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We all understand that walks, grooming, nail clipping, and veterinarian visits keep our Pugs healthy. What about the physical and mental activity? Pugs start playing as soon as they can move around in the litter. Pug Puppies Need their Mates Of course, we all want our puppies now! If you find a breeder willing to give up her pups at six weeks, understand this is not good for your Pug puppy. Many breeders will wait until ten weeks before you can pick up your puppy. Puppies should not be taken from their littermates before eight weeks. As adults, they may have behavior problems, be more fearful or anxious. Being with Mom and brothers and sisters teach a puppy a lot about life. Play starts in the litter between 2 and 4 weeks of age. Puppies play with each other and their mothers. They learn social skills as they play fight, biting one another and their mother. When a bite is too hard, someone yelps. If the pup that did the biting refuses to stop, the Pug puppy that just got bite will refuse to play. This way, Pug puppies learn to control their biting. In the litter Pug puppies, learn to restrain their aggression. They learn to submit to others and cooperate. They are overall friendlier and more socially adjusted. Games for Pugs with people are essential for Pug puppies. They are more social and fun to have around when they become adults. Pugs Need to Play with Humans Dogs need to play. We need to get off our butts and have a good time. We, humans, tend to forget about the importance of having a good time. I grew up in a time when kids went outside for hours at a time, into the fields and the woods. I would take my mutt dog with me, and we would have fun. He was my trusted pal. Playing like that was the best thing for both of us. Keeps your Pug calm and well-behaved at home. These Pug dogs whine less and jump on people less. They also experience less aggression and anxiety. Games for Pugs help to build confidence in shy Pugs. It wards off boredom. Play helps to build social skills. Play strengthens the bond between you and your Pug. It makes you happy. It makes your Pug so happy!!! For example, hide it behind a table leg while you are in plain view of your Pug. If your Pug is treat driven, which most Pugs are, she will find the treat pretty quickly. Now put the treat in a nearby room and say find it. You can walk in the general area of the treat, but do not point it out to him. It could make her dependent on you to find the treat. She will learn to wait for you to find it for her. She also has to use her brain to get it. This is one of my favorite of the games for Pugs. Running Games for Pugs Dogs love to run. Even our flat-faced little Pugs love to run and play. Mimi and Lulu love to go in the fenced back yard and go after each other. First, Lulu is chasing Mimi, and then they seem to switch naturally. Lulu often gets the Zoomies while Mimi and I look on. It is so fun to watch her run around the house in glee. One running game that is easy and rewarding is to have Mimi and Lulu sit and stay. I go on the other side of the yard. I call them to come, and they come tearing across the yard. This usually ends in lots of petting and praise. Sometimes I mix it up with a treat, just to keep it interesting. Running games for Pugs are easy to make up on your own. I will sometimes use a treat to switch out the toy to the treat. Make sure you give her that recovery time. Chasing is fun exercise, and it keeps them in good cardio shape. Tug Games for Pugs Tug is one of the fun games for Pugs when played correctly. Let your Pug dog take one side of the rope toy or whatever you have decided to use. Let your Pug dog pull on the toy and move it gently from side to side. Do not jerk the toy up and down as this could cause spinal injury. Do not move the toy vigorously. They need to be old enough to understand that it is only to be played with gentle movements. Pugs love this game and let them growl away like the big dogs they think they are! Mind Games for Pugs Mental exercise is good for Pugs of all ages. It is especially good for senior Pugs who may be bored and less able to be physically active. Mind games are great games for Pugs. They create confidence and strengthen his relationship with you. You and your Pug as you work together work as a team. He gets a mental work-out keeping him mentally fit. Playing the game with you is a rewarding experience. He gets to show off and sharpen his excellent problem-solving. Try a Bob-A-Lot. Fill the food with is dinner. This is for feeding his entire meal. Not only will it keep him mentally active, but it will slow down his eating. Many Pugs have problems with gulping their food. There are plenty of interactive dog toys on Amazon. Check them out and read the reviews to see which one might be best for your Pug dog. The Shell Games for Pugs The shell game is a fun game for mental activity. With Pugs, they use treats. They are not actually following the treat by sight as a human would with a coin. But it does help with their problem-solving skills. Steps to Play the Shell Game with your Pug Use 3 cups and some great smelling treats Put a treat under one of the three cups while your Pug dog watches Shuffle the cups around Be patient as your Pug dog tries to find the cup with the treat underneath When she selects the right cup, she gets to eat the treat Jumping Games for Pugs Yes, our Pugs can jump. Teaching your Pug to jump over things will build muscles and confidence. Even if your Pug never wins first place on the agility team, this trick will be a lot of fun. Make it fun. STEP 1. Put the broom or stick on the ground. Put a treat on the stick and let her eat it. STEP 2. Place a treat on the far side of the stick, so your Pug dog has to step over it to get the treat. If he tries to go around the stick, pick up the treat. Again, put the treat back down until he steps over the object to get it. Be sure to use a lot of verbal praise when he accomplishes this. Repeat this several times. STEP 3. Continue with one treat each time he crosses over the stick. STEP 4. Use a book on each end and raise the stick one inch high. Practice until he is comfortable going over that height. STEP 5. Repeat going over two inches. Before moving up an inch, be sure your Pug dog is comfortable crossing over at that height. STEP 6. Eventually, your Pug dog will have to jump to get over the stick and get his treat. Get the stick to the highest limit that your Pug can jump over. STEP 7. When your Pug is solid with this trick, try having him jump over other objects. Keep it safe and fun! There are many different jumping games for Pugs. Just use your creativity. Your Pug may get very excited while playing games for Pugs. You reward the behavior by your happy voice and continuing to have fun. Instead, remember to use whatever verbal cue you have taught down, stop, etc. Other behaviors include nipping, biting, grabbing things out of your hands, running away. You may have running away as part of a game, but make sure your Pug knows the difference. He only gets to run away when you request it. For example, he cannot run away when he gets in the laundry basket and gets your socks. Watch his body language. Stop that game. You can try again later with the original game but take it more slowly. We all get busy and tired. Pugs need minimal exercise. Picking one of these games a couple of times a day keeps our Pugs physically and mentally active. A chase game is only going to be 20 minutes, max. This includes breaks, so your Pug dog does not get overheated. A game of tug can be played after dinner while you have the TV on. A jumping game can keep him mentally and physically active. And what a cool trick to show your friends when they come over. A trick is always much more entertaining when a Pug does it. Now get off the couch and go play a game with your Pug! Written by Small Door's medical experts Being stuck at home is disappointing for both you and your dog. Check out our tips below for how you can keep your dog entertained indoors. Dog activity requirements Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay fit, healthy and happy. Physical exertion comes from walking, running and playing, whilst many different things can provide mental stimulation. From tracking scents outside, to concentrating hard on obedience training, or attempting to get kibble out of a puzzle toy — tough mental concentration results in a tired, happy dog. Ideas to entertain your dog indoors 1. Practice short bursts of obedience training each day Training your dog provides great mental stimulation. Teach your dog a new trick Try teaching your dog a new trick. A great trick to try is tidying up. Give your dog a stuffed Kong or a food-dispensing puzzle toy Stuff a Kong or a similar toy with pieces of kibble, mixed in with a tasty treat like a spoonful of peanut butter, canned pumpkin or mashed banana. Pro tip — you can freeze it to make it last longer for your pup! Puzzle toys and food dispensing toys are great for mental stimulation as well as dogs who gobble up their meals too fast! Some of our favorite food puzzle toys are made by Trixie or Nina Ottoson. Let them watch the world go by Dogs love to sit by the window. If you can, set up a safe spot for your pup where they can see out of the window, and if you feel comfortable doing so, open the window a crack for them to enjoy the smells and sounds of the outdoors. Teach your dog the name of their toys Teaching your dog the names of their toys is not as hard as it may sound. This can be a great activity, especially if you spoil your pup with lots of toys. Start by playing with one toy and give it a name while you do — tell your dog to fetch the specific toy by name and give lots of praise when they bring back the correct one. Eventually, see if your dog can pick out the toy by name out of a pile of toys. Once they understand the name, try moving onto another toy and repeating the process. Dogs love new things. Hide some toys in a cupboard for a few days, then bring them out again for the novelty factor! Other games you can adapt for indoor play include throwing a very lightweight ball in a safe area for your dog to catch or fetch, provided there is nothing breakable around. When they succeed, make sure to react super enthusiastically and reward them so they know they did a good job and enjoy the game as much as you did! Hide treats around your home and let them sniff them out throughout the day. If you repeat this over several days, make sure to vary the placement of the treats to keep it interesting for your dog. Create an indoor obstacle course If you have enough room, why not set up a homemade obstacle course for your pup? Teach your pup the basics of agility , jumping over some small boxes, weaving through stacks of books, and lying down on a blanket at the end. Another great one to keep kids entertained too, you could even work up to hosting your own dog show with an agility course and obedience category with your kids as dog handlers! Learn scent work Our dogs explore and understand their world through scent, so scent work games are a great way to keep Fido occupied by putting their nose to work. For these games, all you need is some dog treats and various household items. When they choose correctly, open your hand and give them the treat. Muffin tin puzzles: Using a muffin baking tin, tennis balls, and dog treats, place treats in a couple of the tins and cover all the holes with tennis balls. The shell game: Using three to four cups, place a treat under one of the cups for larger dogs, you may want to use plastic cups or even upside down flower pots. Let your dog sniff around and discover what cup the treat is under. When your dog paws at the correct cup, lift it up to reveal the treat while praising them. Box search: Using empty cardboard boxes, put several boxes out on the floor. Place a treat inside one or more of the boxes, while your dog is out of the room. Bring your dog into the room and let them search for the box which has the treat inside. When they paw at or nudge the correct box, reveal the treat and give them lots of praise. Summary of how to keep your dog entertained indoors Just like humans, dogs need a balance of physical and mental exercise. Related articles. Red Light Green Light Everyone loves playing a good game of fetch with their dog. It's perfect for getting exercise and having fun. But the downside to the game is that there is no thinking involved — just a lot of running back and forth. So many games with dogs, from fetch to tug-of-war, don't require them to do a whole lot of thinking. On the other hand, interactive brain games not only tire out your energetic dog, but they also defeat boredom, increase your dog's confidence, and strengthen the bond between the two of you as you work together as a team. So many great activities that you can do with your dog are simply dog-versions of favorite kids' games, all of which exercise and train the brain as much as the body. Here are 10 brain games for dogs to get you started. Why Pets Matter to Treehugger At Treehugger, we are advocates for the welfare of all animals, including dogs and other domestic pets. We hope our readers will adopt rescue pets instead of shopping from breeders or pet stores and will also consider supporting local animal shelters. Treasure Hunt You can teach your dog to find a favorite toy or treat. Starting out, you'll want to set your dog up for success so it understands the game and doesn't get too discouraged. Begin with something simple. Put your dog in a sit-stay and hide a treat or favorite toy somewhere obvious, even letting your dog watch you hide it. Then give your dog the release cue to go find the toy. Reward your dog big-time for its success in finding the hidden treasure. Once your dog understands the game, ramp up the difficulty. Hide the treat or toy in another room, or some place where other scents mask the treat or toy, like the bottom of the laundry bin or under the food dish. You can also make the game really hard by using cardboard boxes. Set up 10 to 20 cardboard boxes of different sizes and, without your dog seeing, place the reward in only one box. Let your dog investigate all of the boxes and provide the reward or a jackpot treat when it selects the correct box. There are so many variations on this game that it will have the two of you playing different versions for years to come. Hide-and-Go-Seek Let your dog find you when you hide. You'll need at least two people to play. One person distracts the dog and gives it the sit-stay cue while the other person hides. The person who is not hiding then gives the release cue for the dog to start looking. This game works wonderfully both indoors and outdoors, and is a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon playing with your dog. Ring Stackers Just as toys can teach toddlers eye-hand coordination, they can teach dogs eye-paw or eye-mouth coordination. Walking down the aisles of any toy store will set your imagination alight with things you can teach your dog. A tough game that takes awhile to learn, ring stackers will keep you and your dog hard at work together for hours. Patience is the key to success for this activity as it can take days or weeks to perfect the game. It's important to find wooden rings with natural dyes rather than plastic, since your dog will be biting down on the rings quite a bit. One method to try is to click-and-treat your dog when it picks up a ring, then click-and-treat again as the dog moves closer to the stick. Continue by click-and-treating each time the dog touches the ring to the stick and when it tries to maneuver the ring onto the top of the stick. What Is Clicker Training? Training a dog by using a device that makes a clicking sound to let the dog know you approve of its behavior followed quickly by a reward or treat. You can change things up by mounting the stick to a wall so the dog has to fit it onto a horizontal stick rather than dropping it onto a vertical stick. You can also put the rings in a different room so your dog is running back and forth to collect and stack all the rings before earning the jackpot reward. Shell Game Dogs love this simple but challenging game because, as with all good games, there are treats involved. Take two opaque plastic cups and flip them upside down. With your dog watching, place a treat under one cup. Give your dog the cue to come turn over the cup and get the treat. Do this eight or 10 times, giving your dog time to really understand the game. After the dog has caught on, alternate which cup you place the treat under. When your dog selects the correct cup, let it have the treat. If the dog doesn't select the correct cup which will happen, even when it sees you placing the treat under the cup , show the dog the treat under the correct cup but don't let the dog have the treat. This will keep the dog focused on watching which cup you place the treat under so it can guess the correct cup. While the game may sound easy, for many dogs this requires some serious thinking. If your dog masters this, it's time for even more of a challenge. Place a treat under the left cup, then slide the cups to switch places, so that the cup with the treat is now on your right. Release your dog to find the treat. If your dog selects the correct cup, give it the treat. If your dog doesn't select the correct cup, show it the treat but don't let the dog have it. Keep repeating this and see if your dog can figure out the