their ways. But it can also be easier since they have complete control over their bladder. They are still trainable, though. You can potty train your older Frenchie with these steps below. Place them here when you cannot supervise them or between potty breaks. Step 2: Set Up a Potty Space Your Frenchie must go potty in the same area every time, whether it is indoors or outdoors. Use a potty pad and place it in an area where you allow them to do their business. You should act like nothing is happening so that you do not distract them. Wait for about five minutes and check if they try to relieve themselves. If they do, give them a treat as a reward. Otherwise, take them back to their confinement area. After 10 to 15 minutes, take them to their potty area again. Keep doing this until they potty. Step 4: Give Them Supervised Playtime Once your Frenchie finishes, make them play indoors while you watch for about 15 minutes. After this, you can take them back to their confined space. This is a crucial step. It prevents them from associating potty time with getting confined afterward. They may not like this and your Frenchie may think you are punishing them. Keep repeating steps 1 to 4 throughout the day and be strict in following this routine. The more you do this, the faster they learn. And always remember, give them praise and treats! So keep track of when they are most likely to go potty. This will also help to prevent any accidents since you can expect them when they need to go do their business. How to Potty Train a French Bulldog in the Winter If your Frenchie likes to go outside to potty, this can be tricky during the winter season. But making them go potty outside is still possible. Below is how you can do this. Step 1: Create a Snow-Free Potty Area A balcony or porch will do but if you do not have one, you can still create a space for them. You can shovel a spot where your Frenchie can go potty. This will be the spot where you allow them to do their business. Make sure you are protecting their paws with socks and keep them warm with a coat. Although they are sensitive to the cold, they enjoy frolicking around in the snow too. By playing with them in the snow, you are teaching them that this white stuff is not something to be afraid of. Step 3: Watch Out for the Signs The more you spend time with them, the better you will understand their body language. Whenever you Frenchie paces, whines, barks, or stares at you, they may need to go potty. They may hesitate to do this in the cold, but keep on encouraging them to go out. If they will not budge, it may be too cold for them. With this, you can make them potty indoors instead. Step 5: Give Them Moral Support Frenchies are sensitive to the cold and going out in the winter can make them uncomfortable. Stay with them while they go potty so that they feel more at ease. This will make them feel that it is safe to go potty during the winter as well. This way, they will learn that those words mean that they should relieve themselves. Step 7: Give Them Treats When they are successful in pooping or peeing in the right place, give them a treat as a reward. This will make the experience even more positive for them. With this, you may speed up the training process. January 11, French bulldogs are some of the most beloved dogs in the US and worldwide! In , PBS reported that Frenchies were the fourth most popular breed , topped only by consistent fan-favorites like labs and retrievers. French bulldogs are known for their quirky dispositions, mild temperaments, and low-maintenance playtime needs. Like all dogs, however, some training is always necessary! Puppies, in particular, require lots of attention and rule enforcement to guarantee that they will behave. Fortunately, Frenchies make training easy and rewarding. Read on to find out how to potty train a French bulldog and kiss those indoor accidents goodbye! This is the approximate length of time in hours that they may be able to hold their urine. For example, if you have a three-month-old puppy, she will likely need to pee at least every four hours. How frequently they need to poop will have more to do with their diet than age. Diet Just like with humans, the amount of fiber a dog eats will affect how often they poop. Some Frenchies love to spend their days lazing about while others seem to catch a case of the zoomies a dozen times a day! However, in the beginning, you may not know exactly when or how often your Frenchie needs to go. If your Frenchie begins to exhibit warning signs that she needs to go, take her out right away. She may circle or pace the room or sniff along the floor. This might be directed at you or at the door you usually use to go outside for potty breaks. With younger Frenchies, you may want to limit water intake an hour or two before bedtime. In the beginning, however, use a specific spot in your yard to reduce her confusion. Not only will this allow you to guide her to her specific potty spot but it will also cut down on distractions. Once your Frenchie has completed her business, give her a treat so she knows that she followed the command correctly. After the first day or two, rotate your rewards. You can use a toy or positive vocal tones and affectionate pets. Rotating rewards can help to prevent your Frenchie from expecting a treat every time she goes. If the temperature drops below 32 degrees, you may want to avoid taking your Frenchie outside at all, as they can develop hypothermia and frostbite. For that reason, potty pads are a good thing to have on hand. Training your Frenchie to use them is no different than training them to go outside! However, avoid yelling and physical punishment. You should also avoid rubbing their face or nose in the mess. This kind of behavior will frighten your Frenchie and break the trust that is crucial to any training process. Plus, it may encourage them to behave aggressively in turn. The odor, in particular, needs to be lifted. When Frenchies catch the scent of their own prior potty breaks, they may be inclined to mark that spot again and again. Your best bet to avoid this habit is to find a good cleaner that will hopefully eliminate any sign of an indoor accident. These symptoms may indicate urinary incontinence. Similarly, unusual pooping habits may also be indicative of a bigger problem. Also, if your Frenchie has an accident be sure to read this guide on the best carpet cleaner for old pet urine here. Share on facebook. Monitoring how often your French bulldog or Frenchie poops is not one of the more glamorous aspects of living with Frenchies. However, knowing how often your pup poops and what that poop looks like is a major way to quickly and effectively monitor your dog's health. According to The Whole Dog Journal , all adult dogs move their bowels at least once every 24 hours. Twice a day is also normal. It is normal for puppies to poop many more times a day because they eat more often than adult dogs do. After nursing her pups. The mother Frenchie will lick the bottoms of her youngsters in order to stimulate them to urinate and defecate. She usually does this after every feeding. Determining Your Frenchie's "Normal" As your relationship with your Frenchie develops, you'll get to know a lot about how your dog behaves when he or she is feeling good. This includes how often your Frenchie will poop. Frenchies most often need to poop when: They wake up after a long sleep After they eat a meal because eating more than just a few bites stimulates your dog's entire digestive tract During exercise such as walking or playing in the yard. Over time, you will instinctively know when your Frenchie isn't feeling good. When talking to your vet, one of the first questions asked you is, "Is your Frenchie pooping normally? It's like trying to determine the average times you need to poop. Frenchies may go more or less often due to: How often they are eating What they are eating and if that food can be thoroughly digested If they are getting enough water If they are getting enough or too much fiber If they have started a new medication If there has been a major change in the dog's life, such as the death of an owner or a move to another home If they suffer from a health problem which causes them to suffer from either diarrhea or constipation or why they farting so much If young Frenchie puppies suffer from a malformation of their digestive tract. This can be straight or curled up like a screw. Unfortunately, puppies with screw tails may be born with hemivertebrae, a genetic defect that causes them not to poop very little or not at all. Hemivertebrae can eventually kill a puppy or young Frenchie, according to the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare. This malformation causes other problems such as loss of control of the hind limbs, pain, and urinary incontinence. This needs treatment at once. Each dog's normal poop will look slightly different. If you own more than one Frenchie, you may even recognize which dog's poop pile is. Overall, normal dog poop is firm but not runny, a light brown which turns black over time and is usually roundish or tube-like. The color of your Frenchie's poop can reveal how sick or healthy it is. According to the Canine Journal , here are what the most common colors mean: Tar-black: your Frenchie is bleeding internally from an ulcer OR drank blood or ate blood-rich foods like blood pudding. Call the vet and bring a sample. Grey: If it also looks covered in grease, your Frenchie may have a problem digesting fat called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Get a sample and your Frenchie and go to the vet. Yellow: the yellow is usually from mucus. Something your dog ate irritated his intestines. Orange: Your Frenchie has a liver problem. Covered in red stripes: The stripes are fresh blood. Your Frenchie has constipation or a wound under the tail. Dark pink or purple: This often looks like blobs of jam. Get your dog to the vet. It could be a serious digestive tract problem. Green: this could mean your dog has eaten a lot of green foods like spinach or grass OR it could indicate a medical emergency. Call your vet and bring a poop sample. Filled with white specks: Your Frenchie has worms. A dog door is a great convenience for many Frenchie owners. The dog lets itself out to do its business. However, there's a great temptation to ignore going outside to pick up the poop. Not only is this a health hazard to the community, but also a hazard for your dog's health. Like it or not, you need to look at your Frenchie's poop at least once a day to determine how healthy your Frenchie is. If your dog keeps going into the yard and you cannot find any poop, this might not mean that your dog is constipated. Your dog could be eating the poop. Poop apparently tastes good to dogs. According to the American Kennel Club , dogs have many reasons for eating poop — their own and someone else's. These reasons include: Boredom Wants to get attention from the owner. This certainly is an effective way to get a human's attention. Stress, especially if the dog has been punished in the past for pooping in the home. The dog will eat the poop to avoid getting hit or otherwise reprimanded. Bad behavior learned from dogs rescued from hoarding, puppy mills, or that have spent months in a pet shop cage. They eat their poop to keep their cage clean, so they do not have to sleep in poop, which makes the skin incredibly sore over time. Confusion with acceptable food from a mother dog. Since mother dogs have to lick their puppies' bottoms and eat the poop to keep the nest clean, puppies may smell poop on Mom's mouth and breath and think poop is food. Dogs living with other dogs and must compete for food. Getting your Frenchie to stop eating poop can be very difficult. A good way to start is to ask your vet to recommend a trainer to help. You also need to clean up your Frenchie's poop as soon as possible so there is nothing left to eat. One quirk of all dogs, not just Frenchies, is that a poop may suddenly trigger an explosion of joy. It can be alarming at first. Your Frenchie may bark , wagging what little of its tail it has furiously, run around, or jump about, such as this cute Frenchie on YouTube. It is unknown just why dogs do this. It could be that they feel good. If you have made a big fuss for pooping outside the home when they were puppies, they may expect you to continue making a fuss all their lives. It is just one of the mysterious joys of living with dogs. What Your Vet Needs To Know If your Frenchie is not pooping or is pooing more than usual, look to see if your Frenchie is acting in other unusual ways, such as if the coat looks right, if the energy level is normal or if there is vomiting, if the dog is panting heavily when sitting still or whining constantly. When you take your Frenchie to the vet, take a recent stool sample, too. If your Frenchie produces a stool sample in the car or just after arriving at the vet's, bring that, too. All of this information will help your vet come to a diagnosis. The Least You Need to Know Adult French bulldogs should poop at least once every 24 hours if they are eating regularly. Puppies can poop up to five times a day depending on how often they are fed and exercised. Each Frenchie will have their own normal amount that you need to know. Learning how often your Frenchie poops and what color and consistency your dog's poop happens to be is a great way to monitor your dog's health and to stop small health problems from turning into big ones. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. The frequency, color, and consistency will all tell you something, as well as how often your Frenchie should poop. How often should a French Bulldog poop? There is no definite rule for how much your Frenchie will poop each day, as there are a number of factors that can influence this, including their age and diet. However, your French Bulldog should be pooping at least once a day, with the average for an adult being between 1 and 5 times daily. If that is the case, my advice is that you try to get them outdoors at least 3 times a day so they can do their business. To put this into perspective, we are lucky enough to have a dog flap that lets our Frenchie Claude go outdoors whenever he needs to poop or pee. That takes him out into a fenced off concrete area in our back garden yard for US readers. Having spoken with other French Bulldog owners, the general consensus is that 3 to 5 poops a day is pretty typical. What should healthy Frenchie poop look like? The ideal stool should be chocolate brown and a little firm in consistency. In the end, if your Frenchie is pooping just once a day, and there are no abnormalities when you inspect the stools, there is likely nothing to worry about. On the flip side, if your Frenchie is pooping more than five times a day, and you notice that the poop is abnormal in any way, then this could indicate a variety of medical issues. Here are some of the most common factors: 1. Age As a general rule of thumb, puppies tend to defecate and urinate more often than adult Frenchies. As they get older and their toilet routine stabilizes, you should see the frequency of their toilet breaks reigning back a little. Eating too much Another strong factor that can determine how often your Frenchie is pooping, is their diet. The more a dog eats, the more it will need to go. If you feel that your Frenchie is pooping a bit too much, it might be worth checking if your dog is at a healthy weight, and if you are feeding your Frenchie the right portions. Try tempting them with treats you know they love to see if this is the case. However, if your Frenchie refuses treats and food for more than forty-eight hours, take them to a vet immediately, as this indicates serious health issues. Fiber Fiber is a vital component for a healthy diet for your Frenchie, as its assists with bowel movement, water absorption, and provides energy, but too much can have a detrimental effect. Excessive fiber may give your Frenchie gas, hard stools, diarrhea, and can also increase the frequency of defecation. This is especially important before making any big changes. Although some small variations from the ideal poop can be expected, you need to keep an eye out for drastic changes. Worms in the poop When inspecting a fresh stool, if you notice anything that looks like small pieces of rice, your Frenchie may have worms. The worms can be quite small, but may also be long and skinny, but always tend to be an off-white or tan colour. The following colours indicate serious health issues: 4. Yellow poop This colour stool indicates a possible infection or that your Frenchie has ingested something that is irritating their digestive system. It can also indicate a parasite, food allergies, or that your Frenchie has developed problems with their gallbladder, liver, or pancreas. Green poop Green stools indicates that your Frenchie has been eating large quantities of grass. Dogs tend to do this when they have an upset stomach, which may indicate an imbalance in their diet. However, green poop can also indicate that your Frenchie has a parasite; that they have consumed rat poison; or that they have other digestive issues. It may be an indication of parasites, ingestion of toxins, inflammation of the bowels or colon, and infection of the anal sac. It can also indicate trauma to the digestive system. A perfectly healthy poop should have no coating at all, and when you clean up after your dog, the stool should not leave any kind of trail or mucus behind. This type of poop often accompanies diarrhea and might be an indicator of large bowel inflammation. Soft or runny poops indicate more serious concerns that may warrant a visit to your veterinarian. The key is to look for drastic changes. If they get softer and softer with each passing day, book your Frenchie in to see your veterinarian, and take a sample with you if you can. However, this can be a sign of a problem if they continue to eat poop into their adult life. French Bulldog Puppies 3. You can also try probiotics or one of the several products which are designed to stop or restrict poop eating and help them digest food easier. Train Your Frenchie Training is key to addressing unwanted behaviors, and poop eating is no exception. In each and every case, it is vital to communicate with your Frenchie that this behavior is unacceptable. These will come in handy when you catch them eyeing that pile of poop. It would catch her off guard and she would move away. I did that every time so she would associate the sound with the eating of the poop. She no longer eats her poop outside, but if she occasionally poops in her crate, she may, but she does not do it all the time. Positive reinforcement is also very effective in reinforcing a desired behavior, so if your Frenchie stays away from their poop, give a reward such as treats and praise. With poop eating this is especially true, as the health of your furry friend is at stake: regular poop eating can lead to diarrhea and other issues. In addition to poop, your Frenchie might also find all sorts of dangerous things outside which could even be fatal when ingested. Wait for the moment they want to eat it and step in! If they leave the food right away, praise them and show how happy you are. So, keeping your Frenchie mentally and physically stimulated can help redirect their energy and prevent them from resorting to poop-eating. Provide your puppy with interactive toys, play with them regularly, and take them for daily walks to keep their minds engaged and their bodies active. Read our article on how much exercise French Bulldogs need to learn everything about the topic! Your vet or a certified dog behaviorist can provide further guidance and develop a tailored plan to address the issue. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to success. With your love, care, and a proactive approach, you can help your French Bulldog kick the poop-eating habit and lead a healthier, happier life. Frenchie puppies may eat their poop because of natural instincts, nutritional deficiencies, boredom or some kind of underlying health issue. How to get my French Bulldog to stop eating poop? The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. Age: As your French Bulldog gets older, he will have a lower digestive capacity. Adult dogs only poop around three tim es a day, while puppies can go up to six or seven times. This is because puppies are growing, and their bodies need extra nourishment from food along with energy from digestion. Puppies usually have smaller bowel movements, especially when they are teething. You may begin to notice larger, looser stools once your Frenchie puppy starts getting teeth. Younger dogs also tend to drink more water than older dogs, so their poop is also more watery. If your French Bulldog is on a high-quality diet with no gravy or anything added to the kibble. In that case, you should notice smaller stools that are brown in color and resemble small pebbles. If your Frenchie is on low-quality food, their stools will be yellow and have a stronger odor that is cruder. However, if your dog has diarrhea or is vomiting, some of the stools may resemble more of a pudding consistency. Other signs such as excess gas and low stool output can indicate that your French Bulldog is not feeling well, and you should contact your veterinarian immediately. How long after a Frenchie eats do they poop? French Bulldogs should have a bowel movement after every meal. Depending on the size of your French Bulldog, they should have a stool at least 30 minutes after each meal. If your Frenchie is taking over an hour to have a bowel movement after eating. Some dogs may take longer to go than others depending on the size and age of the dog. How many times should a French Bulldog puppy poop? As mentioned before, Frenchie puppies will poop more often than an adult French Bulldog. However, there can be other Frenchie poop problems you want to look out for. If their poop is yellow, then their diet probably consists of low-quality food, or they might be eating too much. Blood on Their Poop If your Frenchie poops blood, this could indicate many problems. However, if there is dark brown or red blood, then your French Bulldog might be bleeding from their stomach or intestines, and you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. This could be because of parasites or worms, but in a worst-case scenario, it could also mean your dog has problems with its pancreas or liver. Runny poops in French Bulldogs should be investigated by a vet to figure out the underlying cause. Why does my French Bulldog puppy have loose stools? A puppy French Bulldog with loose stools is actually pretty normal. Puppies are constantly growing and eating, which means their digestive system is working overtime to process all of their meals. This can cause the stool to be soft for a few days until the puppy gets used to having more food in its system. What do you feed a puppy with loose stools?? To help your puppy get back to normal, you should give them rice or oatmeal. Milk should be avoided altogether because it will make the stool softer and could also cause diarrhea. If your French Bulldog still has diarrhea, then you should take him to a vet. How do I make my French Bulldog poop more solid? If your French Bulldog is eating low-quality food, their poop will be softer and have more odor. Why does my French Bulldogs poop smell so bad? If you have been feeding your French Bulldog low-quality food for a long time, then their poop will probably have a very bad odor. Changing them over to wet or dry high-quality food will most likely solve the problem. You should use a stool softener or give them canned pumpkin to help with their digestive system because dehydration can also cause constipation. If the problem continues, then you should take them to the vet. But if your Frenchie seems upset or uncomfortable after pooping, then that might be a sign of constipation or diarrhea. If your French Bulldog is eating his own poop, then this could mean he has a nutritional deficiency. Conclusion Adult and healthy French Bulldogs should poop a maximum of three times per day and in normal consistency. If your Frenchie is struggling to poop and seems uncomfortable, then he probably has some kind of digestive problem that needs to be addressed by a vet. It is important to watch your Frenchie when they are pooping, so you can monitor the color and amount of poop that is being passed. These signs and symptoms should serve as a guide when determining what type of bowel movement is normal for your Frenchie.

If socialized properly, they should get along well with their family members and other pets. Hybrid dog breeding or designer dog breeding has given rise to a breed where many breeders cross different purebred dogs to create new, healthier purebred lines. You may like: Pug pitbull mix. What is a Golden Retriever Pug Mixed breed dog? It has one purebred Golden Retriever parent and one purebred Pug Parent dog. This demonstrates the variety of hybrid dog breeding. An early generation of hybrid dog breeders might specialize in crossbreeding two purebred breeds, such as the Pug Dog and the Golden Retriever. To increase the uniformity of their puppies, hybrid dog breeders might focus on crossing parent dogs from different breeds. This is when a hybrid breed can begin to take shape as an independent purebred breed. Information about the parent breed. A Pug can be described as a large dog but in a small area. They are often called the clowns of canine life because of their sense of humor. It features deep wrinkles, big dark eyes, and a flat face. From A. Many historians believe that they may be related to the Tibetan Mastiff. After the Civil War, pugs were brought to America by breeders. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Some dedicated breeders continued breeding, and the breed gained popularity over time. You may like: Golden retriever pitbull mix. Golden Retriever. A medium-sized dog breed, the golden retriever, has golden hair. It is a Scottish-bred golden retriever. Also, the golden retriever is a popular dog breed in the United States. They are known for their kindness, loyalty, and enthusiasm for life. Goldens are great family dogs and were originally bred in the Scottish Highlands as hunting dogs. Since the s, the Golden Retriever has been a beloved dog by families all over the globe. They are a popular family dog, but they are also used frequently as service and search-and-rescue dogs. The therapy and service dogs that Golden Retrievers most commonly use include therapy and service dogs. They are intelligent and loyal dogs who can give unconditional love and affection. They can comfort seniors and children with ease. Temperament and Personality of Golden Retriever Pug mix. Families are often concerned about selecting a pet for their family that will be a good canine friend to all family members and possibly other family pets. This dog is intelligent, loyal, and dedicated. These dogs are both very loving and friendly. Moreover, they will have a unique combination of their energy levels. They are calm, intelligent, confident, and friendly but alert and wary of strangers. This makes them a great watchdog. There is a good-natured and well-mannered dog who gets along with everyone. These dog breeds are play-loving dogs that love to have fun. She is loyal, trustworthy, brave, and warm. The Pug, like the Golden Retriever, is very loving and people-focused. Size, height, and weight. It can be difficult to predict the adult height, weight, and size of hybrid dog breeds, as the two-parent dogs may have very different characteristics. Your Golden Pug puppy will be between 14 and 75 pounds in weight and 10 to 24 inches tall. Health issue. Every dog has the potential to have genetic health issues. All breeds are more susceptible than others. The good news about buying a Pug Golden Retriever mix puppy is that it can be avoided as much as possible. Breeders should offer puppies a health guarantee. Reputable breeders will tell you about any health issues in your breed and how they are related to your dog. These are not common issues in both breeds. Training and exercise needs. Pugs and Golden Retrievers are intelligent, sensitive dogs close to their owners. Your Golden Pug might need more exercise depending on how much influence they have from their parents. Positive training will bring out the best in any puppy from these intelligent, sensitive breeds. You may like: Goldendoodle and golden retriever mix. Grooming, shedding and coat care. A coat that sheds is something that Golden Retrievers and Pug dogs share in common. All dog shed. This means that the owner must do more grooming and brushing to prevent tangles or mats from developing. Pugs and Golden Retrievers shed like other dogs. The coat of the Golden Pug will be flat, short- to medium-length. You can have your dog single- or double-coated. However, you will still need to sweep all year. Every dog is different and requires another diet. The majority of overweight dogs in the United States are males. This mix is most likely to be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. It should be taking fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin as soon as possible. It is bad to feed your dog too much as it can lead to health issues such as hip dysplasia and elbow pain. A raw dog Food Diet is a good option. For Wolf backgrounds, a raw food diet is especially beneficial. Are You Choosing the Right Dog? You may like: Pitbull Yorkie mix. The Golden Pug is a joy to behold for a dog lover. These sweet, playful pups can be stubborn, so positive training sessions are essential. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Why should you look forward to adopting? Where can you find a pug-golden retriever mix? Finding natural golden retriever pug mix puppies is uncommon. If there is a breeder, who is offering such cross-bred pups online for sale or adoption, you should always check their credentials, certifications, and reviews before committing. In all probability, you will not find AKC American Kennel Club certified breeders offering their services in situations like these. The professionals, who offer such unconventional cross breeds, are either new or experimental breeders without relevant documentation. You are more likely to find accidental cross breeds between a miniature dog and a large dog at the shelters. That can happen when people own two dogs of opposite sex belonging to different breeds at home. It can also happen when a male pug impregnates a female golden retriever in heat at the dog park or a day-care kennel. Such instances are not rare and unprepared dog parents often have to resort to giving the new puppies up at shelters. In most cases, people do not risk adopting such uncommon cross bred pups since little is known about their genetic afflictions, general health, and temper. Why are golden retrievers such popular pets? A golden retriever is a docile, playful, intelligent, sensitive and adjusting breed. They are amazing for big homes that have other pets, children, and older people. They are even kind to strangers, although they are protective and loving to their family. Golden retrievers are in no way one-master dogs. They are very obedient and easy to train. Although they require high activity levels throughout life, you will often find them lazing on their beds and on your bed, when they get the chance multiple times a day. Their love for the humans rarely trumps their love for food. They love to be pampered, and they have a penchant for staying close to their humans. How are pugs as pets? Pugs are miniature energy bombs. It is surprising how someone so small never runs out of energy. They are always running about and making mischief when they are not lying on their back snoring away to glory. They are stout, but they are never aggressive. They are super fun loving. It is a little difficult to train them since they are highly intelligent and it does not take them too much effort to fool a human. They get along great with children, other small dogs, larger breeds and other pets. They are grossly funny, and you will always find a pug busy in some antic or another throughout the day unless they have to turn their attention to food. What can be the pros of having a pug-golden retriever mix? When golden retrievers cross with pugs, you do not get golden pugs! Well, it is possible for you to get your hands on a small sized pup that looks almost like a pug and has the golden sheen of a retriever, but the physical features will be a generous mix of both breeds. Therefore, it would be wrong to call it a golden pug. You can expect the new crossbred pup to have a longer snout that is not as snubbed as that of a purebred Pug. This will eliminate the breathing problems; palate issues and regular loud snoring pugs suffer from. On the other hand, pugs shed lesser than goldies. Thus, you can expect the new pooches with short golden fur to shed lesser than their golden parent. The pup should have the happy-go-lucky attitude that its parents have along with genuine love towards the human species. Additionally, they should be incredibly intelligent and easy to train. What are the potential risks of a pug-golden retriever cross? These are the positive trait possibilities we can expect from the pug golden retriever mixes. When breeders first try out crossing two separate breeds, there is no guarantee that the resulting puppies will be the best of both parents. There have been breeding disasters in the past. Cross breeding two distinct dog breeds results in unpredictable combinations of genes that can give rise to serious health problems. For example — the new pug-golden retriever mix can inherit the palate problem of pugs and the joint problems of golden retrievers. Further inheriting the love for food and the tendency to gain weight from both breeds can exacerbate these problems significantly. The threat of potential health problems has led several pet lovers and breeders to be apprehensive about new breeds coming in the market. Unless you know about previous litters from the same parents, who have been doing well for quite a few years and you can get a veterinarian to certify the puppies as healthy, you should always be a skeptic. Know for sure that they will not receive AKC certifications, and they will not be able to participate in the first-tier dog shows. If you are only thinking about adopting cross bred pups from the shelter and giving them a home, then it should not be a problem. In most cases, people do not desire or adopt such uncommon mixes and giving them a safe and loving home will be the best thing in their life. Knowing all the pug mixes , can help you decide which ones to go for. Appearance is one thing, but the traits and temperaments matter too! Luckily, we have all these information for you. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, As pugs and golden retrievers vastly differ in their sizes, the size of a full-grown golden pug falls somewhere in the middle. Their appearance is somewhat of a short-statured golden with a face that closely resembles that of a pug. Their muzzle is longer than a pug, but not to the point of being as long as a golden retriever. They also have slightly upturned noses. They do tend to have small wrinkles around their noses. One notable characteristic of pugs is their very tightly curled tails. Golden retrievers, on the other hand, have very long elegant tails with long hair. Golden pugs have a slightly curled tail that has medium-length hair. How Big a Golden Pug Gets When creating hybrid breeds with the first generation, it can be hard to determine if the golden pug will turn out a similar size to either a pug or a golden retriever. While those two breeds vastly differ in height, a golden pug falls somewhere in between. That can provide a lot of variation as pugs are typically 14 pounds, while golden retrievers can reach up to 75 pounds. There is also the difference in height, with a pug standing at 10 inches and a golden retriever standing at 24 inches. One of the benefits of hybrid dogs is that once the first generations are created, then it no longer becomes a process of breeding a purebred pug with a purebred retriever but breeding two golden pugs together. With many hybrid dogs, you see smaller and larger versions. Depending on the demand, a breeder will select golden pugs of similar stature to continue to generate puppies around that size. While pugs have very short hair, golden retrievers sport long flowing hair. When combined, the result is that the golden pug has a single or double-layer flat coat that is of medium length. While they shed, they shed far less than a golden retriever does. With proper brushing and grooming, their coat can remain smooth and you will see less shedding. This combination produces a cute and loving canine. But what are these dogs like? This article will break down everything you need to know about the Pug and Golden Retriever mix. Stick around to find out! The short answer to this question is yes, a Pug can mate with a Golden Retriever. This combination of dog breeds has been bred many times and produces an adorable-looking dog. The typical route to achieving a Pug and Golden Retriever mix is by having one Pug parent and one Golden Retriever parent. However, this is not the only way to get to the desired dog. Hybrid breeders can have two Pug and Golden Retriever mix parents, as well, and still end up with another Pug and Golden Retriever puppy. This speaks to the variety of techniques that breeders have nowadays. Many dog owners will be wondering: what can I call these cute little dogs? Well, most owners with these dogs tend to call them Golden Pugs. This short name takes a little from both parent breeds, making for a sweet option to call these canines. Another name that has been used is Golden Retriever Pug Mix. While this name is longer, it does provide the full names of both parent breeds, making it more informative than simply Golden Pug. Another central question that avid dog owners will have on their minds is about the size of the Pug and Golden Retriever mix. How big can these bad boys get? Golden Retriever This classic breed of dog can grow to between 21 — 24 inches tall , or about 2 feet in height. Their weight can be between 55 — 75 pounds, depending on whether you have a male or a female. Pug The other parent breed in this combination is the Pug. These canines can grow to between 10 — 13 inches in height, or about a foot. Their weight tends to range between 14 — 18 pounds. We see that the two parent breeds vastly differ in size. One is pretty big, while the other is pretty small. So how does that affect the Pug and Golden Retriever mix? Pug and Golden Retriever Mix When the parent breeds differ so greatly in size, the hybrid breed can kind of fall anywhere in between the parent ranges. That means the Pug and Golden Retriever Mix can be as small as 13 inches and 15 pounds, or as large as 22 inches and 65 pounds. The variety is purely a product of genetics and chance. With traditional pure-bred parents, the range is larger so it can really be anything. The next big question about Pug and Golden Retriever mixes is about their appearance: what do these dogs look like? You can kind of imagine it if you blend the qualities of a Pug and a Golden Retriever in your mind. Rounded face The first striking quality of the Golden Pug is that it has a rounded face, similar to that of the Pug itself. This face bears a slightly longer muzzle than on a traditional Pug, but not as long as that of a Golden Retriever. Slightly wrinkled face Another key component of the Golden Pug mix is the slightly wrinkled quality of the face. Unlike the rest of their body, the nose is actually a shade of black. This is common in Golden Pugs, and makes for an especially cute canine. Coat The coats of the parent breeds involved in this mix are vastly different. While the Golden Retriever features a long, thick coat, the Pug has a much shorter counterpart. Where does this leave the mix? Well, it usually has a single or double-layer medium coat. The Golden Retriever and Pug mix does not shed as much as its parents do; with proper grooming, you can minimize shedding throughout the year. Uncovering the Mystery of the Frenchie! The final component of the Pug and Golden Retriever mix is their personality. Friendly The parent breeds in this combination are both friendly dogs towards humans and other dogs. That makes the Pug and Golden Retriever mix just as friendly. They love to spend time playing with people, and other dogs. Intelligent Another key quality of the Pug and Golden Retriever mix is that they are intelligent dogs. The parent breeds in this equation both contribute solid genes for intelligence, making for a smart canine in the mix. Take advantage of this by training your puppy early. Establish good habits early on to prevent bad ones from coming up later. Loyal The final trait we have for the Pug and Golden Retriever mix is their loyalty. They make for loving companions for life, and offer reliable company to their humans. Post Views: .Most Golden Pug mixes are short-statured, round-bellied animals, owing mostly to their pug genes. They could also have a longer tail and perhaps a longer body like Golden Retrievers. Their physical characteristics are mostly split between the breeds and are most distinguishable in their faces and their bodies. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Meanwhile, in Scotland in the 19th century, breeders were crossing the Irish Setter with Spaniels of various types to create a dog filled with speed and agility, but equally playful nature for fetching ducks from hunts, as well as being a loyal companion. However, the initial breeding for the Golden Retriever is credited to Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, who cross-bred flat-coated retrievers with Tweed Water Spaniels. We can therefore surmise that the cross between the Pug and Golden Retriever is due to a desire to breed a smaller size, lower-energy dog — the desire, perhaps, to create an animal that would be a better fit with families of all types, though as above, the precise history of the crossbreed cannot be ascertained. According to the American Kennel Club, the Golden Retriever frequently ranks among the top five most popular dogs in America. Due to their lovable and friendly nature, the Golden Retriever is widely loved among all people, old or young, single or with families. The history of the Golden Retriever can be traced back to the Scottish Isles and to Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, who needed a dog that would be quick on its feet, lightweight, and agile enough to dart through thick undergrowth and wade into the water to fetch downed ducks — and strong enough to carry them. Fast-forward nearly years and the friendliness and lovable nature of the Retriever have made it the perfect family dog. Its fierce loyalty will make it the perfect protector, though it is not by nature aggressive. They tend to bark at anything that moves, making it a great guard dog for the home. Popular Golden Retriever mixes include:. They are a designer breed that is a cross between two purebreds, which studies suggest makes them healthier than their parent breeds due to increased hybrid vigor. It is useful to look into each of the Pug and Golden Retriever characteristics to give us a good idea on how they will develop. They have a square and stocky bodies with a rounded heads and flat muzzles. Pugs also have that characteristic wrinkly face, especially around their forehead, which gives them unique expressions. The Golden Retriever is one of the most well-loved dog breeds in the world because of their gentle and kind nature. They got their name from their lush, golden coat and their mastery in finding and retrieving game birds. They have a broad head, a straight muzzle, floppy ears, and comely, intelligent eyes. Golden Retrievers are prized for their smartness and have been greatly used to assist people with disabilities and also as therapy animals. Golden Retriever history The history of Golden Retrievers Sir Dudley Marjoribanks started developing the Golden Retriever in the s in Scotland with the goal of creating a gun dog that could withstand the wet climate and rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands. Pug history The history of Pugs Pug history dates back to ancient China where they were kept as companion dogs by the nobility and even the Buddhist monks. They were prized for their flat faces and also their wrinkly forehead which some say resembles the Chinese character for good luck. They were introduced to Europe by Dutch traders during the 16th century and became popular as well with the royalty and the nobility. Queen Victoria of Great Britain famously became an enthusiast of the breed and helped in the establishment of The Kennel Club in .Save Big On Dog Essentials! Do Pugs and Golden Retrievers get along? Yes, Pugs and Golden Retrievers get along pretty well since both are known to be easygoing and friendly. Golden Retrievers, in particular, has a mellow and even-tempered nature which makes them one of the friendliest dog breeds around. Can Pug breed with Golden Retriever? Yes, a Pug can breed with a Golden Retriever. However, this can be difficult to achieve due to the size difference. This is why breeders may resort to in-vitro fertilization wherein the sperm of the male Pug is injected into the female Golden Retriever. Pug and Golden Retriever Mix physical appearance Golden Retriever Mixed with a Pug will have varying physical characteristics since they are not the purebred dog which has a standard look. Typically, Golden Pugs will have a muscular-looking body with a somewhat rounded head and globular eyes similar to the Pug. They also have a slightly longer muzzle compared to the Pug but shorter than that of a Golden Retriever. The ears may have a soft fold that stands out a bit, but it may also lie close to their cheeks. Wrinkling on the brows and around the muzzle may also be evident. Height: inches at the shoulder Weight: lb. Lifespan: 12 years Pug Golden Retriever Mix Personality This mix is a very intelligent, devoted and loyal companion. Both of these dogs are very friendly and loving dogs. There will be a unique offset of the two energy levels. She is calm, intelligent, confident and eager to please. While friendly she is wary of strangers and alert making a good watchdog. She gets along well with everyone and is quite a well mannered dog! She loves to have fun and play too and will need some outdoor space to do this in. She is loving, reliable, brave and warm. Pug Golden Retriever Mix Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Dalmatian mixed with the Pug might be prone to skin problems, allergies, joint dysplasia Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will probably be a more than moderate shedder with the Pug offsetting some of the more aggressive shedding from the Retriever. Get ready to invest in a good vacuum and keep your floors clean anyways. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that should be easy to train. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. The Golden Retriever Pug mix, or Golden Pug, is one such hybrid dog breed that is in development right now. One day this dog may become a new purebred dog breed in its own right. Is the Golden Pug the right next companion canine for you? This speaks to the many different layers of hybrid dog breeding. Early generation hybrid dog breeders F1 and F1b may specialize in crossing two different purebred dog breeds such as the Golden Retriever and the Pug dog. Later-generation hybrid dog breeders F2 and later may focus on crossing hybrid parent dogs to produce ever greater uniformity among puppies. This is when a hybrid dog breed usually starts taking shape as a new potential purebred dog breed in its own right. What makes the video even cuter is how the two dogs are so different in size, height, weight, and appearance and yet they look sort of the same because they both have the same beautiful golden coat! The History of the Golden Retriever and the Pug One of the best ways to learn about the potential benefits of hybrid dog breeding is to study up on each parent dog and learn about desirable traits each dog could contribute to your mixed breed puppy. In this section, we take a closer look at the history of the Golden Retriever dog and then the history of the Pug dog so you can imagine what bringing the two breed lines together might produce in a puppy. Golden Retriever history Currently, the Golden Retriever is the third most popular out of American Kennel Club registered dog breeds purebred dog breed in America today. Only the Labrador and the German Shepherd are more popular than the Golden Retriever, and this is subject to change every year when the new poll results come out. Golden Retrievers are so loving and friendly, it is easy to see why they are a popular pick for families and individuals nationwide. These dogs always seem to be smiling and are always eager for human company and attention. The Golden Retriever breed came to us by way of crossbreeding between the Bloodhound, the Irish Setter and a dog breed that is no longer with us called the Tweed Water Spaniel. Pug history The Pug is the 28th most popular out of American Kennel Club registered dog breeds purebred dog breed in America today. The Pug is one of the most ancient dog breeds known today, with a breed history that dates back at least 2, years. The Pug, with their short, cute, flat faces and wide round eyes, continues to be a popular choice for a companion canine to all ages. Golden Retriever Pug Mix: Personality and Temperament Many families, in particular, are understandably concerned about choosing a family pet that will be a great canine companion to family members of all ages and, potentially, other family pets as well. How does the Golden Retriever Pug mix stack up in this area? As long as your Golden Retriever is getting enough you-time, exercise, and activity each day, you can feel confident you are choosing to share your life with a true canine friend. Golden Retriever Pug personality and temperament From this overview, you can infer that your Golden Pug is going to be reliably friendly and loving. What will your Golden Pug be like in adulthood? As you can see, it can be hard to predict! Golden Retriever size, height, and weight The Golden Retriever can grow up to weigh anywhere from 55 to 75 pounds, with males often weighing 10 to 15 pounds more than females. Similarly, Goldens typically will reach a paw pad to shoulder height of .Golden Retrievers tend to be very proportional, with long muzzles and solid bodies. Pug size, height, and weight Adult Pug dogs are quite a bit smaller than Golden Retrievers as adults. The average Pug dog will weigh 14 to 18 pounds and stand between 10 and 13 inches tall paw pads to shoulders. These dogs tend to be top-heavy, with broad faces, broad shoulders, and narrower hindquarters. Golden Retriever Pug size, height, and weight It can be challenging to predict the adult height, size, and weight of hybrid dog breeds where the two-parent dogs are quite different in these areas. With a weight difference of 14 to 75 pounds and a height difference of 10 to 24 inches, you can expect your Golden Pug puppy to grow up to be somewhere in the middle of these ranges. By choosing to work with a later-stage hybrid breeder who breeds hybrid Golden Pugs rather than purebred Golden Retriever Pug crosses, you can have a better idea from puppyhood how tall and heavy your adult dog will become. If you are not sure what type of breeder to choose, just ask the breeder what generation they work with. If they say F1 or F1b, this means they are working with an earlier generation and there will be more variance in the size, height, and weight of their puppies. However, if the breeder says F2, F2b, or later, this means they a reworking with hybrid crossbreeding and the puppies are more likely to be more consistent in terms of their adult size, height, and weight. However, they can have very different exercise needs, as you will see. Golden Retriever training and exercise needs The Golden Retriever is a true working dog breed with a naturally high energy level. These dogs respond best to positive training and plenty of outdoor play and exercise time. Pug training and exercise needs Pugs, with their short muzzles and breathing troubles, do just fine with indoor play and short walks at cooler times of the day. Golden Retriever Pug training and exercise needs Your Golden Pug may need more or less exercise depending on the influence of each parent dog. Either way, positive training methods will get you the best results with any puppy born from these two smart, sensitive dog breeds. All dog shed. But this in turn means the owner has a lot more brushing and grooming to do to keep tangles and mats from forming. This means you will have less brushing and grooming to do but more dead shed hair to contend with year-round and especially with the changing