english bulldog puppy tips
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Is there anything cuter than a two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy? At eight weeks old, they are absolutely, impossibly, unbearably adorable! At two months old, a Golden Retriever is ready to leave their mother and littermates to join their new family. Some breeders will keep a puppy for a couple more weeks before sending them home, but eight weeks is very typical. Puppies at this age are usually playful and curious, with brains like little sponges. This usually only lasts a day or two, and then their true personality will shine through! They are in the prime socialization window here, which is the time between three and sixteen weeks when puppies are most open to learning about the world. Proper socialization can help you buffer against potential behavior issues as your pup matures, and teaches them how to feel and act in different situations and environments. It helps them feel confident and self-assured. A two-month-old Golden Retriever puppy is constantly learning! Make sure your puppy is learning that they are safe and that they can trust you both at home and out in the world. A fear period is a temporary span of time where a puppy may be more sensitive to things like strange people, strange dogs, inanimate objects, sounds, etc. It usually lasts about a week and you may notice your puppy showing signs of fear such as cowering, running away, growling, or barking. It can be a little scary as the owner of a puppy to see them acting this way. The good thing is that a fear period is short-lived and will pass. If they are concerned about something or someone, help them get more distance so they can observe the thing while feeling safe. They have a lot of needs and are totally dependent on you to meet those needs. Be patient as you help them learn how to live in our human world, and you can develop a strong, positive bond with your new companion. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! This is heavily influenced by genetics, but is not always the best indicator of their adult weight. Some lines of Goldens are bigger or smaller than average, so puppy size will reflect that. Your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. Eight-week-old Golden Retrievers need around 18 hours of sleep each day. Oftentimes, a puppy that is wild and bitey is in fact overly tired and in need of a nap. It may seem like they need more exercise to drain that crazy energy, but they actually need sleep. Using crates and pens can help ensure that your puppy is getting enough sleep at night and throughout the day. Many two-month-old Goldens are not good at putting themselves down for a nap, even when they really need it. So, you may need to step in and help your puppy settle in for some sleep. Make sure that their crate or pen is nice and comfy before you put them in for a nap, so they are more able to relax and fall asleep. Every puppy is different, so yours may prefer a nice cushy bed , or they may actually like laying on the bare floor. You can take note of what kinds of surfaces your puppy lays on around the house and then recreate that in the crate or pen. Covering the crate or pen with a blanket can also help make sleep easier for a two-month-old puppy, as it cuts down on the visual stimulation. Products like Adaptil spray or diffuser , and the Snuggle Puppy toy can also help a puppy settle in for sleep. Chewing and licking are naturally calming behaviors for puppies, so it can also help if you offer something like a stuffed kong , which can assist in transitioning the puppy from awake to asleep. Playing Classical music can also help a puppy feel more calm and able to sleep. At this age, most two-month-old puppies are ready for sleep after about an hour of awake time, so by following these tips, you can help make sure your puppy is getting enough quality rest. Instead, you can give them a break and see if they choose to get up, or simply scoop them up and walk home. Sometimes people get a Golden Retriever to be a running or biking companion, which can be a great thing when the pup is a fully grown adult, but is too much exercise for a young puppy. Playing with toys in the house or in the yard can be a great way for young pups to burn some of that puppy energy. If you have a yard, letting your pup safely explore and run around outside can also be a nice way to get in some exercise. You may also find that your puppy needs more sleep on some days, and on other days, they need more playtime and exercise. Golden Retrievers as a breed can also vary a lot in terms of exercise needs. Some are pretty laid back and chill and others are up for anything and want to go hard. These differences can be reflected in how much energy your puppy has, as well as in what kind and how much exercise your puppy needs. Training is an excellent way to build a positive bond with your puppy and create a way to communicate with each other. Group puppy classes can be a good option for getting started with training, as the trainer will help you learn how to train your pup. You can also hire a certified, professional trainer to come to your home and provide personalized training guidance for you and your puppy. Before you sign up with any trainer, be sure to ask them what kind of training methods and tools they use, to avoid causing any physical or mental distress for your puppy. Potty training is definitely a top priority for two-month-old puppies. They have small bladders and bowels and will need frequent trips outside to help them learn appropriate potty behavior. Crate training can also be started at this age, as learning how to be okay with confinement is an important life skill. Eight-week-old Golden Retriever puppies eat about a half cup of food three times per day. There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to feeding your two-month-old Golden. Puppies at this age need more frequent meals than adult Goldens, so three meals a day is recommended. Because two-month-old Goldens are undergoing so much growth at this stage, feed them high-quality food that can support them as they mature. Most Goldens have big appetites and will happily gobble down their meals when you serve them. Using slow feeder bowls like this bowl on Amazon , or other food dispensing toys, such as the Planet Dog Snoop , can help slow down their eating and provide them some mental stimulation while they eat. Puppies like to put things in their mouth as a way to learn and play. Unfortunately, it can be pretty painful for humans, as those puppy teeth are needle-sharp! There are, however, some things you can do to minimize and deal with the biting. First, ensure that your two-month-old Golden is getting enough sleep. Overly tired puppies tend to get super bitey and frenzied, so naps are key to preventing your puppy from turning into a piranha. Your floor might look a little cluttered, but it helps to keep toys within reach for a quick redirection. Third, you can simply give the puppy a break if they are on a biting spree. You could step on the other side of a baby gate or put them in their pen to calm down a bit, and then resume the play. This communicates to the puppy that when they bite, they lose access to you and the fun stops. A common piece of advice when dealing with puppy biting is to yelp in response to their nip, as if you were another dog. This is actually not a good way to handle puppy biting and can actually make it worse. Other puppies will be further excited by the yelp sound and come at you with even more intensity, resulting in harder bites. Good Beginnings Bringing a two-month-old Golden Retriever home is a very exciting thing. It can also feel pretty overwhelming as you figure out how to care for and train them. You might be sleep-deprived and have a couple scratches on your hand from those sharp puppy teeth, but try to keep in mind that this is the beginning of a special relationship with an incredible animal. Focus on bonding with your puppy, teaching them about the world, and creating good habits from the start. Have any questions about raising eight-week-old golden retrievers? Let me know down in the comments! Read the rest of our Golden Retriever puppy series here:. 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. 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. 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! They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. 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. Dogs also need certain nutrition requirements, especially when they are growing at a young age. The rule of thumb is to obtain food that is rich in nutrients, and well-balanced for dogs. When you go shopping for dog food, pay close attention to the label to determine what kind of food it is and whether it is suitable for a Golden Retriever puppy. In fact, there are various products made for specific breeds such as Golden Retrievers. You can buy one of those products, which usually are purposefully made to provide sufficient nutrients for your dog breed. Another thing to keep in mind is that puppies have different nutrition needs compared to that of adult dogs. Therefore, it is important that you feed your Golden pup puppy food instead. Thus, it is necessary to establish a fixed schedule to feed your puppy. For a puppy that is less than three months old, you should feed him three times per day. Once he grows older, you can cut back to two meals per day. You may think that more food is better but in fact, small meals are easier to eat and digest, which helps with weight control and prevents bloating. Another benefit of feeding various meals a day is the psychological effect. Obviously your puppy would enjoy two bowls of food instead of one, thus he would feel happier eating when you feed him. When it comes to meal size, it varies from dog to dog. Some dogs eat more, and some dogs eat less. However, on average, an 8-week-old Golden Retriever would consume about one-third to one-half of cup of dry food per meal. You can start with one-third of cup first and see if it is the right amount for your pup. Then you can increase the portion gradually over time, but do not increase it out of a sudden. It is better to keep the portion unchanged for a while, then later add a little bit if needed. In addition to having a fixed time schedule to feed your dog, it is also essential to keep the feeding place unchanged and comfortable for your dog to enjoy his food. Dogs are sensitive creatures, especially puppies, so it takes time for them to get used to a certain place. Changing the place makes eating uncomfortable for your dog, and you may want to avoid that. Some people believe that any food that is safe for our consumption is also safe for dogs. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Some food that we love is toxic to dogs. For example, alcohol, chocolate, nuts, and a few others are poisonous to dogs. Their digestive system is not equipped like ours to digest those food. Therefore, feeding such food to your puppy may cause harm and sickness to him. If there are certain food that you want to feed your dog such as fruits or vegetables, it is always better to ask a vet before hand to determine if the food is good to go. There are a few ways that you can do so. First, you can introduce your pup to your family and friends. The more people your dog meets, the more he gets to know them and develops his social skills. In addition to meeting other people, your dog also needs to be introduced to new things and other breeds of dogs. To do this, you can take your dog with you on a trip to a pet store or to a supermarket. Your puppy will get a chance to look at various different things. Regarding meeting other dog breeds, it is recommended that you take your dog to a weekly dog class. In this class, professionals provide training for your dog, and he will get the opportunity to meet and greet other dogs as well. In some areas, dog parks are available and lots of dog owners tend to take their dogs there but in fact, dog parks are not truly safe for your puppy. The first reason is that dog parks are usually packed with many dogs. Some of them are healthy, while some are not. Thus, it can be dangerous to take your puppy there as he would be prone to many unknown illnesses. Another reason is that too many dogs can be overwhelming for your puppy. Of course, not so many breeds are friendly, so dog parks are not an ideal place for his socialization. In short, while it seems to be a lot of work to take care of your puppy, especially when he is a Golden Retriever, it is actually rewarding because Goldens are cute and very obedient, and they love you as much as they can. The core thing is to be detail-oriented when taking care of your dog. Once you are used to it, everything will soon become a pretty a routine that you just need to follow without much thinking.