trick. Some dogs may never quite get how the treat magically switches sides — this is a tough game that requires visual tracking and not all dogs make the connection. But if your dog does, bump up the challenge even more by swapping sides randomly. See if your dog can use its eyes, nose, and thinking skills to find the treat after the old switcheroo. New Trick Say 'new trick' and see what your dog offers. It's a popular game in clicker training because it teaches a dog to think independently and come up with its own ideas about what behavior earns a reward. The premise is simple: Click and treat for a new behavior offered by your dog and ignore a behavior already offered. A typical game between a dog and its owner goes something like this: Say "new trick" and the dog might sit. Repeat the sequence. The game continues as long as the dog does a new trick each time. If your dog isn't used to clicker training for shaping behavior, start simple when teaching this game. The slightest new thing can earn a treat. For example, set a box next to your dog. Click and treat your dog for looking at the box, for touching it with a paw, for touching it with its nose, for stepping on it, for walking around it, for just about any vague interaction with the box. But don't reward the same action twice. Your dog touching the box with his nose earns a reward once, but the second time it earns nothing. Once your dog gets the grasp of the game, expand it to other behaviors like sit, down, crawl, spin, sit up, and so on. Pretty soon, your dog will be going through your entire repertoire of tricks and coming up with new ones just to earn that treat for creative thinking. Hot and Cold The hot and cold game is also ideal for clicker training your dog since it follows the basics of shaping a new behavior. It's great for smart dogs who don't get frustrated too easily. And all you have to do is sit on the couch and say "hot" or "cold" and toss treats. Start by coming up with something you want your dog to do. It can be anything — maybe you notice your keys on the floor and you want your dog to go pick them up and bring them to you. Simply sit back with your bag of treats, and any time the dog makes a move that edges them closer to the keys, say "hot" with enthusiasm and toss a treat to the dog near the keys. If your dog moves away from the chosen goal, quietly say "cold. You can teach your dog to go touch the doorknob on the other side of the room, grab a blanket from the couch, or pretty much any behavior you can think of. To get your dog to understand the game, start by saying "drop it" to get your dog to drop a toy on command. This is a key component to getting your dog to the next step which is dropping a toy in a particular location. After your dog has mastered the drop-it command, start shaping your dog to drop toys in a basket or box. Click and treat stages of the behavior a little at a time — when your dog heads toward the basket with the toy or drops the toy near the basket. Anything that leads closer to the behavior of dropping the toy in the basket should be rewarded. Eventually, your dog will understand that a command like "put it away" means to grab a toy and take it to the basket, drop it in, and leave it there. After this part is mastered, build up the number of toys your dog picks up. Start with rewarding your dog each time it puts a toy away. Then, begin to slowly reduce the amount of rewards offered. Reward the dog after it puts away two toys, then after three toys, and so on. Eventually, the reward will only come when every toy is put away, and you'll have a dog running around the room finding every toy as quickly as possible in order to win that wonderful jackpot reward of a handful of treats. Just remember, it takes time to build these skills, and the journey is all part of the game, so have patience. Silence, or just a tiny bit of encouragement when your dog gets frustrated, goes a long way in helping it figure out the trick while also gaining confidence. The Name Game After your dog has mastered how to put away toys, provide a new challenge by teaching your dog to put away toys by name. Start by teaching your dog the name of specific toys, and then send it to go get a particular toy. Certain breeds — like border collies — are famous for their vocabulary, but even the most stubborn of dogs can learn the names of at least a couple of toys. It just takes a lot of repetition to hammer home the name. One way to get started is to hold a toy, say its name, let your dog grab it, then reward your dog for grabbing the toy. Let's say it's a rubber tug toy named Tug. Hold Tug in one hand, say "Tug," let your dog grab Tug, and give a reward. Repeat this 20 or 30 times. Then set Tug next to a very different toy of equal value, like a rope toy named Rope. Say "Tug" to your dog and if your dog selects Tug, give a reward. If your dog doesn't select Tug but selects Rope instead, say nothing but place Rope back next to Tug. Say "Tug" again and let your dog choose. Once your dog is consistently selecting Tug, place Tug next to another different toy, and repeat the steps until your dog is always choosing Tug over other toys of equal value. Once your dog is successful with one toy's name, start the whole process over with a different toy, like Rope. Hold Rope, say "Rope," let your dog grab Rope, and give a reward, repeating this 20 or 30 times. Set Rope next to a different toy but not the first toy, Tug , say "Rope," and only reward your dog when they select Rope. Say nothing if your dog selects the other toy, but return it next to Rope and try again. Keep repeating until you have the same consistent success that your dog had with Tug. Once you've established Rope and Tug and your dog knows the names of these two toys, it's time for a test. Place Rope and Tug next to each other, and ask for Tug. Reward only if your dog chooses Tug. Keep trying until your dog is successful a few times, then switch to asking for Rope. When your dog has this down, consistently selecting the toy you ask for, you're ready to take the test farther by adding in a few more unnamed toys. See if your dog can pick out Tug or Rope from the small pile. If you have success with two toys, then keep the process going for more toys. Who knows how many names your dog will learn! Jumping Rope Eye and body coordination meet with this game. Your dog has to concentrate on the pace of the rope, on targeting a certain spot on the ground, and of course, on jumping. Think it can't be done? You'll be surprised. Start by teaching your dog to target an object on the ground. A good object to begin with is a stick because it can demonstrate to the dog not just where to jump but also how much space there is to work with on either side so it can stay within the boundaries of the rope. Once your dog has mastered targeting, teach it to jump on that spot on a cue. After that, add in the rope, cueing your dog each time it needs to jump as the rope comes down. It will take a lot of practice, but it will also burn a ton of extra brain and body energy. Plus, this trick will certainly impress the kids in the neighborhood. Red Light Green Light This is an ideal game for dogs who tend to get wound up during play and become overly enthusiastic. The game improves a dog's impulse control and reminds it to pay attention to you no matter how much fun it's having. This will ultimately make excursions to the dog park or other off-leash areas much more safe and enjoyable, but it is a game that can be played any time, anywhere. Continue repeating the sequence until your dog ultimately learns the red light and green light commands without assistance. The video below is a great example of how to teach your dog to play the game. View Article Sources. If so add a few mentally stimulating activities into their routine. Contrary to popular belief dogs need more than just physical exercise, and a few quick brain games can do wonders. Mental stimulation enriches our dogs lives by giving them something meaningful to do. And because these activities alleviate boredom they decrease the likelihood of our dogs developing behavioral issues such as excessive chewing or barking. So if you want to add some more mental stimulation to your dogs routine you can start with changing up their feeding routine. Instead of just handing over their food a few times a day you can make a fun game out of it for your dog. You place your dogs meals in the toy and they have to roll it around in order to get the food to come out of the hole. Interactive toys like puzzles help keep your dog focused on a task, and that added extra mental stimulation goes a long way. One extra 15 minute game a day can such a huge difference to your dog. It gives them something to focus on, and that extra meaning in their day helps when it comes to alleviating problem behaviors. Puzzle toys are great because they give your dog a chance to use some of their natural problem solving abilities. Now keep in mind not all puzzle toys are loved equally by all dogs. My dog prefers a frozen Kong stuffed with treats over puzzle toys that lay flat on the ground. Teaching your dog a new trick or command is great for mental stimulation, and it can be especially helpful with shy or fearful dogs. Learning new commands can also help increase your dogs focus and impulse control manners. Not sure what to teach your dog next? One of my favorite tricks is weaving between legs. Teaching your dog a new trick is a great way to prove your dog with some more mental stimulation. Having your dog use their nose to find things is a really simple way to help them hone in one their natural skills. And all that searching will provide your dog with a lot more mental stimulation in their daily routine. As you have your dog in a stay position go hide some of those treats around the house. After they get the hang of it you can start hiding them in harder to find spots, encouraging them to use their nose more and rely less on visuals. So we started using toys as well. I started using this game after I saw those amazing videos of Chaser the Border Collie who knows the names of over toys. The basic principle of shaping games is to encourage our dogs to try something new. By giving our dogs the chance to make their own decisions we can increase their mental and physical flexibility. You start out with a box on the ground and without any cues let your dog investigate and decide what to do. Shaping can be used with any item, not just a box. Make an Obstacle Course For Your Dog Teaching your dog how to go through an obstacle course is a nice mental workout for them. We use a blanket, some toys and a few orange hazard cones I picked up at the local thrift store. Engage in More Interactive Play With Your Dog Our dogs love playing with us, and engaging in interactive play is one of the easiest ways to keep them mentally stimulated. Recent studies have found that the more play a dog engages in the less likely they are to suffer from behavioral issues. Interactive play is when you actively engage with your dog. Playing a game of tug or fetch is interactive play, and those sorts of games help tremendously when it comes to giving your dog more mental stimulation. And any of those fun games will help strengthen your bond. To play the shell game with your dog you let them watch as you place a treat under one of the cups. How do you give your dog mental exercise? Do you play a lot of tug? Does your dog eat their meals out of a puzzle toy? Did I miss any of your favorite brain games for dogs? Recommended Reading:. If so trying adding in some of these fun brain games for dogs into their routine. Brain games are a great way to have some extra fun with your dog each day. Mentally stimulating activities like brain games enrich our dogs lives by giving them something meaningful to do. And because these activities alleviate boredom they can decrease the likelihood of our dogs developing behavioral issues such as excessive chewing or barking. Find the Treats My absolute favorite brain game for dogs is a game of find the treats. Finding the treats themselves is rewarding for your dog, and the addition of your encouragement during the game can keep it exciting. It gives your dog the opportunity to use some of their natural instincts to work for food. Food Dispensing Toys Another fun brain game for dogs is using food dispensing toys. A food dispensing toy is any toy that contains food and requires your dog to work to figure out how to obtain the food. To use a food dispensing toy you simply fill it up with treats and encourage your dog to engage with it. Food dispensing toys are a great way to give your dog some extra mental stimulation. And as with other food related games they give your dog a chance to use their natural scavenging abilities in a fun and challenging way. Food dispensing toys are an easy way to emulate those natural instincts. You can make your own food dispensing toy out of an old plastic container , bottle , or PVC. Dog Puzzles One of my favorite brain games for dogs is using puzzles. They come in a wide variety, but they all have one thing in common — your dog has to figure out how to get the reward treat. Like other food related games they provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation and help relieve boredom. Some of them are quite challenging, and others are pretty basic. Some will keep Laika busy for a few minutes, but others take a few seconds. Some dogs get super pumped up by treats and will start pawing at both of your hands due to excitement. Stuffed Kong One of my favorite brain games for dogs is using a stuffed Kong. Stuffed Kongs are fun and mentally stimulating for dogs. The Shell Game The shell game is another simple brain game for dogs. The shell game will give your plenty of mental stimulation by giving them a chance to work on their problem solving skills. Hide and seek lets your dog use some of their natural scent tracking abilities in a fun and stimulating way. But hear me out for a minute. Teaching your dog something new such as putting their toys away is mentally stimulating. And if you teach them how to do it in a positive way you can make a fun game out of it. Praise them like crazy, then repeat. Dogs enjoy learning new skills as long as you keep it positive , and teaching your dog new skills, such as putting their toys away, will boost their confidence and keep them mentally stimulated. Do you already have names for your dogs toys? Start by playing with your dog and one specific toy, giving it a name while you do. Once your dog has learned that specific toys name you can test their skills by seeing if they can pick it out among their other toys. After your dog knows the name of one toy you can move on teaching them the name of another. On average dogs can learn different words , so your dog has the potential to learn the names of a lot of different toys. My dog knows the names of about 30 toys, and having her pick specific ones out of a pile is a great way to boost her problem solving skills. Does your dog know how to weave through your legs and jump through a hoop? And teaching your dog how to weave through your legs is a lot easier than it sounds. Once your dog knows a bunch of tricks you can step it up a notch and combine those behaviors into new tricks. What are your favorite brain games for dogs? Do you play hide and seek with your dog? You can find out more on our disclosure page. Recommended Reading:. Masters of Smell We have six million olfactory receptors; dogs have up to million. Additionally, the part of the brain that analyzes smells is 40 times bigger in dogs than humans. This enables dogs to find lost hikers, discover buried truffles, or even locate cadavers beneath the water. It stands to reason then, that we should somehow be harnessing this amazing power in our own pets. Once dependent upon their noses to survive, most domestic dogs today are a bit out of practice. It requires you to do nothing but place treats randomly around the home in the hopes that she will locate them by scent. Once she finds the first one often by accident , she will quickly key into the possibility of finding others with her nose. Start by placing one or two treats down in full view, while she is out of the room. Then call her in. She will eat them happily and look for more. Repeat this process, but begin placing the treats in less obvious places; in a corner, just beneath a sofa or coffee table, or even partially beneath a doggie cushion. Place them while she is outside, or in another part of the home. Then simply let her find them on her own. You will soon see her scenting for them rather than looking for them. Vary placement and quantity; some days just hide one treat. Try hiding a food dispenser toy filled with treats. Hide a feather rubbed with cheese. Hide a frozen cube of meat or broth on a plate of course! Then move it out into the yard and do the same, making it easy at first then progressively harder. Try hiding a chicken egg out there! First, get some small tasty treats that will fit into your hand. Next, take one into your palm and make a loose, palm-down fist. Then, with your dog sitting in front of you, offer her that fist, and let her sniff. Then, add your other empty fist. Repeat this, alternating the hand in which you place the treat. The idea is to teach her that the location of treat varies and can be found only by scenting it out. To begin, give an old towel or rag to a friend and have him or her rub it all over his or her dog or cat. If