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The amount that they howl depends on the individual dog. Likewise, you can teach them to start as well. So why do German Shepherds howl so much? There are a few reasons why they are getting in touch with their inner wolf. Take a quick glance at some of the most common causes of howling to figure out what has brought on this vocal performance. Howling is a Part of Who They Are Every dog on the planet is descended from wolves, and we all know that wolves how. Making noise is something that comes naturally to them. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay 2. German Shepherd Boredom Dogs bark and cry, so why do we become so concerned when they start to howl? The German Shepherd breed is usually extremely active. Howling from boredom could also be combined with other naughty behavior like chewing on things. Wolves also do this in the wild for their pack mates to help them find their way back into their territory. Signaling a Warning As herding dogs, this breed made lots of noise to scare off predators and criminals that came onto their land. Demanding Attention Is there a better way to get your attention than making a bunch of noise? If you respond to howling, the dog quickly learns to get your attention this way. This is a behavior that is normally picked up when they are small puppies. Howling from pain is usually easy to distinguish between howling from happiness. Dogs in pain will howl because they need our assistance. Image Credit: GoranH, Pixabay 8. German Shepherd Happiness Some dogs howl just because they are happy. Take comfort in knowing your pup is expressing their joy in such a vocal way. Sirens sound very similar to a dog howling, and your German Shepherd is simply replying to the outside noise. It may not sound similar to you, but dogs are capable of picking up much higher frequencies than we are. German Shepherds are usually on guard at this time, and if they are howling, it is probably because they are trying to signal that something is going on outside. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to stop this behavior. Instead of scolding them, ignore them completely and remain persistent. Doing so lets them know that remaining quiet is the best way to get affection. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 2. Spend More Time with Them If your dog is demanding attention, it might help to be more genuine about your one-on-one time. Go outside and spend an hour playing with them. Give them lots of pats, hugs, and kisses. Counterconditioning Counterconditioning is a practice that tricks your dog into changing the way that they feel while they behave a certain way. For example, dogs that howl whenever someone walks by the house can be counter conditioned by giving them a treat as soon as they spot a person and before they start howling. The dog starts to associate a person walking by with a good feeling, which then makes them less likely to howl. Some breeds are more likely to howl than others. If it truly bothers you, you might think about getting a dog that is less likely to make a lot of noise. However, if you already have a noisy dog, there are ways that you can train them to stop. Some believed on superstitions about howling of dogs and others are so worried why they howl. But German Shepherd howling can be explained by understanding its causes and nature. You can also learn how to stop their howling properly. This article will give you a background about the German Shepherd howling behavior. This ancestral connection is one of the common reasons why do German Shepherds howl. This implies therefore, that German Shepherd howling is not at all negative because it is just a part of its hereditary traits. Emotional Reason Dogs like German Shepherds have emotional feelings. Like humans, they can also express some emotional needs. Since German Shepherd Dogs are known to be energetic and loyal, they have the tendency to feel bored and anxious. These emotions are actually expressed when they are howling. Boredom German Shepherd Dogs are trained to be active dogs. Exercises and regular activities are one their basic needs. Lack of these things can result to their boredom. When they get bored, German Shepherd howling can be expected. Separation Anxiety Another reason why do German Shepherds howl is separation anxiety. Once they are left, German Shepherds may express their anxiousness through howling. This howl signifies that they are somehow hoping for the return of their owner and seeking attention. Physical Reason Like human beings who are crying when get hurt, German Shepherd can express their painful feelings through howling when they have some physical illness and injuries. Environmental and Communicational Reasons German Shepherd Dogs can react when some environmental noise occurs especially those sounds that are like sirens. Through howling, German Shepherd Dogs signals their presence in a certain place or gives warning to communicate that there is an approaching danger or to prevent intruders from entering a territory. Sirens are actually sounding with high pitch that can strongly attract German Shepherd Dogs. Since, German Shepherd Dogs are hereditarily related with wolves, it is natural for them like wolves to respond with sirens as a way of communication of their point of location as if they are telling it to other packs. What is amazing with German Shepherd Dog is that they have the advanced recognition of sounds because they have higher frequency of sound waves than humans. No doubt why German Shepherd Dogs could hear the sirens of ambulance in a distance before we can hear it approaching. German Shepherd Howling at Night Naturally, German Shepherd howling at night are doing such due to some various reasons. First, because they are not really used or comfortable in their crate. Secondly, they are not feeling well maybe because of hunger or thirst as well as illness or injuries. Lastly, they are seeking the attention of their owners when they are experiencing separation anxiety. You need to understand that German Shepherd Dogs needs attention and companionship. They can also howl at night in response to other howling dogs. German Shepherd Howling with Wolves Some of the German Shepherd owners were surprised when they witnessed their German Shepherd howling with wolves in the scene of the movie, Zootopia. This reaction will not surprise you if you are already knowledgeable about the causes of German Shepherd howling. Their howling might be a result of their natural instinct as an animal in wolf lineage so they will try to howl as if they are calling the attention of other packs of wolves. Consistent exposure with these commands along proper training procedures will help you control the howling of your German Shepherd Dog. You can also use counter-conditioning by replacing their usual reactions with noises or situation into the desired behavior. You can do it by replacing the howling respond from a noise by consistently rewarding a commanded howl rather than a noise-triggered howl. If you want to learn more about this topic, it will be specifically discussed in other future articles about training German Shepherd Dogs. Give them Attention and Activities As mentioned in the topic about the causes of German Shepherd howling, this kind of dog is prone to separation anxiety so if they felt so, howling is its primary reaction. It is therefore, advisable for owners who wants to stop them howling, basically, to give them attention. However, this attention must be given carefully by giving them right lesson such as rewarding good behavior rather than commending naughtiness so that they will not be spoiled. See also German Shepherd Facts You also need to check their condition when they are in crate if they are not feeling well or if they have sufficient food and water. It is also necessary for them to have lots of activities regularly. Remember that howling might be a result of their boredom so you need to solve it by providing exercises such as walking them outside, household tasks obedience and agility training. Medical Treatment Finally, is consulting a professional expert about dogs or preferably with the behavior of German Shepherd breeds. They can really help you to understand German Shepherd howling because they have scientific knowledge which our mere knowledge cannot easily comprehend. Breeders and owners should study the reasons why they howl so that they will know how to deal with this behavior properly. German Shepherd howling should not be understood with superstitions but rather with a more practical consideration and scientific approach. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Most people have heard a German Shepherd bark. But, not many know that this breed is also known for its long, wolf-like howl. All German Shepherds can howl. However, not all of them want to. This is entirely up to the dog and his personality. Some people love teaching their dogs to howl as they want to experience the sound. Most German Shepherd owners, however, just want them to stop. A German Shepherd howling sounds a lot like a wolf howling. This is just the primitive part of his brain expressing himself by doing something instinctive, such as howling. Northern breeds, such as Malamutes and Siberian Huskies, are also known howlers. The same goes for hound breeds, such as Dachshunds and Beagles. If your GSD is a howler, try thinking back to all the times he made this loud sound. You may notice some consistencies. Maybe, there was a police car siren outside, or you were watching some wildlife-related posts and video clips. It almost always comes down to these nine things: 1. Territory One of the reasons behind a German Shepherd howling is that he is trying to define his territory. This is yet another remnant from his wolf days. This is something that a wolf pack would do if they sense another wolf pack approaching them. Howling will let other animals know to stay away. In some dogs, this is also a defense mechanism. Communication Dogs produce all sorts of sounds to communicate with other canines. Howling is one of them. It is a way they let other animals know where they are. A wolf pack would howl to help their lost member find its way home. While chances are slim that your pet has lost a pack member, he might still be howling to reach others. Howling is usually a better method of communication than barking, as the sound can get delivered much faster than any other sound a GSD might produce. Why would they, when they can simply howl? If your GSD only howls when you are at work, then chances are he is experiencing separation anxiety. Separation anxiety causes dogs to develop some problematic behaviors. This includes digging, chewing on things, and excessive howling. He is just howling to let you know to return home. However, this behavior should be stopped. They are trying to communicate with you about something. This might be a certain physical need they want help with, such as hunger or thirst, but most of the time, they just want you to pay attention to them. This can be a