So, what exactly is an American Bulldog Lab Mix? Generally known as the American Bullador, you will be surprised to know that this dog is one of distinct designer breeds that exhibit different temperaments that differ from dog to dog. Many folks like to call this breed a Bullador, for short, but they are mistaken. A close cousin, yes, but different all the same. In this article, we shall take a look at everything you need to know about these gorgeous canine buddies before bringing their warmth into your home. In terms of gender difference, the male American Bullador is the heavier of both sexes, though by only a tiny margin. The fascinating thing about American Bulldog Lab Mixes is that they come in different sizes. The reason for this is that the genes of both parents can manifest in many unpredictable ways, giving rise to puppies with different physical appearances. You can identify them with the following features. Appearance Most American Bulladors typically have a sturdy, muscular build with medium-length legs. It also has brown round eyes and droopy ears. The rear end of its muscular body hangs a curved tail that narrows at the tip. Standard colors are red, brown, black, and yellow. However, sometimes a dog will have a beautiful blend of many tones with patches of white and black plastered throughout its body. As a crossbreed, your mixed pooch is expected to live about one or two years longer than purebred dogs since it combines the best traits of its ancestry. Quality health care also plays a pivotal part in ensuring that your canine buddy lives well into old age. Sometimes, as with every living creature, diseases may set in that threaten the life of your dear fido. Knowing the common health issues peculiar to your American Bullador can help you prepare a prevention plan. As a result, some dogs might display symptoms of a swollen eye. Obesity The American Bulldog Lab Mix has a high susceptibility to becoming obese, which could shorten its lifespan. However, the cause of obesity is not so much the consumption of too much food as is the mutated obesity gene inherited from the parent Labrador. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a known occurrence among dogs that weigh more and exert pressure on their joints. The resulting pain reduces the agility and mobility of your pooch and may cause irritations and maddening bursts of anger. Other health-related diseases of the American Bullador are skin allergies, retinal atrophy, and juvenile cataracts. The higher the quality of healthcare your American Bulldog Lab Mix receives, the longer the length of years your furry companion will spend with you. Below are some helpful tips to take better care of your doggie: Exercise Routine The American Bullador possesses an inherent capacity to become obese, even with measured meals. The American Bulldog is a war tank of energy with little endurance, while the Labrador possesses high energy and stamina levels. High-Quality Dog Food Cutting costs and feeding your dog a high-calorie diet is a harmful act that can potentially backfire. It is recommended to give your American Bulldog Lab Mix 3 to 4 cups of food every day, splitting into three meals each day. Do your best to avoid giving your pooch additional food during the intervals or risk obesity issues. Multivitamins Multivitamin supplementation is not only good for humans, but it also works wonders in dogs like your American Bulldog Lab Mix. Use Dental Water Additives Typical of many dogs, countless bacteria exist in the mouth of your American Bulldog Lab Mix that could cause dental issues asides from the telltale discomforting bad breath. Both parents have high IQs, consequently conferring it with increased intellect and emotional intelligence. However, they also have different temperaments determined by the genetics of their ancestry. They can either be aggressive, highly social, or have a perfectly balanced combination of both. Hence, they form lovely relationships with kids. However, you can groom it from puppyhood to be a better, well-rounded, or at least well-behaved companion. Docile American Bulladors take commands readily and make training sessions easy. Aggressive American Bulladors will exhibit some stubbornness that could be anything from mild to nerve-wracking. Pay closer attention when your puppy is just about to enter adulthood. A firmer approach should follow any signs of increased reluctance to receive instructions in training. Prey Drive The ever-excitable nature of the Labrador, melded with the aggressive instinct of the American Bulldog, leads to a prey drive in your American Bullador, creating an irresistible urge to chase after smaller animals or objects. Do American Bulladors Shed? They can pass for a hypoallergenic breed because most loose hair gets trapped within their fine coat when they shed. Brushing three times a week is optimal and highly recommended. Two times is acceptable. Brushing once is not recommended as it invites skin-related diseases which could potentially harm your canine friend and you. Coat brushes come in all sizes, and getting the right fit for your companion is essential to avoid discomfort and bruises during grooming. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. The frequency of washing should be twice a month, though washing once will suffice. Naturally Medicated Formula - Made with all natural ingredients plus pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free Best for.This dog breed is fairly uncommon because not many seasoned breeders breed American Bullador puppies since the AKC does not recognize this mixed dog breed. Can American Bulladors Swim? Yes, American Bulladors can swim. Are American Bulldogs Good Retrievers? American Bulldog Lab Mixes can be either good or bad retrievers , as you will need to find out for yourself by having the pooch retrieve something for you. So, whether or not a hybrid offspring makes a good retriever depends on the dominant gene it receives. They have an agile build, a long muzzle, and a mono-color coat, typically black, brown, or yellow. The coat is can be short or medium-length. Both can grow up to inches in height cm and lbs kg weight. The difference between the two types is mainly that standard American bulldogs are leaner and more agile, with longer muzzles, while bully bulldogs have a shorter muzzle and a stockier build and, therefore, they weigh more. Both bulldog types have a short and dense coat that can come in many color combinations such as white, white and black, white and tan, white and brindle, white and brown, lilac, blue, chocolate, black, or merle. Why does all that matter? Because American bulladors can look like any of the above, depending on the parent. They can be heavy and stocky if they have a Johnson-type parent or they can be lean and agile. They can have various muzzle shapes, coat lengths, and colors too. Both parent breeds are quite intelligent and social, however, Labradors are much more gentle and obedient. Bulldogs, on the other hand, are very self-minded and exceptionally stubborn. So, an American Bullador can really go either way depending on how much the dog takes from each parent. The only way to figure out if your Bullador is going to be a people-pleaser or an individualist is to observe the pup in its litter. This is one of the many big reasons why you should get your pups from reputable breeders and not from pet stores or puppy mills. Instead, they raise them with their fellow pups and they train them well. Another good option is to adopt from a shelter. Both bulldogs and Labradors are pretty active dogs but in different ways. Bulldogs are highly energetic at sporadic bursts while Labradors have more endurance. In either case, this is a breed for an outdoorsy type of people who also have a well-fenced yard. An American bulldog mix with Labrador will need at least hours of active playtime outside every day plus an additional few hours in the yard. That, together with quite a but playtime with toys and people at home is a must for a healthy and happy Bullador. Health Characteristics Of A Bulldog Mix With Lab American Bulladors can either be exceptionally healthy or they can inherit some nasty genetic predispositions from their parent. This is very typical for crossbreeds and is a big reason why you should always get your dogs from reputable breeders. Such breeders will always offer you a health certificate for your dog. Their dogs are much healthier than those in pet stores because good breeders avoid inbreeding and only breed dogs from good and healthy stocks. Instead, buying from a pet store may result in a dog that has:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullador Highlights The Bullador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents. The main colors of Bulladors are black, brown, white, tan and brindle. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. They usually have short coats, and these pups are not a good choice for allergy sufferers. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week should suffice. Bulladors are prone to weight gain and are active dogs. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk-paced walking or hiking. Depending on which parents genes dominate, they could need more or less. Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. With their easy going nature, Bulladors also get along well with other pets, especially dogs and cats. Bullador History The Bullador breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Labrador Retrievers and English Bulldogs in the s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems associated with purebreds and create an active, friendly companion dog. They continued to create Bulladors as demand for the pups climbed. Consider adoption if you decide this is the pup for you. Check your local shelters, look up Bullador rescues, or check with breed specific Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog rescues, as they will often help to re-home mixes. That said, as a mix between Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Bulladors to be in the medium to large range. Most weigh in at 50 to 90 pounds and range in height from 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder. However, being such a new crossbreed, they can be smaller or larger than average. Bullador Personality Bulladors can be extremely friendly like their Labrador parent with a hint of reservation from their Bulldog parent. While the Labradors tends to be more active than the English Bulldog, these pups are somewhere in the middle—usually more active than the English Bulldog but slightly less active that the Labrador. These rules are not set in stone, as they are a newer mixed breed. Both Bulldogs and Labradors are fond of kids, and Bulladors fall right in line. If a child is bothering them, they will probably walk away. Although, no matter how much a dog has a pre-disposition, they can be unpredictable. Never leave dogs alone with small children—ever. Bulladors have a prey drive and, if given a big yard to run around in, they may enjoy chasing birds and small critters. Socialization helps ensure that your Bullador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded, outgoing, friendly dog. Bullador Health The Bullador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Labrador Retriever and English Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain proper care and regular veterinary checkups. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your pup healthy. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of brisk paced walking or hiking. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. If your dog has a pushed-in face, like their English Bulldog parent, they will be at a big disadvantage for extreme weather. These dogs have trouble breathing in the extreme cold, and trouble cooling down in extreme heat. One of the toughest jobs caring for any dog is maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. If your dog has any folds on their face, make sure to check between the folds for signs of irritation and bacteria. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth or consult your vet for proper care. Bullador Feeding An ideal Bullador diet should be formulated for an active, medium-to-large sized breed. Look for a high quality dog food from a pet food retailer to make sure that your dog is getting proper nutrition. Bulladors love food and have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. If their face is pushed-in, like the English Bulldog parent they will have a double disadvantage. If you live in a place where the weather changes all four seasons, they should only be outside long enough to do their business during cold winters and the heat of the summer. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Bullador Children And Other Pets Their amiable temperament and size make the Bullador an excellent companion for children of all ages. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. They may be less sociable toward new dogs. However, once they warm up, they will likely be good friends. Bullador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Bulladors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try English Bulldog or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Lifespan Sociability Before we get into the American Bullador puppy years, it is important to note that designer breeds can be hard to predict as far as their temperament and personality. What we do know is that this hybrid came into existence sometime in the s to create healthier offspring of their purebred parents. Typically, when a breeder decides to create a new hybrid, it is generally to eliminate any health defects that pure breeds may suffer from. Although the jury may still be out on whether or not this works, it is true to say that your puppy can take after either parent in the personality department. As far as the puppy years, these adorable little tykes are energetic, playful, and frisky. They will get into plenty of mischiefs and should be trained as early as possible. On the other hand, they will quickly adapt to your family, and even as youngsters, they are even-tempered and make great companions. If you have a large fenced-in yard that is secure, this pup will be more than happy to spend the majority of their time outside. Providing them with a doghouse and other entertainment will only add to their outdoor glee. Just keep in mind, we do not recommend leaving these pups outdoors overnight. Appearance When mixing two purebreds to create another breed, it can be difficult to determine which parent the puppy will take after. What is cuter than that? This allows water to roll off their thick fur without it saturating them down to the skin. They are very intelligent with a calm demeanor. They make great companions and watchdogs, and they have a lot of energy to spend running around with you and your family. This breed comes from working-class purebred parents, so their daily life should be full of activity and tasks. You may have noticed that this dog has a couple of contradictions within their nature that make them interesting. The first anomaly is their love of the outdoors. As we mentioned, this breed enjoys outdoor time, yet on the other hand, they do not like extended periods alone. It is important to check on your dog often, and play with them if you are going to be leaving them in the backyard. Also, make sure that you never leave them by themselves overnight. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are good with children, however, they need to be socialized early in life. Due to their Bulldog ancestors, they can have a touch of aggression. It is equally important that you teach your kids how to interact with your dog safely. When a child plays rough or yells loudly, your protective pup can go on the alert thinking that something is wrong. In that case, they can tend to be aggressive, as mentioned. Typically, this does not happen often, but you should be aware if you have small children. Other than that, this is a dog that will enjoy spending time with the family. They like the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This pooch will do well with families that are very active and have time to spend with them outdoors. Even better, if you can provide your Bullador with tasks such as running after a ball or other fun activities, they will be even more content. They enjoy meeting new friends, running around with other dogs, and generally being social. When it comes to being in their yard, however, they are more opt to distrust strangers. Whether it be another furry face or a two-legged friend, your Bullador is going to be slightly distrustful and standoffish. This breed makes a great watchdog and is very alert, therefore, it is important to train them early so they do not overreact to visitors. Even with appropriate socialization skills, they are still likely to bark at a new face. As far as other pets in the home, this again has a lot to do with their early socialization and training. On the Labrador side, they are very calm and obedient. The Bulldog is a bit pricklier. There usually is not an issue, but you want to ensure that they are familiar with other animals before you bring a smaller pet, such as a cat, into your home. Now, however, you want to take a look at some of the other aspects of their care to ensure that this dog will be within your means to take care of properly. When taking on any pet, you become responsible for their overall well-being. This includes their diet, training, health, grooming, and happiness. Ensuring that you will be able to not only financially but physically take care of this animal is important. Take a look at the other care requirements for the American Bullador below. They will most likely be able to eat between three to four cups of food per day that you can spread out morning and night. For the most part, this dog has few food sensitivities or allergies that you need to watch out for. Of course, each dog is different, and it is important that you speak with your vet about the best diet for their health, age, and lifestyle. Most medium to large-sized dogs that are moderate to highly active require a diet that is high in protein. Nutritious meals that offer lean protein, healthy fats, and natural fibers are the best. It keeps their energy level high, their digestive system running smoothly, and their metabolism working properly. You also want to ensure that your dog is getting the other vitamins, minerals, and supplements that they need. These things can include antioxidants for their immune system, fur, and skin health, probiotics for their gut health, and various other vitamins to support their teeth, bones, cognitive function, and many other areas of their well-being. You also want to keep in mind other food that you give to your pet such as treats. These little snacks should be just as nutritious as their normal meals. Look for options that are organic with little added sugar. A post shared by Monty monty. They are very energetic and without an outlet for their excess energy, they can become bored and destructive. That being said, you want to take your pup on at least two minute walks per day. They will also enjoy going on bike rides, hikes, and jogs with you. As we have already mentioned, this pup enjoys a lot of outdoor time and should be given this opportunity daily. They will have fun with toys and other entertainment. It will allow them to get out of all the restlessness they may have. Make sure to go out and check on your pet several times while also stopping to throw a ball around for a few minutes to keep them engaged. For example, Labradors are very intelligent, even-tempered, and ready to please. Bulldogs are also very intelligent but tend to have a more stubborn streak. In fact, the Lab also has some stubbornness, and if you happen to get a pup that is closer to the Bulldog in nature, training can be difficult. In general, this breed does well with a lot of positive reinforcement. The earlier you start training, the better. Just keep in mind, a lot of patience will be needed. You want to keep their training sessions short and rewarding. If they become bored or feel that they are being punished, they will be less likely to follow your commands. Obedience, behavioral, potty training, and socialization are the four major training points that you want to cover when they are puppies. This type of dog also looks for a leader, so you must train them with a firm yet fair hand. Anger and aggression on your part will only have the opposite effect of what you are looking for, yet consistency with an added treat or two will give you great results. At the end of the day, this is a pup that is eager for your approval, so they will pick up quickly on what makes you happy. They tend to have dense, short fur with low shed. They should be brushed weekly with a bristle brush to get rid of as much of the excess fur as possible. During the shedding season, you may want to brush them daily as their thick fur can catch the loose hair making an even bigger mess. You will also want to clean your Bulladors ears weekly with a cotton swab and ear wash. You want to check them for excess wax and mites, as well. Teeth brushing should be done as often as possible. Doing it daily is recommended, but we understand it is not always possible. It is important to keep tartar and plaque build-up to a minimum, however. This breed does well with dental treats which can cut down on daily cleanings. You will also need to take care of their nails, which are thick and grow quickly. For the most part, you will have to trim them down every two to three weeks. However, if your pup gets a lot of outdoor exercise, they can be filed naturally. As far as baths, this can be done on an as-needed basis. Remember, your pup has a waterproof coat. This means that if you saturate the undercoat and skin beneath, it can take a long time to dry out. Try to keep shampoos to a minimum in the colder months, especially if they spend a lot of time outside. For the most part, hybrids tend to be healthier than their purebred parents, yet there is nothing to say that they will not develop some of the more common ailments of the parent breed. Take a look below at some of the more serious and minor conditions the America Bullador may face in their lifetime. It is a cross between the American Bulldog and the Labrador Retriever. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She weighs approximately 19 lbs. The mother was a pure lb. American Bulldog primarily white and the father was a pure black Lab approx. She already is showing signs of advanced intelligence and alertness to her surroundings. She eats a good deal, and sleeps a lot! His mother who was senselessly killed by some unknown person was an American Bulldog and his father was a black Labrador Retriever. Hugo has turned out to be a handful as he is energetic and loves to play. My wife and I fell in love with him the moment he crawled out of the litter pile to greet us. He was 2 weeks old at the time and we had to wait until he was 8 weeks before we could take him home. He's not as fast as other dogs, but Hugo easily makes up for this in his strength, as I'm reminded of this constantly when I take him for a walk , lol. He is incredibly smart and can sense pretty much anything we do. Hugo is probably the best dog my wife and I ever had and hopefully he is with us for a very long time. American Bulladors are a unique crossbreed with a charming personality and loving temperament Understanding their characteristics can help prospective owners make a well-informed decision Traits covered include appearance, exercise needs, and health issues. American Bulldog Lab Mix: A Brief Overview These medium to large-sized dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and charming personalities. When it comes to appearance, the American Bullador can vary significantly due to the mixed nature of their parent breeds. They can range in height from 20 to 27 inches cm and weigh anywhere from 60 to lbs kg. Common coat colors include black, brown, white, tan, and brindle, giving these dogs a diverse range of looks. The temperament of the American Bulldog Lab Mix is a blend of the best traits from both parent breeds. They are known to be affectionate, loyal, and protective, making them wonderful family pets. They require regular exercise to keep their minds and bodies healthy. A daily walk or play session at the dog park will help ensure your Bullador stays in top shape. In terms of health, the American Bulldog Lab Mix has a generally strong constitution, with a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. However, like any mixed breed, they can be prone to certain health issues inherited from their parent breeds. Regular veterinary checkups and a well-balanced diet will go a long way in maintaining their overall well-being. So there you have it, a brief overview of the fascinating American Bulldog Lab Mix. This one-of-a-kind dog is sure to turn heads and become a beloved companion for those lucky enough to welcome one into their home. Temperament and Personality Traits This unique hybrid can exhibit a diverse range of temperament and personality traits depending on the traits inherited from its parent breeds. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly, affectionate, and obedient nature. They are intelligent, easy to train, and make for excellent family pets. On the other hand, American Bulldogs can have a stubborn streak, but they are still known for being affectionate, protective, and loyal companions. Given the mix of these two breeds, a Bullador can potentially inherit any combination of these characteristics. They may also possess a sense of humor which makes them entertaining pets to have around. When it comes to energy levels, the American Bulldog Lab mix can be quite energetic as both parent breeds are known for their athleticism. However, this hybrid may also have a more relaxed side which makes them adaptable to various living situations and activities. To ensure a well-rounded and well-behaved Bullador, early socialization and consistent training are essential. In summary, the American Bulldog Lab mix can be a delightful addition to any household thanks to its unique blend of temperament and personality traits. While their exact characteristics may vary depending on the specific combination inherited from their parent breeds, their potential for affection, loyalty, and gentle protectiveness makes them a popular choice among dog enthusiasts. In this lovely breed, expect both loyalty and charisma combined with an agile, athletic, and sturdy build. Since this is a mixed breed, the Bullador may exhibit physical traits from both parent breeds. They typically stand between 17 to 25 inches in height, making them a medium to large-sized dog. In terms of color, the Bullador can be found with various shades, including black, brown, white, tan, or even a beautiful brindle pattern. When we delve into its body structure, we see that these dogs tend to have muscular frames, with a bit of a resemblance to their Labrador parent, yet a stockier build from their American Bulldog heritage. One thing is for sure: the American Bulldog Lab mix is truly one-of-a-kind. These robust and active dogs make wonderful companions for active families, gracefully bringing both protective and affectionate qualities to every relationship. As a result, they require a consistent exercise routine to maintain their overall health and happiness. A well-exercised Bullador will be less likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, and digging. On average, these dogs need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise and activity each day. This can include activities like long walks, jogging, swimming, and playing fetch. Because both the American Bulldog and Labrador are strong and sturdy breeds, the Bullador will benefit from regular strength-building exercises as well. Obedience training, agility courses, and puzzle toys are great ways to engage their keen intelligence and keep them mentally sharp. When it comes to exercise, variety is the spice of life for an American Bullador. Be sure to mix up the activities to prevent boredom and keep your dog engaged. Health Issues and Lifespan This mix generally has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. However, just like any other breed, they may be predisposed to certain health issues. The parent breeds of the Bullador come with their unique health concerns. For the American Bulldog, this includes hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cherry eye. On the other hand, Labrador Retrievers are prone to health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and heart diseases. With that being said, the Bullador offspring may inherit some of these health conditions. An active lifestyle can help prevent obesity-related issues, which are common in both parent breeds. Regular vet check-ups are also vital for early detection and prevention of potential health problems. Some Bulladors might experience joint issues due to their size, which typically ranges from 50 to 90 pounds. To keep their joints in tip-top shape, consider providing them with joint supplements and a comfortable bed to rest on. In conclusion, while the American Bulldog Lab mix does come with some potential health concerns, this breed can still lead a relatively healthy and happy life. Proper nutrition, exercise, and routine check-ups can help ensure that your Bullador stays in the best possible shape. Remember, every dog is unique, and genetic factors will play a significant role in determining the health of your American Bulldog Lab mix. Be prepared for the unexpected, and enjoy the delightful companionship of this affectionate and protective breed. Due to the combined traits of its intelligent and active parent breeds, training and socialization for this energetic mix should begin early in its life. Early Stage Socialization: weeks During the early stages, focus on socializing your American Bullador puppy with different people, animals, and environments. Expose them to various experiences and situations to help them grow into a well-rounded and confident adult dog. Proper socialization at this stage is key to prevent potential aggression and anxiety issues later on. Potty Training: At this young age, begin the potty training process. Be patient and consistent, and offer positive reinforcement such as praise and treats for progress with potty training. Crate training can also be beneficial to help your pup understand the appropriate time and place for bathroom breaks. Chewing and Biting: American Bulldog Lab mixes are known to have a strong chew drive, so teaching them proper chew habits is crucial. Provide them with appropriate chew toys to redirect their chewing urges. Exercise and Cool Temperatures: Exercise is essential for this energetic breed mix, but remember to keep them active during cooler temperatures to avoid overheating. Their stocky build and short muzzle can make them more susceptible to heat-related issues. Remember that individual puppies may vary in temperament and learning abilities. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are your best tools for raising a well-rounded, happy, and obedient American Bulldog Lab mix. Grooming and Care Caring for your Bullador mainly involves regular grooming to maintain a clean and healthy coat. However, if your dog has a thicker Labrador-type coat, you may need to groom them more frequently. This helps remove any dirt and moistens the hair, making it easier to brush. After wiping their coat, go over it thoroughly with a grooming glove or comb, starting at the shoulders and working your way downward and backward. Be sure to follow the natural lay of the hair for the best results. Bathing is another important aspect of Bullador care. As a general guideline, bathing your Bullador once a month should suffice. When it comes to nails, be sure to trim them regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Remember that grooming and care go beyond just physical maintenance. Ensuring your Bullador receives proper exercise and mental stimulation is essential for their overall well-being. As a mix of two athletic breeds, the American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever, your Bullador will benefit from daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys to keep them happy and healthy. Feeding and Diet Feeding your American Bulldog Lab mix a well-rounded and nutritious diet is essential for ensuring their overall health and well-being. Typically, an adult Bullador may require around to calories per day, split into two or three meals. Be sure to monitor their weight and adjust their daily caloric intake as needed. Try to keep treats to a minimum and opt for healthier options, like dog-safe fruits or vegetables. In addition to protein, incorporate healthy fats into their diet to support skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for this. Look for dog food formulas that include sources of omega-3 fats like fish oil or flaxseed oil. Finally, keep an eye on any potential food allergies or sensitivities your Bullador may have. The breed, also known as the American Bullador, is a unique cross between an athletic American Bulldog and a loyal Labrador Retriever. Adopting from a rescue organization is another excellent option. Many American Bulladors find themselves in need of a forever home. When finding a breeder, keep the following points in mind: Reputation: Look for breeders with positive reviews, recommendations from other dog owners, or a good standing with dog clubs and breed-related organizations. Health: Reputable breeders prioritize the health of their dogs, performing necessary genetic testing and providing appropriate healthcare. Living conditions: A responsible breeder raises their dogs in a clean, comfortable environment and provides adequate socialization and stimulation. In conclusion, adopting an American Bulldog Lab mix can be a rewarding experience. Whether you choose to adopt through a rescue organization or find a reputable breeder, always prioritize the health and well-being of the dog. Both parent breeds have a long history. The American Bulldog originated from the English Bulldog, which can be traced back to 5th century England. Labrador Retrievers were first bred in Newfoundland, Canada, and are known for their exceptional waterfowl retrieval skills. The appearance of an American Bulldog Lab mix can be quite diverse, thanks to the various coat colors and patterns inherited from their parent breeds. You can find Bulladors in black, brown, white, tan, and brindle colors. American Bulldog Lab mixes are known for their affectionate and protective nature. However, they can also be slightly stubborn, so be prepared for some patience when training your Bullador. Bulladors are usually medium to large-sized dogs. The weight of a male Lab ranges from 65 to 80 pounds, and females weigh between 55 to 70 pounds. The height of a male Labrador Retriever ranges from .The size of a Bullador can vary depending on their genes, but you can expect a sturdy and athletic companion! Now that you know a little more about this fascinating mixed breed, you can confidently share the wonders of the Bullador with fellow dog enthusiasts! Just remember to keep your sense of humor intact when explaining that their stubbornness is just part of their charm. American Bulladors, also known as Labrabulls, are a mixed breed combining an American Bulldog and a Labrador Retriever. They