possible, have him or her get a drop of urine on the cloth as it contains strong scents. If not, rubbing it will do. Then, without your dog present, place the cloth out of sight somewhere in the yard, beneath a bush or behind a tree. Then let your dog out and see what happens! You can try this randomly with the scent of different animals to keep your dog guessing. After trying dog and cat scents, try hamster, parrot, ferret—whatever you can locate. Then just wait. She will inevitably begin searching for you. Once she finds you, praise and reward! Have a friend hold your dog, then walk off into the woods and find cover. Your dog should scoot off with her nose to the ground, searching for you. Within a minute she should find you, at which point you should reward her mightily! Increase your distance over time until she can find you no matter how far off. Get four sturdy, coffee cup-sized containers that she cannot break or easily knock over. Avoid glass or paper; glass could break and paper is too flimsy. With your dog sitting and watching, place a treat underneath one cup then move it back and forth. Next, add a second cup. Place the treat then move the cups back and forth a bit. Wait until she sniffs the right one before praising and lifting the cup. Repeat until she reliably picks the right cup. Then add a third cup, and repeat until she gets it on the first try every time. While wild dogs have to track and capture food every day, our dogs know they will find a meal in the same spot every day. But what if, when you called her for dinner one day, her bowl was in a different spot? The answer is simple: she would instantly begin looking for it. Try first placing it in the room next door; she will begin sniffing excitedly and find the scent-rich bowl in seconds. The next day, hide the bowl somewhere across your home and call her for dinner. It will take her a bit longer, but she will find it and wolf it down. Unique scents such as essential oils lavender, anise, and valerian work well can motivate dogs and will excite their tracking instincts. To start, get a favourite toy a ball works well and put a few drops of essential oil onto it. Then, play a quick game of indoor fetch, followed by a reward. Do so several times in a day. The next day, with the dog absent, hide the same toy, then place tiny pieces of paper anointed with the oil onto the floor, leading 20 feet away from the ball, like a trail of bread crumbs. Keep at it and praise when she follows the trail. If need be, get her started by showing her the first scented paper. When she does find the ball, reward her! Gradually reduce the number of scented papers until she can find the scented ball all by herself. Once mastered in the home, move it out into the yard. Then change the scent and the toy and begin again. You can use chicken fat, cream cheese, peanut butter—anything your dog likes. This is a simple version of what drug and bomb-sniffing dogs do. If you have taught your dog to find a ball by following a scent trail, you have already taught her to key in on scent. To begin, take the same scented ball and place it in a shoebox. Next, repeat this, only with three boxes, the ball in the original box to prevent cross contamination. Reward her with a quick fetch session. Now, instead of putting the scented ball in one of the three boxes, simply put a slip of paper in the same box, with a few drops of the same essential oil on it. Hide the scented ball outside, wash your hands, then place a new, unscented ball in your back pocket. When she homes in on the box with the scented paper, praise her mightily then take out the ball in your pocket and toss it for her as a reward. Repeat this over time, increasing distance and the number of boxes. In no time, she will be an expert tracker! If your dog really takes to it and you feel so inclined, do a web search to locate a local tracking club and attend a introductory class. Who knows: your pooch could turn into a master tracker! Share Uh oh…you came home after leaving your puppy or newly adopted dog in the house for a couple hours and you find out that expensive rug that was passed down to you from your grandmother is now the dogs new favorite chew toy. We simply steer their need to chew toward a chewable object. Think of it as backseat driving. Telling the driver to be careful and slow down enough eventually leads to the driver slowing down and driving carefully. Dog proof your house as much as possible especially when bringing a new puppy in your home. Puppies are naturally destructive so preventing them from capitalizing on their natural destructive abilities is always recommended. So keeping doors shut and a baby gate up is highly recommended. This exercise is a basic trial and error lesson for the dog. Now…we wait. Your dog will most likely will go up to one of the objects and start chewing it. From there do the redirecting process where we divert them towards an object they CAN chew. Once their mouth touches the CAN chew object we once again praise, pet and allow them to chew it for a minute or two. From there we simply take it away while praising and repeat the process. Once again we we have all the objects spread out on the floor and wait. First of all like I said in the first paragraph, prevention is the best technique by a landslide. Leaving your shoes in the middle of the living room floor when you have a 3 month old puppy running around the house is just asking for it. This is where the baby gate s come in handy. Gate the house off one room at a time. Only when they fully understand what to chew and what not to chew can the entire house be free range. Also remember that dogs are trial and error creatures just like us. Anyone who disagrees is selling you something. They learn from their mistakes just like we do and want to avoid doing it wrong. Yelling at them is never recommended. Also never spend too much time on a reprimand. Spending too much time on a reprimand only leads to confusion and eventually them shutting down on you. Keep in mind like I said in the first paragraph there are many ways to solve a chewing problem, this is just one. There is no handbook for dog training, just figuring out the equation for what works on your dog and their particular issue. Progress is what dog training is. When we train and see no progress we move onto to another method. When we DO see progress we continue on until the issue is solved. Remember like I always say: Be consistent. Giving up on the animal is plain and simple neglect. Also keep in mind dog training happens at the speed of life not the speed of light. Conditioning an animal takes time. Time is what allows the dog to retain the information for life and eventually become a well trained dog so take the time and train them. Try this out yourself and let me know how it goes.

If we want to learn anything about their offspring, we must review certain genetic facts and statistics beforehand. This is the dog that carries it. The Bichon Frise looks like a vanilla cupcake or cream puff with a height of 9 — 12 inches 23 — 30 cm and a weight of 6. It has an affectionate, playful, and cheerful temperament, with a slice of feistiness and sensitivity on the side. The primary health concerns to look out for are epilepsy, White Shaker Syndrome which causes the dog to shake uncontrollably , and dyskinesia — a type of movement disorder. But the vet will be able to make a proper diagnosis. A healthy Bichon Frise has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Brief Overview Of The Poodle Poodles of all sizes toy , mini, and standard have two universal crowd-pleasing traits. The height and weight of a Poodle can be broken down into three categories. Across the mini, toy, and standard growth charts, the height fluctuates between 9 — 24 inches 21 — 61 cm. The weight between 6 — 60 pounds 3 — 27 kg. All sizes are intelligent, active, and faithful, and live between 12 years. Like the Bichon Frise, the Poodle may suffer from epilepsy at some point in its life. It may also experience the following health issues. The Poodle and the Bichon Frise have identical lifespans, so their offspring are predicted to live between 12 — 15 years as well. A full-grown Bichon Poodle should be about 9 to 15 inches cm tall at the withers with a weight of 6 — 17 pounds 3 — 8 kg. The Bichpoo can also be found in cream, black, blue, and apricot. There are certain arguments in life that will never be settled. Blonde vs. When it comes to dogs, there is no definitive, black and white answer. There will always be at least one exception. Although, the point of cross-breeding is to eliminate certain health concerns. So, what predictions can we make about hybrid dogs? The first generation of the Bichon Poodle Mix is healthier than its parent breeds. The second generation is not as healthy as the first, and any issues that arise in round two will most likely carry on in round three and so forth. With alert and active parents, the Poochon will be no different. This mix needs daily exercise preferably outside for at least 30 minutes. It has a lot of energy to burn. Keep in mind that mental and physical stimulation are different, and the Bichon Poodle Mix needs both. A bored Bichpoo will bark and whine or turn your shoes into a chew toy of its own with your permission. OK, we get it. The Bichpoo is smart, but can it be taught to play dead? Or roll over? Or give a high-5? And Yes. This breed is capable of learning a solid amount of tricks. Just make sure to have plenty of treats on-hand for positive reinforcement. Watch how well this Bichpoo gives its owner a high-5 and pay attention to how she rewards her dog! Every breed comes with at least one trait we wish we could alter. This comes from the Poodle side. If your Bichon Poodle Mix is not socialized at an early age, it can develop separation anxiety when left alone for hours. The Bichpoo can show moments of mild aggression around unfamiliar dogs. The Bichon Poodle is a loving companion for adults, children, and strangers, which makes it one of the best family dogs. Haircuts every two months are a necessity to keep its coat tame. If that sounds like too much responsibility or money, you can shave your Bichpoo in the summertime. Its coat causes minimal shedding, which makes it a good option for owners with allergies or who want a clean house. The last part of grooming requires occasional teeth brushing to keep mouth infections at bay. Bichon Poodle owner Sandy Rothra recommends feeding your mix canned dog food because it contains a higher percentage of meat protein. This counts for all dog breeds: if your pup gets sick with a kidney or heart issue, you will need to change its diet. You should never feed any dog chocolate, onions, grapes, and raisins. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Poochons have high energy and are prone to weight gain. Make sure your dog gets frequent walks and play sessions through out the day. If you keep a hanky near by to wipe their eyes when they get moist, it can help minimize the tear stains that their breed is prone to getting. Multiple dogs sometimes clean each others eyes, but dogs typically do not clean their own eyes. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking loudly against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Poochon Feeding An ideal Poochon diet should be formulated for a small breed with moderate to 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. The main colors of Poochons are cream, tan, and apricot. Usually their coats are solid, and sometimes they have blend of colors. Less common colors are black or grey. Both parent breeds are high maintenance when it comes to grooming, and you can expect the same from the Poochon. These pups will most likely require daily brushing along with shampooing every few weeks with a mild product and monthly grooming. Poochons are prone to tear stains. If you decide to adopt a Poochon, keep a cloth tissue on hand to dab their eyes regularly. It helps manage the tear staining quite a bit. Poochon Children And Other Pets Poochons adore kids and families and the endless noise and commotion that comes with them. However, because the Poochon is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. 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. The Poochon enjoys the company of other dogs, as long as they receive their fair share of attention from their owner. Since Poochons have a social nature, a family with lots of animals could be ideal. For an active, social person, the Poochon could be your perfect co-pilot for life. Poochon Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Poochons because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Poodle or Bichon Frise breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Low History of the Poochon The history of the poochon is not well recorded. Purebred dogs have been bred for generations following a special blueprint called the breed standard, which is the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed. The breed standard is what gives purebred dogs predictable height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament. The poochon is a hybrid and not a purebred dog, so it does not have a breed standard and it is not standardized. This means that there is a lot of variation in the way individual poochons might look and act. A poochon that is a cross between a purebred bichon frise and a purebred poodle might look more like a bichon or more like a poodle, or could look different from both breeds. That said, these parent breeds are more similar than different, both in looks and temperament, so poochons are likely to look and act in a similar manner to the parent breeds. Some might question the reasoning behind breeding together such similar breeds. Crossbred puppies have the potential of inheriting congenital diseases and disorders present in both parent breeds. The poochon is not recognized by any of the purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. What Is a Designer Dog Breed? Poochon Care Grooming requirements for the poochon are the same as those for the bichon frise and poodle. The curly, dense coat of the poochon sheds very little or not at all, but daily brushing or brushing every other day is necessary to remove loose hair from the coat and prevent matting. Grooming Poochons with undercoats likely need more frequent brushing than poochons with single coats. Like their parent breeds, poochons need haircuts from a professional groomer every four to eight weeks. Clean the ears with a pet safe ear cleaner if they look dirty. If you see excessive dirt or redness in the ears, or if your poochon is shaking its head or scratching at the ears, schedule a veterinary visit. Exercise Both parent breeds of the poochon are lively and energetic, but poochons are small enough to get enough exercise through one or two daily walks plus playtime with you inside or outdoors. Some poochons are athletic and might enjoy training for dog sports like agility and flyball. Training Like the bichon and poodle, poochons are extremely smart and trainable. Bichons were once famous as circus dogs performing charming tricks, and poodles are considered one of the smartest breeds. Poochons respond readily to positive training methods like clicker training along with tasty treats and other food rewards. Most purebred dogs have specific inherited health issues common to the breed. Crossing bichons with poodles means that poochon puppies are at risk of inheriting any of the genetic diseases found in either breed. The bichon frise is prone to:. Lifespan Sociability Bich-Poos need a significant amount of attention and care as puppies and often grow into dogs that never care to be alone. Most live for around 14 years, but some can get as old as 18! They need light exercise each day making them great dogs for moderately active families. Keep reading the Bich-Poos full care guide to know what type of food, exercise, and grooming they need to grow into happy and healthy dogs. Bichon Frise inspired a new word in French. The lavish treatment these pups received at the hands of nobles and royals inspired a whole new French verb: bichonner, to pamper. Miniature Poodles have hair, not fur. Unlike most dogs, all the variations of Poodle have hair and not fur. That means they are hypoallergenic, their hair never stops growing, and it can even be turned into dreadlocks. This fluffy hair has historically been clipped short on most of the body but kept fluffy in patches to keep vital organs and joints warm when splashing through ice-cold water on a job. No one can decide on a name for the Bich-Poo. Everyone seems to have an opinion on, or their own name for, this hybrid of the Bichon Frise and Miniature Poodle. These people-oriented little dogs are happiest when they can be around their owner and family as often as possible. They get along well with most children and are friendly with everyone they meet. These companionable lapdogs are also incredibly bright! They learn tricks and obedience training with alacrity and are known for their performative nature. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Bich-Poos are affectionate, sensitive, and genuinely love being around people. They are great with children of all ages and make wonderful playmates for older kids. Do note, however, that children should initially be supervised with a small dog like the Bich-Poo. Kids and dog should get some socialization and learn mutual respect before solo playtime. They have very little hunting instinct, so even relations with cats should go smoothly. It would still be prudent not to try introducing your bunny to your Bich-Poo, however. Even something as innocent as a playful puppy can be too much for small pets and prey animals. As any prey animals knows, better to be overly cautious than dead! Firstly, stick to lean proteins like fowl, fish, and eggs. Avoid fatty meats and excessive grains. Another way to keep your Bich-Poo trim and fit is to break their food portion up into multiple feeding times per day. For bright pups like the Bich-Poo, it can be fun and exciting to add a little variety to the usual meal. Try serving their kibble with a side of cooked, unseasoned pumpkin in the autumn. Or a cool wedge of melon for the summer heat. Occasional departure from the culinary norm can really perk a pup up and be healthy for the body and mind! Depending on how much indoor play they can get, a Bich-Poo may only need 30 minutes of truly vigorous exercise every day. Bich-Poos will enjoy being included in any activity because they love spending time with their people. Beyond the usual walks and fetch try taking them for a hike or excursion every week to keep them both mentally and physically stimulated. If left alone or cooped up Bich-Poos, like many dogs, will begin to develop bad behavior to get your attention. Be on the lookout for signs that your Bich-Poo is bored or under-stimulated such as excessive barking or yappiness, whining, chewing on inappropriate items, rooting through the trash, or neurotic behavior like tail chasing. But have no fear, because the Bich-Poo is also one of the most trainable little dogs around! They are fast learners and incredibly eager to please. After all, training is just one more way they can spend time hanging out with their favorite people! Their hair can grow with remarkable speed and reach lengths Rapunzel could only dream of. That kind of luster and length requires significant attention to keep it from becoming matted and tangled. For those uninterested in long grooming sessions multiple times a week you can always go the close-cropped, routinely trimmed route for a truly low maintenance coat. Bich-Poos will also need regular teeth cleaning, ear swabbing, and toenail trimming to stay healthy and looking great. Start cleaning your Bich-Poos teeth as a puppy and ease them into this particularly invasive care regimen so that they will be happy to allow your help polishing their pearly whites throughout their life. Similarly, regular toenail clipping can avoid painful splintering and cracking. They are much less likely to develop most of the ailments common to the Bichon Frise and the Miniature Poodle, but here is a good look at the conditions which may pose issues for your Bich-Poo. Minor Conditions. What Is the History of Bichon Poodles? In order to understand what a poochon might be like, we need to know more about the history of the bichon frise and the poodle. The bichon frise hails from Tenerife in the Canary Islands and was popular among the nobility of France, Spain, and Italy from about the 13th century onward. After the French Revolution in , these little dogs lost their noble benefactors. They ended up performing tricks, first as street performers, then in circuses. Just like bichon frises, poodles found popularity amongst French nobility and even spent some time in European circuses. However, their roots have nothing to do with luxury or the performing arts. Instead, poodles were duck hunters that originated in Germany. Even today, standard poodles are used for hunting fowl. As for the bichon poodle, this mix cropped up around the late s in Australia. It is believed that breeders were attempting to create an active but affectionate pet that would make a wonderful companion for families with kids. Though poodles come in three sizes, only miniature and toy poodles are typically chosen to mate with bichon frises. Poochons are small dogs with long curly hair often clipped short , fluffy tails, and cute button noses. They can come in various colors, but some of the most popular are apricot, cream, white, and red. Most bichpoos will be toy to miniature sized. What Size Is a Bichon Poodle? Bichon poodles are 9 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 17 pounds on average. Bichpoos with a toy poodle parent are more likely to be on the smaller side of this scale, whereas those with a miniature poodle parent may be on the larger end of this range. Both bichon frises and poodles have hair that is curly and grows long. Therefore, you can expect the same from a bichon poodle mix. Bichon poodles are happy-go-lucky dogs that see everyone as their friend. They make lovely family pets as they are great with children and enjoy activity and play. Bichpoos are very affectionate with their families and enjoy cuddling and being petted. Are Bichon Poodles Affectionate? Bichon frises were bred to be companion dogs, and poodles are known to be affectionate toward their families. Therefore, you can expect a mix of the two to be an absolutely loving dog. If you want a dog you can cuddle with; there is a high chance that a bichpoo will want to cuddle with you, too. They are wonderful little lapdogs who welcome physical touch. Bichon poodles are also quite friendly toward strangers. In fact, they tend to view everyone as friends and are quick to warm up to new people. This mixed breed is both gentle and playful. That said, it is important to always supervise kids and dogs. Because the bichon poodle is diminutive, children must be taught how to safely handle and respect this breed so as not to cause injury. While bichon frises have a low prey drive, the same cannot be said of the poodle, who was originally bred for hunting. So it would not be a total surprise should they enjoy chasing squirrels in the yard. If you have small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or the like, be aware of the possibility that a bichpoo may see them as prey. Socializing a bichon poodle mix puppy with small animals can help, but it is recommended that you exercise caution if you decide to keep small pets in a home with a bichpoo. Though small animals may be out, other dogs are not. Bichon poodles tend to be quite friendly toward fellow dogs. Are Bichon Poodles Aggressive? Though it is possible for any dog of any breed to become aggressive, this is definitely not the norm for the bichon poodle. This breed is generally very friendly and happy-go-lucky toward everyone they meet. Fear can be a cause of aggression. Do Bichon Poodles Bark a Lot? Bichon poodles are not known for being quiet. How much a dog barks will vary by individual, but it is not uncommon for bichpoos to bark a lot. This may not make them the best option if you live in an apartment with noise restrictions. However, if you are dedicated to putting in the effort, you can teach them to bark less. This training can work especially well if you start it during puppyhood, but training at any age can still be effective. Are Bichon Poodles Intelligent? Bichon Poodles are very smart little dogs. Poodles themselves are considered one of the smartest dog breeds, and we know that bichons frises are more than capable of learning complex tricks — after all, they did spend time in the circus! So a dog born of these two intelligent breeds is likely to be a smarty-pants. Are Bichon Poodles Easy to Train? Training is a joy when you have an intelligent dog that enjoys learning. This is definitely true of the bichon poodle. These little dogs are eager to please as they love receiving praise and treats from their favorite people. Because they are smart, they can also learn a plethora of interesting cues, including complicated tricks. We always recommend that dog owners take their pups to a training class of some sort because it keeps you on task with your training, allows you to ask questions, provides socialization, and offers a new or distracting environment for your dog to learn in. However, the bichon poodle is relatively easy to train, so hiring a professional trainer, while helpful, is not necessary. Similarly, you do not need to be an experienced trainer to successfully teach your bichon poodle new skills. Do your research, be clear and consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques. Respect your dog and remember that training should be fun, and your bichpoo will be trained before you know it. Are Bichon Poodles Energetic? The bichon poodle is considered a high-energy breed, which is no surprise since one of their parents, the poodle, was originally bred for hunting. You should definitely walk a poochon daily as well as engage in play. Bichon poodles will enjoy a romp around a yard but are also happy to play indoors. Most bichon poodles are satisfied with about an hour of exercise per day. If your poochon seems bored, then you may need to provide even more exercise. Aside from their barking habits, bichon poodles can be a great option for apartment living. They can easily get their exercise via walks or even indoor games on rainy days. Are Bichon Poodles Good Watchdogs? A bichon poodle will alert you to the presence of someone at the door or anything else they find out of place. For this reason, they can be considered good watchdogs. However, they are very friendly toward strangers and, of course, are quite small, so they cannot offer you much more than a four-legged alarm system. Bichon poodles are too small to fit every service niche for instance, they could not guide the blind , but they can make for talented service dogs in general. Their loving, affectionate nature would also make them a great option for someone who is looking to get an emotional support animal. For those who want to bring joy to others, a bichon poodle would likely excel as a therapy dog because they tend to be quite friendly and do well with children and adults. How to Care for a Bichon Poodle The bichon poodle usually requires visits to a groomer every four to six weeks to have their coat clipped. Otherwise, they require brushing at least weekly and should have their ears checked for infection regularly. Perhaps the most vital care for a bichon poodle is dental care. You must brush their teeth every single day. This is because the bichon poodle is predisposed to periodontal disease, and it is not uncommon for this breed to lose teeth because of it. This is because the bacteria growing in an unhealthy mouth can spread, often leading to systemic issues in the heart, kidneys, or liver. As their hair grows back out, you should brush even more frequently to prevent matting. Mats make it difficult for groomers to give the dog a neat clip, and severe matting is painful. Bathing once a month is enough for a poochon, but you can also choose to bathe as needed. Do Bichon Poodles Shed? The bichon poodle mix is a minimal shedder. This is because their hair grows long and continuously. This cycle of growth can take years, which is why the breed is considered low shedding and hypoallergenic. What Should a Bichon Poodle Eat? Bichon poodles should eat the highest quality small breed dog food you can afford. The best dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines, are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, and undergo feeding trials. To determine how much to feed your bichon poodle, check the guidelines on your preferred dog food. Bichon poodles are at risk for all the same diseases for which poodles and bichon frises are at risk. Though these health risks may seem scary, there are ways to increase your chances of getting a healthy pup who will live a long, happy life. The best option is to get your bichon poodle puppy from a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs. These health tests ensure that the parent dogs do not have any identifiable diseases that could be passed on to the offspring. Responsible breeders not only health test their dogs but are also more than willing to share the results with potential adopters. Poodles live between 10 and 18 years whereas bichon frises live about 14 to 15 years. Therefore, you can expect a bichpoo to have a similar lifespan. Are Bichon Poodles Expensive? Your recurring monthly expenses for a bichpoo will mostly consist of grooming and food. How to Find a Bichon Poodle Breeder? What are your credentials? You should learn about how long the breeder has been in business and how familiar they are with bichon poodles. Have the parent animals undergone health testing? Ask to see these tests. Can I see where the dogs are kept? Can I meet the parent? How do you socialize your puppies? Socialization is important for puppies to become friendly and confident. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations? Do you offer a health guarantee with a contract? Some breeders guarantee the health of their puppies: should your puppy come down with a serious illness early on, the breeder may offer to reimburse the purchase price of the dog or even take the puppy back. This will also help you avoid irresponsible breeders. What do you require of potential adopters? Many breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to homes where they will be treated well and kept for life. Therefore, breeders may ask a number of questions about you, your situation, and your experience as a dog owner. Can You Adopt a Bichon Poodle? These shelters typically rescue mixes of their designated breeds. You should also keep an eye on small breed rescues. Are Bichon Poodles Purebred? Bichon poodles are not purebred. Rather, they are the offspring of two purebred dogs: the poodle and the bichon frise. Some bichon poodles may also have two bichon poodle parents. Can You Show Bichon Poodles? Unfortunately, only purebred dogs are allowed to be shown. This is partly because purebreds have a set standard for how each breed should look and be proportioned. No such standard exists for mixed breeds like the bichon poodle, so they cannot participate in dog shows. The bichon poodle would make a great first dog for a new dog owner. The bichon poodle is a wonderful dog with many desirable traits. The Bichon poodle may be right for you if: You want a dog you can cuddle with. You have children and want a family dog. You want a dog that has low-maintenance grooming needs. It is considered a designer dog breed. The mix originated in Australia and started appearing in the late s. The goal was to breed a low or non-shedding dog that was sturdy and active with a temperament for families with children. The Bich-Poo is charming, affectionate, highly intelligent, and eager to please. They tend to get along well with other pets and with children, which makes them a great fit for families. Bich-Poos are also alert watchdogs. They can be prone to excessive barking, but training and socialization as a puppy can curb this tendency. Although they will alert you as a watchdog, they are more interested in making friends, so will not make a good guard dog. Bich-Poos are highly adaptable. They do well in apartments or larger homes as long as they get enough exercise and fit right in with families with children, other pets, or both. They do well in most climates and, as with most dog breeds, caution should be taken with extreme heat or cold. With this first generation cross, many of the health issues associated with the parent breeds are often not a concern. However, there is always the potential for inherited issues. Some of the potential breed-related health concerns are allergies, patella luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Because they are a small dog breed, they are also prone to breaks and fractures if dropped. This designer dog breed tends to be highly intelligent. That, paired with their eagerness to please their owner, makes them quick learners and fairly easy to train. They tend to be a good fit for owners of any experience level. Novice owners may want to enroll in obedience and training classes to ensure training and socialization is going as it should. A professional trainer can also help you put a plan in place to eliminate any potential issues with separation anxiety or the nipping that can become a common fear or anxiety response in small dogs. A Bich-Poo will often have a soft and curly coat. If their coat takes on Poodle properties, then it will be low-shedding and hypoallergenic. Common coat colors are typically light, like white or apricot, but can appear in other colors like tan, brown, black, or gray. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks is also a good idea for a healthy coat. You will also want to trim their nails monthly and clean their eyes and ears regularly. Although small, these dogs are robust and energetic. They tend to have bouts of high energy and require regular exercise throughout the day. Although they are active dogs, moderate levels of exercise will be enough to tire them out. Regular exercise, like daily walks and active playtime, will help immensely when your pup gets a sudden spike of energy and starts racing. Some of their energy bursts can seem endless, but, due to their smaller size, they do tend to tire quickly, so these bouts of energy will likely be on the shorter side. After that, your Bich-Poo will likely be ready for a nap and some cuddles. Keeping your dog well-exercised and engaged is key. A bored dog is one that can become restless and start to whine, chew, or bark. This designer dog breed usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between pounds. A Bichpoo will generally live between years. Featured Bich-poo Article.