double-edged sword. If you regularly give your pup attention after he has been howling for a while, he might stop howling as his need for attention will be satisfied. Some dogs, however, might understand this as getting what they want once they howl; therefore, this will only make them howl more. He Is Lonely Dogs are pack animals. This is especially true for German Shepherd dogs, as they are very close to their wolf relatives. If they are lonely, this can make them exhibit all sorts of behavior. Once again, howling is one of them. A dog that is left isolated in the back yard or in a crate might howl to let you know that he is feeling terrible. Chained or neglected dogs will also commonly howl. Many people who have witnessed a German Shepherd howling, for this reason, have stated the sound itself is much sadder than a regular dog howl. This is similar to babies crying when they are in discomfort. Look closely for signs of distress in your pup. If you suspect he is, take him to the vet immediately. The most common ones are police or fire truck sirens. Other sounds can trigger your pet as well. You may have noticed that some dogs howl back if you howl at them. This is a natural response, as they think you are trying to tell them something. Most of them will have a specific instrument they prefer. A crying baby can also make your German Shepherd howl as well as many other common sounds, such as car horns, a squeaky chair, or doorbells. Most of the sound triggers are high-pitched and ongoing. A dog will rarely react to short, sharp sounds. Also, not every dog will react to the same sounds, so figuring out what might trigger your dog in advance can be challenging. Excitement Not all common reasons behind a German Shepherd howling are bad or are a natural response to other sounds. Sometimes, a GSD might howl because he succeeded in something and he wants to let you know that you need to acknowledge this. Dogs see you as the pack leader and they want your approval and praise. Take a careful look at your pup when he is howling. Does he look excited? Hunting dogs, such as a GSD, might start to howl if they sense that prey is nearby, or when they have found the right trail. This is also a reason why Northern dog breeds howl. This is why Huskies howl so much. Maybe, he has located his favorite toy or he has climbed onto your favorite chair. Irritation A dog might also howl because something is irritating him. This is usually a sound, such as a certain musical instrument, an alarm clock, a microwave beeping, or kitchen pots falling on the floor. Your GSD is using howling as a way of expressing his annoyance. German Shepherd Puppy Howling If you heard your German Shepherd puppy howl for the first time, then chances are you were quite surprised. Young GSDs can howl for the same reasons as adult dogs howl. This is their way of communication. In fact, most will use whining and howling instead of barking until they are a few months old. Others might learn to howl when they are adults. A few might never howl at all. This is entirely up to the individual dog. In fact, this is the most common reason why many dogs howl. The reason behind this is pure science. Sirens are one of those high-pitched sounds that strongly attract this dog breed. German Shepherds are better at recognizing sounds, even if they are far away. This is because their brain can catch higher sound frequencies. This allows them to hear ambulance sirens from far away! Also, in nature, such sounds only exist when animals are communicating with each other. The first thing you should do is watch your pooch and determine the reason behind the howling. Then, with just a bit of proper dog training, you should tackle this problem. This can only be helpful short-term. Tell him to leave the room as coldly as you can, and point your finger to where he should go. Close the door and wait quietly until the howling stops. Once he has been quiet for several minutes, allow him to come back. Give him a treat or cuddle with him. This includes howling. Spend a lot of time with your German Shepherd whenever you can. Give him lots of love and cuddles. Sometimes, the reason behind a German Shepherd howling is that they want to spend more time with you, and they have every right to feel this way. If you give them plenty of attention throughout the day, you might notice that the howling has stopped after a while. My German Shepherd rarely howls. How do I know this? She never ever howls when we are in the same room. She only howls when she is trying to communicate with me from far away, so a howl or a bark is really her only option. Separation anxiety German Shepherds are known to be very attached to their humans, and some can even have separation anxiety. If you think your GSD may have this issue check out my full article of German Shepherd separation anxiety. Boredom Another reason your German Shepherd may be howling is from being bored. Preventing you from leaving A common reason German Shepherds howl is to prevent you from leaving the house. Dogs quickly learn our routine, so if they know you always put them in the crate or a certain room before leaving the house, you may find they howl once placed in that location. If the howling is too incessant, it could be a sign of separation anxiety as discussed above. In response to another external sound Another time I have noticed my German Shepherd howling, is when there is another dog barking or howling outside. Before dogs were domesticated, they used howling in the wild to communicate with one another. Accordingly, when your dog hears another dog outside barking or howling, sometimes they will howl or bark in response. Dogs are also known to howl in response to sounds like sirens. Imitation Dogs not only respond in response to other dogs howling, but they will also respond to your noises. You may find that if you make a sound similar to a howling noise your dog will start to howl as well. Sometimes, dogs mimic the sounds they hear. Your GSD is in pain or injured Similar to above, dogs used howling in the wild to let their pack know they were injured and needed help. Excitement Just like dogs can whine because of excitement, they can also howl from excitement. Sometimes, your GSD will be so worked up with excitement that they need to release that energy. My dog is more prone to whining or barking when this happens, but some dogs also howl. To communicate Lastly, the main reason dogs howl is to communicate. All of the reasons above express howling as a way of communicating to others their wants or needs in a certain situation. Why does my German Shepherd howl at night? Nighttime is usually a calm time where everyone is in bed and all is quiet. Your German Shepherd may want attention at this time so they howl to gain your attention. They could also be bored or be presenting signs of separation anxiety especially if you are sleeping in another room from your GSD. Try giving your dog a short walk or having a fun play session before bed and see if they howl less or not at all. Chances are if you tire your dog out before bedtime the howling will decrease. Final Thoughts Hopefully this article gives you some insight on German Shepherd howling. German Shepherds or any dog can howl for a number of reasons. If you want to drill down as to why your German Shepherd is howling, look at the situations where your dog howls and then look to see if they fit into any one of the reasons listed above. Chances are if you can identify the reason why your dog is howling, you can determine that it is either nothing to worry about or find ways of reducing the howling if it is bothersome. Does your German Shepherd howl a lot? Let me know in the comments! Final thoughts Do German Shepherds howl? Every German Shepherd has the ability to howl, but not all of them do it. Whether they howl or not very much depends on the dog itself. Also, it is as possible to teach a GSD how to howl, as it is to teach them to stop howling. Why do German Shepherds howl? Finding out what is causing your German Shepherd to howl is the first stage of stopping it. First off, you should be aware of the various reasons why your German Shepherd is howling. Here are a few: 1. Defining its territory One reason why German Shepherds howl is to warn other dogs that they are moving into its territory. It is used to serve as an advanced warning, with the underlying threat of aggression if the Intruders continue on their course. GSD Ancestry Everyone is aware of wolves howling, and they do this to identify each other across the wilderness. Their howling could be something that has been retained in their genes as the species evolved. If your German Shepherd is not comfortable being left on its own, it may resort to howling. This type of howling is a sign of your dog calling you to come home. Howling because of separation anxiety may be accompanied by other signs of distress like pacing back and forth, or destroying household items. Howling to communicate with other dogs Communication with other dogs is the most common reason for your German Shepherd to howl. Dogs are pack animals and, as such, they are incredibly friendly. Anyone living in a neighbourhood with lots of dogs will be familiar with the sound of one dog answering the howls of another, and this spreading throughout the whole community of dogs. Just as we sometimes cry due to pain, so too do dogs. Your dog howling unusually could be a sign that it is some sort of distress, particularly if the howling is accompanied by uncharacteristic behaviour. In such a situation, you should consult your vet. As a breed, the German Shepherd is an incredibly active dog that needs plenty of stimulation. If it fails to get stimulated enough, your German Shepherd might howl simply to relieve its boredom. How to make my german shepherd howl On the other hand, maybe your GSD does not howl, and you want to teach it. The first thing you should determine is what type of sounds your dog responds to best. Typical sounds that get a reaction from a dog are alarms, sirens, or the howls of other dogs. Showing your German Shepherd a video of dogs howling could be an excellent technique to teach similar behaviour. Another method is to use a high-pitched whistle. It is all down to trial and error, as every dog is different. Here are 5 ways you can make your dog howl: Howling or singing yourself so your dog follows. Playing high-pitched instruments such as harmonicas. Whistling to your dog Playing recordings of alarms or sirens. Watching videos of other dogs howling. Once you discovered the best method to get a howling response, you can then reinforce that method with more of the same. You can also promote behaviour by rewarding your dog with treats and plenty of attention when they respond well. But, be careful to understand the reasons why they are howling, so you do not miss some potentially harmful cause. Their howling can be for pleasure, and it can also be the result of pain or discomfort. As its owner and carer, it is your responsibility to make sure that you know which one of these it is. Dogs and wolves are closely related