are typically medium to large-sized dogs, with males weighing anywhere from 70 to pounds and females ranging from 60 to pounds. Their height usually falls between 22 to 26 inches. How long do American Bulldog Lab mixes typically live? The life expectancy of an American Bulldog Lab mix is generally between 10 to 12 years. What is a typical coat color for a Bullador? The coat of a Bullador can vary due to the mixed breed nature, but common colors include black, white, brown, yellow, and brindle. Their coats are usually short and smooth, which makes grooming and maintenance relatively easy. Just remember that these dogs might shed a bit, so be prepared to do some regular brushing. What kind of temperament can you expect from the American Bulldog Lab mix? Confident and intelligent, the American Bulldog Lab mix is known for its friendly and loyal disposition. They are usually energetic dogs that love to play and require regular exercise. These dogs are also known for being protective of their families, making them great watchdogs. However, early socialization and consistent training are essential for well-adjusted and well-behaved Bulladors. Are American Bulldog Lab mixes good family pets? Yes, American Bulldog Lab mixes generally make excellent family pets. Their friendly, loyal, and protective nature means they are great with children and other family members. How much do American Bullador puppies typically cost? Share this:. Tweet on Twitter Designer mixed breed dogs are becoming increasingly popular, and Labrador retriever mixes, including the American bulldog Lab mix, are at the front of the pack when it comes to favorite cross breed dogs. Are you interested in an American bulldog Labrador mix? Mixed breed dogs known as Bulladors or Labrabulls are generally Labs who have mated with English bulldogs. Given the health issues of English bulldogs, is the American bulldog Lab mix a better option for potential owners concerned about getting a healthy dog? True purebred dogs typically have a known pedigree and are registered with an official breed organization such as the American Kennel Club AKC. Looking for a unique dog? Designer mixes are a crossbreeding of two purebred dogs of different breeds, while the hereditary background of a mutt is usually unknown. You can learn more about the purebred versus mutt debate here. Is one of these types of dog healthier than the others? According to the UKC, the American bulldog arrived in the southern United States with immigrants from Britain and retains the appearance of the original bulldog before the breed evolved into the English bulldog we know today. The American bulldog is a working and guardian dog. The breed was originally used on farms to work with livestock and guard property. There are two main types of American bulldog. The Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland Canada as a water dog, working alongside fishermen. For over a quarter century, the Labrador retriever has been the most popular dog breed in the US. Purebred Labs are the dog of choice for many families, although Lab mixes are also increasingly popular. The American bulldog and Labrador mix has been a popular crossbreed dog for many years. American Bulldog Lab Mix Appearance The most important thing to keep in mind when considering a mixed breed dog such as the Labrador American bulldog is that the cross can have any combination of the physical traits of each parent breed. The breed standard for the Labrador retriever states that males range from .Labs are sturdy, medium-sized dogs, athletic and well-proportioned. While physical appearance varies between the Scott and Johnson types of the American bulldog, the breed should look powerful, strong and athletic. Expect a male American bulldog of either type to range between 22 to 27 inches high at the shoulder and females between 20 and 25 inches. What about the American bulldog cross Labrador? Given the height and weight ranges of the parent breeds, the size of an American Bullador can vary. Generally, expect a weight range of between 55 and 85 pounds, with males on the heavier end of the scale and females on the lighter end. What about height? This can also vary quite a bit among individual dogs. The maximum height is around 25 inches, although many individuals can be shorter. American Bulldog Lab Mix Coat Many potential owners are interested in the coat color, length and grooming requirements of the American Bullador. Is it a low maintenance mixed breed? The American bulldog has a short, close coat, no longer than an inch in length. The undercoat provides protection in cold weather, but it does shed seasonally. Labs require regular weekly grooming with a slicker brush, and daily grooming may be necessary during times of heavy undercoat shedding. Labs have three recognized coat colors: solid black, yellow or chocolate. What about the mix? Generally, the American Bullador has a short, low maintenance coat that will need a weekly brushing. If your dog has a thicker Labrador-type coat, more grooming may be required. Many coat colors and markings are possible in the American bulldog Lab mix. The most common colors tend to be black, brown, yellow, red or tan, often combined with white. There are more coat color and pattern possibilities with the American bulldog, so whether the Lab parent is black, chocolate or yellow, the puppies can have quite a range of colors and markings. American Bulldog Lab Mix Temperament Like appearance, the personality of a mixed breed dog can never be guaranteed. Your American Bullador could be more Lab-like, more of a classic bulldog, or any combination of both. Labrador retrievers are known for their friendly, kind and eager-to-please nature. They are intelligent, gentle, and neither timid nor aggressive. While as gentle and loving with its family as any Lab, the American bulldog is a confident dog that may be aloof with strangers. The American bulldog should not be overly shy or overly aggressive. What about the American Bullador personality? The ideal American Bullador is loyal, brave and protective of family. Because that Lab friendliness can be tempered with some bulldog assertiveness, proper training and socialization is essential. Start training and socializing your dog from puppyhood. Since that bulldog blood may make your dog somewhat strong-willed, be patient and remember to use only positive reinforcement training methods. Always supervise your American Bullador around children and unfamiliar dogs. The protective nature of the bulldog side can lead to some aggression, which is why good training and socialization are so important. Because it is such a popular breed, the Lab has some well-documented health problems. But what about the American bulldog? Most purebred dogs have some genetic health conditions, including the Labrador. The most common issues seen in Labs are the joint diseases known as hip and elbow dysplasia, some heart, eye and neurological problems, and a genetic predisposition to obesity. Reputable breeders will also share all health testing information with clients. The American bulldog also has some genetic health conditions that can be passed on to crossbred American Bullador puppies. A skin condition called autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis ARCI is caused by a genetic mutation. American bulldogs can also be prone to an eye disease called pigmentary uveitis, which causes glaucoma. Dogs with this syndrome may have trouble breathing, be prone to gagging, experience exercise intolerance or collapse , and be sensitive to heat and humidity. Responsible American bulldog breeders will ensure that only healthy dogs are used in their breeding stock and will provide all health testing information to their clients. American bulldog Lab mix puppies can inherit genetic health problems from both the Labrador side and the American bulldog side, so it is important to get your dog from a reputable breeder. How do you find a healthy puppy? Because designer mixed breed dogs are so popular, be sure to choose your American Bullador breeder with care. A puppy bought over the internet or at a pet store could be from a large-scale breeding operation known as a puppy mill. You should be able to observe the conditions of the kennel, talk to the breeder, and see the parents and littermates of your puppy. X-rays for hip and elbow dysplasia can be officially certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Your puppy and its littermates should have clean eyes, noses and bottoms that are free from discharge. Choose a puppy that is lively and not overly shy. It is also possible to adopt a homeless American bulldog Labrador mix, especially if you want an adult dog. Check with local breed specific rescue groups for both the Labrador retriever and American bulldog and tell them that you are interested in a mix. Remember that a dog is a lifetime commitment, so be sure that you and everyone in your household are prepared to welcome a new canine companion into the family. Enjoy your new best friend. References and Further Reading: Beuchat, C. Black, brown, white, tan, brindle Suitable for: Temperament: Stubborn, affectionate, protective Since this dog is a mixed of two very different dogs, it can also be difficult to determine what a mixed breed will act or look like. However, the dog can only inherit traits from either the American Bulldog or the Labrador, so we can make broad predictions. 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. This is mostly to cover their vaccinations and medical needs, which can be somewhat expensive for these puppies. Adult dogs will likely cost about the same and may be easier to find. Many will be more than happy to call you if a dog that matches your description comes through the door. Getting your pup through a breeder will be more expensive. However, the price will depend on the parentage of the puppies. Typically, they are friendly with people, even to the point of being a little too friendly. Early socialization is important to prevent your canine from becoming over-excited every time that someone new shows up. They are typically affectionate and loveable. However, they are not lap dogs by any means. These canines are quite active in their demeanor. They want to play frequently and tend to hold onto their puppyhood longer than most dogs. They can be a bit protective of their family, which can lead to aggression. Some of these dogs may make good watchdogs, but others will simply be too friendly. They are courageous and loyal. Whether that overcomes their friendly nature depends on the dog. These dogs may be incredibly stubborn, or they may not be stubborn at all. This is the area where you will see the most difference, even between puppies in the same litter. It simply depends on what parent they take after the most. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Whether this dog is a fit for your family depends largely on how active your family is and how much time you have available to commit to a dog. As larger dogs, American Bulldog Labs need quite a bit of training to ensure that they are well-behaved around people. Socialization is also important to ensure that they understand that strangers are not a threat to their humans and to lessen their protectiveness. These dogs are affectionate and playful. However, they do require quite a bit of exercise and time. Because of their large size, these dogs are good for little children as well. Just be sure to supervise, as these canines can get excited and accidentally knock kids over. However, the child is likely not going to hurt these dogs, which prevents the likelihood of pain- or fear-based biting, the most common type of biting in dogs. They can, but their tendency to be territorial can throw a wrench in their relationship with other dogs. Typically, proper socialization will leave you with a canine that at least tolerates the presence of other dogs. Early socialization is important and required. We absolutely recommend puppy classes for these dogs. While American Bulldog Labs are not hunting dogs, they do like to chase things. This can be a problem for pets like cats and even chickens. These dogs are not particularly good with livestock animals. Early socialization can help, but you should still be careful regarding cats and similar animals. They are quite large, which means they eat more compared to some other canines. You should preferably purchase a high-protein food with plenty of meat. Avoid fillers and unnecessary carbs, like high amounts of grains and veggies. You should be careful when feeding these dogs as puppies. We recommend a puppy food that is specifically designed for large breed puppies, as these will contain extra nutrients that these larger dogs need to grow. You should avoid overfeeding puppies, though, even if they seem to act hungry all the time. It is extremely important to stick to the correct feeding guidelines when your dog is little. Outside playtime is extremely important, though you should keep them in a fenced-in area. These dogs can learn a reliable recall sometimes, depending on the level of their stubbornness. These dogs are typically quite good at agility competitions and enjoy playing a variety of games. They are quite intelligent, which you can use to your advantage while exercising them. Teach them games like hide-and-seek to exercise their body and minds at the same time. They are fast at figuring out what you want them to do. Often, these dogs have some level of stubbornness. The rare American Bulldog Lab may have no stubbornness at all and readily do whatever you ask. But most will at least consider whether they want to follow a command or not. Some may be incredibly stubborn and only respond when something is in it for them like food. Due to their high energy levels, these canines are extremely play-driven. You can usually use toys to play with them instead of treats. The same basic training principles apply. Ask them to do a command, and when they do, throw the ball or play tug for a moment. The playtime acts as the reward. This is a great way to wear them out and do training at the same time. They do shed quite a bit, so occasional brushing may be needed to lessen the amount of fur that ends up all over your home. They may need an occasional bath if they get obviously dirty, but this will only be necessary if they roll around in mud or something similar. As for all dogs, regular teeth brushing is recommended. You should also check their ears for built-up debris regularly, though this is less of a problem for this breed. Their nails will need to be trimmed regularly. However, due to their high activity, they may need them cut less often than some other breeds do. They are less likely to inherit genetic conditions because they are drawing on a larger genetic pool. However, they are still prone to a few conditions, mainly due to their size. These dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, as there is a great deal of weight being put on their hip joints. This can be quite serious for some dogs, while others may have no symptoms at all. Proper feeding during the puppy years is extremely important to prevent this. They may also develop conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and skin allergies. However, these are rarer than they are in other breeds. Male vs Female While males may be a bit larger, these dogs vary so much that it is hard to notice differences between sexes. It is also hard to predict any differences in temperament and behavior. These dogs may be completely trainable or absolutely stubborn. Because of the temperaments of each parent, this mixed breed may either be easy to train or extremely stubborn. There will be large differences between puppies even in the same litter. Likely, none of the puppies will be quite as stubborn as the American Bulldog. However, none will be as trainable as a Labrador either. Most puppies will be somewhere in between, but extremes on either side of the spectrum are possible. Solid colors are rare in this mix. While the Labrador Retriever mostly has solid colors, this mixed breed often does not. This is largely due to the genes from the American Bulldog, which almost guarantees that the puppy will end up with markings of some sort. Of course, solid colors are possible but this is rare. Their exercise needs will vary. The American Bulldog is an active breed that is known for short bursts of energy. The Labrador Retriever is the exact opposite. They have a great deal of endurance that allows them to go for a long time. The mixed-breed puppies can end up anywhere in the middle. They do best in active families that have plenty of time to exercise and train them. They are typically friendly but do require socialization to get along with strangers and other dogs. They may be stubborn or extremely trainable, depending on what traits they inherit from their parents. Either way, they are extremely smart and enjoy playing games like hide-and-seek. Because they inherit a larger pool of genes, they are much healthier than either of their parents. Proper feeding in the early years can go a long way toward preventing hip dysplasia, which they are somewhat prone to due to their larger size. We recommend this breed for active families with plenty of extra time. These dogs get along equally well with younger and older children, so they are good dogs to grow up with. Featured Image Credit: JNix, Shutterstock Written by Kristin Hitchcock Author Kristin is passionate about helping pet parents create a fulfilling life with their pets by informing them on the latest scientific research and helping them choose the best products for their pets. She currently resides in Tennessee with four dogs, three cats, two fish, and a lizard, though she has dreams of owning chickens one day!