We have the answers! What is the price range for a Boxer? The price range for Boxer puppies for sale Florida can be pretty wide. Breeders consider a number of factors when putting a price tag on their precious puppies including gender, coat color, and pedigree. Browse our featured Boxer breeders Florida to get started. Will I meet only local Boxer breeders? When looking for a Boxer for sale in Florida, your initial top choices will be breeders in your city or state. Your chosen breeder can then arrange to have your puppy safely transported to an airport near you. Our vetting process is designed to keep inexperienced breeders and puppy mills out of our network. Breeders and businesses who wish to join us undergo a strict screening process where their breeding knowledge, practices, and facilities are examined. How is Florida Puppies different from other puppy websites? They are good at marketing though! What is a puppy mill like? Puppy mills are dishonest breeders who mistreat their animals and forego essential newborn puppy care to make a bigger profit. Are there any Boxer puppies available in Florida right now? We can help you find out! You can also let us know if you have a specific Boxer puppy in mind! Where are Boxer dogs originally from? Boxers have quite an interesting history that dates back to the late s. It is still up for speculation which specific breeds were crossed to create the Boxer but the list includes the German Bullenbeisser and the Bulldog. The Boxer was created to be a guard dog, a role that it took upon with great success. Today, Boxers do police work but are also popular family dogs. What can I expect from the average Boxer? Boxers are energetic, alert, even-tempered, loyal, loving, and goofy. Boxers are smart and can be trained to do almost anything but keep in mind that they mature slowly -- they are basically puppies until the age of three! As a family dog, Boxers will do anything to protect their family and they are also known to be gentle with kids. How big do Boxers get? Boxers are medium-sized working dogs that can reach a weight of 70 pounds. Male Boxers usually stand at inches at the shoulder while female boxers can reach up to .They are muscular, sturdy, and quite quick. How does Florida Puppies work? Florida Puppies is a network of ethical breeders and businesses and your best source for finding Boxer puppies in Florida. Boxers's Available! Rescued, and still Counting! Ready to Help a Boxer in Need? When taking a dog into the program, they sometimes need a temporary home while in search of their perfect "FURever" home. Fostering a Boxer helps give a dog a healthy start and a new leash on life. Old Dogs, New Tricks.Everyone loves puppies but older dogs deserve attention too. Our silver Boxers don't let a little gray hair get in the way of loving life and are fabulous loyal companions. Consider adding a senior to your family! Seeking a New Best Friend? One who is goofy, playful and makes you laugh? One who is loyal and happy just being with you? One who will love you unconditionally and provide comfort when needed? With so many dogs in need of homes, you're bound to find the perfect Boxer. See Our Available Dogs! Florida Boxer Rescue is always in need of volunteers. Are you thinking about fostering a Boxer in need? Fostering is the most rewarding experience you can imagine. The number of dogs we save is limited by the number of foster homes we have - please help us to save all that we can

We take our time to understand your needs regarding your future furbaby, and its here waiting to go home with you. French Bulldog Breeder in Boston, MA The most ethical french bulldog breeder in Boston We are re-defining the pet store, with transparency and a focus on socialization, health, and temperament. Just as people want to know where their food comes from, so should they know exactly where that Blue french bulldog puppy for sale near you came from as well. By fostering proper socialization, we reduce transitional shock and encourage stability, ensuring your new Frenchie becomes a loving, well-adjusted companion. .So we offer the strongest Health Gaurantee in the industry. To read more about where why you should never chose a frenchie from a faceless entity. If this decision is important to you, then stick around and learn more about our French Bulldog program and the various colors and personalities we produce. Also check out our Education blog before taking home your puppy to ensure that you are well prepared. If you are looking for the best quality French Bulldog Puppy Breeders In Massachusetts state , then you are in the right place! I have listed them down based on their Frenchie pedigree, breeding philosophy, breeding history, a customer review. You will get to know better about them as you read through the following descriptions. I made this list of Frenchie breeders based on the information I found on google. I have done some research to find out the best breeder possible just for you. And still researching to find out more about other quality breeders. Finally I made a list of the top 8 reputable French Bulldog breeders in Massachusetts who offer you the best quality puppy possible. All of the breeders have their own breeding style, philosophy and story. Hope the following Frenchie breeder list will make it easier for you to choose a good breeder. They take pride in providing you with a healthy, happy puppy that will be with you for many coming years. Stacked Bulldogs started French Bulldog breeding program with a mindset to the preservation of this breed. They are specialized in producing standard and rare colored French Bulldogs. Stacked Bulldogs 1st priority is to raise healthy, well socialized Frenchie babies with cheerful temperament for you that is friendly and outgoing. Stacked Bulldogs only use quality studs and females to give you a better quality puppy. They only have limited planned breeding and only have one to two litters a year. So be fast to order your desired puppy. Your puppy comes with- One year health guarantee. Socialization training. Puppy pedigree, puppy care guide. Puppy starter kit. Breeder support for life. If you are interested in having a puppy from them be sure to contact them fast to know more about their puppies. You can also give a visit to their website to see the puppy pictures. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. As one of the healthiest states to live in, Massachusetts prides itself on its greeneries, quality of life, and family activities that you could do with your loved ones. This is definitely the best state to live with your family and another one to the group, which can be a pet to take care of and love. A french bulldog is smart, fun-loving, and jolly, you could definitely take these cute pups out for a walk while breezing in the fresh air of Massachusetts. Here in Smiling bulldogs, we have compiled a list of the best French Bulldog breeders in Massachusetts to house in a Frenchie that will surely be the sunshine of your daily life! The Fox Hill Farm prides in Frenchies who will truly complete your family and give love and care to its owners. They strive to breed the most beautiful Frenchies with superior health and phenomenal temperaments. These dog enthusiasts have been breeding, raising, and training dogs for over 20 years. They also guarantee our dogs for life. A lot of careful planning went into producing each litter and the bloodlines, health, and confirmation points of each dog have been carefully assessed. The owners behind Cape Cod French Bulldogs enjoy the relationships they have built with their buyers and the happy endings that follow. Their French Bulldogs are home raised and treated as their own family. We have answers. The prices of French Bulldog puppies for sale in Boston depend on many factors including color, coat, pedigree, and experience of the breeder. Finding the best Frenchie puppy for you is made easier through Uptown because we match you not only with puppies within your area but also within your price range. What kind of dog is a French Bulldog? The French Bulldog is a lovable breed designed to be a faithful companion to its master. They are short, cuddly, and have adorable faces that are impossible not to smooch. French Bulldogs are cousins to English Bulldogs and were intentionally bred to be smaller while retaining the best traits of its bigger cousin. Why are Boston French Bulldogs so expensive? Unknown to many, French Bulldogs are difficult to successfully breed. Because of their narrow hips, these dogs need to be artificially inseminated in order to get pregnant and need to undergo a C-section to deliver the puppies. The medical expertise needed to produce a healthy litter is what makes them pricey. Will I be matched only with French Bulldog breeders in Massachusetts? The Uptown Puppies network spans 48 states and you are allowed to find the best Frenchie for you beyond your area! French Bulldog breeders and businesses with Uptown are knowledgeable about transporting puppies into their new homes -- even if that means traveling to another state! You can arrange for pick up at the closest airport or you can travel to their kennels if you prefer. What is the screening process for French Bulldog breeders in Boston? Our vetting process means verifying always have ethical breeding practices and quality healthcare. Breeders and businesses accepted into the network are required to make a legally binding pledge. These two types of businesses often produce sickly puppies that are not up the breed standard. Uptown Puppies is dedicated to helping families find a healthy French Bulldog puppy that was bred ethically. What is a puppy mill like for French Bulldog puppies in Massachusetts? A puppy mill spends as little money as it can to produce as many litters of puppies as often as possible. As a consequence, French Bulldog puppies that come from puppy mills are often plagued with health issues that are difficult to treat, as well as dangerous behavioral problems. Fixing these issues can be quite costly and stressful for pet owners. Are there any French Bulldog puppies in Boston right now? Uptown Puppies is the easiest way to find your ideal Frenchie puppy in the Boston area.

Temperament Upcoming Litters We are so excited about the litters we have coming up, and we think you will be too! We are forming our deposit and wait list for these litters now. Don't wait because these list fill up fast! Please click below to see what litters we have coming. As always, I'm only a call or text away, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. We can help with that!! We allow our families to share delivery cost, so this makes our reasonable delivery cost even more reasonable and within reach for families who may have struggled with the whole cost without having another family to share that cost with them. It allows us a break from the norm, a nice road trip and meeting our wonderful families in person! The maps above are some of the routes we had with our summer litters, as you can see, these are long trips, so if you think you may be too far, just check with us, we also offer flight nanny services when possible. This service is a bit pricier but is a good option for people who may actually be too far to drive, like our west coast families. Learn More Call or text me at Let us take some of the stress off of you and let us deliver or meet you halfway! Of course, you are always welcome to visit, but we know not all of our families have that option. Call or text me for a quote. This breed stole my heart when I was gifted my first Golden Retriever for my 18th birthday by my parents and my then boyfriend now husband of 12 years. It has been a long road but over the last sixteen years we have learned so much about ourselves and this wonderful breed. Our breeding program is now a family affair as I am a stay at home mother with three children; ages 9, 7 and 5 months, who want to help with the puppies as often as they can! We take time to genetically test our parent dogs for genetic conditions that could affect their breed. We do this so we can confidently offer healthy puppies to our families because we want you to love your new family for a very long time to come! We try to help make this happen by ensuring your puppy has been well socialized, your puppy has been raised in an environment that is clean and conducive with making potty training easier once your new puppy is home and we try to take some burden off by offering to meet halfway or deliver for a reasonable fee when needed. Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, and helpful pet advice. Sign up. Share 0 Shares Everyone knows what a Golden Retriever is and how adorable they are! They are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the USA and are known to be loyal, loving, caring, and just a bundle of joy! There are three types of Golden Retrievers — English, Canadian and American with colors ranging from golden, lightly golden, and dark golden. Besides different types of Goldens and their colors, there are also some differences between how male acts and a female acts. Also, the size and temperament of the two can differ slightly. I have linked an article about the differences between a male and female Golden if you are interested in checking it out. To bring home the perfect Golden Retrieve means that you need the perfect breeder. It is important to find a breeder who focuses on the health, longevity, and temperament of their dogs. The Golden Retriever puppies should also be well socialized before going to their forever home and be screened for genetic hereditary problems including hip and elbow problems. Make sure their Goldens are also AKC registered as well! If you are interested in buying a Golden Retriever puppy in Alabama, here are the most reputable Golden Retriever breeders in this state. She first started breeding in with a very beautiful French import, Touch of Silk thus Silkspun who lived on to the ripe age of .Since then, she has been fortunate enough to be able to import, show and breed lovely examples of English-type Goldens with great temperaments. Because of this, she has some of the best Silkspun families all over the United States! Each litter is bred with great intention, with regards to health, temperament, and pedigree for healthy future bloodlines! All dogs are tested for health defects including DNA testing. She welcomes calls and home visits when set up in advance and there is a screening process to ensure proper homes for future pups that include a questionnaire, and phone calls and visits, if possible. There are loved by the community and have 5-star reviews on Facebook! One owner loves Laurie and her dogs so much that she bought two at the same time and is looking for a third puppy soon! She is very helpful and will walk you through the steps of becoming a new parent and is dedicated to making sure the puppies are well behaved and loved. Name of Owner. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Alabama Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Alabama? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Alabama? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Young labs are the Energizer bunnies of canines. They have boundless energy and seem like puppies for a longer time than many other breeds. But they do eventually calm down. And how you can deal with his energy throughout his youth. Labrador Purpose and Types Labrador retrievers are friendly dogs who love everyone—human and canine alike. No doubt that they make great family companions. They have boundless energy and were bred to work. They were originally bred to help with hunting and fishing and were tireless workers even in the icy waters of Newfoundland, Canada. Labs currently are also used in hunting, to flush and retrieve game. So their origins and current abilities demonstrate that the breed is still energetic in line with its heritage. There is one recognized labrador breed. Even though there is no official distinction, lab aficionados recognize two types of labs : the American lab and the English lab. The American labrador is leaner and was bred to work whereas the English type has a stockier build and is bred for the conformation ring. Because of their breeding, the American type generally is more energetic. If bored, they can become destructive. So you wonder when your tireless, bouncing lab will calm down. Most dogs noticeably calm down between 18 and 24 months old. Generally, smaller dogs calm down at a younger age than larger breeds. Labrador retrievers are a slow-maturing breed. But they will start to show more self-control in the home around two years old. A healthy lab will still have bursts of energy then and even later in life and may do zoomies around your family room. And most labs will still have a lot of energy, exuberance, and enthusiasm until four or five years old. But your pup will have more innate impulse control than he previously had and he will noticeably have less excess energy. Based on our experience, our first black Lab, Stetson began to calm down at around 2 years old. Our current black Lab, Elsa is almost 3 years old and still a ball of energy! Stages of Development As is true with any breed, a lab passes through various stages of development as he reaches maturity. During the first six months, the lab is truly a puppy. He will become increasingly independent and ignore known commands. Between six and 18 months, your lab is an adolescent. He will be full of energy, boisterous, and exuberant and will keep learning new things and socializing with new people, animals, environments, and experiences. By 12 months old , your lab will reach his full adult height. And he will add muscle and fat to his frame and will fill out between 18 and 24 months old. Then he will appear as an adult, not a gangly adolescent. But appearances can be deceiving. Although he may look like an adult, he still needs to develop emotionally and mentally. So he may engage in many unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing and destroying items, jumping on people, and pulling on clothes. After all, they can be dangerous to your lab and others. If he inadvertently ingests something, a vet visit will be in order. And jumping around people can knock them down like bowling pins. But also challenging. These practices will help your lab calm down. Physical Exercise Make sure that your lab has enough daily exercise. This can be a few long walks and some retrieving. Or even using a flirt pole can help. Labs generally love water, so having them swim can be a great way to dispel excess energy. Most will be natural swimmers. Stetson really disliked water and many of the other guide dog pups refused to swim in the pool. Second, we are taught not to allow our guide dog pups to go swimming anytime they feel like it. They are only allowed in the pool if we give them the okay. Just a few thoughts. And doing other activities can help. These include hunting with your lab, field trials, tracking, dock diving, agility, obedience, rally, and flyball. Mental Exercise Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise in releasing excess energy from your lab. It also helps expand his mind. After all, labs are intelligent dogs who need a job and want to work alongside their people. Have him explore puzzle toys. There are many, ranging from easy to more difficult. I set up various puzzle toys for my dogs and, after exploring them, my pups are happily tired and ready for a nap. Obedience Training Training helps communicate with your lab and sets forth behavior rules that he should follow. Manners training also helps with impulse control and calmer behavior. They should be small, no larger than a pea. Always have your reward treats ready before giving your obedience cue. Using a special treat such as small pieces of cheese or boiled, deboned chicken can help a dog have a positive association with something. At a minimum, you should teach your lab to do the following on cue : pay attention, come when called, walk on a loose leash, sit, lie down, leave it, stay, give and drop items, and be quiet. And teaching tricks such as spin or wave can also help. Socialization Socializing your lab is important throughout his life. Labs are naturally inquisitive, outgoing dogs and love to meet new people and friendly dogs. So take your dog out to new places to have new experiences. I teach this after a dog has had some physical exercise such as a walk or session playing fetch. You always want to set your dog up to succeed. I often use my rescued Aussie mix Millie as an example of why impulse control exercises are so important. Teach a place command. Teaching your dog to go to a place, such as a bed, and to lie down and stay there can help him calm down. First decide where the bed will be located. Gradually increase your criteria for when he will get rewarded. After he will readily go stand onto the bed without the lure, praise and reward him for remaining there for longer periods of time. When he knows the commands sit, down, and stay, you can have him perform those behaviors on the bed. Teach sit, down, stay, and leave it. These obedience commands are essential for any impulse control program. After your lab knows these basic commands, you can start adding distractions so that he will be reliable in any setting. And you can then use them in everyday life. Have him sit before releasing him to eat his food and before exiting a door or crossing a street. And have him sit before other activities too such as putting on or removing his leash and harness. Have him leave the rabbit that he wants to reach while on his walks. Capture and reward calm behavior. So have treats ready around the house out of reach from your dog. The goal is to have him naturally perform desirable behaviors. You can play this same game with a flirt pole. Teach a polite greeting. Teaching a dog to greet people calmly is a great way to enforce impulse control. And labs are so naturally friendly, they may be too boisterous when naturally greeting people. First do the training sessions with people your dog knows. This exercise is great for labs, as they are usually so friendly and want to greet everyone face-to-face. You can start out with your dog safely tethered on a six-foot lead to a solid object while wearing a harness. You approach. If your dog begins to jump, turn around and walk away. After a few times, your pup should offer to sit. Instead, you want your dog to think what behavior we want and to repeat it. You can also do a separate training exercise where you are holding the leash as someone approaches and you tell your dog to sit. If your lab goes to jump, the person should turn and walk away. As the person approaches, cue your dog to sit. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Play a TV or white noise machine. Instead, be present to redirect him to a desirable behavior. Reward calm behavior. If you seem too excited, your lab will feed off that energy. And his excitedness will probably be off the charts. So try to keep a calm voice around him. If you wave your arms around or use a high-pitched tone, your lab will probably become so boisterous that it would be very hard for him to calm down. There are many holistic aids that can help a dog to calm down. A ThunderShirt correctly used can help alleviate stress and anxiety. And there are calming tabs and Rescue Remedy that can be ingested to help a dog be serene. Always check with your vet first before giving anything to your dog that he needs to consume. There are specific techniques described in the Tellington Touch that can help your pup relax. Even though you should see your lab become calmer over time, it will take two to four years for him to noticeably calm down. Instead, meet his exercise and training needs. He still acts like a puppy. Is this normal? Labs are a slow-maturing breed and, even though they may begin to appear as adults, they still are really puppies at heart. Your lab will become mentally mature between two and four years of age and will noticeably calm down then. In the meantime, make sure that you provide enough physical and mental exercise to meet his needs. And enjoy his puppy-ness! Why is my six-month-old lab so out of control? Will he calm down? So make sure that he has enough physical and mental exercise and train him. Do impulse control exercises with him. Eventually, over the next few years, he should become calmer. A lab rescue has a four-year old lab for adoption. Is this too old? Will he still be playful? A four-year-old lab can be a perfect companion. By that age, the puppy silliness and over-activity should be gone and he should be calm when needed. A healthy lab is playful and fun into old age. Final Thoughts Young labs are full of vim and vigor. They are constantly in motion and sometimes a blur of activity. Like any dog, they will naturally calm down over time. Between the ages of two and four, your lab should noticeably calm down. But still expect—and enjoy—his natural bursts of puppy-like energy. Do you have a lab? At what age did he calm down? Please tell us about it in the comments section below. 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. As a Labrador owner myself, I know firsthand how energetic and excitable they can be, especially when they are young. I appreciated the detailed breakdown of the stages of development in a Labrador, as well as the different techniques and exercises that can be used to promote calm behavior. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us, and for helping us be better pet owners to our furry friends! They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. When do Labradors calm down? If your Lab seems to be acting out, or is refusing to follow commands, you may need to reflect on their training. Sometimes you need to go back to the beginning to move forward. When Do Labradors Mature — Physical Maturity Large breeds like the Labrador Retriever will reach physical maturity somewhere between the ages of 11 and 18 months. This can vary based on genetics, sex, and more. Physical maturity can affect a lot of things, including, the type of food your dog eats. When are Labradors Fully Grown? This question will depend a little on the size of your Lab when fully grown. Even within one breed, adult sizes can vary a lot. Fully grown Labs can range from 55 to 80 pounds in weight, and from .Females are usually smaller than males. Your Lab will usually reach their full grown height and weight at some point between 11 and 18 months old. But, the exact time will depend on their adult size. When Should I Neuter my Lab? This is because, after being neutered, your dog lacks the hormones that would switch off his growth. Studies have shown that early neutering or spaying Labradors before 6 months old can increase their risk of developing joint problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament tear. Speak to your vet to get the latest information on this topic. Neutering or spaying your dog can have a number of health benefits, including the obvious birth control. This study suggests that neutering a Lab before 6 months old can significantly increase their risk of joint problems. So, you may choose to wait until your Lab is physically mature before you neuter or spay them. Puppy food and adult dog food have very different balances of nutrients. Puppy food will contain higher levels of protein than adult dog food. But, this can vary from dog to dog. Some dogs will still be growing at this age, so should wait a little longer. The best person to advise you about this is your vet. They will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific Lab. Generally, Labradors will usually reach sexual maturity somewhere between 6 and 9 months old. Although, this stage could be later. This means it is very possible for your Lab to get pregnant whilst she is still a puppy. When Can my Labrador Breed? As Labradors can reach sexual maturity from as early as 6 months, some Labradors can technically mate from this young age. When your female Lab has her first heat, it is possible for her to get pregnant. Male Labs will usually start showing interest to females at around this age, so you should assume they can impregnate another dog from this age. Whether you have a male or female Lab, you should avoid breeding them at this age. Female dogs need to be both physically and sexually mature before they are bred. But, they also should not be too old. Ideally, somewhere between 2 and 4 years old is the right age for breeding your Labrador. If you are not looking to breed your Lab, you may wish to talk to your vet about spaying or neutering them after they reach sexual maturity. Just remember the affect this can have on their physical growth, and the risk of joint problems. When do Labradors Mature Mentally? The third type of maturity that will be of interest to Labrador owners is mental maturity. Labs have a reputation for being friendly, affectionate, and eager to please. Lab puppies, like any puppies, can be boisterous, destructive, and bitey. This can lead to stress, exhaustion, and hopelessness in puppy owners. The bad news is that this stage of maturity takes the longest to reach. In fact, some Labs can take up to two years to reach full mental maturity. Labrador puppies are known for their biting phase. But, this stage does pass as your Labrador puppy matures. Some of this biting is down to teething. Lab puppies will usually start teething from around 3 or 4 months old. This stage can last until around 7 months old, when your Lab will have their full set of adult teeth. But, not all biting is due to teething. Puppies will also bite during play. So, practice calm behavior and ignore any biting that does happen. These steps can help to shorten the bitey period. When do Labradors Calm Down? Along with biting, Labrador puppies can seem very boisterous and over-excited, particularly when they are playing with you. So when do Labradors mature and settle down? It can take up to 2 years for Labs to completely mature mentally. This means, boisterous and excitable play can last up to two years. But, there are things you can do whilst your puppy is growing to reduce this boisterous behavior. Make sure to reward your puppy when he or she is calm. This could be when they are entertaining themselves with a toy, or just when they are chilling around your house. This way, your puppy will learn that calm behavior earns them great things! And, they will be more likely to act this way in the future. There may still be times when your Lab seems boisterous, noisy, or over-excitable, even with this tactic. But, it will help calm your pup down before they reach their full mental maturity. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. 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. Labradors were originally bred to assist their owners with many tasks, such as helping pull nets of fish in off the coast of Newfoundland, retrieving stray fish escaping from the nets, and doing all this all day in ice cold water. Later, they were used for water fowling because many of the same elements were present: the ability to work all day in cold water, and the ability to find and retrieve small animals. What does this mean for you, the modern day owner, who is likely as not, neither trying to pull in nets of cod through the winter nor duck hunting up in frozen Montana? It means you have a dog that was bred to WORK. He was bred to be active, smart, intelligent, companiable. Most of these attributes are what makes a Labrador a perfect family pet in this day and age…but the first one causes much trouble at the same time. Labs are meant to have a job. Because they are intelligent, they are easily trained, but if they are NOT trained, they become bored. And when bored, that same intelligence and activity level, remember that activity level conspires to find other things to do…excavate your backyard, redo the carving on your wooden mouldings, reupholster your favorite sofa, move the living room carpet into the den, tackle your underwear collection, and other similar projects. To cope with this, you must give your dog the physical and mental challenge he was bred for. But you do need to rearrange your daily schedule to spend time with him. He needs daily exercise, and daily training. Why training? Because that exercises his mind, which is nearly as good as exercising his body. Teach your dog tricks if you like. Given daily exercise and training, your lab should become much more tractable in other areas of your life. Labradors are known for having a long and delayed puppyhood and adolescence that completely disregards their physical maturity. A few labradors are quiet and sedate from early puppyhood onward, and a few others are bouncing puppymaniacs until well into old age, but by and large, you can expect to see mental maturation happening between two and four years of age. It is our experience that Labrador owners who understand this before they get a Labrador do much better in the long run than owners who were completely surprised by how much energy and work that cute little Labrador puppy was. So think carefully before picking a Lab!