of the seasons. Golden Retriever shedding, grooming, and coat care Golden Retrievers are true working dogs and have the water-resistant, insulating double-layer coat to prove it. Any dog with a double layer coat is always going to do more shedding year-round and seasonally. This is because the coat needs to replenish itself so it can protect the dog well all year long. Golden Retrievers have a mid-length coat and do need regular brushing to keep the skin healthy and control dead, shed hair. Pug shedding, grooming, and coat care It often surprises Pug fans to learn that Pugs do shed rather a lot given their short, sleek coats. Not all Pugs have double layer coats, but many do. With a double layer, the coat comes more shedding, especially when the seasons are changing. Your dog may be single-coated or double-coated, but either way, there will be some shedding and sweeping year-round. Golden Retriever Pug Mix: Longevity and Health Whenever you bring a companion canine into your life, you just want your dog to live as long as possible and be as healthy as possible. Unfortunately, far too many purebred dog breeds today have known genetic heritable health issues that have arisen because of too-close breeding to appearance standards for the show ring. This is where hybrid dog breeding does both purebred dog lines and owners a favor. Along with greater genetic diversity comes the renewed possibility of greater longevity and overall health. Golden Retriever longevity and health The Golden Retriever has a typical life span of 10 to 12 years. According to the Canine Health Information Center CHIC database, the Golden Retriever has the following known genetic heritable health issues that parent dogs could potentially pass along to puppies: Eye and cardiac issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia. While at first glance it may seem like Golden Retrievers do not have any particularly worrisome health issues, this is not entirely accurate. Goldens have some of the highest incidences of canine cancer — particularly hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma, in purebred canines today. The Morris Animal Foundation has undertaken to spearhead a Lifetime Study of cancer in Goldens in hopes of reducing the severity and the frequency of cancer in this beloved dog breed. Pug longevity and health The Pug has a typical life span of 13 to 15 years. According to the Canine Health Information Center CHIC database, the Pug dog has the following known genetic heritable health issues that parent dogs could potentially pass along to puppies: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Serum bile acid test tests for defective liver function. Pug dog encephalitis necrotizing meningoencephalitis. Pyruvate kinase deficiency PKD, or canine anemia. Eye issues. Many of these issues now have genetic screening tests that can help breeders sidestep passing on known genetic issues to puppies. But there is one health condition that is encoded into the breed standard itself and that is the short muzzle type the Pug is known for. The shortened or brachycephalic muzzle shape that gives the pug such a cute facial expression is also the source of chronic respiratory and sometimes gastric distress. With a shortened face comes a smaller skull, a crowded jaw and shortened, flattened nostrils and respiratory passages. Pugs can be very susceptible to some degree of BOAS, or Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, which causes several breathing, overheating, eating, and sleeping issues. The standard practice is to wait until the dog is at least one year old before doing diagnostic testing. However, one perk of hybrid dog breeding programs is that when you cross a short muzzle dog breed like the Pug with a long muzzle dog breed like the Golden Retriever, there is less likelihood that your puppy will inherit any of the more severe BOAS symptoms. By crossbreeding the two purebred dog breeds together, this reduces the risk of both serious health issues in your puppy. The overall span with a Golden Retriever Pug mix is 10 to 15 years. Perhaps you have a Golden Retriever Pug dog mix in your future!

TOP "We love Luna and she's been great!!! She has definitely gotten comfortable and driving our other dogs crazy, LOL! We adore her! She has the greatest temperament!!! She's perfect! We cannot thank you enough! Just wanted to send a few pictures of Macky! He's growing like a weed! We joke that all he knows how to do is eat and snuggle. Obsessed with him! He is an exceptional puppy with a sweetness and sensibility that everyone comments on who meets him. We couldn't be happier with this sweet boy. He was the missing piece to our home. We are considering getting another puppy from you. Whatever you are doing, as breeders, is 'kosher' as far as we are concerned, and I trust you and your opinions. Again, I cannot say thank you enough for our wonderful Royal, and all the work you did in his first weeks, to encourage him to be the best he could be. I want to thank your children for their input also. He practically gets hypnotized when we roll him onto his back and rub him all over his belly, paws, and tail, and he absolutely loves when little kids come over to play. You can tell he had a very good experience with your kids, and passes that love on to other kids. Thanks again, Katie! A huge lover and snuggler. We can't get enough of how sweet she is! She is doing so well! She just graduated from the beginner's obedience training this past week! Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Golden Shepherd Highlights Golden Shepherds are mixed breed dogs. The main colors of Golden Shepherds are black, tan, red, cream, and blue. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. They shed quite a bit. The Golden Shepherd not only loves kids, they enjoy the commotion they bring with them. Though, as with all dogs, playtime with kids should always be supervised. Golden Shepherds have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Hiking and other adventurous activities are strongly recommended. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Golden Shepherds as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Golden Shepherds got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Golden Shepherd rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Golden Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever parents, you can expect the Golden Shepherd to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Golden Shepherd Personality Golden Shepherds make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Golden Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Golden Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. Golden Shepherds like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Golden Shepherds are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Golden Shepherd Feeding An ideal Golden Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. As with all dogs, the Golden Shepherd dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Golden Shepherd diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors with their family. Like all dogs, however, Golden Shepherds need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Golden Shepherd Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Golden Shepherds because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Golden Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This hybrid breed, sometimes referred to as a golden German shepherd, is utterly adorable, incredibly smart, very loyal to his family members , and, above all else, supremely lovable. Golden shepherds make great pets for families that have plenty of time and energy to dedicate to daily exercise and affection. Appearance Golden shepherds, like other hybrid breeds, get their traits from both parent breeds. Half German shepherd, half golden retriever, they may closely resemble one parent or the other, or they may look like some combination of the two—it all depends. Golden retrievers typically stand 21—25 inches tall and weigh 55—75 pounds. As this breed's name suggests, their fur color falls somewhere along the yellow spectrum—from creamy white to dark golden. They have feathery tails that are almost always wagging happily. German shepherds tend to be about the same size as golden retrievers, weighing between 50—90 pounds and standing 22—26 inches tall. These regal-looking canines are typically black and tan but they can also have black, black with red, sable, or white fur, too. Similarly, golden shepherds may have the floppy, folded-over ears of a golden retriever or the alert, upright ears of a German shepherd. No matter which parent your golden shepherd puppy looks like, he's basically guaranteed to be cute. A full-grown golden shepherd will likely be a medium- to large-sized dog , so consider how much space you have before bringing one home. Temperament For lovers of German shepherds and golden retrievers, golden shepherd dogs are the perfect happy medium. These good-natured pups get the brains of a German shepherd, the happy-go-lucky attitude of a golden retriever, and the family-friendliness of both parent breeds. Golden retrievers are cheerful, fun-loving dogs with delightful personalities—there's a reason they're so popular, particularly among families with kids. They love to romp and play, but they're equally as happy snuggling up on the couch for movie night. Golden retrievers absolutely adore getting attention from their human owners—pets, scratches, praise, and cuddles are their favorite—so they're all-around top-notch companions who would gladly follow you anywhere. They are friendly with new people and almost always steal the spotlight at parties. They love going for walks and learning new cues and tricks , so some daily blend of physical and mental stimulation is important for keeping a German shepherd happy. They love their human family members deeply and are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because they like to be in the same room with their people at all times. They'll readily alert you to a delivery at the door, too. As a German shepherd and golden retriever mix, golden shepherds will likely have varying personalities that incorporate attributes from their parents, according to Nicole Ellis , CPDT-KA, pet lifestyle expert with Rover. This makes them ideal for families that spend a lot of time at home or young professionals with remote jobs. Puzzle toys and feeders can help keep your golden shepherd engaged, too. Care Grooming a golden shepherd is relatively low-maintenance, though be forewarned: Your dog will likely shed a fair amount golden retrievers and German shepherds both shed heavily in the spring and fall and moderately year-round. To keep your golden shepherd looking his most handsome, brush his coat at least once a week and bathe him with shampoo formulated specially for dogs as necessary. Regular brushing can also help keep the shedding in check, to a degree, but you may also want to invest in a good vacuum cleaner , too. Courtesy of bella. Also, brush your golden shepherd's teeth nightly or at least as often as you can manage! Set a reminder to clean your golden shepherd's ears regularly , too. Though your golden shepherd may naturally be a very social dog, thanks to his golden retriever lineage, it's still important to socialize him from a young age. This way, he'll be comfortable around new sights, smells, sounds, people, and other dogs. Puppy kindergarten training classes can help your golden shepherd puppy learn new cues while also interacting with other pooches of all shapes and sizes as well as their owners. As you search for a training facility or begin to prepare your own training plans , keep in mind that golden shepherds respond best to positive reinforcement that involves a reward, such as high-value treats , petting, and effusive praise, Ellis says. Health A golden shepherd's health and expected lifespan depend greatly on the health of his two parents. German shepherds, which typically live 7—10 years, can be susceptible to certain genetic diseases and conditions, including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia , epilepsy , bleeding disorders, eye conditions , degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma , and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Golden retrievers tend to live slightly longer with average lifespans between 10—12 years. Like German shepherds, golden retrievers may also experience elbow and hip dysplasia and eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Golden retrievers are also susceptible to allergies and hypothyroidism. The good news is that hybrid breeds tend to have fewer medical problems than purebred dogs, she says, though you should still be aware of these common concerns. History As with other hybrid breeds, the exact history of the golden shepherd is unknown. We do know that golden retrievers were developed in the mid-to-late s in the Scottish Highlands by Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, who wanted to develop a skilled hunting dog who could tackle the region's rugged terrain. German shepherds hail from Germany, where they were developed in the late s by a German cavalry officer named Capt. Max von Stephanitz. These intuitive dogs learn quickly, which is why they're such a popular choice for police work, search and rescue missions, and other important jobs. Today, golden shepherds are primarily companion animals and pets. There aren't many golden shepherd breeders in the U. But check with local animal shelters and rescue groups regularly, as they may have a mixed-breed dog with some German shepherd and golden retriever in his DNA or dogs with similar characteristics to these two pups! Fun Facts If you're training for a marathon or planning a big summit, a golden shepherd will gladly accompany you on your training runs and hikes. These pups are very sporty and have a lot of endurance not to mention that they'd get to spend time with you, their favorite person! Large breeds like golden retrievers and Germans shepherds can become overweight if left to their own devices. Keep an eye on your dog's weight and talk with a veterinarian about the best way to keep him fit and healthy. Golden shepherds are good contenders for dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and more. They love a good session of fetch in the backyard, too. Was this page helpful? The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. This is done in order for German shepherd owners who are looking to have their German Shepherd Dog as part of their family, but are unable or unwilling to have the German Shepherds that are required for Police work. This combination has many positive points, one of which being the qualities both breeds share. For example, both German shepherds and golden retrievers make great guard dogs. They are protective by nature and will protect you if they sense danger. If this sounds like your type of canine companion then read on to learn more about how you can find golden retriever cross German shepherd puppies for sale, German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix puppy for adoption and German shepherd Golden retriever mix dog breeders. Parent Dogs: The German Shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs with a strong desire to work, which makes them great candidates for police or working-dog duties. They were originally bred in the German state of Bavaria during the 19th century to herd sheep, guard property and act as an all-purpose farm dog. German shepherds are extremely loyal and protective of their owners; you could even say they sometimes overreact about protecting you if they sense danger. This loyalty has also turned German shepherds into popular family pets today. Golden retrievers on the other hand were developed by hunters in Scotland during the 19th century as a gundog. Golden retrievers were bred to be an obedient and loyal dog, which meant they made great companions for hunters who needed a dog that could fetch lost game and return it without damaging the meat! While German shepherds make great guard dogs and golden retrievers make great hunting and retrieval dogs, German shepherd and Golden Retriever cross breeds or German Shepherd Golden retriever mix can bring together the best qualities of both breeds — obedience, loyalty, friendliness — into one pup! If not provided with enough exercises German shepherds can become destructive and hard to handle. German shepherds are a large breed so they require a significant amount of daily exercise, but Golden retrievers have been developed as family dogs throughout the years and have retained their desire to please people which also makes them great candidates as working dogs. This breed was originally bred in Germany by crossing German Shepherds with Golden Retrievers because the dogs were used to work on police and military duty. They were later exported to America in the s but this did not stop them from becoming popular across the world. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is a wonderful type of dog to have. If you live in a temperate climate, this type of German shepherd mix is the perfect size for roaming around your yard and playing fetch. Golden Shepherds can be quite energetic, but they are very smart dogs. They are sweet and will make wonderful companions. They are active, trainable, obedient and intelligent; they often make perfect military or police working dogs. They will even be good with children if the owner trains them early enough between months old. This breed is popular because it can fit into many types of households without any problems. They only sleep about 10 hours every day and will fit right into your lifestyle. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mixes are usually very protective of their owners and will fiercely protect both children and the home front from strangers. They can be trained as police dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs or as pets. Physical Appearance Golden Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with long golden fur. You might find that the Golden Shepherd has the same appearance as other dogs, but because its hair can be difficult to maintain, it should not grow too long because you will notice the difference in the physical appearance immediately. German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is one of the most popular family pets around the world, along with Labrador retriever family pet parents. The Golden Shepherd has a nice square face that covers its nose and jaws. Its ears are small and medium in size, listening to the instructions given by caregivers closely. Golden Shepherds have a long neck with good length. When seen from above, the head of the ear is slightly pointed down towards his eyes. This shape looks like an inverted triangle when viewed from above. Their hair can be short or long depending on your preference as their caregiver. Some people say it will look better if their hair is longer because they give them an elegant look. Basically, they are one of the best family pets, caring, loving, and loyal. They are highly intelligent too which makes them always fun to play with kids or other pets in the house. Temperament of a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix can be easily trained as both breeds are easy to train breeds. These dogs are good-looking, friendly with children, make them the perfect choice for your family. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix has a high activity level so sometimes these dogs need extra physical activities to keep them free from boredom. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix can be easily trained as both breeds are easy to train breeds. They are active, friendly and love both children and other dogs! A quick note about their care requirements- these pups require someone who will be with them all day due to separation anxiety which you can take steps towards solving by creating an environment that does not make the animal feel alone or suddenly abandoned when left at home for long periods such as taking them out regularly. This individual needs regular exercise such as running around with friends after work; this helps release endorphins making it more likely one would stay healthy. However, like any other dog, they can become ill and it is important that you do everything possible to ensure your pet remains healthy and happy for as long as possible. Common Health Issues Of German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix No breed is perfect and the popularity of a certain breed only means that there will be more dogs with problems. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is one of the most popular dog breeds in the US, with over 30 years ranking first among all breeds registered with the American Kennel Club. The most common problem in German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is hip dysplasia, which can cause lameness and arthritis later on. If possible, buy from a good breeder who has tested their animals for hip problems. You can also have your own dog tested when it is old enough. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is generally a healthy breed, but there are some conditions from either side of the family that may develop. Some of these include: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV — formally known as bloat — where the stomach becomes extremely enlarged and twisted, this is fatal if not treated immediately; owners should know the symptoms and be prepared for an emergency situation or know what signs indicate this condition so they can seek medical attention at once if their pet exhibits them. The causes for this life-threatening problem are still unknown but it mostly affects deep-chested dogs like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix. Hip Dysplasia — dogs with this condition will walk with a peculiar gait that is noticeable once you know what to look for; they often have difficulty rising from sitting positions and seem uncoordinated. There are many possible causes but if your dog suffers from hip dysplasia it can significantly reduce his quality of life by causing him pain and discomfort, it may also shorten his lifespan. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD — this sounds very complicated but all it really means is that the articularilage of the joints does not fully cover the ends of the bones; it is more common in large breed dogs like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix. You should brush your pet daily so you can find out if the problem lies with his diet because there may be no need to wash him more often than usual. Best Diet For German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix The German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is a large to giant dog with an average weight of 65 pounds and 20 inches in height, but the designer dogs are known for their flexibility in terms of size. So, what kind of diet does your pooch require? Well, there are some things you should know about his age, breed, and health condition if any… which will help you decide how many calories he needs on a daily basis. Golden Shepherds are known to be more active than the average family pet. A Golden Shepherd loves to exercise- more or less- depending on its energy level. Also, keep in mind that she will need more calories as she grows older. Sometimes these foods can harm your pet. Adult German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix should be fed 3 times a day. However, if he eats very slowly, you might consider adding 1 or 2 extra meals because the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix has a tendency for over-eating which can lead to obesity very quickly. Obesity is harmful to any dog breed and can decrease its lifespan drastically even by 5 years. In fact, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix has a double coat which means he will blow his undercoat once or twice per year and lose huge amounts of hair in the process. This makes him a poor choice for those who suffer from allergies as it can be difficult to control dander and loose hair around your home. However, these dogs do tend to require less grooming than many other breeds as their coats are not as long as those on certain other working breeds like the German shepherd. Brush them only occasionally with a firm bristle brush; if you brush too often you may cause their coats to become matted. They are likely to be shy when they are young but with the right training, owners can help them become more confident in new situations. These animals will benefit from early socialization with lots of different people, dogs, children, cats, strange noises etc. Make sure you start this process as soon as possible after bringing your dog home. Exercise Needs Any dog, particularly a working breed like the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, enjoys a daily exercise in the form of walks or interactive play with its owner. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix will need at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise every day with his family. This dog needs time to run off-leash in a securely fenced area where he can explore new territory and work his muscles. Owners should never let their pets roam around unsupervised even if they are believed to have a good recall off-leash. It is also advisable that you take the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix for a long walk or hike each day to satisfy his need for exercise and additional stimulation from the environment around him. This dog will make a wonderful hiking companion as he loves being outside with his family, particularly on sunny days when he can frolic in the snow or swim in a lake. But owners should always remember to bring water along as some dogs may become dangerously overheated after an excessive amount of physical activity. Working on training new obedience commands or tricks is the perfect way to keep your pet busy while satisfying his primal instincts. First of all, know that there is no one perfect method to train every dog in the world. Each dog has its own temperament and personality, it responds better to some methods rather than others. The instruction manual for dogs does not exist because each dog is unique. Therefore, when working with your German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, you have to remember that even if I give you a bunch of tips here, they may or may not work for your dog. You will need to play around with the methods and see what works best for your new four-legged friend. Second, you must understand that although Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are both known as intelligent breeds, they come from different worlds. The Golden Retriever is an English breed and was bred to retrieve birds this explains their willingness to please and obedience , while the German Shepherd comes from Germany and was originally used by shepherds hence his protective instincts. Therefore, due to their origin and original task, these 2 dogs behave in completely opposite ways. For example, retrievers such as Golden Retrievers are used for hunting for birds in the sky, so they love taking things away and playing with them. Shepherds, on the other hand, were originally working dogs who needed to be aware of their surroundings at all times. This is why you should do as much as you can to train your German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix during his first 6 weeks of life or even earlier. His behavior will form during this period and anything that is not learned by then will become more difficult to teach later. On the other hand, if he learns something now it will be harder for him to unlearn it! Even though puppies are born with their eyes closed, they can still see just like cats and they start learning everything about their environment right away. Use this time wisely… Give him some space but make sure he knows where home is! This way he will learn how to find you when you call him or otherwise he may go looking for you when. You cannot imagine how often I see dogs who are lost because they followed a car or bike and never came back! Teach your puppy to walk on a leash as soon as possible, this will come in handy when you take him for a walk. This way he will learn how to behave around other dogs and people. This is because they are intelligent and have a lot of strength. The hybrid is also very easy to train because they use positive reinforcement training. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an ideal pet for people who do not want messy fur, drool or shedding because this hybrid does not suffer from any of these issues. They are also great with kids, other pets and strangers because they are naturally protective but will get along with anyone. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an extremely smart dog that would be great for active people. This is also the perfect breed if you live in a cold climate or if you want a dog that can work in the police or military. They are strong, loyal and easy to train. These dogs are beautiful, strong and intelligent which makes them very easy to train. They use positive reinforcement training methods that most people find effective. The German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is an extremely smart dog that would be perfect for active people who enjoy working out because this hybrid combines the best features of both their parents. One of the main pros of this breed is that they have incredible leadership skills so they are trusted by police officers on duty in some parts of the world. Cons Of Having German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix Training and Socialization is a must with this breed, if not done correctly they can become aggressive towards people or other dogs, they are very protective of their family which can make them aggressive towards friends, strangers etc. They require a lot of exercise in order to burn off the excess energy they have. They are very intelligent dogs and can be stubborn at times which makes training them more difficult, if not done correctly it could lead to aggression towards other animals or people. They require a lot of attention and most likely will not be good for you and your family if you are gone often, they do not like to spend time alone. They can also become bossy or pushy which can lead to aggression unless the owner is able to control the dog. Another con is that they shed a lot although it is not as much as a German Shepherd, if you are looking for a low shedding breed this might not be the best match. If done correctly they can become the best dogs to own but if not they can become quite destructive or even dangerous towards strangers or other animals. Keep in mind that every dog is different so what applies to one may not apply to another. Take everything you hear about breeds with caution because there are always exceptions out there. For example, you can save money on spaying or neutering fees, and your pet will already be housebroken when it gets home. Additionally, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is known for being highly intelligent dogs who tend to get along well with children. It takes work, study, knowledge about genetics, and much more to produce healthy, happy dogs when crossbreeding. Unfortunately, not everyone who does their research ends up with a healthy pup. They may get a pet worthy of a loving home or a stud for a breeding program but they may also get an unhealthy hybrid whose life can be cut short by genetic problems. No one wants that. As one of the most popular hybrids, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix is recognized as a hybrid of the world famous German shepherd and Golden retriever. This dog is usually referred to as a breed that has many talents. By studying more about this dog you will quickly realize that this is not only an intelligent but very loyal family pet with a good temperament. The father is always a German Shepherd and the mother can be either a purebred Golden retriever or another crossbreed such as Irish Setter, Labrador retriever, Siberian Husky, Labrador retriever, or any other breed with similar characteristics. This is a very popular dog breed that gained instant fame among celebrities, professional athletes, and ordinary people alike. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? 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. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. Before adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy, many owners go to great lengths to deduce the optimal food for their pup. From raw feed to canned food from a local pet store, there are plenty of dog food options for owners to consider, but which is the best dog food? Whether you feed your puppy a raw food diet or commercial dog foods, there are lots of ways for your pup to consume a balanced diet. There are plenty of sources that will describe the benefits of one diet over another, but remember that no one knows your puppy better than you. The decision to feed your dog a diet that you think is best is yours to make. There really is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting a food for your puppy. Your pooch will likely enjoy eating wet food just as much as they enjoy commercial dog food. So long as you feed your pup an adequate amount of food, they are likely to live a long and healthy life. If you would like specific advice about feeding your individual puppy, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian or other dog food expert. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be alarming if your dog does not touch its puppy food during the first few days at home. Is this cause for concern? Noticing that your precious pup is not eating can be a frightening realization. Prior to being welcomed to its forever home, your Lab puppy was accustomed to living with its mother and siblings. Therefore, being uprooted from this life can initially be a startling experience for a dog. Fortunately, puppies should develop an appetite within a day or two of entering their forever home-they just need a short time to adjust to their new life. If, after a few days, your puppy is still not eating their dog food, it may be a wise idea to have your puppy evaluated by a vet. Feeding A Two-Month-Old Labrador Retriever Two months old is about the earliest point at which a Labrador puppy can be brought home by their new family. When a Labrador puppy begins to eat solid food, it will not be eating a ton of food. So, owners can start their Lab puppy off with somewhere around 0. As your puppy grows older and gets bigger, owners should look to increase the amount of food for their Labrador pup. By the time a puppy is nearing three months old, it should be eating well over 1 cup of food every day. Some puppies may be consuming close to two cups of dog food at this time. This increase in size means that their appetite has also surely grown since bringing them home. By the time a Labrador puppy is around 3 months old, it should be eating close to 1. Large three-month-old Labrador puppies can be away a substantial amount of food as they are near four months old. Some puppies will be able to consume around 3 cups of food daily at this point in their lives, but most will be eating closer to 2 cups of dog food every day. If your pup seems hungry and looks to be a healthy weight, there is no need for owners to be concerned about how much food their three-month-old Lab is consuming. Your precious pooch will start to look more like an adult with each passing day. Therefore, it is essential to feed your dog enough food to promote the weight gain that makes dogs thrive. Four-month-old Labrador Retrievers should be given at least two cups of food daily. The biggest, most ravenous Labs will eat close to 3. However, only dogs on the large end of the puppy spectrum will need to eat this much at this time. Average four to five-month-old Labs should eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food daily. Labrador Retriever teenagers are characterized by disproportionate body parts, distracted behavior, and dispositions that range from silly to ornery. Therefore, getting enough food to support such development is imperative. A six-month-old Labrador will surely be able to eat at least 2. This will ensure proper growth for your pooch. As your puppy reaches the point in which it is 7 to 8 months old, continue to increase the amount of food that your puppy receives. Labrador Retriever puppies that are close to 9 months old can eat more than 4 cups of food daily. However, your furry friend is more likely to consume 2. Instead, your pup is likely nearing its adult size. So, how much food should ten to twelve-month-old Labs be eating? Puppies that consume quantities of food on the low end of the spectrum should be consuming at least 3 cups of food every day during this time. On the other hand, large Lab pups that are between 10 to 12 months old could be eating 4. If your puppy is on the brink of adulthood, it would be wise to consider weaning it off of its puppy food in favor of adult dog food. All Lab puppies should be offered adult dog food when they reach maturity, as such food replaces nutrients that are essential for puppies with ingredients that benefit adults. Whereas puppies should eat food that increases their body weight, adult Labs should eat food that maintains their weight. So, if you think it may be time to switch your Labrador Retriever to an adult dog food diet, consult with your vet and find a food that is best for your adult Lab. Of course, the mature size of your pooch will dictate how much food it can and should be consuming every day. Generally, it is advisable to feed an adult Labrador anywhere from 3 to just over 4 cups of food every day. Gauge the weight and appetite of your pet to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend. Though the above recommendation will be perfect for most adult Labs, there are some instances in which mature Labradors will require more adult food. Pregnant Or Lactating Labs A Labrador who is pregnant or lactating will require substantial amounts of food to nourish herself and her litter of pups. Therefore, owners should be prepared to offer vast quantities of food to their Labrador mothers. While a typical adult Labrador will consume 3 to 4 cups of food every day, Labrador mothers should be offered around 6 cups of food at least to keep up with their enormous energy requirements. If your mother Labrador snarfs this food down and still seems hungry afterward, be prepared to offer her additional food. Especially Active Labs If your Labrador is an athletic specimen, it may need to consume more than a typical adult Lab to fuel the exercise regime that such a dog is accustomed to. Dogs that receive more than one hour of daily exercise could be considered especially active dogs. Owners can begin by offering these pooches 4. If they still seem hungry, owners can increase the amount of food given to these dogs. Once a dog reaches the golden years of its life, it is once again time to switch up its diet. Senior dogs should consume food that caters to the needs of their aging bodies. These pooches can get away with eating a low-protein diet whereas such food would not be appropriate for puppies or adults. Given that senior dogs are usually not especially active dogs, they do not require as much food compared to adult and large puppies. Therefore, supplying a senior Lab with anywhere from 2 to just over 3 cups of food daily should be plenty for your pooch. Now that you know how much to feed your Labrador, you are likely curious about the number of times that your dog should be fed every day. Some may be looking for a quick answer about how often to feed a Labrador every day, but the truth is nuanced. When it comes to feeding your Lab, it turns out that Labs of different ages should be fed different amounts of food every day. Read on to discover the perfect number of meals for your Lab. An infant Labrador Retriever should have its daily food allotment broken up into at least 4 meals every day. This will help supply these petite pups with the energy that they need to get through the day. Lab puppies that are four to twelve months old do not require as many meals as their younger counterparts. However, these dogs should still receive three meals per day to support their rapid metabolism. Feeding one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening is optimal. Adult Labs do not need to eat as many meals are puppies due to their slower metabolisms. Supplying an adult Labrador Retriever with two meals every day would be perfect for these dogs. Ideally, adult dogs will be fed one meal in the morning and one in the evening. When your furry friend reaches the point in their life where they are considered to be a senior dog, your pooch will have the slowest metabolism in their life. The slow metabolism for senior Labs means that these dogs do not need to eat as frequently as they did when they were younger. In fact, senior Labrador Retrievers can get by with eating a single meal every day. One to two meals per day is ideal for a senior Labrador Retriever. Owners can see if their senior Lab prefers one or two meals each day by allowing them to try each option. Is this because these dogs are prone to obesity or simply because there are so many Labs out and about? It turns out that Labrador Retrievers are more prone to obesity than many other dog breeds. Labs have evolved to be very active dogs. If owners fail to provide their dogs with proper exercise and feed their furry friends excessive amounts of food, there is a good chance that owners will end up with overweight dogs. Why Is My Labrador Overweight? If you are someone who owns an overweight Labrador, you are not alone. Overweight Labs are still lovable pooches, but they could stand to lose some pounds for their own good. Obviously, feeding your dog less food is likely to be one of the keys to helping your canine companion to lose weight. However, you may be wondering what else you can do to help your Labrador lose weight. Well, if you do not frequently exercise your dog, then this is a good place to start. Try feeding your dog its typical amount of food but increasing its exercise to see if it starts to lose weight. For those that are still struggling to get your pooch to lose weight, be sure to cut out table scraps and dog treats from the diet of your dog. Moreover, be sure that you are not free feeding your Labrador Retriever. Free feeding is acceptable for puppies when they are infants, but Labradors that are any other age should not be free fed, for this can also result in a chunky pooch. If you fear that your dog is consuming its food too quickly, there are plenty of feeding methods to help your pooch slow down. Obesity in dogs is a serious issue. We briefly touched on this subject when discussing the best foods for Lab puppies, and the same advice will apply here. Some owners feed raw to their Labs, while others may feed kibble. Does this mean that those who practice raw feeding are likely to own healthier dogs compared to those feeding kibble to their dogs? Of course not! High-quality dog food may take many different forms. A raw diet could provide your dog with all of the nutrients that it needs, but it is not inherently better for your dog than dry food or homemade food. Ultimately, owners know their Lab better than anyone else, so they should have the final say regarding what to feed their dog. Deciding what to feed your Labrador can be an overwhelming prospect. Consult A Veterinarian Inquiring with a trusted veterinarian about the diet of your Labrador Retriever will help an owner determine the optimal food intake for their precious pooch. They may also recommend certain dog foods that can be purchased to feed a Labrador. A feeding chart will provide information related to how much food to provide a Lab based on its age. A feeding guide may even break down how much food to feed a Labrador based on its weight. There are plenty of Labrador Puppy feeding chart options and feeding guides for adults. Finding a feeding chart that was created by a trusted source like the American Kennel Club can help you make an informed decision about how much to feed your furry friend. Ultimately, a feeding guide is a good place to turn if you find yourself in need of a quick answer about the topic of how much to feed your Lab. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Less - The German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs , well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the German Shepherd Dog is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. The head is in proportion to the size of the body, strong without appearing coarse or fine. Gender differences are readily apparent. The German Shepherd Dog is confident and fearless, willing to be approached, yet a certain level of aloofness towards strangers is acceptable. When working, the German Shepherd is alert and eager, adapting well to new tasks. Lack of confidence is a serious defect in the character of a German Shepherd. The structure of this breed was designed for efficient locomotion, particularly at the trot, so poor movement is another serious fault. History Less - The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively young breed, developed almost single-handedly in the first half of the twentieth century by a German cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz, president of the Verein far Deutsche Schaferhunde S. Using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock, von Stephanitz developed a distinctive breed in a very short period of time, due in large part to the authoritarian practices of the German dog fancy at that time. Von Stephanitz emphasized utility and intelligence in his breeding program, enabling the German Shepherd Dog to switch easily from herding duties to other fields of work, particularly military and police work. All things German were shunned and popularity slumped. After the war, however, movie star Rin-tin-tin stimulated interest in the breed again. The striking good looks of this breed, combined with its remarkable intelligence and loyalty, have made it a favorite working and companion dog. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You have a new Labrador retriever puppy. There are various theories regarding when—and if—he should be neutered. Most have been fixed, but many have not. Labs are such friendly, intelligent, energetic dogs. The technical term is gonadectomy, which is the surgical removal of the testes in males or ovaries in females. Neutering is considered to be a simpler, less-invasive surgery than spaying. But both are safe if performed by an experienced, licensed veterinarian. Traditionally, people have had their puppies fixed for various reasons, some of which are behavioral or medical. Some physical problems have been found in larger numbers in neutered and spayed Labrador retrievers than in intact Labs. And numerous behavioral problems have been found to increase in the neutered and spayed population as compared to their intact counterparts. Researchers have discovered that even amongst similar breeds and sizes of dogs, there are very different medical outcomes for some breeds when they are spayed or neutered. Researchers Benjamin and Lynette Hart of the University of California, Davis, examined 35 dog breeds and found that vulnerability to certain diseases varies greatly depending upon breed. Their study was set forth in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. They learned that there is no one-size-fits-all decision regarding the medical effects of spaying and neutering on various breeds. And their data showed very specific findings with regard to the 35 breeds studied, including Labrador retrievers. In their study of Labrador retrievers, there were intact males, neutered males, intact females, and spayed females. This equals 1, Labs in total. Joint Disorders in Labrador Retrievers A significant increase was found regarding joint disorders in fixed dogs than occurred in intact ones. One or more joint disorders were reported in six percent of intact male and female Labrador retrievers. However, the risk of joint disorders increased by about percent in desexed Labs. In male Labs neutered before six months old, 13 percent were found to suffer from joint disorders. In female Labradors spayed before six months old and between six and 12 months old, the risk of joint disorders was found to be between 11 and 12 percent. Cancers in Labrador Retrievers As far as cancers were concerned, there was a six percent risk for intact males and an eight percent risk for intact females. Neutering was not associated with any evident increased risk of cancer at any age studied. However, Mast Cell tumors were found in one percent of intact females and two percent of females who were spayed between two and eight years of age. Other Physical Concerns in Labrador Retrievers Two percent of intact female Labs were found to have pyometra as compared to none in their spayed counterparts. Urinary incontinence was reported in two to three percent of females who were spayed through one year old. Conclusions Regarding Age To Spay or Neuter for Medical Reasons The Harts concluded that the guidelines suggested that males should be neutered if at all after they are six months old because of the much higher rate of problems suffered by male Labrador retrievers fixed before that age. They found that the guidelines suggest spaying female Labs if at all after one year old because of the increase of joint disorders when spayed prior to 11 months old. Current Behavioral Theories on Neutering and Spaying Dogs There have been long-held beliefs that spaying and neutering help prevent or end certain undesirable behaviors such as those in the bulleted list above. But many of those anecdotal thoughts have been disproven by current scientific studies. This standardized behavioral evaluation test was developed and validated by Yuying and James Serpell in at the University of Pennsylvania. Since , the public has been able to access the study and fill in numerical scores for 14 different categories of dog behavior. The current database contains detailed behavioral evaluations for about 50, pet dogs consisting of more than different breeds and cross breeds. With regard to many of the behavioral studies, generally the earlier that a dog was fixed, the more negative effects were seen regarding behavior. In the studies, female dogs who were spayed later in life were less likely to show an increase in aggression than females spayed at a young age. And neutered male dogs were found to be more likely to be aggressive toward intact males than other intact males were. So how are all behaviors affected by neutering or spaying? Preventing a Male Dog from Roaming and Seeking out a Female Dog in Heat Current studies confirm that neutered males are less likely than their intact counterparts to roam and seek female dogs in heat. Having a calmer puppy Modern studies show that fixed dogs are about eight percent more excitable than intact ones. A significant increase in fear and anxiety was seen in neutered dogs regardless of the age of neutering. Stopping or Preventing Urine Marking The studies showed that neutered dogs are less likely to leave urine marks indoors. Stopping or Preventing Excessive Barking More anxious and fearful behaviors as well as more excitability were seen in desexed male and female dogs. And excessive barking when alarmed or excited was seen more often in neutered dogs. However, neutered dogs were found to be less likely to howl when left alone. Stopping or Preventing Aggression This was one of the most surprising results in the studies. Contrary to popular belief, more aggressive behaviors were seen in fixed dogs than in intact ones. Specifically, neutered dogs were more likely show an increase in certain aggressive behaviors when: Delivery workers approached the home Strangers walked past their home Joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers passed by They were approached directly by an unfamiliar female dog An unfamiliar person approached the owner or another family member or even just visited the home Small animals such as cats or squirrels entered the yard The significantly higher aggression score seen in neutered males as compared to intact dogs was seen regardless of the age that the dogs were neutered. In spayed females, there was a significant increase in aggression scores when they were spayed at 12 months old or earlier as compared with their intact counterparts. Fear-Related Behaviors Neutered dogs demonstrated more fear-related behaviors than their intact counterparts. The younger the dog was neutered, the more severe the fear-related effects were. In fact, a 31 percent increase in fearfulness was seen in spayed females and neutered males. These included : Responses to loud noises When they are first exposed to unfamiliar