and share many of the same characteristics. Howling is one of the things they have in common. If he howls in response to the presence of other dogs, he could well be trying to warn them to stay away from his space. This is a typical response of a wolf pack if they become aware of another pack encroaching on their territory. Some dogs do this as a defense mechanism. Communication Your German Shepherd may also use howling as a way of communicating with others as a way to let them know where she is. Wolves do this to bring a lost pack member home. Your dog may not have a lost pack member, but, according to CertaPet , might still howl to reach out to others. When dogs want to communicate, a howl is a better choice because the sound carries much farther than does any other sound he might make. This includes barks, growls , and whines. Adult wolves know this instinctively and do not bark. Instead, they howl to communicate among themselves. Separation Anxiety If you leave your pet for any length of time, say, to go to work, she may howl almost continuously once you are gone. This is her way of her communicating with you, the missing member of her pack, to get you to return home. Dogs who howl in your absence due to separation anxiety often have other problem behaviors as well, such as chewing and digging. Cesar Millan also suggests that your anxious dog may pace or even relieve himself in your house until you return. This type of howling can be stopped, but it takes a lot of time and effort. Looking for Attention Some dogs howl to get some attention from their owners. They may be trying to communicate a physical need, such as hunger or thirst, but frequently it is just to get your attention. The PetHelpful website suggests that this is a natural way for your dog to reach out to you. If your dog is resorting to howling because of a need for attention, try responding positively to that need. Instead of scolding him for making noise, find a way to spend some extra time with him to give him the attention he craves. Do it regularly and you may find that his howling decreases. Anxiety at Being Isolated Similar to your dog howling if he is seeking attention from you, an isolated dog, too, may howl to get someone to relieve his loneliness. Dogs are pack animals, so they normally live with others. A dog that is left alone in your home or backyard may resort to howling to let you know that the situation is terrible for him. The Veterinary Network video on reasons dogs howls suggests that this is not uncommon behavior if a dog is left chained in the yard or is otherwise neglected or ignored. The video also points out that this type of howling is as sad as you might think upon hearing it. Sick or Injured If your German Shepherd is howling because he is ill, or because he has been hurt, he should be taken to the vet immediately. When your dog howls, look closely for signs that he is in serious distress. He may be standing or lying awkwardly, or he may be hunched over or otherwise look unnatural. His howling is a cue for you to take a closer look, and get him to a vet immediately if you think he is in pain. Noise Triggers You may have noticed that your German Shepherd howls in response to various noise triggers. Sirens are one common trigger, but your dog may howl in response to other sounds as well. Other things can set him off as well. Again, a very natural response. A crying baby can stimulate your dog to howl, and a variety of other noises, including doorbells, car horns, or even a squeaky chair. Scientists think that dogs howl in response to certain types of noise, usually high-pitched and ongoing, rather than short, sharp sounds. Studying the causes is made even more difficult by the fact that not all dogs respond the same to various sounds. Excitement and Success Not all howls are due to bad things, nor are they necessarily the result of other sounds. Is he excited? Hunting dogs on the trail of something may start to howl when they find the right trail or sense that they are close to their prey. Sled dogs, too, are known to howl with the pure excitement of being hitched to a sled. Often the source of irritation is noise, such as a musical instrument played by a child, an alarm clock, or the persistent beeping of a microwave. Your German shepherd is expressing his feelings of annoyance if he howls at these things. Listen carefully for any sounds that might be causing him to howl. Look carefully at all of the triggers listed above. That myth seems to come from the fact that dogs and wolves tip their heads back when they howl, so it seems like their howling at the moon. According to scientific studies, they are not. You can read the following article if you want to know Why German Shepherds Cry , and would like understand this behavior.

They can both be found in shelters. If adopting one of these dogs or one of their hybrids, like the BT Walker, is what you want, check out your local animal shelters. Buying from a reputable breeder is always more expensive and for a good reason. They might even work as part of a puppy mill. It is good to know what sort of business you support. When you welcome a BT Walker into your family, expect to have a loyal dog by your side. They are very affectionate but also tend to be quite vocal so consider this before making your decision. They were first developed in the middle of the s in Virginia. Their long name has meaning in each word to describe what the dog can do and their history. However long it takes for the gun-toting hunter to arrive is how long this dog stands watch. He was the most critical figure in the early development of the breed. These are the kinds of prey they were made to chase after. The BT Walker has a high prey drive. The Coonhound is made as a sort of ultimate hunting dog, but the Boxer has it in their blood as well. They have less endurance and energy but were still used for flushing out prey in fields. The Boxer received their name for the way that they fight other dogs. Both dogs are fearless and have territorial qualities that make them good at hunting, guarding, and protecting. These dogs combine the seriousness of a police dog with a hunter. Like many of the dogs that have the mental capacity and determination to work for the police, they were developed in Germany. They were first used on farms for many different purposes. Boxers prefer to have some sort of job to do, and being a farm dog suited them. However, during the late s, they were brought into the force. This incorporation ended up being a good choice for the military because the German army used them during World War I. Their association with the Germans decreased their popularity during and after the World War. While they have quite a few good traits, they have characteristics that make them a difficult dog for some people to own. Their excellent traits include their overall affection and loyalty. These dogs are full of life and just as full of love for their families. They protect them and shower them with cuddles and kisses whenever they can. They recognize when they are on the job, though, and take those moments much more seriously. The negative traits include their affinity for loudly vocalizing whenever they think you need to know something, which is all the time. This barking is challenging to train out of them because it has been ingrained in their DNA. They can also be quite stubborn. With a high prey drive, it is difficult to have these dogs around other, smaller animals. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They typically do better in a household with older children. That is only because of their boundless energy. They may tend to knock younger children over by playing too rough or actively. They can swing one way or another in their territorial tendencies, mostly depending on the training in their first years. That said, they are also quite friendly. Having another medium-sized or large breed dog around helps run and play out some of their energy during days that you might not have enough time. Since they have such a high prey drive, they are not good to have around smaller animals. Be careful when introducing them to cats and small mammals, especially. It is not typical for them to be aggressive, but they do love the chase. Height: 20 - 26 inches at the shoulder Weight: 65 - 75 lb. Lifespan: 10 - 12 years Boxer Coonhound Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed. Both of these parent breeds can be strong and powerful and have very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Dalmatian mixed with the Coonhound might be prone to Cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloat, deafness, eye problems, patellar luxation, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Boxer Coonhound Mix Care What are the grooming requirements? Both of these dogs have rather shorter hair and should be pretty easy to groom. However, the Coonhound might shed like crazy, even though it has shorter hair. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Boxer Coonhound Mix Feeding A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. This beautiful hybrid dog is originated from the crossing of Coonhound dog and Boxer dog. It is easy to deal with the purebreds rather than the designer breeds. This dog breed is a powerful and loyal dog breed that can be adopted as a pet. This hybrid dog breed is accepted and recognized by various organizations. As this is a hybrid dog breed, hence it seems to have the traits of both dog breeds. However, the percentage of traits from both parents may vary. Do not leave your beloved Boxer Coonhound Mix dog alone at home. The boxer dog breed can reach to a maximum height of about 25 inches while the other parent dog breed, Coonhound dog, can reach up to 26 inches in height. Similarly, the weight of parent dog breed, Boxer, can reach up to 70 pounds. While the weight of Coonhound dog may reach up to 75 pounds. Average Lifespan of Boxer Coonhound Mix: The average life expectancy of both parent dog breed is almost the same. The boxer parent of Boxer Coonhound Mix depicts to have a life expectancy of about 10 years to 12 years. Similarly, the Coonhound has 10 — 12 years of life expectancy. Their coat is short and quite easy to groom. Brush the coat when required. However, there is limited information available about this dog breed. If you are having this dog breed at your home or in neighbours, then do share your experience and details with us. However, the better care and regular medical check-up can make a difference. These are powerful and strong dogs which should be fed well. Your vet can help you in ensuring the good health of your dog. This is an energetic dog breed which should be taken for hiking and long walks in order to satisfy its energy levels. They may suffer from elbow dysplasia, obesity, and hip dysplasia. Read more to know about the interesting facts about splendid dog breed, Boxer Chow Mix. It would aid you in taking good care of your pet. Here comes a good news for pet sellers! Contact us with the details of your beloved pet and get it featured on our website. Happy Selling!

Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. Share this article Share She also slammed the fact that Tuna has to go through so much 'in order to be able to breathe'. It is not okay and we should be fighting against how this has become normal for these breeds,' Katherine added. The puppy pictured on the day of left and after right the procedure Tuna - who was rescued in September last year as part of an RSPCA animal welfare investigation - had snored 'extremely loudly', with her body straining for air when she slept. The roll of excess skin around her nose - known as 'the rope' was also causing sore skin and hot spots which could lead to infections. The pup has also had an operation on her eyelids, as, to add to her list of troubles, the weight of Tuna's face pulled them down, making her weep. A brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome surgery - which will help her breathe by widening her nostrils and removing excess tissue from her soft palate - is next on the list. Katherine added: 'Tuna has had thousands of pounds worth of surgery so far, and she's only months-old. Tuna pictured before her surgery. The roll of excess skin around her nose - known as 'the rope' was also causing sore skin and hot spots which could lead to infections 'She's also very lucky to have access to a vet who specialises in these surgeries as they are very complex, and also incredibly expensive. RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines has also hit out at the focus on how our pets look, leading to unhealthy breeding practices. Some can't run and play with their doggy friends, and many find the hot weather incredibly difficult.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Golden Retrievers are very food motivated. If your puppy seems to be getting fat, you may need to switch to the lower end of the above recommendations. Alternatively, if their ribs are becoming too prominent, you should work to the upper ends of the guidelines. Golden Retriever puppies have much smaller stomachs than adults. This means their daily food allowance should be split into smaller, more frequent meals. Rather than just feeding them once in the morning and once in the evening, as you might plan to do eventually, their food will need to be split into 3 or even 4 portions, like so: 8 — 12 weeks: 4 meals a day 3 — 6 months: 3 meals a day 6 — 12 months: 2 meals a day However, like the feeding charts, this should only be used as a guide. Feeding too much food at once can lead to cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for your puppy. How to Choose the Best Golden Retriever Puppy Food Puppies need a balance of certain nutrients and vitamins to support their growth — not just as much food as possible. In fact, simply giving as much food as possible is linked to certain joint-related health problems. So, when searching for a high quality puppy food, there are a few key ingredients you might want to search for. This includes a real meat source, and the correct amount of nutrients like calcium and iron. Commercial Food vs Homemade Food There are pros and cons to every type of puppy food available. Dry food is long-lasting and easy to use during training, but can contain filler ingredients. Wet food is palatable and easy to serve, but can be more expensive and harder to use during training. Homemade food is often very appealing in terms of taste for our dogs, but is the most likely type to contain nutritional imbalances that can lead to serious health problems. So, they will continue to grow and develop physically until somewhere between 12 and 18 months. You may want to transition your puppy to a new food when you bring them home, rather than whatever your breeder was giving them. Ideally, you want to make the change over the course of a week. Replace a very small amount of their old food with their new food at mealtimes. Over the week, you can change these amounts by decreasing their old food and increasing the new. By the end of the week, they will be eating only the new food. Changing abruptly can cause stomach upsets and symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. But, Golden Retrievers should generally look lanky rather than chubby. But, the most successful rewards in this type of training are often food, such as kibble or small chunks or meat and cheese. Doing all of your training in the morning can lead to stomach upsets if your puppy ends up eating a large amount of their daily allowance all at once. Instead, try and complete shorter training sessions before each mealtime, and give whatever allowance is left for each meal after training is done. This can also benefit your training, as a hungry dog will be more motivated to work for those treats! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds.

Share 0 Shares Golden Retrievers are a beautiful canine breed that has simply taken the world in its gorgeous paws. The canine breed features a rich and luxuriant coat, lots of energy, and a winning smile. Originally bred to be a hunting companion. Many find that the Golden Retriever makes an excellent family dog, as well as a service or work dog. As a canine lover in the United States, the Golden Retriever has become one of the top picks. This is because its popularity is massive, with the breed being the number one dog breed in some states. Idaho is one such state. Here we provide a list of the best Golden Retriever breeders in the state. These are reputable breeders with good breed standards and overall love for the Golden Retriever. They have over 20 years of breeding experience and have nothing but love for the breed. All their puppies are bred to be family companions, but their impressive build and equally impressive intelligence make them suitable dogs to be taken for hunting events as well as to be used as the show, work, therapy, or service dogs. They are also registered with the AKC and bred according to their standards. Eagle Ridge Goldens runs a very robust breeding program. Most of their breeding sires and dams were imported from lines both within and outside Idaho. They are top-quality Golden Retrievers that were selected based on their overall breeding health, intelligence, and temperament. They undergo proper genetic health testing to be certain they are free from genetic health defects and each has their OFA and CERF records for decent working eyes, hips, elbows, and hearts. The puppies are raised in a big family house in central Idaho. This provides them with plenty of space for them to run and practically be their happy selves. Another thing is their dedication to socialization. All the puppies get to interact with each other, as well as with people of varying age ranges. They are exposed and introduced to a wide variety of textures, sights, and sounds and are raised with proper food and supplements. All puppies coming from Eagle Ridge Goldens come with a written month health guarantee. They are properly vaccinated and each has their deworming records updated. They would also be fully health checked by a vet and each come with AKC papers. Once Upon A Dream Kennels! From Our Dreams To Yours! Welcome to our Golden Retriever Program! Once Upon A Dream Kennels We are a small, family run program located in Idaho focusing on quality, healthy Golden Retrievers that have wonderful temperaments, good nerves, great drives, a balanced conformation and great lines to top the whole thing off. I have always dreamed of raising amazing puppies, and this program is my dream come true! I fell head over heels with Golden Retrievers when I brought home my first little girl at 10 weeks old. Chloe was fantastic and made me fall in love with field line Golden Retrievers. We feel that these are the ultimate dogs. Golden retrievers are such amazing dogs. We want to be able to put a golden in every home. We feel that Golden Retrievers are such amazing versatile dogs and we want our program to reflect that. We are striving to have an couple different programs all rolled into this one amazing breed! Our first program is field line or hunting line Golden Retrievers. These dogs will be bred to have high drives, high nerve strength, great energy and be up for anything. Our other program is for those looking for the perfect family companion. These dogs will be bred to have the very best of temperaments. We are looking for those sweet, loving, loyal companion dogs. These dogs will be ready to be spoiled by sweet kids, service work, therapy work and so much more! The focus of our entire program is to produce healthy, well rounded dogs for many different purposes. We health test our breeding dogs so that we know we are breeding the best dogs we can. We look for that perfect balance of pedigree, health, and temperament for these great dogs. Our puppies are raised right in our home as part of our family! We believe in early socialization and exposure. We try to introduce them to as many new things as we can. We work closely with our veterinarians to make sure they are as happy and healthy as they possibly can. We hope that we can make your dreams come true as well! Also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! When can I pick up my puppy? That will be posted on the specific litter page. We try to have our puppy families come get them as close to 8 weeks of age as possible. Pick up day is scheduled out a week or two in advance in order of deposit received. For example, first male would come at AM, second male at AM, and so on. The schedule will also be posted to the specific litter page. Do you deliver? Delivering puppies is not a service we regularly offer. On occasion, if the situation is right, we will do our best to accommodate. This would be at the cost of the buyer which would include, but not limited to: mileage, food, and lodging reimbursements. We do deliver puppies to the Boise, Idaho airport at no cost to the buyer. Do you offer full breeding rights? All puppies go home with AKC limited registration. If the time comes where a buyer has ran the proper health screenings on the dog that was purchased through our program hips, elbows, heart, genetics and agrees to the FULL AKC contract provided by SBG, then full breeding rights will be granted. Yes, we will ship to anywhere in the United States except Hawaii. Ground shipping or air shipping, completely at the expense of the buyer. Other options to highly consider: Flight nanny - We can give you recommendations for great flight nanny services they fly in cabin with pup. Meeting you personally at the Boise, ID airport to fly in cabin with pup. Yes, we offer stud services. We have studs in every color, in multiple places throughout the Treasure Valley. We will also highly consider pick of the litter instead of stud fees.

Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. And just like us, their cardiovascular system becomes more efficient the more its used. The benefits of exercising your dog are many. Exercise helps your Labrador grow more blood vessels and effectively oxygenate his body, as well as build muscle and strengthen his bones. It also helps with weight control to a certain extent. Firstly, he will tend to get bored and will be bursting with pent up energy. Your lab will expend all that energy by resorting to destructive behaviors like chewing and digging, and barking excessively. So, how much exercise does a Labrador need? Generally speaking, however, a healthy, adult Labrador needs an hour of exercise every day. If your dog is the relaxed kind, 45 minutes will do, while a really energetic dog could work out up to 1. Labradors, like all dogs, love to explore. Even a quick hike or walk around a nature trail will be great exercise. Just make sure you have the right hiking gear for your labrador. Just their normal playtime will tire him and give him enough of a workout. This is five minutes of structured exercise per month of age, until your puppy is grown. And that should be enough to keep him fit and burn off excess energy. There are plenty of games you can play with your dog which double as exercising. Tug-of-War is a great form of play and exercise. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. A couple of tips to keep it safe. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Another good idea is upgrading a rubber ball to a Frisbee. Balls tend to sink and roll away, but Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. A low impact game which is a great brain teaser for your Lab is finding the treat under the cup. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. Labradors were bred to be full of energy and want to work. They need lots of regular exercise. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know 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. These tips will also help you to advance your dog so that, eventually, you can trust them to be off the leash in a safe area. Don't release your dog until they can demonstrate knowledge and obedience on the long leash and in many different settings. To begin with, walk them in the house and in the yard. Dogs learn 'contextually and by repetition'. These hints will help you to become the pack leader. Be certain that this is only reason that your dog will follow you. Make time to walk your dog Whether you walk your dog in the morning or evening will be influenced by your program. Whenever you exercise your dog, the walk should allow for 'focused time' and 'free time'. Two leashes will facilitate this. If they are under 12 months old, take some water with you. Also take a back-pack and a treat belt available on Ebay. I recommend no more than thirty minutes of walking in total for a dog under 14 months old as their growth plates are not set until this time. Be careful of overly vigorous activity, particularly if you have an older but playful dog. I don't recommend running for more than very short bursts for the same reason. Healthy hips and elbows are critical for a healthy, active and long life. Use two leashes - a long leash approx 7m and a short leash approx 1m Start your walk with the labrador pup on a short leash. The short leash will help you to direct and guide the dog. This allows you to maintain full control over your dog. Set up your walk for success. Start by getting the dog to sit or at the least be stationary and under your control. As you begin, keep your dog behind your body alignment. Be patient and encourage your dog. Do not show aggressive frustration. This will only cause confusion and fear or aggression. If your dog is not complying, stop and reset. You are the master Walking in front of your dog demonstrates that you are the master or the pack leader. You should be first out the door. The dogs should exit the compound only at your command. This is essential whether you are walking 1, 2 or more dogs. If your dog controls the pace and direction of the walk, they are the pack leader. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk. Dogs learn contextually The next two hints are important training essentials. Firstly, labradors learn contextually and their training in not immediately transferable to a new environment. Using the same disciplines and routines, train your dog the same way in different settings. This will entrench your expectations. Correct immediately Secondly, a labrador has about a five second retention of information. After five seconds the dog has lost any association between your assertiveness and their behaviour. If they disobey you, you must correct them within five seconds or not at all. If the dog is disobedient or simply does not understand, reset and start again. The long leash I'm a big fan of the long leash. A long leash will help you to correct bad behaviour at a distance. After a period of training with the short leash, remove it and connect the longer lead. Keep the leash in your hand, releasing it slowly and progressively. As they master this, you can back away while the dog is 'sitting and staying'. Reward your labrador pup with vigorous affection and a treat. After this, you should allow them to wander and sniff around. All this time you will keep your dog on the long leash and under your control. Be sure that the free time is less than their focus time. During the socialisation phase, 8 - 16 weeks, you will need both leashes as you expose your labrador pup to other dogs. As you walk your dog, you will come across small and large dogs that are aggressive. Walking on either leash will give your complete control. And it will ensure safety at all time. You new labrador pup has no innate road sense. Walk them, getting close to roads. Expose them to vehicles so that they do not panic. Reward your dog for good behaviour. Remember that dogs register tones and frequencies, not words. Use higher tones to affirm, reward and encourage. You approval is the greatest reward for a Labrador. Direct eye contact without high vocal affirmation will be interpreted as aggression. Use lower growling tones to reinforce disapproval. Try to avoid 'No' as a command. It is too general and therefore confusing to the dog. Always reward and reinforce obedience to specific commands. Use food treats to begin with, however you must gradually phase them out. Your vocal affirmation and affection should be your longer term goal. As your dog maintains the proper behaviour, reward them with treats. Reward your dog after the walk I recommend that you reward your labrador pup after the walk. Let them have a drink firstly then give them a portion of food that is less than a meal but more than a treat. It will not take long for your dog to anticipate the whole experience. When you appear with the leashes, they will become very enthusiastic. If you adhere to these eight hints and maintain the discipline of your training, you and your dog will value and enjoy the experience. Finally, remember to pick up after your dog. Don't go on a walk without your poop bags on hand! Find a vet you can have confidence in. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway. Learn more » While Labrador Retrievers are a popular companion dog worldwide, they were initially bred as sporting dogs and have retained a lot of their working prowess even after the shift to companionship. AKC compliant breeder Ruffwood Labs emphasizes that exercise is not a value of time exercised but exertion. Puppies According to Ruffwood Labs, Labrador puppies need to be walked for around 5 minutes for every month of life. So, a minute walk would be appropriate for a four-month-old puppy. However, not all walks are equal. Take into account the terrain that you will be walking on eg. The most important part is not the length of the exercise but the quality of it. Puppies are being walked to help with socialization and lead skills rather than a need for exercise per se. Let them guide the activity- sniffing and investigating or running around madly for a few minutes. They will usually stop and sit or lie down if they need a rest, let them do this. Additionally, Ruffwood Labs warns against overexercising your puppies. Hip dysplasia is multifactorial and genetics, diet and exercise all play a part. Ruffwood Labs recommends that Labrador puppies not be vigorously exercised and kept away from stairs to avoid causing damage to their delicate, growing joints. Once they are mature, by 18 months, they will be able to engage in more vigorous exercise and start to go jogging with you if you wish. Your average labrador would enjoy around 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day but this can be divided into manageable time slots. Exercise also includes brain stimulation such as training and scent work. So your morning and evening walks can be supplemented with training sessions at home too. Labradors love to swim and this can be a great form of exercise for them. Get creative, play games, use puzzle feeders and have fun together building your bond. If you see any of the following signs while exercising your Labrador, stop the activity and let your dog rest. Damage to the Paw Pads Some dogs get so absorbed in their play that they accidentally put excessive strain on the paw pads. Even though paw pad injuries are typically painful, some dogs will ignore the very clear sign that they need to stop to continue playing. Soreness or stiffness will typically become visible once your dog has rested up following their play session. Image By: SeventyFour, Shutterstock Behavioral Changes If your dog is not quite themselves or behaving oddly, especially around the time you would typically exercise, this is a good sign that something is wrong. Your dog may be feeling under the weather, or maybe you went a little too hard the day before. If the problem persists, contact your veterinarian to rule out any medical diagnoses. Injury or Heat Intolerance If your dog is injured during play or starts showing signs of heat sickness , you should halt play immediately and bring them to a veterinarian. Prompt treatment is of the essence with these kinds of situations. Final Thoughts Exercising your dog is a critical component of being a dog owner. So, it makes sense to learn as much as you can about how to properly keep your dog healthy before you get one. So, keep that in mind before bringing your new dog home.