It is very much a family and extended ohana endeavor when babies are here! As a dog trainer, behaviorist, breeder, and most recently the creator of Pono Puppy Method on Maui, I have witnessed first-hand the need and desire families have for high-quality Labrador Retrievers in the state. My background is in raising service dog puppies has grown into a love for the willing, loyal, and highly trainable Labrador spirit. Not finding what we were looking for in Hawaii, we imported our foundation bitch, Sandy, from Australia. Our stud dogs reside in Portland, Oregon and we maintain a close relationship with the breeder there, ensuring that we breed to the healthiest males with the laid-back temperaments and personalities we are seeking. All of our studs are champion show dogs and have produced many amazing litters. While you may not be seeking a dog for the show ring, you have the assurance that he will have the qualities that true English Labradors should have, including health, temperament, and conformation. It is our mission to provide healthy, well-mannered, quality Labradors to families in our beautiful island state. She has never met a dog or human that she doesn't love, and vice versa! She is clever, smart, and oh so sweet. The perfect Labrador temperament. She has had 2 beautiful litters so far. Her kids have gone on to become service dogs, preschool nanny dogs, military family pets, Mahi Pono Farm worker support dog, and even truffle hunters! Such versatility. Fully health tested and clear for breed related health problems. Tikka has the perfect Labrador temperament, build, and disposition. She has "mothered" kittens, chickens, and ducks! We are looking forward to her becoming a mama to her own puppies this fall. Embark DNA tested and clear. Hips and elbows pending tikka Always happy, just like her mama Sandy. Just look at that smile! I see therapy dog potential for sure. She is very intuitive and attentive to her humans. Standing at stud at Devonshire Labradors Huck Proven sire, champion in the show ring and a perfect family companion. Huck passes on his laid back, loving personality to his offspring and has sired many successful service dogs. He is the epitome of man's or woman's best friend. He has been there, done that, with great ease and confidence. He has spent many months each year aboard a fishing boat in Alaska, as a hunting companion, and as the perfect family pet in his Maui home. This is the temperament you want from your Labrador! Fully health tested and clear for Labrador genetic disorders. Embark panel available on request. Ryder Captain Ryder. Great build, great disposition. Such a lovely boy, inside and out! And yes, he will wear his hat and glasses all day! Ryder Sweet, gentle soul. He is just beginning his career as a therapy dog and is a big hit with the keiki in schools. Way to go, Ryder! Ryder Handsome puppy! Dylan is an international grand champion in the show ring, full health clearances, and absolutely gorgeous! We are excited add this pedigree to our program. Stay tuned for a litter announcement for Dylan. We are grateful for the opportunity to add Dylan to our breeding program. He will be bred to Sandy later this year or in the spring. Video Multi-sensory enrichment We use Pono Puppy Method, a developmentally appropriate enrichment program that I developed. Puppies get developmentally appropriate enrichment and challenges daily. Fun play time that nurtures the brain and body. You will receive a Pono Puppy Method workbook to continue training your puppy when he comes home. Puppy at 5 weeks. Positve Crate exposure Your puppy's first introduction to a crate environment is positive and delicious with a yummy meaty marrow bone. Once the pups have all settled in, the doors are quietly opened, allowing them to decide if they want to remain or come out. The choice is theirs. Age 5 weeks Learning through play Puppies are offered a variety of surfaces, textures, and objects to keep them entertained and engaged. Playtime is structured and scheduled throughout the day with plenty of breaks for napping, a puppy's favorite pastime. Video Almost perfect manners at 7 weeks! These puppies have learned to volunteer good manners, aka "sit", for attention, meals, and treats. They are not being cued or commanded to do anything. The guest simply waits for manners, then rewards with attention. The right answer is always "sit". Good job, Fruit Basket Litter, .Finding their feet Flooring and footing is specially designed for young pups to avoid slipping and sliding. Learning to walk is difficult enough so we make sure they have the most success early on. Playtime grows with the puppies As the pups develop, they need more challenges. A favorite is always the slide. It not only challenges the body, but the brain and confidence levels, as well. Opportunities like this build enrichment seeking pups, ready to take on the world! Socialization Socialization Socialization We use the developmentally, scientifically proven approach of the Pono Puppy Method. This is an early enrichment program that gives the puppies a head start in their development socially, physically, and emotionally. This helps our puppies grow up confident, balanced, and ready to take on any endeavor their human family presents to them. Pups are exposed to sounds, sights, smells, humans of all sizes, and as many Auntie and Uncle dogs of varying types as we can recruit along with many other enriching activities stimuli. We even teach the puppies to swim and enjoy the water! Puppies will have had at least 3 car rides, some exposure to the leash and collar, and will have learned to volunteer good manners. Puppies have their very own room in our house and will be allowed to explore the living spaces when they become mobile. They are raised as part of the family, not in outdoor kennels. We believe that this is important to help prepare them for life as family members in their new homes. Further, all have good clearances for hips and elbows and eyes through OFA. Puppies will go home with their first sets of shots at 8 weeks of age and will have been wormed regularly as infants. Pups are weaned naturally with goat's milk mush made with quality puppy kibble, goat's milk, and a regular dose of prebiotic. Mama does a great job of letting pups know when she is no longer willing to nurse and we allow her to dry up naturally. Pups will be fully weaned onto a high quality puppy kibble well before they go home. Training open door policy open door policy We literally start training as soon as puppies can hear. We introduce sounds and help build their startle response along with desensitizing them to normal household sounds like the vacuum cleaner. I introduce the clicker as soon as I notice that the pups are operant, usually around 3 weeks. At that time, they learn to offer manners manding in exchange for treats and attention. Pups will be comfortable sleeping in and volunteering time in crates. However, you will need to expand on this training once they are away from the rest of the litter in your home. I highly encourage you to seek out more information and videos of these processes on the Pono Puppy Method website www. Typically, our girls are more than happy to let visitors see and hold her pups from very early on, but only for a short time. Mama sets the limit here and we listen to her. By the time the pups are about 4 weeks and older, we can separate mama from the litter for visits. I also offer a link to our puppy cam that you can access most of the day! We love to share the journey with adoptive families. What's included Puppy will go home with a Pono Puppy Method go-home kit: small bag of quality food that the puppy has been weaned on customized treat reward pouch for training new collar and leash first set of vaccinations, de-wormer, and vet record AKC limited registration paperwork for pet families full AKC registration for guarding families, which I maintain until she is no longer in the breeding program one in-home training session at 9 weeks, Maui only Deposits You will be contacted once we have a confirmed pregnancy. If we cannot provide you with a puppy from this litter, the deposit will be refunded. Otherwise, the deposit is non-refundable. Guardian Family Option Become a Guardian Family to a future breeding female Occasionally, we place a female or 2 with families who will raise and care for her as their own while we maintain breeding rights to her in the future. The puppy is offered at a greatly discounted rate and once she is no longer in the breeding program, she is fully yours. Please inquire for more information. Maui only. See videos of our litter on you tube link below! Photo Gallery. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Mauka and Lilo's litter, born 3. Our next breeding will likely be in Fall, .Feel free to reach out should you want to join our wait list! You will not see rows of cages, no permanent outdoor living areas or separation of our dogs from each other except during times of heat cycles. From fur on our couch and floors to stepping over Labrador speed bumps in our kitchen, we embrace them one and all! Our family works around the clock when the pups are young and we continue personal, engaged care for each puppy in our litter during their time with us. We make sure all are well-cared for and provide them with exercise, a bit of training, lots of loving and good, plain common sense while they are in our care. We give the mamas a break and try to let them decide where they want to be at any given time. This gives them some space if they so choose. We take turns sleeping in the puppy house and are always present while they are very small. Our family makes it as easy as we can on the mama with plenty of our puppy lovin' to free-up her time and energy. It socializes the babies and gets them used to human handling from a little one to a grown-up. Our puppies are well-socialized, eager to please and we are frankly wrapped around their little paws! We Care In order to maintain credibility in a sea of shady breeders, we only advertise through word of mouth, the AKC. If you decide to get a pup elsewhere, please be sure the breeder vets their adults through DNA, hips, shoulders and eyes. Nothing is more heartbreaking than to fall in love with a little one only to have them suffer debilitating health issues due to irresponsible breeding. Fenced yard or similar Labs need exercise. Dog should not be left alone for extended periods of time. At least one person in the household that will be the puppy's advocate and trainer for a great life! This also allows for better personality matching. First on the list chooses first and so forth. If you have a certain gender in mind and that gender is not available at the time of your choosing and you don't fall in love with a puppy, you may remain on the waitlist for the next litter. Once you have chosen your puppy I will send you individual photos and videos every couple of days. Our previous puppy parents appreciate this and it sets us apart from others! We also reserve the right to refuse adoption to a prospect for any reason. Our puppies and their quality of life are important to us; parents that don't provide the lifestyle or temperament that we seek in an owner and a furever home will be graciously declined. This means your puppy can be registered, but their offspring cannot. We are committed to protecting the breed as a whole for their future. They have both Show English and Field American in their heritage for the best of both in the Labrador world. They are cleared through OFA for elbows and shoulders. We only breed dogs that have been given a "good" or better OFA rating. Our dogs' eyes are CERF-cleared. We welcome the good, the bad and the ugly parts mostly good! We wouldn't have it any other way. Latest Dog Articles Puppy home alone When we decide to have a puppy, no matter what breed, we, together with new and quite pleasant emotions and gain a lot of unpleasant moments. Small puppy - this is the same child, but watch out for that sometimes is more difficult than for the child. Chil Everything you wanted to know about your dog: wool Are there any dogs in the stomach hairballs? If you compare a dog with a cat, the dogs did not strongly monitor your hygiene. Dogs love lain in a different moldy stuff, bathe in dirty water, and even will not oppose whose eating - that excrement. And it i Tips novice dog breeder A complete and accurate answer for you, no one can give, because it all depends on many factors, the life of a breeder. By and large it all depends on the purpose for which purchased the dog, who will care for her, where you'll have it, and where and by w Methods of teaching a puppy Establish a connection with a young puppy can by feeding him from his earliest days. The puppy should pnyat you for it - the power supply. She should realize this and get used to you as an owner. The same way you can teach your puppy to respond to his nic When we get a dog, immediately the question arises as to accustom the puppy home "walk" in the toilet. In fact, it is not difficult. As a rule, the need arises after active play, sleep or eat. Surely, you know that pets, on the paws have pads with scent glands. So they scrape the ground and the front and hind legs, thus mark, so to speak, its own territory. Paws they scrape after urination, and also after a bowel movement. Dogs in general are b please choose. Castlecary Labrador Retrievers are a talented breed. Did you know that hunters used these highly intelligent dogs to retrieve their shots? Take a look! Oahu Labrador This is another local family-run service specializing in white and yellow Labrador retrievers. They expose their lab puppies to a wide range of noises, sights, and scents, as well as humans and other dogs. They also rear their puppies in loving environments and take them on car rides from 6 weeks of age. Oahu Labradors also ensure that the pups are in good health before going to their new homes. All of the pups are fully weaned and vaccinated. What began as a hobby for the owner and her family became a full-time business to keep up with their growing number of clients. They have been breeding top-quality Lab pups with mellow temperaments and sound physiques that are easy to train. They also provide pup customization services. The customer can choose certain features of his or her future Labrador from its color, markings, and so on. Labsnsand also offers lifetime support after the purchase of a Labrador puppy from them. In most cases, they also supply food if you request them to.