situations When approached directly by an unfamiliar child When barked at or growled at by an unfamiliar dog When approached by an unfamiliar dog who is of similar size or larger When encountering strange or unfamiliar objects on or near the sidewalk When encountering windblown objects When being examined by a veterinarian When having nails clipped 7. The Trainability of the Puppy Whereas it has been believed that a desexed puppy is more trainable, current research has demonstrated that this is not the case. In fact, the evidence showed that spayed and neutered dogs are less trainable and less responsive to cues overall. The only positive behavior noted with regard to obedience was that desexed dogs were more likely to return to their owners when off-leash and more likely to reliably retrieve tossed items. Separation and Attention-Seeking Behavior Neutered and spayed dogs were found to have more separation-related behaviors. And they also had more attachment and attention-seeking behavior than their intact counterparts. Touch Sensitivity A 33 percent increase in touch sensitivity was seen in spayed and neutered dogs. This can potentially affect how receptive a dog is to grooming. Other Behavioral Problems Seen in Neutered Dogs Additional unwanted behaviors were also seen more often in neutered dogs than in intact ones. Or to deal with a female dog in heat. Or to find homes for a litter of puppies. In the s, the animal overpopulation problem led to the regular spaying and neutering of puppies, often around six months of age. Over time, many shelters and rescue groups performed surgeries to fix dogs at an even earlier age, such as eight weeks old. Female dogs go into heat approximately every six months for about 18 days each time. Personally, all of my dogs have been spayed or neutered. The rescues came to me fixed, and I chose to desex the others. One of my dogs was a Belgian tervuren named Jenny who I purchased from a breeder. It was many years ago, and I wanted to show a dog in conformation competition. The theory is that the best representatives of each breed should continue to reproduce to protect its heritage. Even though my male dogs were fixed, they all were attracted to her when she was in heat. So I had to carefully monitor all of them and manage the situation so that there were no disputes. And she wore a doggy panty with a disposable pad when she was in heat. After she obtained her Championship, I had her spayed. I chose not to breed her because there were too many dogs in the world without homes. Life was much calmer and easier after Jenny was spayed. Of course, this can also help reduce the risk of having unwanted puppies. And it helps keep your male Lab puppy safe because a dog who escapes can become lost or injured. This led to the organization supporting early-age sterilization in order to prevent the accidental breeding of young cats and dogs. There are too many puppies and dogs who need homes. And not enough loving homes. However, this long-held belief has been disproven. Spaying and Neutering for Reduced Overall Costs Although neutering or spaying your beloved Labrador retriever has initial costs, the amount is miniscule in comparison to properly raising a litter of puppies. Vet care for a litter of puppies and for the pregnant mother is very expensive. And feeding and caring for them is costly too! Many shelters and rescue groups have low-cost or free spay and neuter clinics. First of all, the breeding parents should have many different health clearances. Breeding without the required tests is irresponsible. And potentially dangerous to both the breeding female and to the offspring. Keep in mind too that the tests, vet care, food, puppy raising, and other necessities cost money and take a lot of time. Spaying and Neutering To Be Socially Conscious In addition to helping prevent the overpopulation problem, spaying or neutering your Labrador retriever puppy will often be better for your community. Dogs from unwanted litters are often abandoned, thereafter suffering from illness and untimely death. They can also pose a danger to other dogs by spreading diseases. And, because they may not be properly trained and socialized, they may become aggressive to people and dogs. Abandoned dogs may also pose risks of accidents and destruction to property. Instead, you can teach your child through books or videos about childbirth. FAQs Are spayed or neutered dogs more likely to become overweight than unfixed dogs? Dogs who are overfed and under-exercised gain weight. Does spaying or neutering prevent or stop a dog from becoming aggressive? Scientific data actually shows that spaying or neutering may increase aggression towards people and other dogs. Should I spay or neuter my Labrador retriever puppy? There are certain benefits to fixing your dog such as not dealing with a female dog in heat or a male dog who tends to roam seeking female dogs in heat. Summary of Information Behavioral data shows an increase in many unwanted behaviors in neutered and spayed dogs, including aggression, fearfulness, less trainability, excitability, excessive barking, separation-related issues, and touch sensitivity. And male Labs neutered prior to six months old and female Labs spayed before a year old tended to have more joint disorders. Of course, these are just two factors of many to consider when deciding whether—and, if so, when—to fix your Labrador retriever. Neutering does help prevent male dogs from roaming and from urine marking. Final Thoughts So, should you spay or neuter your Labrador retriever puppy and, if so, when? Health, behavior, and other considerations need to be analyzed. Have you spayed or neutered your Labrador retriever puppy? At what age? What determined your decision? Please tell us about it in the comments. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Neutering your Labrador can help behavioral issues but is not a replacement for training. Neutered dogs can live a healthy life up to 1. Consult your veterinarian before going through with this major procedure. Neutering offers benefits like avoiding certain cancers and improving behavioral issues. Neutering is a common procedure for male dogs that involves removing the testicles. It is a safe procedure for the health of your dog when done by a professional. It is typically performed by a veterinarian using general anesthesia. There may be up to several days of recovery required afterward. What is the Difference Between Neuter and Spay? When you see the word neuter used when talking about pets like Labradors, it refers to male dogs. The word for female dogs is spay. Neutering a Labrador puppy can be beneficial for curbing some behaviors related to sexual maturity, such as aggression and territorial marking. But it is important to note that neutering alone can not eliminate all undesirable behaviors. Other forms of training and discipline are vital components in helping your Labrador grow into the best version of themselves. Never forget that each dog is as unique as each human and may respond differently to being neutered. Before moving forward, discuss any concerns about your Labrador's unwanted behavior with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer before you make your decision about neutering. They can help assess your individual dog and their temperament and needs to provide guidance on the most suitable course of action. Neutering is not a magic pill, even though it is often the right thing to do for your dog. Do Neutered Labradors Live Longer? There is some evidence to suggest that spaying or neutering your Labrador may have a positive impact on their lifespan. On average, neutered males and spayed female dogs can live up to a year and a half longer than intact dogs. Neutering may be a beneficial choice for your dog, as studies have found it can help reduce the risk of aggressive behavior and certain types of cancers associated with the reproductive system. By choosing to neuter or spay your dog, you are taking steps towards helping them live their best life with you and your family. We recommend managing your expectations as pet owners. Neutering a dog can influence their lifespan, but the impact depends on several other factors, too, like genetics, diet, lifestyle, and overall health problems. Spaying is a safe, effective way to ensure your female Labrador lives a good life according to your plans. Also called an ovariohysterectomy, this procedure is performed by a qualified vet while under general anesthesia, just like the male dog version of neutering. Spay can be thought of as the female dog version of neuter. Being responsible dog owners can have great rewards for you and your female Labrador. Spaying offers numerous health benefits. Health-wise, it offers protection against scary, life-threatening illnesses, including uterine infections and breast tumors. For you guys, the pet owners, spaying can help you evade the high cost and responsibility of caring for an unexpected litter of unwanted puppies, as well as the potential legal and financial issues that frequently come with unplanned dog breeding. When choosing to spay or neuter your young Labrador Retriever, their intended role is an important factor. As always, have an open and honest conversation with a trusted, licensed veterinarian before making any decisions. Veterinarians and the best available data recommend spaying or neutering your Labradors between 9 and 15 months of age. Since Labrador Retrievers are a larger breed than others, they take a bit longer to reach sexual maturity. In rare cases, earlier neutering may be recommended, only by a vet, if the dog is already presenting unwanted behaviors like marking territory or humping. The short answer is no. Neutering is a great choice for many dogs, regardless of age. The health risks and benefits change and should be taken into account when considering neutering older dogs. With proper care from you and your vet, your Labrador can enjoy the rewards at any stage of life. Neutering may even be considered a treatment for conditions like testicular cancer. Essentially, if your older dog is healthy enough to undergo surgery of any kind, they are still able to be spayed or neutered. On average, it costs less to neuter a male dog than it costs to spay a female dog. Spaying is a more complicated and invasive procedure. Some vets will take the opportunity to perform other procedures like teeth extraction while your dog is under general anesthesia. Post-surgical care can increase the cost as well. By Tom Massey Dec 09, When you become the owner of a puppy, there are several things you should do to encourage its overall wellness, like making sure it gets plenty of exercise, feeding it high-quality food, attending frequent vet checkups, and scheduling a spay or neuter appointment at the appropriate age. Spaying or neutering your lab—or having a gonadectomy performed—is one of the best ways that you can ensure a happy and healthy life with your puppy. This procedure has proven to help reduce major health risks like cancer, eliminate unwanted pregnancy, and even assist with undesired behaviors in males. Spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is a procedure specific to females that refers to removing her reproductive organs, including her ovaries and uterus. Neutering, or orchiectomy, is the procedure specific to males that refers to removing both testicles so that he is unable to reproduce anymore. Neutering helps control reproductive urges and suppress unwanted behaviors like aggression. Some veterinarians believe that six months old is a good time to spay or neuter, but one study found that doing so this early could increase the likeliness of joint disorders and certain cancers in adulthood. This is typically when he or she is more than 45 pounds and between 9 to 15 months old. Before you set the appointment, be sure to speak with your vet about the right time for your puppy based on its health, gender, and size. Benefits to Spaying or Neutering There are several health benefits to spaying or neutering your Labrador puppy. But even if you plan on keeping a litter or two, females can have up to 12 puppies per litter—so it can get hectic and expensive keeping up with all of their behaviors, attention needs, and health requirements. This is to help prevent overpopulation, unsafe breeding practices, and unwanted puppies in the future. Benefit 2: Reduces Health Risks Did you know that getting your Labrador spayed or neutered increases its longevity? Pyometra is one of the most prevalent, potentially life-threatening uterine infections that are specific to labs. The good news is that spaying or neutering ultimately reduces the risk of contracting this infection! Males will also have a decreased risk for testicular cancer, and females are less likely to get mammary, uterine, ovarian, or cervical tumors. Benefit 3: Assists with Behavior Issues When a male lab enters adulthood, he might begin exhibiting some unwanted behaviors that come with puberty, such as: Mounting Urine marking Aggression towards other dogs and human family members Neutering is the most effective way to reduce these habits. Additionally, females will stop going into heat throughout the year, which will eliminate howling and bleeding during her reproductive seasons. Conclusion Spaying or neutering is one of the most common pet surgeries in the world. Not only does it help reduce unwanted pregnancies, but it also has been proven to aid with behavioral issues and lesson significant health risks well into adulthood. The best time to spay or neuter your lab would be once it hits puberty, which is usually between 9 and 15 months old. At Snowy Pines, all puppies are treated like family—so that they are ready to join yours the day you take them home. Contact Snowy Pines today! Share on. When should I neuter my dog? This traditionally involved an operation to remove the testicles in a male dog or the uterus and ovaries in a female dog. Spaying in the traditional manner is a major surgical procedure. Nowadays there are more options available to us than in years gone by. Female dogs can be spayed using a laproscopic procedure which enables the uterus to be left intact and which is a less invasive method than the traditional. Attitudes towards neutering are changing in the light of recent research and opinions vary widely from one country to another. Neutering in different countries In some countries most dogs are neutered at a very early age and you are considered totally irresponsible if you fail to neuter your dog. Neutering is routinely practised in some parts of the world, Australia for example, and the USA where a widespread spay and neuter campaign has been in operation for some decades In some regions, neutering your pets is obligatory. In Los Angeles County for example, most dogs and cats are required to be sterilised before they are four months old! At the other end of the scale in some countries, neutering is considered offensive. In Norway for example, it is considered unacceptable to neuter a dog without valid medical reasons, and birth control is not one of them. Over in the UK neutering is not universally practised. And though many Labradors are neutered, many are also left entire. In our modern digital world where it is easy to talk to people from all over the world, these differences can cause confusion and even argument. Neutering vs leaving entire There are now groups on Facebook set up to oppose the routine neutering of dogs, and strong feelings about neutering from both sides of the argument. In fact there is no need for argument. This should really be a fact based issue. And facts are what you will find on this page and in the resources I link to. Why Neuter Your Dog? There are lots of reasons why people neuter their dogs, and those reasons are based on beliefs that people hold about the outcome of neutering and how it will affect their dog. In general, apart from birth control, people tend to neuter male dogs for behavioral reasons, and to neuter female dogs for reasons of convenience Birth control Some people think that it is their duty to neuter their dog in order to prevent more puppies being brought into the world. In practical terms, there are other simple ways to ensure that dogs do not reproduce during their lifetimes for those that choose not to neuter. But there is no doubt that neutering is a complete and permanent way to avoid your dog producing any offspring. Does Neutering Change Behavior? Many people for example think that neutering will calm their male Labrador down. Some think it will stop him humping things. This is not necessarily the case. Others think that male dogs will become aggressive if not neutered. Many top pet websites still promote this idea. But along with some other assumptions about neutering, it is now known to be incorrect. In fact recent studies found more behavioral problems in neutered dogs than in entire ones. The truth is, that behavioural effects vary and are not what we once believed. But in short, the evidence now point to behavioral problems being more common in neutered dogs, not the other way around. For these reasons, many people will choose to neuter a female dog so that she never comes into season again Neutering for health Neutering female dogs confers a couple of important health benefits. Including protection from mammary cancer if carried out early, and protection from pyometra. Unfortunately, we now know that neutering also comes packaged with some serious health risks. In male dogs, these health risks to neutering almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. In females, balancing these up is not easy. Getting at the facts — an objective view The truth is, that there are both benefits and disadvantages to neutering, and we look at each of these in more detail in our articles on male and female dogs. Recent research has highlighted some serious long term health risks to neutering including increased risks of cancer, dementia, and some common joint problems. And you need to know about these. Some of the reasons people neuter their dogs, are based on beliefs that are not supported by evidence. And some of the reasons that people neuter their dogs, could be better achieved by other means. Most information about neutering seems to be presented from one angle or the other. What we have tried to do here, is to present the information about neutering in a factual and objective way, so that you can decide for yourself what is best for your family and your dog. Different methods of neutering In the past, neutering was always a surgical procedure. Nowadays there are a few more options available to us than there used to be Castrating male dogs Traditionally, male dogs were neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed through a small incision in the scrotum. This is still a common procedure. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Apart from infertility, the effects of surgical castration can be variable depending on the dog, that too is covered in the link above Chemical castration Chemical castration is an option now available to pet owners in some regions. Chemical castration does not have exactly the same effects as surgical castration, there is some testosterone remaining for example, but it gives you some idea of how permanent castration might affect your dog. Some people might find it helpful to have a trial run of castrating their dog using the chemical option before going for a permanent solution Like surgical castration the affects can be variable. There are also some possible side effects to chemical castration which you will need to discuss with your vet. These may vary from dog to dog and are most likely to occur during the first few days after the injection. Spaying a female dog Traditional methods of spaying female dogs involve major abdominal surgery. Recovery time is at least two week. There is however, now an alternative Laparoscopic spay With a laparoscopic spay, two tiny incisions are made and only the ovaries are removed. The laparoscopic spay is a much simpler procedure. The effects of neutering in dogs Apart from rendering your dog infertile, neutering or de-sexing, has other effects. Differences in physical appearance between neutered and un-neutered dogs will depend on the age at which the dog was neutered Neutered dogs look different A neutered male will have no testicles, which can be very apparent in shortcoated dogs. These are known as neuticles! A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine than an entire adult dog. Dogs of both sexes will usually grow a little taller than they would have done if they had not been neutered. And female dogs neutered later in life may develop a rather coarse, scruffy coat. However, most of the changes that result from neutering are less obvious. They involve the behavior and long term health of your dog. Behavioral changes after neutering Changes in behavior after neutering are not always predictable. What people think will happen to their dog, is not always what happens at all. Especially where dogs are neutered later in life. The behavioral changes of neutering neutering a male dog are limited. Although roaming behavior can be. The Risks Some people are surprised to discover that there are risks to neutering a dog. Risks that go beyond the basic risk of surgery and anesthesia. In several breeds of dog these risks have been shown to include an increased rate of certain cancers. And an increased susceptibility to some serious joint problems. Life is more complicated than that. This leaves owners in something of a dilemma. Especially if their veterinary professional is not up to date with the latest research or has formed different conclusions as to its implications. Therefore you will need to weigh up the pros and cons carefully and consider the evidence available. Deciding whether or not to neuter your dog For many people, there is no doubt that a neutered pet is simply more convenient. If you need to go out to work and your dog needs a place in doggy day care, he may need to be neutered. Many day care centres simply will not accept an entire dog. Caring for some females in season can be a somewhat messy business. And not being able to take your dog out for several weeks can be annoying. And these exist for both male and female dogs. There are also some health benefits to neutering a female dog. These are clearly explained in the articles linked to in this article. The important thing is to make an active choice based on information. My personal view is that neutering a dog for convenience is the right decision for some families. But I do think it is important that you are aware that this is what you are doing. I increasingly meet dog owners that have had their pets neutered purely for health reasons. Or to prevent their male dog becoming aggressive. Only to find out that this was not only unnecessary, but may actually have disadvantaged their dog. This is very upsetting to discover after irreversible surgery has taken place When to Neuter a Labrador If you decide to have your pet neutered, you will also need to decide what is the right age to have the procedure carried out. In the USA there is a tendency to carry out pediatric neutering neutering before sexual maturity. In the UK, vets normally recommend that female dogs are allowed to have one season before being spayed to allow her to mature physically. The advantages of pediatric neutering are from a birth control standpoint. There are no advantages to the individual dog to be neutered at less than six months old. And there is some evidence that the health risks of neutering will be exacerbated by neutering your Labrador at a very early age. Remember, unless you are required by law to neuter your pet by the time he is a few months old, it is your decision to make. If you decide to delay neutering, or even put it off altogether, you will need to take responsibility. Ensuring that no unwanted puppies are brought into the world. Do talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you may have. A good vet will not simply state that all dogs should be neutered but should be aware of the latest research. They will also prepared to discuss this with you and help you come to best decision for your family. Just drop your address into the box below. These varying opinions are a result of the many different reasons you should fix a male dog and a female dog. Some reasons can be to best care for the health of your dog while other reasons for fixing could be to eliminate risk of having an accidental mating resulting in unwanted puppies who may end up in shelters or homes where they are not cared for properly. There are different reasons to spay and neuter a Labrador if you are considering health first. However, fixing your dog at the wrong time could increase the risk of many health issues for your Labrador that could otherwise be avoided. First off you will want to keep your Lab away from other dogs who you do not know if they are fixed or not. Female dogs emit a strong scent that males can smell from miles away. So if your female is not yet fixed be sure to keep her inside or on a leash and supervised while outside. All it takes is thirty seconds of her not being watched and suddenly you could have an intact male jump your fence or dig under resulting in a lock between the two. So having your dog neutered early and spayed early is important to do your part to keep the unwanted pet population down. However, it is important that the females are spayed earlier than the males for health reasons. It is generally accepted practice to spay the female Lab early, and by early I mean before their first heat. It is also accepted that male Labs be neutered a little bit later once they are fully grown. The recommendation is to spay before their first heat which helps eliminates unwanted dogs in shelters AND eliminates some big cancer and other medical risks for her. However, spaying your female this early could contribute to joint issues such as hip dysplasia because their hormones are being altered before they are fully grown. One problem that arises if she is not spayed prior to her first heat is the risk of Pyometra. In intact females the effect of sex hormones can result in over stimulation of cells in the uterus which eventually may result in a severe E coli infection and a pus infection in the uterus. Signs of Pyometra can include lethargy, increased thirst, increased urination, not eating, a foul odor coming from their behind, draining of Pus from the vulva, excess licking of the vulva, collapse or fever related to signs of shock. If you observe any of these symptoms in your Lab after her heat cycle take her to the Vet right away as Pyometra could result in death for her if her uterus ruptures and causes a severe infection bacterial infection in the blood stream and abdomen. Other issues that present themselves if you leave your female Labrador to have a heat while in tact are cancer related. On average a female Lab will have her first heat around six months of age so spaying her in advance of this will help avoid most issues related to cancer such as mammary tumors. The statistic available at the time of writing this is that Labradors who are spayed prior to their first heat only have a 0. Risks for other cancers such as uterine also decrease when they are spayed prior to their first heat. It is important to point out that not all mammary tumors are cancerous and actually most of them are not cancerous, but there is no reason to encourage these tumors simply because they are not cancerous. The down side to spaying before your girl is fully grown is that her hormonal balance will be altered. In order for her to grow naturally she needs the hormones available to her naturally. Altering this natural balance could result in development problems with her joints and result in hip dysplasia or other joint issues or tendon ruptures. The same study goes on to identify that hemangiosarcoma cases in late-spayed females was 4 times more than females spayed early. One final point to mention is that spayed females may also develop a weakened bladder known as spay incontinence or urinary incontinence. So, to sum this all up for female Labradors, at present it appears that fixing them early can greatly reduce the risk of certain types of cancer while increasing the risk of joint-related problems. So how do you decide? We recommend becoming as informed as possible, consulting with your Veterinarian, and then prioritizing your reasons for spaying. On the male Labrador side, if you neuter your pet you can still have a happy pet and often more healthy! Generally you neuter a male after they are fully grown because they require their hormones to thicken up and develop as a male dog would normally. Fully grown is at different times for different breeds of dogs. Generally the larger your dog is the longer it takes them to mature. Large breeds could take up to two years to fully grow and medium breeds are closer to one year. Neutering your Lab will also pretty much eliminate the risk of prostate disease including cysts, abscesses and prostate enlargement. Perineal hernias can also be mostly avoided as they are primarily seen in intact males. A Perineal hernia is when organs from the belly slip through the weakened muscles of the pelvis resulting in a bulge on one or both sides of the anus. As well, neutering your Labrador removes the risk of testicular cancer which is mostly seen in intact male dogs. There are some behavioral issues related to neutering that are worth mentioning. There are however some behavioral issues that are related to male hormones. These can be things such as roaming, mounting other dogs, attraction to female dogs, urine marking and even aggression. Good Labrador Retriever breeders would do this in their breeding programs, however, I have never seen an aggressive Labrador who has been trained and cared for properly. Normally an aggressive dog will be neglected or abused which ends up training them to act that way. Neutering may help to dampen or eliminate any behaviors that are related to the hormones. So there are many points that require your consideration, advice from your breeder and advice from your Veterinarian. In the world we live in today we are all trying to do the absolute best we can for our pets. We cannot, however play God. So once you have enough information sit with your family and have a brief discussion. Weigh the pros and cons of spaying and neutering and then make your decision. Then, forget about it. Once your decision has been made return to enjoying your Lab puppy for the time you have with them. Mast cell tumour Shorter life expectancy Research now shows that desexing before 12 months old in larger breed dogs signficantly increases the risk of joint disorders, in particular cruciate ligament tears and dysplasia. Some research suggests this risk increases by as much as three times if the dog is spayed at a young age. Until a dog reaches sexual maturity, their bones and joints are still developing and ossifying forming and hardening. Joint plates do not close until sexual maturity. Visit our Exercise, Growth and Joints page. Removing the ovaries or testes disrupts the production of hormones that play an important role in body processes such as bone development and when to signal growth plate closure. Veterinarians are now applying the research which shows that early sterilisation increases the risk of dysplasia, impacts bone and joint development, and increases joint disease in their practice and recommend to delay sterilisation in larger breeds such as labradors, golden retrievers, and german shepherds until they reach sexual maturity, to decrease their risk of dysplasia and joint disease. Most breeders who understand the risks to growth and development have been making this recommendation for many years, and finally the scientific studies to evidence this are being published. A heat cycle lasts about 3 weeks and happens about every 6 months. During her heat, she will bleed on and off for this period of time. It is important that females be allowed to have one or two seasons before sterilisation, to ensure they have reached sexual maturity, since disruption of sex hormones affects growth and development especially of bones and joints. It is critical that she does not come into contact with any male dogs, as she is fertile during her heat. Females on heat should not be exercised in public and cannot enter dog training grounds. Ensure she is kept in your own fully secure yard, preventing her getting out and any males getting in. Males can detect a female on heat from a long distance and will climb, jump, dig, or whatever it takes to get to her. Male dogs will track and follow a female on heat for a long distance, several kilometres, so make sure she is safely secure. Managing a female dog on heat is otherwise not that difficult. She will usually become more cuddly and clingy to her humans. It is important to give her the extra affection she is seeking. Lots of hugs and reassurance. As for bleeding, they usually do not bleed too much and are pretty good at cleaning up after themselves by licking. Although being outdoors in the yard is going to be more convenient, cuddles and affection must not be neglected. When she comes inside the house, you can use doggie diapers to contain the bleeding. Just cut out a hole with some scissors for the tail! Only use a pad for a short time hours otherwise she can get an infection yes, they can get toxic shock syndrome. As for bedding, we dont worry if it gets a few spots, we just wash it with disinfectant. As your labrador will be desexed between months old, she will probably only have cycles before she is spayed and then you will not have to worry about this in the future. Remember, what it is a temporary inconvenience to us humans, has life-long benefits for her in terms of her health. Castrating Male Dogs Traditionally, male dogs are neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Remember that they can still have stored sperm up until months after being castrated. So, do not allow contact with any fertile females immediately after spaying, as he is not infertile until months later. In male dogs, the health risks of neutering too young almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. Similar to the opposite gender, is important that males be allowed to reach sexual maturity — said to be around 12 months old. At this age, they are nowhere near finished growing and maturing yet. Removal of sex hormones at a young age affects the growth and development especially of bones and joints. A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine and have a more feminine head. Muscle tone and bone density can also be affected. Male labradors are not known for as many undesirable behaviours compared to other breeds. Boisterous adolescence is normal. Labradors tend to become calmer as they mature. Behaviours that might change or be reduced after castration include leg cocking and roaming. Roaming is a behaviour easily prevented by secure fencing and increased mental stimulation and exercise. Labradors are not naturally known for aggressive traits. In the unlikely event that your male labrador is showing dominant or aggressive behaviour, please chat to us. Studies have shown that aggression is unlikely to lessen by castration. Help from a dog behaviourist is more likely to benefit.