Meet Our Dogs Our dogs are more than just pets — they are family! Our dogs grow up in a loving, family oriented environment and are socialized from a young age. All of our moms and dads have passed genetic testing specific to their breed. Nora is just a happy girl with a happy heart and she passes this on to her sweet puppies! She loves to be loved and gives it right back! Margot is a Bernese with a big heart! Ivy lives with friends who have been guardians for several of our girls. They describe her as sweet, quirky, and the biggest lap dog ever! Ivy insists on being close to her people, preferably touching! Bebe is goofy and affectionate, loving and silly, very much a Bernese. She is so engaged and careful with her babies, an adorable dog and Mama through and through! She is a talker like her Mama, loves the family bunny, and adores her family. Millie loves to learn and is proud of her accomplishments. Millie makes her guardian family laugh and the favorite part of her day is when the whole family is together! Pure sweetness with just a dash of mischief ; that would be Pumpkin! Rosey is such a good mix of love and affection, adventure and playfulness, with just a dash of mischievousness! He has a wonderful fleece coat with big waves. Flynn is a sweet and energetic little guy, he has no trouble keeping up with the big dogs! He has produced stunning traditional tricolor litters with some of the prettiest coats we've seen! Rocky is as sweet as he is mischievous! He also fancies himself a lap dog - which is a small problem at pounds! He is a lover with the most soulful eyes! He is playful, curious, and full of energy! Sully is a "moyan" poodle which is a small standard poodle. He weighs 27 pounds and when bred with a Bernese he will produce mini - medium tricolor bernedoodles! Full of love and cheer, he keeps us on our toes! Max is one of the happiest guys we know! Arlo Male tricolor standard poodle Arlo is the epitome of a standard poodle, goofy, goofy, goofy, and intelligent! He is truly a delight, fun-loving, and energetic. Arlo is the master of the head tilt and its so cute to see his babies following suit with impressive head tilts of their very own! Every one of these girls truly made the world a better place and we are so grateful to each and every one of them! As a full time Breeder, you have to have a lot of dogs. We usually breed our dogs when they are around 18 months old, and we will breed a maximum of 3 times. If you think about that, as soon as a Mama has her first litter you need to have a new puppy in the line up so she is ready for her first breeding as your 3 year old girl is retiring. As a result we quickly had a house full of retired dogs - not a good business plan! We buy the dog, pay for all testing and medical care, but she lives with another family. All of our guardians live very close to us and we give them all the support they need. When the girl is ready to have a litter, she comes to our house to have her pups and stays with us until the puppies are weaned, usually about six weeks. Of course their guardian families come to visit too! After 3 breedings, the dog is spayed and she officially becomes the guardian families forever dog! You did such a good job, we are so lucky we found you! We kept Mala from our first litter from Snow White. Thank you for making such sweet babies! Belle has such a fun loving spirit which she passed onto each of her beautiful pups! Thanks for all of your hard work Belle, you did a wonderful job! Ramona produced a pot-potpourri of stunning, colorful puppies. She had litters as big as her heart! Thank you Ramona, you did an amazing job! Shelby is fun loving and lively! We loved delivery days with Shelby as she always gave us beautiful and unique pups! You did a great job Shelby, thank you! Willow is a delightful Bernese, her personality encompasses the best of the breed. Willow, you made so many families happy, we thank you! We love her eyes and freckles! Koda, you left a wonderful legacy, thank you! Coco loves and lives life large! She always had big litters and handled them with grace and ease. Thank you Coco - you absolutely rocked it!! They allowed us to use Grisz to sire a few litters over the years. Thank you Snow, you made the world a better place! Love you. Beazus only produced one puppy and she was a loving and attentive mama! Her daughter, Ramona, is now having her grandchildren for us! Bella is a little girl who always had big, beautiful litters! She was so patient and loving with every single one of those pups! Thank you Bella! Chama is sister to Clarke and cousin to Snow White. She produced cuddly, adorable tricolors every time! Chama, you are wonderful, we love you! Zena is a stunning Bernese from Russia. Now her daughters will be having puppies! We love you! Sicily came from Italy. Thank you Sicily, we love you. She made gorgeous babies and loved them to pieces! Thank you Stella. Georgie is spunky and loving. She adored her puppies and was a fierce Mama! We owe a special thanks to Georgie for our Bernedoodle, Spicy Tuna!! Lily is the happiest of girls! She brought love, energy, and tail wags to every puppy. A loving Mama who is now loving life! Kahlu is from the first litter we had. Kahlu had such unique puppies, every litter brought new surprises! Sophie produced beautiful big litters everytime! She brought so much fun and love to every single puppy! Thank you, Sophie, you are special! Brooklyn Standard Poodle Retired Nov. Brooklyn is a beautiful tri-color standard poodle. She had big colorful litters every time! Thank you for bringing so much joy to the world Brooklyn! Clarke, you made a lot of families very happy! Thank you! She loved her puppies so much. Thank you Bailey, you did an awesome job! Gabi is so full of fun and adventure, love and affection! She surprised us with lots of colors, patterns, and unique pups! Gabi, you left your mark! Parker is our big Panda Bear! Parker always had small litters and a huge heart. You did good Parker, thank you! Several of her pups are service dogs. Zoli, you have made a difference in the world. Tragically we lost Cru, and my heart still hurts for her. Cru will forever be at the heart of Ranch House Bernedoodles. Meet the Family Over the years myself and our grown up kids have owned at least 6 doodles and they have all been exceptional. Now we hope to bless other families with the same quality of loving pets that we have enjoyed. We live in Montrose, CO and we are excited to breed bernedoodles. Our goals for our puppies are a great temperament, good health, loving and fun personalities, and high intelligence! We work hard to assure you are getting a wonderful new family member, not just a pet. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram! About Bernedoodles Bernedoodles are the perfect family pet! A low to non-shedding, low-allergy coat makes the Bernedoodle an extremely low maintenance addition to any household. Their teddy bear appearance will melt your heart while their smart and lovable personality makes them the perfect companion. More info Our Home Our home is located in the beautiful and growing town of Windsor in Northern Colorado, just an hour north of Denver and 45 minutes from the Wyoming border. Picturesque mountain views and access to an endless number of hiking trails make this a wonderful place to live and play with our family and dogs. Our Family My husband, Steve, and I have been married for 10 years. Steve is a fireman and I am now staying home with our sons: Luke- 4. We are enjoying the wild and crazy life we have with three boys within two years of each other! Before staying home with the boys and focusing on dog breeding, I was a special education teacher in Fort Collins and still occasionally sub in the district. Steve and I are very active in our church and community, and enjoy spending time with our extended family. We are love to hike, camp, paddle board, and just play outdoors. We have thoroughly enjoyed embarking on our own breeding journey for the past 4 years. We are not only passionate about raising healthy and well socialized puppies, but also about helping each client find the perfect puppy. My mom generously helps and guides us whenever we need advice and we enjoy earnestly researching and learning from her about what goes into breeding high quality dogs. We love breeding Bernedoodles as they are the perfect family dog! You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. Welcome to Alpine Bernedoodles, we are located in beautiful southwestern Colorado in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. I have been a Veterinary Technician for over 16 years and it is my passion to produce exceptional quality Bernedoodles. I am committed to breeding for excellent health, confirmation and sound temperament. My bernedoodles are bred with responsibility and integrity to be cherished family companions. Every puppy is raised with attention to physical and mental health, and nurtured with love and care. We cannot guarantee size or color but we will deliver a beautiful, happy healthy puppy. We are accepting applications for future litters. Please visit our Purchasing information page regarding our waitlist policies and application process. Now is a good time to start planning for your next best friend. Cannot recommend Alpine Bernedoodles enough! Our trainer at puppy class raves about how lucky we are to have such a smart trainable pup. Kathryn was great throughout the process sharing pictures and providing information to help us pick our pup and made it so smooth in getting her. The Kingery Family, Washington Today was a great day because we welcomed home our new puppy! She instantly lit up our home with joy! We adore her! They are amazing! The Priehs Family, Michigan I fell in love with bernedoodles about 3 years ago or so, I have wanted one for along time. It was important to me to find the right breeder of this breed as there are alot that are not. I had the most enjoyable experience from the day I sent in my deposit to this day. I love all the new friends I have met watching our puppies grow together. Kathryn is super great to work with! This puppy has changed our house. Less stress, more love. And I thought we were in pretty good shape before, so that says alot. The Heidemann's, Idaho Big day for the Porter family! We love Minna Hayley so much, we had to have