However, these dogs that might easily be hurt for their tiny size and playfulness might get bored due to prolonged solitude. They are adaptable to all weather changes. Care Exercise Considering their little size and lots of indoor activities, the pomapoos do not really need much exercise, but just in moderate amounts. Only a playing partner and taking the puppy for a little walk regularly would help burning their calories and keeping away behavioral issues. Grooming With the pomapoos having three different coat-types viz. Other than the rest of the basic care like keeping an eye for long nails, dental problems and infections, cleaning their reddish eye stains carefully every day is also important. Training To get them accustomed to the family children and other pets, train them the moment they are brought home from the breeders, since then they can pick up tricks easily. The food should be divided into two equal meals. If you want to feed it with veggies, you can try rice, or sweet potato, and for non-veg, you can choose a food ingredient that includes meat. Plenty of meat based foods are available like Bil-jac, blue buffalo, etc. However, do not feed milk. Interesting Facts The teacup pomapoo is a variation of the dog, which is even more smaller than the regular pomapoo. Pomapoos love people and should never be kept outdoors or in kennels. Pomapoos get along equally well with people of all ages, from kids to the elderly. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Pomapoos are prone to weight gain, and they have moderate energy levels. One walk per day should suffice. 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. Be sure to start training early and instill good habits. Use the positive reinforcement technique. Be stern but loving. It will pay off with a well mannered dog. Small dogs have small bladders and may require more frequent potty breaks. Pomapoo Feeding An ideal Pomapoo diet should be formulated for a small breed with moderate 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. Two to three small meals per day is recommended. The main colors of Pomapoos are brown, black, white, red, fawn, and sable. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. They usually have short to medium length coats and are light shedders. A light brush every few days should be enough. Always have fresh water available for your pup if they travel with you. Pomapoo Children And Other Pets Because the Pomapoo is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Pomapoos are friendly and very loving with children who know how to interact gently. Always err on the side of caution and never leave young children unattended with any dog, under any circumstance. When it comes to other pets, Pomapoos can get along with other animals quite well if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Pompoos do not like isolation, so multiple dog homes just might be ideal. Remember to protect Pomapoos in public from larger dogs. Learn more about Pomapoos by learning about their Pomeranian and Poodle parents. Pomapoo Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Pomapoos because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Pomeranian or Poodle breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. These pint-sized pooches vary in appearance and size depending on which parent's traits they take on the most. In general, a full-grown Pomapoo dog weighs 5—15 pounds. But if they have inherited more Pom, they could be teeny-tiny and look like a fluffy fox. If they've got oodles of poodle in their DNA, they could don a furry, curly coat, be a bit larger, and inherit an air of dignity. Either way, Pomapoos have moderate grooming needs to keep their coats from matting. These small dogs are good candidates for apartment living , and while they don't require a ton of exercise, they are bidding for a standing invitation to sit on your lap. While both Pomeranians and poodles are popular breeds and have both been favored by royalty for centuries , the Pomeranian-poodle mix is a relatively new mixed breed that's been around since the late s. Pomapoos tend to be a versatile match for a variety of pet owners, from families to retirees, and mesh well with most living situations. Appearance Because they're a mixed breed, Pomapoos can vary quite a bit in appearance depending on which combo of adorable traits their parents pass on. In general, these small dogs range between 5—15 pounds, with male Pomapoos on the larger side. Frills around their necks and chests make them look like proud little lions, and they have dark-but-bright almond-shaped eyes. Poodles, on the other hand, have a curly low-allergen coat , square build, dark oval eyes with an intelligent gaze, and, overall, an elegant demeanor. To put it another way, one Pomapoo could be defined more by the animated appearance of a Pomeranian, while another could take on the distinguished traits of a toy poodle. Or, you could get a flamboyant mix of both. Pomapoos' coats can also vary wildly in terms of color, texture, and patterns. These pups may come in shades of red, brown, black, cream, brindle, or a seemingly endless number of color combinations. Usually, though, their coats tend to be dense and wavy, Burch says. Because their hair can be prone to matting, a daily brushing routine can help keep their coats tangle-free in between trips to the groomer. And while no dog is technically hypoallergenic , Pomapoos may be a low-allergen dog if they inherit the toy poodle coat. Temperament Poodles are fast learners and whip smart. Poms are active, inquisitive, and extroverted. Combine the two breeds, and the result is often a Pomapoo that's clever and snuggly, who absolutely loves to be the center of attention and is eager to learn new tricks. Like their Pomeranian parents, these vivacious dogs have a knack for entertaining their beloved humans and crave play time. But because of their tiny stature and delicate frame, they may not be a good fit for families with young, rough-housing children who may mistakenly injure these little guys. Always supervise kiddos when playing with any pup. Pomapoos bond tightly with their families and tend to be very loving, Burch says. Gentle and eager-to-please, the Pomapoo tends to be a stellar student when it comes to training. Living Needs Pomapoos can do excellent in apartments or tiny homes. While they'll get playful streaks, their exercise needs are on the low end of the scale. These dogs aren't much for outdoor adventures they don't fare well in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold. A daily walk or about 30 minutes of exercise a day should suit their needs, Burch says. Because they bond with their family, they'll do best in a home where they get plenty of attention and have some dedicated playtime with interactive toys and puzzle games. It's also a good idea to outfit your house with doggy stairs or a ramp to help them climb up on your couch. It'll keep these tiny puppers from injuring their joints from jumping on and off furniture. Care These darling dogs do need regular grooming and a good teeth brushing routine to keep them in tip-top shape, says Pam Nichols, DVM, president of the American Animal Hospital Association. Grooming will depend on what kind of coat your Pomapoo has, but generally speaking you'll want to plan on brushing your dog on a daily basis; Pomapoos have thick coats that can mat easily. On the plus side, Pomapoos with poodle-like coats tend to be allergy-friendly. But those curls do require a lot of TLC—and the daily brushing can stave off matting. Pomeranians, on the flip side, have soft, dense undercoats and long, straight outer coats. And while they look high-maintenance, brushing can be an easy task because the pups are so small. As with other poodle mixes, consistent trips to the groomer every 6—8 weeks for a Pomapoo haircut should keep your dog's coat looking and feeling good and make it easier to manage between grooming appointments. That's because they can have enamel defects, an irregular bite, and periodontal disease at a young age, Nichols says. It's best to brush your dog's teeth every day, using circular and up-and-down motions to remove plaque and tartar. Poultry-flavored toothpastes and positive reinforcement treats and head pats as rewards! When it comes to training, Pomapoos are quick learners and they'll enjoy training sessions because it's an opportunity to be the center of attention. Arm yourself with lots of treats to make short training sessions productive and fun. Some top training priorities for Pomapoos should be helping them stay calm and refrain from barking , Nichols says. As with all breeds, exercise patience and use positive reinforcement during training. These tiny dogs have short little legs and don't require a ton of exercise a nice walk around the neighborhood plus some playtime will suffice. Be mindful that Pomapoos can develop a cough during exercise or strenuous activity that is associated with tracheal collapse , which occurs when the cartilaginous rings of the trachea weaken, Nichols says. Health The Pomapoo lifespan is 12—15 years, and this mixed breed tends to be healthy. But like all breeds, they can be disproportionately affected by some health problems. Pomapoos are prone to luxating patellas , or dislocated kneecaps, which is something that's inherited from both the toy poodle and Pomeranian parents, Burch says. Epilepsy is also prevalent in Pomapoos, Burch says, and the disorder that causes seizures often requires long-term medication. Also, as Pomapoos age, they are prone to developing cataracts , which can eventually lead to vision loss , Burch says. It's important to make sure you're bringing home a healthy, ethically bred Pomapoo. Because she's a new "designer" hybrid dog, her high demand can mean some breeders operate without the dogs' health in mind. To ensure you're working with an ethical Pomapoo breeder, look out for these puppy mill red flags : A breeder offers to ship a puppy. It's difficult to find contact information on the breeder's website. The kennel produces multiple breeds of dogs. The breeder doesn't let you meet the puppy's parents or siblings. While it may be hard to believe, today's spunky and pint-sized Poms can be traced back to burly and strong Arctic sled dogs. Their name, Pomeranians, is a nod to where they originated—an area in northeastern Europe that's part of Poland and Germany today. In the late s, Queen Victoria of England became enamored with the breed on a trip to Florence, Italy, and she brought back several Poms to Britain. Over time, the dogs were downsized from about 20—30 pounds to their current toy size, something that the American Pomeranian Club credits to Queen Victoria. The Pomapoos' other parent, the people-pleasing poodle, is often associated with France. The breed was a favorite of Louis XVI. But poodles were originally bred as duck hunters in Germany. Fun Facts This teddy bear-like dog has some cute nicknames. You may also hear these pups referred to as Pompoo or poopom. The Pomapoo's parents have a long and fascinating history. For instance, at least a dozen dogs were on board when the Titanic sank in ; among the survivors were two Pomeranians. As far as poodles, King Louis XVI of France was quite a fan of the breed , and the dogs were given ornate haircuts and carried around like trophies. Because they're a mixed breed dog, Pomapoo puppies—even from the same litter—can look completely different with different coat colors, patterns, and textures. Was this page helpful? Life Span Did You Know? These little dogs are smart and loving with playful, affectionate, and charming personalities. As a developing breed, the Pomapoo may not be recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are recognized by other dog registries. A Pomapoo is a combination of two very cuddly and affectionate companion breeds, so it comes as no surprise that they are also cuddly, affectionate, and loving dogs that thrive on attention. As long as they have been properly socialized, they are social and friendly with children, other dogs, and other pets. They will even tend to warm up to strangers once introduced, especially if it means getting more attention and affection. They do tend to alert bark, which can become a nuisance behavior if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Pomapoos are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to do well in apartments as well as larger homes. Although they are fluffy, their small size means they may need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm when out on walks when the temperatures drop. Because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Pomapoo include patellar luxation , epilepsy, cataracts, and tracheal collapse. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. A Pomapoo is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly, is eager to please, and thrives on praise and positive reward. They can be a little bit stubborn at times, but as long as training is kept consistent and positive, they tend to do well with owners of all experience levels. Some of the benefits of puppy training classes include strengthening your bond, reinforcing training, socialization, and more. Either way, a Pomapoo will require a lot of grooming just like their parent breeds. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Pomapoo is more prone to developing dental diseases, which makes good dental care for dogs early and throughout their life even more important. Daily brushing with dog-friendly toothpaste or daily use of an enzyme toothpaste, in addition to cleanings at the vet, is ideal. A Pomapoo may be energetic when they play and have bursts of higher energy, but they sit in a low to moderate range and will tire themselves out quickly. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for this little dog. They will likely be up for more if you are because they love spending time with you. A fully-grown Pomapoo usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Pomapoos generally live for years on average. Although Pomapoo is the most common, this hybrid breed is also sometimes called a Pompoo, Pooranian, or Pomerdoodle. Featured Pomapoo Article. Pomapoo rescue and puppies Also known as the Pooranian, Pompoo and Pomeroodle, Pomeranian Poodle mix appearance and temperament can vary from dog to dog. They tend to be better suited to families with older kids due to their fragile bodies and defensive responses to accidental injury. Pomapoo History Mixed breeds have been around for as long as purebred dogs. And since designer dogs are essentially just first generation mixed breeds, they really are not anything new. However, the mixing of two distinct breeds to create a new dog type is something that has gained popularity within the last 20 years or so. The Toy Poodle is an offshoot of the basic Poodle breed that has been recognized since the s. The Poodle was developed as a canine to hunt waterfowl, like many of the oldest canines. They were selectively bred to create smaller versions of the larger Poodle, and this is where we get the Toy Poodle from. So it is not its own distinct breed, just a tiny version of the Standard Poodle. The Pomeranian is a toy dog breed that originated in the s from the German Spitz canine. The dogs were originally larger and closer in resemblance to the German Spitz, used to protect livestock and herd sheep. However, Queen Victoria owned a small Pomeranian and the toy version of the dog became quite popular. The much smaller Pomeranians are now the most common. Over the last 20 years, ownership of Poms has increased substantially, making the breed one of the most popular in the United States. Pomeranians have a narrow muzzle, small face, and small ears that sit high on the head and stand up straight. Toy Poodles have longer and more pointed muzzles with small faces, and the ears are long and flop along the side of the head. Pomapoos will often have floppy ears as well, but they are a bit smaller than those of a Poodle. Pomapoo adults, like other types of designer dogs, can have a mixed appearance. Attributes come from either the Toy Poodle or Pomeranian parent, which means they vary a fair bit. What we do know for sure, is they are small! Pomapoo Size When it comes to size, Pomeranians are only about 6 to 7 inches high and 3 to 7 pounds. They weigh about 6 to 9 pounds. So your Toy Pomapoo full grown will be anywhere from 6 to 10 inches high and 3 to 9 pounds. Basically, your pup will be a toy sized one, just like its parents. A Teacup Pomapoo is a small version of the Pomapoo. Bred from runts of the litter or by mixing another smaller breed. They are incredibly cute and portable, but we recommend you avoid these exceptionally tiny varieties. Both teacup Poodles and teacup Pomeranians come with a lot of health issues, not just potential temperament problems. Tiny dogs can act more aggressively than larger ones. But socialization will help to reduce the chances of this. So what does the Pomapoo coat look like? Well, it really can resemble that of the Pom or the Poodle, or you might see a mixture. The Pomeranian although usually tan, comes in a lot of colors. As does the Poodle. Your pup could potentially have any of these, or a cute mixture! The Pomeranian has a soft undercoat covered by more textured hair, and it has a remarkable fluff to it. The Toy Poodle has a thick, dense, and curly coat that is often kept trimmed close to the body. Poodles are famously low shedding. Unfortunately, the cute little Pomapoo is likely to also be a shedder. And they are not hypoallergenic. Grooming and Haircuts Regardless of which parent your Pomapoo dog takes after, you will need to invest in some grooming. Most of the dogs will have a hybrid coat that requires brushing with a slicker brush if the hair is more curly and a pin brush if it is straight. Brushing every day is wise. Additionally, you should think about a Pomapoo haircut every few months to reduce some of the grooming and shedding headaches. Puppy, lion, and teddy bear cuts are all common varieties to consider and will cut down on Pomapoo shedding. Keep in mind that the cuts do require the expertise of a groomer, and this can substantially raise your overall Pomapoo grooming costs. Pomapoo Temperament and Activity Level Pomapoos are smart, loyal and trainable. They do sometimes have a bit of a stubborn streak, and the dogs are known for their tight bond with family members. Since they are intelligent dogs, they need to take part in exercise and other activities that keep them engaged. An hour of exercise, at a minimum, is required, and games like fetch should be encouraged during exercise sessions. Your Pomapoo is likely to be active, like the Pomeranian and Toy Poodle with daily exercise needs of about an hour. You can expect to see some loyalty and intelligence as well. You should know that Toy Poodles are excellent family dogs. However, Pomeranians will often favor a single family member. Are They Good Family Pets? This cute little Pomeranian Poodle mix can fit well into some families. They are loyal, loving and intelligent. But they are also very small. This makes them not ideal with families with tiny children who accidentally be rough, or trip over them. Kids over the age of 12 should do fine with supervision. Just remember to give your pup space, and to not let them get over tired. Training your Pomeranian Poodle mix Small dogs can typically take a little longer to potty train. This is in part due to the small bladder size. But with perseverance and a good routine they will get there in the end. Like any other intelligent, confident dog they will benefit hugely from positive reinforcement training. Set them up to win, make training rewarding and it will be a fun and bonding experience for you both. You can even have fun teaching them tricks! Exercise These small dogs are still pretty lively, and need regular walks and plenty of play time. They can be taught to fetch and even to take part in dog sports like agility, just like their larger counterparts. You will however need to be careful, as with their small stature they can be vulnerable to accidents. Pomapoo Health To ensure your Pomapoo is as healthy as possible, make sure each parent is health tested for the conditions relevant to their breed. If they are a second generation mix from Pomapoo parents, then they need to both be checked for all of them. With older dogs you may or may not have a history to go on. They could have come from a marriage breakdown or the sad departure of an owner, or been rejected due to temperament issues. And reputable centers will help you to select a dog that is a good fit for you and your family. Pomapoo Puppies Finding a designer dog breeder is not difficult, but you do need to make sure that you find a reputable one. Before committing to a pup, make sure any Pomapoo breeders you consider can supply the full veterinary records for the mother and father. A lineage should be supplied as well, and ideally, the breeder should be more than happy to supply DNA test records. This type of testing will show whether or not the breeding dogs have genes for hereditary diseases. Eye, bone, dental, hair, or gastrointestinal concerns are particularly relevant with this mix. You will notice higher costs if the breeder supplies full medical records and DNA tests for the mother and father. It is well worth the cost knowing that your new furry pup is more likely to be healthy.

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