Kesdar Boxers — the home of Champions. We are a small kennel, now breeding infrequently and dedicated to the purebred, Boxer. The health and temperament of our dogs is paramount to our breeding program. Our consistent success in the show ring is due to our commitment to the Boxer Breed Standard. We are proud that Kesdar Boxers are recognised as top winning Boxers right across Australia, year-in and year-out. Boxers are a loving, loyal and trustworthy family dog with unique characteristics that set them apart from all other breeds and endear them to everyone that is lucky enough to have had a Boxer in their life. Please browse our website, take a look at the current show team and all the precious Boxers that have made our home their home. Jen bought her first Boxer, Jodie, in , Jodie was not a show girl but her true Boxer temperament was always on display and so began a love affair with the breed leading to the purchase of Kes who became Champion Tonup Angels Flight. All our dogs can be traced back to these two special dogs. Angie not only thrilled us in the show ring but also produced a Grand Champion daughter Grand Champion Kesdar High Society from her first litter and Grand Champion and Champion litter brothers from her second. Our youngster, Murphy, is more than half way to her title and on writing this update just 7 months of age. We are extremely proud that 16 of the 39 Champions are owned and were titled by other people, some with their first show Boxer. Arken is a beautiful, healthy, strong dog combining the best of English and European Boxers and has provided a solid foundation for the Kesdar lines into the future. Two of his outstanding progeny, Deeks and Mischief have both won Best in Show at Boxer Specialties under international judges. Come and see us we love to talk Boxer and our dogs adore saying hi! Our foundation dogs, golden oldies, our beautiful Norwegian boy, Arken, current show team and the future with our promising youngsters. The Golden Oldies and Arken sections under development. Special Moments Under Development! Return soon for an update. Our dogs have provided us with memorable wins over the years at the highest level of competition and conitnue to inspire us with their passion for life and joy of simply showing off! Puppies Browse some of the beautiful Kesdar babies from our past and present. Puppies are cherished at Kesdar. Our litters are now infrequent but as always when we have a litter the mating is carefully planned to produce healthy, sound Boxers. If you wish to talk to us about any future litters we might have please call and talk to us in the first instance. Send a Message. Reverse brindle and sealed. Pups were born Aug 8th and will be ready for their new homes Oct 4th, One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Currently lbs Good temperament Great with kids Easy going happy dog We are looking to rehome him, after much consideration, he is a great dog, Kamloops Only 2 left! Husky Boxer with some Akita bear and Rottweiler. They are very lovely little ones, they are from a litter of 8 all srong and healthy. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.This adorable cutie is ready to go. Both parents are unregistered Purebred Boxers. Mom lives with me and Dad is.These puppies will be ready for their forever home in the first week of September. They will go home having been properly checked by a vet and been given their.Tails and dew claws done Ready to.I owe both parents. Born June 19 , puppies will be ready to go on August .They are born on the 2. September and are ready to go .Mom weighs around 55lbs and is a fawn. She is very.Ready for forever homes on Sept 9. Located in Victoria BC Mom and dad both.Raised with their parents, cats and in a family environment. Very trainable and loving. We have 4 girls the puppies are about a week an a half old will be ready to leave at 8 weeks old our past litters all turned out to be great dogs.They come vet checked with first vaccine, vet record and deworming These pups are very well socialized and ready to go. We also own both mom and dad, and they all have great.Maple is our.Browse other categories in Pets in British Columbia. Boxer Anatomy The Boxer The Boxer is a medium sized family dog that makes a wonderful companion for children and adults alike. He is often referred to as the clown of the canine world. A happy, loyal and trustworthy breed who will protect his family with love. General Appearance The Boxer is a medium sized, sturdy, smooth-haired dog of short square figure and strong limb. The musculation is clean and powerfully developed and should stand out plastically from under the skin. As a service and guard dog he must combine a considerable degree of elegance with the substance and power essential to his duties; those of an enduring escort dog whether with horse, bicycle or carriage and as a splendid jumper. Therefore to be at its highest efficiency, the Boxer must never be plump or heavy. Whilst equipped for great speed, it must not be racy. When judging the Boxer the first thing to be considered is general appearance, the relation of substance to elegance and the desired relationship of the individual parts of the body to each other. Consideration, too, must be given to colour. After these, the individual parts should be examined for their correct construction and their functions. Special attention should be devoted to the head. He is renowned from olden times for his great love and faithfulness to his master and household, his alertness, and fearless courage as a defender and protector. The Boxer is docile but distrustful of strangers. He is bright and friendly in play but brave and determined when roused. His intelligence and willing tractability, his modesty, and cleanliness make him a highly desirable family dog and cheerful companion. He is the soul of honesty and loyalty. He is never false or treacherous even in his old age. Head and Skull The head imparts to the Boxer a unique individual stamp peculiar to the breed. It must be in perfect proportion to his body; above all it must never be too light. The muzzle is the most distinctive feature. The greatest value is to be placed on its being of correct form and in absolute proportion to the skull. The beauty of the head depends upon the harmonious proportion between the muzzle and the skull. From whatever direction the head is viewed, whether from the front, from the top or from the side, the muzzle should always appear in correct relationship to the skull. That means that the head should never appear too small or too large. The length of the muzzle to the whole of the head should be as 1 is to 3. The head should not show deep wrinkles. Normally wrinkles will spring up on the top of the skull when the dog is alert. Folds are always indicated from the root of the nose running downwards on both sides of the muzzle. The dark mask is confined to the muzzle. The muzzle must be powerfully developed in length, in breadth and in height. It must not be pointed or narrow, short or shallow. Its shape is influenced through the formation of both jaw-bones, the placement of teeth in the jaw-bones, and through the quality of the lips. The top of the skull should be slightly arched. It should not be so short that it is rotund, too flat, or too broad. The occiput should not be too pronounced. The forehead should form a distinct stop with the top line of the muzzle, which should not be forced back into the forehead like that of a Bulldog. Neither should it slope away downfaced. The tip of the nose should lie somewhat higher than the root of the muzzle. The forehead should show a suggestion of furrow which, however, should never be too deep, especially between the eyes. For preference they should taper into the muzzle in a slight, graceful curve. The nose should be broad and black, very slightly turned up. The nostrils should be broad with a naso-labial line between them. The two jaw-bones should not terminate in a normal perpendicular level in the front but the lower jaw should protrude beyond the upper jaw and bend slightly upwards. The Boxer is normally undershot. The upper jaw should be broad where attached to the skull, and maintain this breadth except for a very slight tapering to the front. Eyes The eyes should be dark brown; not too small or protruding; not deep set. They should disclose an expression of energy and intelligence, but should never appear gloomy, threatening or piercing. The eyes must have a dark rim. When the dog is alert the ears should fall forward with a definite crease. Mouth The canine teeth should be as widely separated as possible. The incisors 6 should all be in one row, with no projection of the middle teeth. In the upper jaw they should be slightly concave. In the lower they should be in a straight line. Both jaws should be very wide in front; bite powerful and sound, the teeth set in the most normal possible arrangement. The lips complete the formation of the muzzle. The upper lip should be thick and padded and fill out the hollow space in front formed by the projection of the lower jaw and be supported by the fangs of the jaw. These fangs must stand as far apart as possible and be of good length so that the front surface of the muzzle becomes broad and almost square; to form an obtuse rounded angle with the top line of the muzzle. The lower edge of the upper lip should rest on he edge of the lower lip. The repandous bent upward part of the under-jaw with the lower lip sometimes called the chin must not rise above the front of the upper lip. On the other hand, it should not disappear under it. It must, however, be plainly perceptible when viewed from the front as well as the side, without protruding and bending upward as in the English Bulldog. The teeth of the under-jaw should not be seen when the mouth is closed, neither should the tongue show when the mouth is closed. Neck The neck should be not too thick and short but of ample length, yet strong, round, muscular and clean-cut throughout. There should be a distinctly marked nape and an elegant arch down to the back. Forequarters The chest should be deep and reach down to the elbows. The depth of the chest should be half the height of the dog at the withers. The ribs should be well arched but not barrel-shaped. They should extend far to the rear. The loins should be short, close and taut and slightly tucked up. The lower stomach line should blend into an elegant curve to the rear. The shoulders should be long and sloping, close lying but not excessively covered with muscle. The upper arm should be long and form a right-angle to the shoulder-blade. The forelegs when seen from the front should be straight, parallel to each other and have strong, firmly articulated joined bones. The elbows should not press too closely to the chest-wall nor stand off too far from it. The underarm forearm should be perpendicular, long and firmly muscled. The pastern joint of the foreleg should be clearly defined, but not distended. The pastern should be short, slightly slanting and almost perpendicular to the ground. Body The body viewed in profile should be of square appearance. The length of the body from the front of the chest to the rear of the body should equal the height from ground to the top of the shoulder, giving the Boxer a short-coupled, square profile. The torso rests on trunk-like legs with strong bones. The withers should be clearly defined. The whole back should be short, straight, broad and very muscular. Hindquarters The hindquarters should be strongly muscled. The musculation should be hard and stand out plastically through the skin. The thighs should not be narrow and flat but broad and curved. The breech musculation should also be strongly developed. The croup should be slightly sloped, flat arched and broad. The pelvis should be long and, in females especially, broad. The upper and lower thighs should be long. The hip and knee stifle joints should have as much angle as possible. In a standing position the knee stifle should reach so far forward that it would meet a vertical line drawn from the hip protuberance to the floor. The hock angle should be about degrees; the lower part of the foot at a slight slope of about 95 to degrees from the hock joint to the floor; that is, not completely vertical. Seen from behind the hindlegs should be straight. The hocks should be clean and not distended, supported by powerful rear pads. Feet The feet should be small with tightly-arched toes cat-feet and hard soles. The rear toes should be just a little longer than the front toes, but similar in all other respects. Tail The tail attachment should be high. The tail should be preferably docked and carried upwards and should, preferably, be not more than 5 cm 2 ins long. His gait, although firm, is elastic. The stride free and roomy; carriage proud and noble. Coat The coat should be short and shiny, lying smooth and tight to the body. Colour The permissible colours are fawn, brindle and fawn in various shades from light yellow to dark deer red. The brindle variety should have black stripes on a golden-yellow or red-brown background. The stripes should be clearly defined and above all should not be grey or dirty. Stripes that do not cover the whole top of the body are not desirable. White markings are not undesirable, in fact, they are often very attractive in appearance. The black mask is essential but when white stretches over the muzzle, naturally that portion of the black mask disappears. It is not possible to get black toe-nails with white feet. It is desirable, however, to have an even distribution of head markings. Size Dogs: cm ins at the withers. Bitches: .Heights above or below these figures not to be encouraged. Dogs around .Faults Temperament: Viciousness ; treachery; unreliability; lack of temperament; cowardice. Head: A head that is not typical. A plump, bulldoggy appearance. Pinscher or Bulldog head. Appearance: Light bone. Lack of proportion. Bad physical condition. Lack of nobility and expression. Bite: Unserviceable bite whether due to disease or to faulty tooth placement. Showing the teeth or the tongue. A sloping top-line of the muzzle. Too pointed or too light a bite snipy. Eyes: Visible conjunctiva haw. Light eyes. Ears: Flying ears; rose ears; semi-erect or erect ears. Neck: Dewlap. Front: Too broad and low in front; loose shoulders; chest hanging between the shoulders; hare feet; turned legs and toes. Body: Carp roach back; sway back; thin, lean back; long, narrow, sharp-sunken in loins. Weak union with the croup, hollow flanks; hanging stomach. Hindquarters: A falling off or too arched or narrow croup. Colour: Boxers with white or black ground colour, or entirely white or black or any other colour than fawn or brindle. NOTE: Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum. Boxer Anatomy He is an active dog and can be strong-willed and become unruly if not provided with training and boundaries particularly for the first year of his life. The Boxer will enthusiastically welcome most people you invite into your home but can be very reserved if he feels distrustful of certain individuals. Therefore he will make an excellent watch dog, his looks and barking will scare off any intruder, although little do they know that he is really a big softy at heart. He can be stubborn and aggravating then turn around and delight and entertain you with his playful antics and exuberance for life. He will play gently with young children, rough-house teenagers and make the perfect companion around the house or garden with adults. You can hurt his feelings easily by the tone of your voice or by ignoring him. Love him and your love will be returned ten fold. Yes they love outside activities, long walks, camping, runs along the beach but if he will not be allowed to live in the house as part of your family you would be better to choose another more independent breed! The Boxer must be protected from the elements, whether that be the cold of winter or the heat of summer with their short coat offering little protection from the elements. A Boxer that cannot join his family inside their home will become destructive and anxious. If you are not prepared to welcome your Boxer into your home … choose another breed! Dogs that are not purebred have health issues too. Boxers have a relatively short life span of between 9 and 12 years, although many do live longer. It is important to remember that not all Boxers will fall victim to the known health issues, many will live a healthy, disease free life reaching a grand age. Responsible, registered breeders health screen their breeding animals against the most common diseases, where testing is available, to reduce the risk of genetic disorders. Deciding to purchase your puppy from a registered breeder is a wise first decision on the path to dog ownership. Heart Disease Stenosis and Cardiomyopathy are inherited diseases of the heart. Stenosis can be detected by stethoscope. For Cardiomyopathy there is a test for dogs and bitches over 2 years of age. Knowledgeable breeders test their breeding stock and know which dogs have been affected by this disease, and they do not use them in their breeding program. Heart murmurs can be detected early in puppies and as reputable breeders test all their breeding stock it is not a common occurrence nowadays. If a puppy is detected to have a murmur, breeders do NOT sell these to pet homes but run them on themselves to see if the puppy improves with age or the condition worsens. The Program details and database of results can be viewed here. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy ARVC is a familial cardiac disease characterised by ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. DNA testing is available that can indicate if a Boxer is clear of the identified gene, carries the gene or is positive at risk of developing ARVC. Please note that environmental factors and other diseases can also contribute to heart disease in dogs. The condition typically begins with rear end weakness but, over time, develops into full paralysis. The condition usually does not appear until the dog reaches maturity or in old age. There is currently no effective treatment or cure, however there is a genetic test that can be done that identifies if a dog is clear of the gene, a carrier, or positive at risk of developing the disease. Reputable breeders conduct DNA testing of their breeding stock prior to mating to ensure they do not mate a Boxer that may be a carrier to a Boxer that is also a carrier thereby running the risk of producing puppies that have the condition. Boxers that are positive for DM are not bred with. Cancer Skin cancers are quite common in Boxers. Cancer itself can be found in Boxers but no more than most other breeds. Hip Displasia Hip Displasia is a disease with a genetic factor and results in a hip joint that is too shallow for the ball of the joint to fit correctly. This can be a debilitating disease, depending on the severity. It is rare in Boxers from show lines, but it does occur more commonly in the general Boxer population. While it has not been considered and issue in Australia many breeders will perform a simple SDMA blood test on breeding stock. The SDMA test can detect early indicators of kidney disease or loss of kidney function. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is found in Boxers, but it is not a common problem and is often triggered by external conditions rather than inherited. Puppy Checklist The Boxer Association of Victoria has created a simple check list to help you on your way to welcoming a beautiful Boxer puppy into your family. View the Checklist The parents of puppies offered for sale should have been heart checked and tested heart murmur free in compliance with the Boxer Association Heart Scheme Program. The puppies should look plump and healthy, with loose pliable skin, clear eyes, loose coat pull up the skin on the pups back to see if it very loose. The environment where puppies are a kept is clean and comfortable. The mother has a very good temperament, playful and gay, not shy or aggressive and looks in good condition Bare in mind she may be a little thin and her coat may be sparse as she has just gone through feeding and rearing this litter. Check that your puppy of choice will come to you when called, and is outgoing, friendly and playful when fully awake as pups can be drowsy if just awakened and is not timid or cower in a corner. All puppies must have been vet checked and received their first vaccination, and not leave their mother for their new home before a minimum of 8 WEEKS of age. A pup that leaves earlier has not had time to fully socialise with its siblings and develop a pack instinct, and may become dog aggressive as it grows. When you come to collect your pup you should receive a Puppy Packet which contains; DIET SHEET — it is most important for the welfare of your pup that he has the correct diet to help him grow and stay healthy for life. Should you wish further information in relation to any of these members, please contact them directly. Registered Breeders.
Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that there are a few distinct color coat variations. Fox Red Labradors are a rare-colored version of the Labrador Retriever. Despite this, they can be registered as purebred Yellow Labrador Retrievers , as the darker-colored coat is not considered to be a disqualifying factor. Due to their unique and certainly eye-catching color, the Fox Red Labrador continues to grow in popularity. Labrador Retrievers are known for being exceptionally sweet and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. These dogs yearn to be a part of a family, and fit right in when joining one. In fact, Labs are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Well-socialized Fox Red Labradors tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. After all, every person they meet is a potential friend that they can play with. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Despite their energy, Fox Red Labradors can adapt to most settings. As long as this dog breed has a chance to get in daily walks, go outside to run and play, and they get plenty of attention, they are content. They are not overly affected by cold weather, but they have a dense double coat. Fox Red Retrievers are also happiest when in the presence of people and they love to be with their families whenever possible. They also have a lot of energy and get bored easily. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Fox Red Labrador Retrievers can include hereditary myopathy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, heart disease, and cataracts. There is also a condition with a genetic link that can occur in young adult Labradors called exercise-induced collapse EIC. Carriers can be identified by DNA tests. Good breeding practices can reduce the risk of potential health issues and make a big difference in the health of Fox Red Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an EIC DNA test, and an ophthalmologist evaluation at a minimum. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Fox Red Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk of bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Labrador Retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds and are highly trainable. Although they can become stubborn at times, they are eager to please and pick up on training quickly overall. Their energy and intelligence mean they can lose focus in training and get bored easily. However, training that is kept clear, consistent, and focused on positive rewards usually keeps them focused and responding well. Any color variant of the Labrador Retriever is ideal for beginner dog owners. Fox Red Labrador Retrievers have a short, dense double coat that is water-resistant. They shed year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing their coat a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Because their coat tends to protect them from the cold and they are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , your Fox Red Lab may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. If they are an avid swimmer or tend to get into a lot of things, you may need to bathe them more often. It is highly recommended to give them a bath or at least rinse them off thoroughly after going swimming with your dog. Their nails should be trimmed once or twice monthly. This will help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs is essential for preventing the tartar buildup that lends to dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is a good start. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with dental hygiene chews, a special dental care diet, and more. Like other Labs, Fox Red Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. However, they will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Often, they are just happy to be spending time with you. Labs tend to have an extended puppyhood until they are around years old. They will mellow out a little, but also tend to maintain a puppy-like exuberance even in their senior years. Once they are done growing and your vet has cleared them for more activities, you can try a lot of different things. Labs are athletic and versatile dogs. They are one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures and tend to enjoy a variety of activities. They tend to excel in swimming, running, obstacle courses, and several dog sports. Fully-grown Fox Red Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Fox Red Labs generally live for years on average. Holland, MI This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Click here and you will find information on the litters that are here now or that will be born soon. All puppies are also AKC Registered. Our puppies come from well known multiple generations of champion GMPR bloodlines, with good bone structure, nice heads, and a wonderful temperament. We work hard to keep our dogs in top shape and condition. Our dogs are exercised regularly to help maintain great health. When our puppies are born, they are watched over very carefully to make sure all are maintaining a healthy weight. The pups are wormed at three weeks, and then again at six weeks. Their first shots are given at six weeks of age, and your new puppy will come with a 28 month health guarantee! If you are looking for a loyal family dog, or a wonderful hunting companion, you will definitely find what you are looking for here at Fox Red Pointing Labs. For more information on any of our dogs, please call or This email address is being protected from spambots.
These are dogs that are strong, intelligent, alert, courageous, energetic, and loyal. The breed excels as a guardian and these dogs can be trained to perform a range of important tasks. But most of all, this is a dog that protects the ones he or she loves and holds dear. Naming Advice When it comes to naming your German Shepherd, there are a variety of factors to keep in mind. Check out these super cute Pet ID Tags! Personality Finding the right name may not be immediately apparent, and sometimes it takes a while to decide which moniker fits your pup best. Wait for his or her personality to fully emerge before choosing the ideal name. Spend a little time with your new friend and the perfect name will come. Name Length A good rule of thumb is to keep the number of syllables in the dog's name to one or two at most. Three is acceptable but the shorter the name, the easier it is for your dog to hear and respond to commands. Clear communication is imperative for German Shepherds, particularly during training. Avoid Confusion Some names may sound like commands and this will only serve to confuse your pup. If you name your German Shepherd something that sounds identical to those and other commands, obedience is going to be an uphill battle for both you and your pet. Perhaps one of these names will fit your pet best, or maybe these names will help you think of the best possible name for your particular pup. German Shepherds have distinct personality traits and all of these names can reflect those attributes every time you call his or her name. Choosing the right name for your male German Shepherd is a fascinating endeavor. While contemplating, consider the defining attributes of the breed — their unparalleled intelligence, formidable strength, and remarkable adaptability. A Brainstorming Activity If you find yourself struggling to land on the perfect name, why not try a little observation? Spend some quality time with your new German Shepherd puppy or rescue dog, and simply watch them. Note down every detail, from the color of their coat to their distinct walking style, and any observable personality traits. Not only will this activity foster an immediate bond with your new puppy, but it will also serve as a rich source of naming inspiration! Among the thousands of potential names, certain ones stand out as fitting for male German Shepherds. As a breed known for their bravery, intelligence, and capability, they deserve a name that reflects their stature. Rin Tin Tin was a star of the silver screen, featuring in 26 Warner Brothers films from the early 20th century until his death in .Buddy, another prominent name, belonged to the first seeing eye dog owned and trained by Frank Morris.
Schulz "Poo, how do you spell love? You don't spell it.It's no wonder the Cavalier was King Charles of England's favorite dog! A Cavalier's 1 goal in life is to love you unconditionally and please you! He will happily go on a run with you, or snuggle on the couch all evening. He is happiest at your side! She is a perfect indoor companion. Your Cavalier King Charles puppy is very friendly, calm-natured, and an average shedder. Frequent brushing is recommended. Cavaliers are often cited as being rated near the top for best companion and therapy dogs because of their intelligence, low exercise requirement, and high love-o-meter! She will likely weigh between 13 to 20 pounds. A Cavapoo or Cavoodle puppy is also considered 'hypoallergenic'.Officially, there's no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog - but there is no dispute that poodle mix puppies have given allergy-laden families symptom-free companions! He is known for a "forever puppy" look he'll carry into adulthood. Our first-generation F1 Cavapoos have registered purebred parents. Your Cavapoo puppy will take on the traits of his parents - just like people! It's important to remember that you are getting a puppy from two different breeds and your puppy may favor one way over the other. Either way, the intelligence and friendliness of both breeds are the perfect match! As 3rd generation family farmers, we love and live what we do - every day. We have a small purebred Angus cow herd, pigs and a few chickens, as well as row crop farming. There is never a dull moment with our 5 children from elementary to high school! Each and every one of our puppies and their parents are played with and socialized on a daily basis. Every person in our family is involved with caring and loving! It is our goal to only raise dogs that will improve the overall health and temperament of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breed. We became passionate about Cavapoo puppies because our oldest child has many allergies and it was our hope to help bring the love of a Cavalier puppy to others with this same story! Combining the intelligence of a Poodle and the affectionate loyalty of a Cavalier King Charles makes the perfect companion for those with allergies or who wish for a low or nonshedding puppy! We believe that everything we do is a reflection of who we are as people. In our rural, small farm setting there is no better place to raise a family, or a pup! We strive for only strictly healthy, well socialized, and beautiful pups to bless others. Our parent dogs are thoroughly examined, genetic DNA tested, and health-checked by our Veterinarian. Our Cavalier mamas are OFA certified for heart health. It's our goal to improve the health of our pets for ourselves and for you! Beyond parent health.Find Us Yes, we're actually on a Map! West Bend, Iowa! We welcome your visit to our farm after joining our Wait List. By Appointment only. If an in-person visit isn't feasible - contact us to connect through Zoom to choose your pup. Deposits are non-refundable but always transferable to another litter. This means you can pass your turn for any reason timing, color, gender preference, etc. Our Cavapoos generally will be between lb. We look forward to offering toy Cavapoos in ; expected to be lb. Your deposit does apply towards your total fee. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. Cavapoos have a soft, wavy coat that can be either curly or straight. They come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and cream. Cavapoos are known for being friendly, intelligent, and easy to train. They are also relatively low-maintenance dogs, making them a good choice for first-time dog owners. Cavapoos are good with children and other pets, and they make great companion dogs. Cavapoo Highlights Friendly and affectionate: Cavapoos are known for being loving and loyal dogs. They are always happy to see their owners and make great companions for people of all ages. Easy to train: Cavapoos are intelligent dogs that are relatively easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and can learn basic commands quickly. Good with children and other pets: Cavapoos are gentle and playful dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They are a good choice for families with young children. Low-maintenance: Cavapoos are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They require weekly brushing and occasional baths. They are not as high-maintenance as some other breeds, such as Poodles. Overall, Cavapoos are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a loving, loyal, and easy-to-care-for dog, the Cavapoo may be the perfect breed for you. Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Cavapoos: They are relatively expensive dogs to buy and own. They can be prone to some health problems, such as mitral valve disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and hip dysplasia. They are not suitable for homes with very young children, as they can be easily injured by rough play. If you are considering getting a Cavapoo, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Cavapoo History The Cavapoo dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders in Australia started intentionally mixing Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles in the late s. Breeders wanted to mix the outgoing and calmer nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with the intelligence of a Poodle. Since Poodles tend to shed less, they were also selected in an effort to create a mixed breed for allergy sufferers. Breeders continued to create Cavapoos as demand for the mixed-breed pups climbed. Even though the Cavapoo mixed breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Cavapoo rescues, or check with breed-specific Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed-breed dogs and find homes for them. Cavapoo Size As the Cavapoo is a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle parents, you can expect Cavapoos to be small to medium, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Most weigh in at nine to 25 pounds and range in height from nine to 14 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Cavapoo Personality Cavapoos have boomed in popularity because they have such an amicable and winning personality. That said, the Cavapoo is not a dog that tolerates being alone very much, and they could experience separation anxiety if not properly socialized and trained. The Cavapoo is an intelligent breed and lives for your validation and praise. This makes Cavapoos fairly easy to train, as they are eager to please. Cavapoos can be athletic too, which makes them great when it comes to agility and obedience competitions. As they can be somewhat attached-at-the-hip, it is important to train your Cavapoo early so they know how to be alone. Without proper training, your Cavapoo could turn to destructive behaviors, like chewing furniture and shoes or rooting through the garbage, when they are left alone. Cavapoos tend to get along with everyone and may even greet an intruder with a wag of their tail. Cavapoos tend to thrive most in homes where they get loads of attention, be it with a family or a senior citizen. Cavapoo Health Cavapoos are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to some health problems that are common in both Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. MVD can cause a variety of symptoms, including coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of eye diseases that can lead to blindness. PRA is a genetic condition that is not curable, but there are treatments that can slow the progression of the disease. Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joints do not fit together properly. This can cause pain and lameness. Hip dysplasia is often treated with surgery or medication. Luxating patella is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place. Luxating patella is often treated with surgery or physical therapy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. Epilepsy can be controlled with medication, but it is not curable. Syringomyelia is a condition in which fluid builds up in the spinal cord. This can cause pain, weakness, and other neurological symptoms. Syringomyelia is often treated with surgery or medication. Dental problems are common in all dogs, but they are especially common in Cavapoos. Cavapoos are prone to tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Allergies are also common in Cavapoos. Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin problems, ear infections, and respiratory problems. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Cavapoos are somewhat prone to weight gain, and they can have heart issues if they do not maintain a healthy weight. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. Check their ears for debris and pests daily, and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking loudly against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as smaller breeds are prone to dental issues. Cavapoo Feeding An ideal Cavapoo diet should be formulated for a small- to medium-sized breed with high energy levels. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They can be a variety of colors , including cream, fawn, chocolate, gold, chestnut, and white. They can sometimes be solid colors, but often they are chestnut and white, or they can even be tri-colored. They usually have short, soft, and wavy or curly coats. They can become quite the fluffballs, though, and require regular grooming. Because of their Poodle parent, they are somewhat less prone to shedding, which is why some allergy sufferers do well with Cavapoos. Their curly coats make them able to tolerate moderate cold and heat. Like all dogs, however, they should not be left outside in either extreme warm or cold temperatures. Cavapoo Children And Other Pets Because the Cavapoo can be on the smaller side, they can get easily hurt by overly excited children, especially younger ones. It is important that any kids in the house know how to safely approach and play with your Cavapoo. Having said that, the Cavapoo loves everyone and generally enjoys romping around with kids. When it comes to other pets, Cavapoos can get along with other animals as long as they are introduced in a calm, slow manner. Cavapoos are generally friendly dogs, and they can get along with other dogs and even cats when properly socialized. Many Cavapoos get along just fine with other dogs and cats, so it really comes down to training, socialization, and the luck of the draw. Cavapoo Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Cavapoos because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try: Carolina Poodle Rescue Cavapoo Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. They were bred to be a companion dog and perfect for those with allergies because of their low shedding coat. This crossbreed is known for being friendly and sociable, making them excellent family pets. The popularity of the Cavapoo has soared recently and this is all down to their sweet nature. Gentle and cute, this the perfect dog to have in the home with children. They will happily curl up next to you on the couch, but they will also happily spend time running and playing! Read on below to find out more about this interesting small breed. More recently, they are also becoming more popular in the United States and in England, too. Because they are a hybrid breed, the Cavapoo is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC and therefore does not have a breed standard. It can be difficult to know which parent they are going to take after more and which characteristics they will inherit. Breed Origin To understand more about where the Cavapoo dog came from, we can take a look at the origins of the parent breeds. The Poodle originated from the French and German border in the 15th and 16th century and was associated with the upper class. Because they are excellent water dogs, they were used to hunt water-fowl. Later on, because of their adorable look, these pups became a very popular dog. The Toy Poodle was bred from the Standard Poodle by choosing the smallest pup from each litter and breeding with them. They were first seen in America in the 20th century. They were finally recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Characteristics Of The Cavapoo Because the Cavapoo is not a purebred breed, it can be difficult to know which characteristics they are going to inherit from each parent. One litter may take after the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent, while another little may take after the Poodle parent. However, based on past litters, we can make assumptions about many of the traits. A Cavapoo puppy is normally born in a litter size of anywhere between two and eight puppies. Always ensure you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance As we have stated, the appearance can differ based on which parent breed the Cavapoo takes more traits from. These pups are normally described as fuzzy faced teddy bears and are extremely cute! Poodles can come in three sizes — Standard, Miniature and Toy. This also means that there are two sizes of Cavapoos available. These dogs can stand between 9 and 14 inches tall and can weigh anywhere between 7 and 18 pounds. Coat There are three different coat types that this Poodle Mix could have. These are hair, fleece and wool. Fleece coats are most common and they have a loose wave or curl to them. They are very soft to touch and do not shed much. They are also low maintenance and only require clipping from time to time. Wool coats are also low shedding coats and have tight curls. Due to these tight curls, they trap dander which makes them the best coat type for those with allergies. However, these coats do grow, so they also require daily brushing and regular clipping. Hair coats can be wiry and rough which can give the Cavapoo a Terrier look. Color The Cavapoo can come in a range of colors. The most common colors are gold, black, white, Blenheim black and white and tricolor black, white and tan. Temperament The temperament of the Cavapoo is another factor that can be difficult to pinpoint due to the fact this designer breed is not a pure breed. Often, breeds are crossed to take the most desirable characteristics from each breed. We can take a look at the temperament of the parent breeds to get an idea of what the Cavapoo may be like. The Cavalier Spaniel is a playful and energetic dog but they are also very loyal and loving. They love to be around people and do not tolerate being left on their own. This can lead to unwanted behaviors including barking and destruction. The Cavalier Spaniel, although not a large dog, has high activity levels and likes to be outside. The Poodle is a gentle and caring dog that also loves people. Much like the Cavalier Spaniel, they do not like to be left alone and will want to be by your side all the time. Very intelligent, the Poodle is easy to train and will want to please their owner. They also have lots of energy and love to join you on walks. Crossing The Breeds It was hoped when crossing the Cavalier Spaniel with the Poodle that the Cavapoo would have the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat from a Poodle whilst keeping the energy, loyalty and playfulness of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This is mostly true! They are very loyal to their owners, too. This breed love babies and children and so will thrive in a family home, building bond with everyone in the household. They are fairly active dogs and like to be outside. Lifespan The life expectancy of the Cavapoo is 10 to 14 years. Known Health Issues Although mixed breeds are known for being generally healthier breeds due to the out-breeding of health issues, they can still be prone to health problems their parent breeds face. Unfortunately, the Cavapoo is no different. We have listed the most common health concerns below. Patellar Luxation — this is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we have explored what the temperament and characteristics of the Cavapoo may be, we can take a look at what living with one of these dogs is actually like. We will explore their food and diet needs, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. Food And Diet These dogs are a small breed and therefore require around 40 calories of food per pound of body weight a day. This equates to between and calories per day, although you should always check the back of the food packet to see how much of a certain food you should be feeding your dog based on their weight. Unfortunately, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can be prone to some weight gain and this can be passed down to their offspring. For this reason, try not to feed your Cavapoo too many treats. If you are worried your Cavapoo is overweight then you can check them. Cavoodle Description The Cavapoo is not a purebred dog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Sophie the Cavapoo "This is Lucy. She is a Cavapoo, which here in Australia we call a Cavoodle. She is 11 weeks old and the best puppy. The first night we got her I put her in a soft kennel with the flap up, but gated into the bathroom. She cried a bit and woke in the night once. By night 4, she didn't make a whimper when I put her in and didn't wake until am. She has been easy to train, picking up sit, down, leave it and touch commands by 9 weeks. She is playful, but also loves to cuddle up on the couch. She is great with the kids and has taken to our home very smoothly. She still cries in the day when we leave her.She loves to chew , but doesn't chew furniture, more fingers and plants. She is shedding a bit, but I am not sure if that is a puppy thing, and because we are exiting winter season here. She is the best puppy. He's really sweet and smart. Everything I taught him he learned that day and he was completely housetrained in two months his main problem was just finding a way to tell me how to go out, so I got bells for him. He loves houseguests, but is timid of people in the neighborhood. He's also very loyal and follows me everywhere. If I stay up late to study he struggles to stay awake until I go to bed. He's a little too attached because he cries when I'm in the bathroom and he became a submissive peer the first month; I learned how to ignore him until we went outside and quit doing it. He also is really gentle with small children. However, I noticed he is selfish with other animals. When around my mom's dog a Doberman which he is not scared of he steals her toys and hides them in areas that are too small for her to fit in. He loves burying bones in the couch, getting cheese, the dog park, beach, fetch throw the ball and he'll play for hours and cuddling. Black, brown, red, apricot, cream, white Suitable for Active families looking for an affectionate pet that is also an excellent watchdog Temperament Friendly, playful, intelligent, adaptable As with other mixed breeds, the pup that you get will have varying traits, depending on which parent is dominant in a particular characteristic. Both breeds are quite popular, according to the American Kennel Club. The Cavalier ranks 17th and the Poodle sixth. 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. Nonetheless, early socialization is vital to cultivate good canine manners. The same advice applies to training. The Cavapoo is no exception. However, both parent breeds have a history of health issues, which is essential to know up front. The same can be said of other intelligent dogs. How you raise your puppy will have a significant influence on their activity level. Both parent breeds are intelligent. That means that mental stimulation is vital for a good quality of life for your pup. The Cavapoo is moderately sensitive to harsh words, making positive reinforcement a better option. Are These Dogs Good for Families? You should teach them how to pick up their pet correctly to avoid injuries. The Cavapoo is dog-friendly as long as you socialize them as a puppy. They have a moderately high prey drive due to their hunting history. They may chase the family cat if given a chance. That means a time commitment to ensure they that get enough interactive time. The Cavapoo can handle cold weather better than hot, something to bear in mind when going on walks. The dietary needs of puppies differ from adults, where they need the extra nutrients and calories to support growth and development. You should offer your Cavapoo puppy three to four small meals a day. The spaced meals ensure that their blood sugar will stay stable throughout their busy day. You can scale it back to two times a day once your pup reaches adulthood. It might be due in part to their cute face. Who can resist giving them a treat? The Cavalier is more of a couch potato. A couple of daily walks will suffice and give your Cavapoo time to reinforce their leash manners and get exposure to new things. Remember that active pets are less likely to be fearful. The Cavapoo is sometimes a slow learner. We suggest limiting treats to lessons. Positive reinforcement is the best strategy for this gentle-nature pup. Praise will work wonders in a dog so eager to please. If your Cavapoo takes more after the Poodle, you might want to consider giving them a puppy cut to make grooming easier. You may have to pluck hair from their ears occasionally to prevent infections. We suggest getting a pup from a seller that does the necessary screenings. Regular veterinary care is an excellent way to prevent certain conditions from occurring or at least catch them early if they do. That can make the treatment easier and less stressful for both you and your pet. Minor Conditions. Generally the Cavalier Poodle mix has a sweet expression and sturdy little body, like both of their parents. The CKC and Poodle mix puppy will have a longish coat with some wave or curl. Poodles come in a wide range of colors so a Cavoodle puppy could be anything from tasteful, muted color tones: blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au-laits, apricots and creams right through to the black Cavapoo. Or it can be come in the rich browns of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Cavapoo Grooming The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has long, silky hair that requires regular brushing and an occasional bath. They do shed, especially with the change of seasons. Poodles require even more grooming — daily brushing, in fact, to prevent matting. This is one reason that owners often choose to keep Poodle hair trimmed short. No matter what, you should brush every day or two to prevent matting, or see a professional groomer. And finally, Cavapoos may get reddish tear stains, which you might prefer to treat. Tipping the scales at 13—18 pounds, they are categorised as a toy breed. Miniature Poodles are usually about 10—15 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh 10—15 pounds. The diminutive toy Poodle is less than 10 inches tall, and weighs as little as 6 pounds, and their Cavapoo puppies are likely to be quite a bit smaller than those with a Miniature Poodle parent. Cavapoo weight and height can vary, but a general rule of thumb here is to look at the measurements of their parents. The range the parents cover is what you can expect. Temperament Traits Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are graceful, sweet, and gentle, and make good companion dogs for households of all ages. They do have some sporting ancestry, so they enjoy chasing squirrels and such. Poodles on the other hand are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and strength. These are agile dogs with great tracking instincts, and nothing less than an abundance of activity and play will do. At home, Poodles are people-oriented, affectionate, and proud. But they are prone to shyness while out and about. A Cavapoo is likely to be good with children and other pets. Some Cavapoos will be brimful of Poodle energy! Of course, how you train your Cavapoo puppy will also shape their personality. Cavapoos are great companion dogs. They are friendly and good with kids and other animals. Their playful energy means they make a great addition to family life. They are fun dogs that can be a good match for any pet-loving household, whether active or not. Even a full grown Cavapoo is a small dog, which has practical advantages in terms of how much space they need in the home and car, how much they cost to feed. Top Training Cavalier King Charles Spaniels excel at obedience, rally, and agility training, and make great therapy dogs. Poodles benefit from agility, obedience, tracking and retrieving activities to test both their mental and physical prowess. With small dogs like Cavapoo puppies, it can be tempting to skip over some areas of training. After all, when they get into trouble you can just scoop them out of it. Training and socialization helps dogs of all sizes to adjust more confidently to new social situations. Armed with this confidence, small dogs are less likely to bark or nip at unfamiliar people. Both Poodles and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are eager to please their handlers, which makes them great candidates for early training and socialization. They will respond quickly to positive reinforcement training, and learn new commands rapidly. Our puppy training guides will help you hit the ground running with the basics, like potty training , crate training , and recall. Exercise Needs Fully grown Cavapoos need minutes exercise a day. Back at home, your Cavapoo will also demand time and attention for playing games. And enclosed yard where you can play fetch is perfect for this. Besides providing fun and exercise, you Cavapoo will also rely on you to look after their diet and grooming, and look out for signs of illness. Cavapoos need a healthy balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates in their diet. Our puppy feeding guide can help you with these decisions, as well as feeding schedules. Cavalier King Charles and Poodle Health Mixed breed dogs have the potential to inherit genetic diseases from their purebred parents. To ensure your Cavapoo puppy is as healthy as possible make sure that the Cavalier parent has been checked by a veterinarian as clear for syringomyelia and heart disease. They should also have good hip and elbow scores, and no family history of epilepsy. Average Lifespan Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an average lifespan of years, which closely the reflects the average life expectancy across the whole dog population. But Poodles boast some of the longest life expectancies in dogdom. Miniature Poodles live for 14 years on average, and up to .Toy Poodles live longer still — up to 19 years. A clear MRI for the Cavalier parent is the most important health screening that you should look for.