Rocket Noah too! Marley and Logan and Kathryn sure make some awesome pups! This was a surprise to our kiddos, hence the tears The Porter Family, Colorado Kathryn, it was lovely to meet you and your husband. Thanks so much for everything! Thank you, Kathryn Hadfield for everything! What a wonderful experience it has been finding you, Alpine Bernedoodles, and this perfect little guy! The Cowgill's, Wisconsin Colt Mack has been such a joy! He is so sweet, happy, smart, and adorable! We are always asked about him when we are out in public and everyone always says how cute he is. People actually think he is a Bernese puppy because of his markings. His coat gets more beautiful every day. It is shiny and wavy and has not faded a bit! It has gotten much thicker and fuller and is gorgeous. The Dutton Family, Colorado We had a fantastic experience with Alpine Bernedoodles, well worth waiting for the perfect dog for your family! Finley has a hilarious personality and could not be smarter or more lovable. She was sleeping through the night after one week and we had her potty trained in two weeks using the bell method — they are SMART dogs. She is a favorite of everyone she meets and has not met a stranger yet. Alpine Bernedoodles has been there for us every step of the way if we have questions, and we love knowing there is a Facebook group for additional support if we need it. We could not be happier with our puppy and suggest Alpine Bernedoodles to everyone we meet! The Bogenreif's, Texas From the moment our puppy arrived we knew we had made the right choice with Alpine Bernedoodles. She arrived happy, beautifully cared for and well behaved. We would highly recommend Alpine and Kathryn to everyone! Thank you for giving us our perfect Scout! She melts our hearts and makes us smile all the time. Her fabulous looks are only enhanced by her amazing personality. She is so sweet and very spunky and she literally stops traffic wherever we bring her. Timber Ellie is the best pup we could ever ask for. She loves cuddling on the couch, politely sitting at the kitchen table with us, and hiking all around Colorado while winning over the hearts of everyone she meets. Timber has a beautiful, silky coat and a fluffy teddy bear face. She is like a person with how smart she is and how well she listens to us. We love her tri-color markings that are still there even as as she approaches 2 years old…and no shedding! Thank you so much for our furry family member! The Meyer Family, Colorado. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Cherry Hills Village Colorado and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

Once the cruel sport was banned in , breeders began to change the look of the Bulldog, using terriers and small Bulldogs to create smaller versions of the dog. English Bulldogs were also changed to the look that we know today: heavy dogs with wrinkles and exaggerated facial features. The Bulldogs of the bull-baiting days were well-muscled, athletic, strong dogs. The French Bulldog was developed in England and became popular among lacemakers. After the Industrial Revolution, these lacemakers moved to France and took the dogs along with them. Here, breeders further developed the small Bulldogs and they quickly became popular among Parisians. Wealthy Americans who traveled to France soon also fell in love with the little Bulldogs. They began to bring them back to the United States and define their look. Some French Bulldogs had bat ears, while others had ears that resembled roses. Americans preferred the bat-eared look over the rose one. However, an English judge chose to only exhibit dogs with rose ears, which infuriated Americans who had entered their bat-eared dogs. They then formed the French Bulldog Club of America and drew up a breed standard that only allowed bat-eared dogs to participate in shows. Then, French Bulldogs saw a decline in their popularity that lasted 50 years. The little dogs were difficult to care for. As a brachycephalic breed, they had trouble breathing in hot weather. They also routinely required C-sections to deliver their puppies. The dogs found popularity again in the s, when a breeder named Amanda West began showing her cream French Bulldogs. While black French Bulldogs are popular today, there are so many colors to choose from in the breed. You may have to search to find a truly pure black French Bulldog from a breeder or rescue. There are only nine standard colors that the AKC recognizes for French Bulldogs: brindle, cream, fawn, fawn brindle, brindle and white, white, fawn and white, white and brindle, and fawn and white. Black French Bulldogs are still lovable French Bulldogs in every way, but their color has not been chosen to represent the breed. Image By: Paska, Pixabay 2. They are popular with celebrities. The body of a Frenchie is not made for swimming. They are heavy, stocky dogs with bulbous bodies. Black French Bulldogs are beautiful dogs that make great pets. They love to play and interact with their owners. They are intelligent dogs that can be trained easily with the proper methods. French Bulldogs make great watchdogs and will always alert you to anything happening around your home. They are a low-maintenance breed, but they should not be kept outside for long in very cold or very hot weather. You may need to search for black French Bulldogs because the color is so rare. Check with your local French Bulldogs rescues or breeders to see if pure black French Bulldogs are available. Conclusion Black French Bulldogs are just one color variety of Frenchies. They are rarer than other colors, so they may be difficult to find. If you do find one, they may be more expensive. These loving little dogs are just like any other French Bulldog, though. Me What is a Black French Bulldog? While the breed standard for French Bulldogs allows for several different coat colors and patterns, black is a popular color for this breed. Black Frenchies are quite easy to recognize as they possess no traces of other colors. What we mean by that is that they have a solid black coat color with no brindle pattern; sometimes they have a white patch on their chest giving them a unique look. Black French Bulldogs are a highly sought-after breed and they are relatively rare. In general, French Bulldogs come in a range of colors, including brindle, fawn, cream, and white. However, the solid black coat color is a recessive trait and can only be passed down if both parents carry the gene for it. As a result, Black French Bulldogs are not as common as other colors, which adds to their appeal and value. Because Black French Bulldogs are rare, they can be more expensive than other colors. A Black French Bulldog can make a wonderful and loyal companion for years to come, and their unique appearance and personality make them a valuable addition to any household. You should have your own Black Frenchie. Here is why! Black French Bulldogs are a popular breed of dog that has become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. They are a wonderful addition to any household, offering a range of benefits that make them the perfect pet for anyone who loves dogs. Here are some reasons why you should get a Black French Bulldog: Black French Bulldogs have a solid black coat color that makes them stand out from other dog breeds. Friendly and affectionate French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, and Black Frenchies are no exception. They are great with children and other animals, making them the perfect family pet. Low maintenance French Bulldogs have short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, which makes them a low-maintenance breed. Playful and energetic Despite their small size, French Bulldogs are known for their energy and playful personalities. Adaptable Black French Bulldogs can adapt to a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive enough attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. This makes them a great option for those who are looking for a companion that can keep up with their lifestyle. Overall, a Black French Bulldog is a wonderful addition to any household. With their unique appearance, friendly personality, and low-maintenance needs, they are sure to bring joy and love into your life for years to come. It's important to purchase from a reputable breeder who can provide you with a health guarantee and ensure that the dog has been bred and raised in a responsible manner. Do Black French Bulldogs Shed? Black French Bulldogs, like any other Frenchie tend to shed throughout the year, more so in the spring and fall. During this period, they change their coat almost completely, replacing it with shinier, brighter and nicer fur. It's important to brush your puppy's hair at least two or three times a week using a Furminator. That will remove the undercoat that has fallen out but is still in the hair. We provide Health Guarantee TomKings Frenchies are bred from an award-winning bloodline to ensure the healthiest and most authentic gene pool. Before the breeding program was established, all parent dogs underwent a rigorous selection and examination process. We feed our adult dogs and puppies only the highest quality food and supplements to maintain their immaculate health, and they are checked by our veterinarian on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee that covers all genetic illnesses. Kennel-free living Our Frenchies are not raised in kennels but instead live in a loving family home with a large green garden. We believe that proper development, including strong musculature, a healthy immune system, and good manners, cannot be achieved in crowded spaces. As family members, our Frenchies are free to roam in our spacious garden and rest in our home. We ensure that our Frenchie puppies have ample opportunity to play and we teach them good manners around other dogs and people, including children. We provide love and professional care At TomKings, our puppies receive 12 weeks of both maternal love and professional care. This extended period of time spent with their mother and siblings fosters the development of a healthy dog personality and a well-balanced nature. Prior to joining their new families in the USA and beyond, our Frenchies receive all necessary puppy vaccinations, as well as deworming and parasite treatment. We also begin their potty training at an early age, making it easier for new owners to house-train their little angels. Facts The upright ears, the short, robust body, and the quirky attitude all remind us of one breed: the French Bulldog. French Bulldogs are known as the class clown of dog breeds. It could be their wobbly walk or their skyscraper ears. It could also be their personality. They love showing off for attention, whether for an owner or stranger. They also come in many colors like brindle, cream, fawn, and sable. Breed Overview Small to medium 11 — 12 inches Weight: 20 — 28 pounds for males, pounds for females Lifespan: 10 — 12 years Colors: Fawn, fawn and white, fawn brindle, brindle, brindle and white, cream, white and brindle, white and fawn Suitable for: Families looking for a playful, easy-to-groom lapdogs that does not require a lot of space. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. The Earliest Records of the Black French Bulldog in History French Bulldogs originated in England in the late 19th century, around the time of the industrial revolution. At this time, bulldogs were more muscular and taller than the Bulldog breed we see today. Bulldog breeders fiddled with bulldog genetics to create different breed modifications. One of these modifications was a mini bulldog with upright ears, a short lower jaw, and a round forehead—otherwise known as the French Bulldog. English lacemakers primarily took notice of this breed. When the industrial revolution closed down many crafting shops, English lacemakers relocated to France, taking their mini bulldogs with them. During this time, the Frenchie rose to fame, but the only colors you saw were your standard brindle and fawn French Bulldogs. Frenchies were seen everywhere in France, from hotels and cafes to churches and brothels. So, people love their Frenchies. But some people will pay a hefty price for a Black French Bulldog. French Bulldogs already have several health issues, but Black Frenchies have the worst among all the colors because of the dominant black gene mutation. French Bulldogs without brindle can carry the deaf gene and possibly face eye problems in the future. Black Frenchies are sometimes mixed with Pugs. One way to create a black coat color on a French Bulldog is to breed it with a Pug with dominant black genes. Black Frenchies are rare. Still, some breeders take their chances and earn a high profit from this rare color. French Bulldogs were used as conversation starters in brothels. While in France, French Bulldogs were often seen in brothels and roaming the streets with prostitutes. Men seeking companionship would sometimes be awkward during the first encounter, so the French Bulldogs helped start the conversation. To say the French Bulldog makes a good pet is an understatement. French Bulldogs are intelligent, playful, and amusing. Generally, French Bulldogs love children and other pets but may try to compete for attention. French Bulldogs also adapt to their surroundings. French Bulldogs make excellent pets, but you should find a different color of Frenchie instead of a black one. These dogs are overpriced and face more health issues than the approved French Bulldog colors. Things may change in the future with breeding regulation. Conclusion French Bulldogs are here to make the world a better place. But sometimes, this comes at a price. Plus, your Frenchie will still have the desired French Bulldog antics everyone loves, regardless of coat color. Related Read:.

Prices for Labrador Retrievers may be influenced by several things. Expect some to be more expensive than others because these canines are grown and raised differently by each breeder. The following are some typical elements that influence the price of a Labrador Retriever puppy. Physical Appearance The yellow Labrador Retriever often commands a more excellent price than the chocolate or black Lab. Labrador Retrievers are available in various hues, including red, yellow, black, chocolate, and Dudley. They can also be categorized as English or American Labradors; the latter is the more reasonably priced canine. Due to their different uses, American Labradors are more commonly employed for fieldwork, whereas English Labs are primarily utilized as show dogs. Click here to learn more. Purebred puppies sprung from a show championship bloodline are unavoidably more expensive than a Lab puppy of pet quality, even though this has little influence on their ability to be loving companions. Although younger canines will cost more, you will get to enjoy them while they are still puppies. On the other hand, an older dog will likely be calmer and cost less money but may have behavioral problems that need to be addressed. Training A puppy will cost more than the usual price if the breeder has previously trained it. Raising a well-behaved dog is also more likely a result. Different breeds require different amounts of sleep, but how much sleep do Labradors need? Even though it is more expensive, this is a better and more ethical choice than purchasing a dog from a backyard breeder or a puppy factory. If you want your puppy to have this certification, be prepared to pay more for a Labrador Retriever. Health Health problems can arise in Labrador Retrievers. The most frequent conditions are progressive retinal atrophy, which causes blindness, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, you should always ask the breeder if they have checked the parents for hip, elbow, or eye issues before purchasing a Labrador puppy. The cost of the puppy will be lower if the pedigree has a history of hip or elbow dysplasia. A reputable breeder will provide health records and certificates for both parents. The puppy will be protected from inheriting progressive retinal atrophy and will have a higher likelihood of having healthy hips and elbows. Because unskilled owners misunderstand how much exercise these working dogs require and cannot exhaust them, American Labradors are more likely to wind up in shelters. An English Lab is unusual to come across at a shelter. That is because they are show dogs and frequently have more seasoned owners. They are also much less energetic, making them a good choice for young families searching for their first dog. Although labs are generally calm and easygoing, a rescue Labrador may not be the best choice for new parents. They may require special attention and instruction because of behavioral problems brought on by previous neglect. Other Factors In general, service dog-trained Labrador Retriever puppies cost much more than regular Lab puppies. An assistance dog must undergo considerable training, which adds significant expenses to its upbringing. To avoid unforeseen costs, ask the breeder specific questions about what is included in the bill. How Much Is a Labrador Puppy? This becomes particularly true if the Lab puppy you intend to buy comes from a line of champions. Labrador Retrievers are a friendly, devoted breed that gets along well with kids. Additionally, labs are very clever, driven, and simple to teach. They are, therefore, excellent dogs for new owners. Particularly in America, it is not difficult to discover Labrador pups for sale. A Labrador can be adopted in various ways, including from dog shelters and breeders. For instance, there are several blends, colors, and types of labs. Click here to find out. However, getting a black Labrador puppy from a top-notch retriever could be pricey. Although yellow labs are not uncommon, because of their high level of popularity, adopting one of these puppies can be expensive. It is less expensive to adopt than to purchase from a breeder. When you purchase from a reputed breeder, you also increase your chances of receiving a healthy puppy. They prepare to move to a permanent home when they are eight weeks old. Before this age, no Chocolate Lab should be sold. Make sure the breeder you choose to get your puppy from is reputable. Avoid puppy mills and pet retailers when purchasing pups at all costs. You must be prepared to pay a little bit more if you want a Silver Lab or charcoal or Champagne. Despite their growing numbers, they are still uncommon, particularly in the UK. This fact has led some people to conclude that breeders only chose to breed this uncommon gene for this purpose. Prices will probably decrease as they grow more widespread, but they might never get to the point where they are comparable to regular labs that adhere to AKC rules. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. The price for a Labrador pedigree varies on some important factors. Some of the factors affecting the price of black Labrador include the origin, health, and quality of the parents. It is the breeder who determines the final price for a Labrador puppy with a pedigree. Many new dog owners think that expensive dogs are better than other. However, it is not true. While buying a Labrador puppy, one must consider some important factors. There are numerous points to get your Labrador puppy for your home and family. For better understanding, a crate can be annoying. How much does it cost to adopt a Labrador Retriever? Presently, the prices are increasing. On the other hand, when you buy a black Labrador puppy from a top quality retriever, it may be expensive. The Dangers Of An Unauthorized Breeder It is the statement of experts and dog lovers that always get a puppy from a reputed breeder. On the other hand, if you buy from non-reputed breeders there are many dangers involved in the purchasing. In this situation, it is concluded that the parents of puppies may not be medically examined before breeding. Due to improper breeding standards, there may be health issues in the newborn puppies. Some of the prominent health results may be Hip or elbow dysplasia, eye abnormalities, or different allergies to the black lab puppies. Also Read: Do black labs shed? Final Words How much does a black lab cost has been explained well in the above paragraphs? It also depends on the breeder and its breeding standards. Read more about Silver Lab Puppies. Ferret Cost Breakdown: Updated Guide Please enable JavaScript If you need more information, please comment below and our team will respond to you accordingly. Also, kindly share the post with your friends and other dog lovers because sharing is caring. Related Posts:. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.