They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. History and Origins The Labrador Retriever breed originated not in Labrador, but on the coast of Newfoundland, in the 17th century. They were trained to bring in the fishing-nets through the icy waters for the fishermen and, in the early 19th century, were brought to Poole Harbour in Great Britain. They were so attractive and with such appealing personalities that the fishermen had umpteen offers from Englishmen to buy them. The breed with their working abilities was instantly successful as a gundog. The Earl of Malmesbury became fascinated by these dogs, known at that time as Saint John's Dogs, and he started breeding them, calling them Labrador Dogs. Today, Labradors are still used as working gundogs as well as being beloved family pets. Ideal Owner Ideal Lab owners enjoy long walks, are mud-proof and water-proof, and have the time, patience and skill to teach this breed to be a polite member of society. Although universally thought of as the ultimate, easy-going family dog and they do generally love everyone! Great for active families with children who can take part in training and exercise — and who can walk this active gundog a couple of hours every day in all weathers. Exercise Needs Labradors will adapt to the amount of time you can allocate for their exercise, as long as they are kept active. Ideally, a couple of hours a day being a good amount for a healthy adult. They love long walks with a chance to run and play off the lead. Many Labradors, unfortunately, become overweight because they are bought by families who want them for their reputation as the perfect dog with children, without realising that this is a working dog, who needs a lot of exercise and training to stay happy and healthy. As well as walks, a Labrador will revel in games and play with their owner, as they are highly social, and need to be involved in all family activities. Space Requirements The Labrador is a large, active breed who is at heart a country dog, and so needs a good-sized living space. As the Labrador size is large and their energy is high, they will appreciate a large garden and need access to the great outdoors for long walks. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Labrador is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food. Proper nutrition along with care can contribute to a Labrador lifespan reaching 14 years. Grooming Labradors The Labrador grooming process is fairly easy as their coats are simple to maintain. Even though the Labrador size is large, their coat is thick and dense with a weather-resistant undercoat that can easily be kept clean with a simple brush through once a week, and more regular attention when moulting. However, they do love water and mud, and so they may need more regular grooming to keep them clean. Watch out for grass seeds in the summer as they tend to charge around the countryside! Training Labradors Labradors are generally a joy to train as they are both clever and biddable, and love working with their owner. Despite being generally unproblematic, they do still need training as they have a need to work and to keep their busy brains occupied. Plus, they can easily get overly-boisterous, and even destructive, if not given plenty of exercise, and an outlet for their hard-wired breed behaviours. Are Labradors Good Family Dogs? There is a good reason why the Labrador has a reputation as being, almost, the perfect family dog. This is a breed who loves everyone and everything. Their only drawback is that they need a lot of exercise, and so they need an active family who enjoy walking and games. All dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.
What Is a Parti Poodle? Are Parti Poodles Purebred? Aside from its color, it has the same physical and behavioral traits as the regular poodle. It is known for its dense and curly fur and its intelligence and loyalty. Parti Poodles are just like the ones you already know and love, with a unique color combination — primarily white, with another color of either black, apricot, silver, cafe au lait, cream, or red. While the combination is usually half of each color, the patterns can vary per dog, so no two parti Poodles ever look alike. While there are other types of multi-colored Poodles , including mismarks, ticking, and tuxedo, parti Poodles are the most popular kind. In fact, it was the original coloring of the Poodle before solid-colored ones rose to prominence and became widely accepted. They may or may not be purebred. Parti Poodle Appearance? This secondary color often occurs in dark patches over the eyes and ears and as spots in the body. This distinction sets them apart from other multi-colored Poodles. The size of a parti Poodle can vary. The standard parti Poodle grows beyond 15 inches and weighs anywhere between 40 and 70 pounds. The mini parti Poodle grows between 10 and 15 inches and weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Meanwhile, the toy parti Poodle is smaller than 10 inches and can be as light as 5 pounds. Phantom Poodles and parti Poodles share similar characteristics that make them easily mistaken for each other. They both have two colors, and phantom Poodles are usually classified as a subset of parti Poodles. The phantom Poodle , on the other hand, gets patches specifically on the muzzle, the chin, the eyebrows, the paws, and the butt. The pattern is similar to what you find on Dobermans, Dachshunds, Yorkies, and Terriers. The markings of the parti Poodle are caused by a gene called the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF , which also influences other factors such as eye color and skin color. To get a parti Poodle, you need to breed two parti Poodles. Image credit: toran. How fast their fur color fades is dependent on what color they start with and their genetics. Parti Poodles with a secondary color of black may eventually fade into a blue color, while true blacks will stay black. Meanwhile, red fur may clear into something more apricot or even lighter, like cream. Are Parti Poodles Rare? Parti Poodles are not rare, but they tend to be less common than their solid-colored friends. Despite being the original looks of a Poodle, one-color Poodles became more widely accepted and recognized, especially in conformity dog shows by the biggest kennel clubs around the world. Over the years, this has encouraged breeders to focus on solid-colored Poodles, which has led to parti Poodles being bred less. However, they are rising in popularity, and more breeders are now producing them. Parti Poodle Color Combinations With Pictures While no two parti Poodles will ever look alike, there are several popular parti Poodle color combinations. Black-and-white is one of the most striking mixtures because of the contrast in their colors. On the other hand, cream-and-white is more subtle. Other parti-color combinations include white-and-gray, white-and-apricot, white-and-silver, and white-and-brown. Rarer color combinations include blue-and-white and red-and-white. Red, especially, is one of the newest colors in the breed, so producing them for either a one-colored Poodle or a parti Poodle has been elusive. White and Cream Parti Poodle Image credit: good. They even have their own designated marking codes. However, they can only join obedience and agility shows and are excluded from conformation shows. Since , they have been allowed in conformation shows. Parti Poodle Temperament and Personality Image credit: pan. They are easily trained, especially when they are still parti Poodle puppies. This makes them one of the best breeds for new dog owners to start with. Since they love company, parti Poodles will love being part of a household and will be intensely loyal to their owners. Parti Poodles are active and playful, so owners should make time to take them out on walks, a playdate at the park, or even a day at the beach. However, they can be naturally intuitive, so owners need to invest in obedience training to keep them in check. My very own white and apricot parti Poodle has one of the best temperaments in my pack. It is very patient, affectionate, and loves to cuddle. It is always excited about my presence and loves to follow me around. Just like most dogs, though, socialization is important for a parti Poodle so they can get used to the company of other people and dogs in public. Go for a quality brand of dry kibble, which is easy on their stomach and good for teeth and gums. Home-cooked meals will also be ideal for your dog. Choose proteins such as beef, salmon, and chicken; vegetables like spinach, carrots, and potatoes; eggs and cheese. To avoid canine bloat, consider feeding your dog smaller meals throughout the day instead of a big meal once a day. Cleaning and Grooming Parti Poodles require regular maintenance, especially if you plan on having them look like the classic Poodle with a distinctive haircut. Even if you prefer not to, their coats need to be brushed daily so they can be mat-free. Parti Poodles require frequent bathing more than some other dog breeds to keep them hygienic. Take care not to rub shampoo or the towel on their fur to prevent clumps. Rinse them thoroughly to avoid any skin infections. Ears should also be cleaned regularly since their ears drop down and are thus more prone to infections. Their teeth should also be brushed to prevent dental problems, and their nails trimmed short. Parti Poodles can be great workout buddies. Take them out for a brisk walk or a run every day, or bring them to the park or the beach where they can run around, whether on-leash or off-leash. They are also playful and love a game of catch. Further, parti Poodles are best suited for homes with fenced yards so they can run around and release excess energy as needed. They can adapt to a small apartment or stay indoors most of the time as long as their owners endeavor to take them out for walks and exercise regularly. However, toy parti Poodles and mini parti Poodles may live beyond that. Standard parti Poodles tend to have a slightly shorter life span, although there are many health factors to consider. There are health issues relatively common to parti Poodles, most of them often similar to the solid-colored Poodle and other large-breed dogs: Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV : GDV is a common issue often seen in standard parti Poodles. Also known as canine bloat, this condition usually affects big breeds, especially dogs with deep chests. This condition manifests through an enlarged stomach and erratic behavior and can easily turn fatal when dogs are not rushed to the vet. This disease causes weakness, abdominal pain, and weight loss, among other symptoms. However, it can be managed when caught early. Hypothyroidism: Parti poodles are also prone to hypothyroidism. Symptoms include weight gain without an increase in appetite, lethargy, dryness of their skin or coat, and behavioral changes. Thyroid problems can be managed accordingly. These diseases may be hereditary or develop on their own. Puppy Prices and Expenses Owning a parti Poodle can be costly, most especially a purebred one. Alternately, you can get parti Poodles cheaper — or even free if you find one up for adoption or rehoming at your nearest animal shelter. Here are some of the initial expenses you need to prepare for when acquiring a part Poodle: Type of Expense. The combination of white and any of those colors above make up for Parti Poodles. Parti Poodles may not be as common as compared to standard Poodles but some of their color combinations are so rare. When Parti Poodles are still young, the blending of their coat colors primary vs. As the dog ages, the coat color on specific areas of its body will be finalized until they reach adulthood. If you try combining two parts poodles, the color combination of the litter would be completely different from each other. The cause of these color variances in this dog is due to the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF gene. Below is some other variance of multi-colored Poodles, each of which has distinctive characteristics which identify one from another. Some of the ones listed below are recognized in some events initiated by AKC. Interestingly, a Poodle with this genetic makeup will consistently pass on one copy of the "sp" allele to all of its offspring, making it a hereditary trait that can be passed down to the next generation. Then, the rest of its body is covered in the secondary color. Mismark poodles are also called by breeders Abstract poodles. Another way to distinguish these two is through their skin color. The skin Mismark poodle, on the other hand, follows the color of its primary coat. Multi-Patterned Poodles Colors These are Poodles having multi-colored coats or more than 1 of the accepted colored color patterns. At present, this type of breed is not yet accepted by American Kennel Clubs. Tuxedo Poodles Think of a Poodle in a tuxedo suit. This is how their coat is patterned giving them that distinctive look. Their special markings may be placed on different parts of their body. You will notice the markings in areas such as their neck, chest, and legs. These are spots or dots one would see on a Poodle's white coat. These posts are black or darker in color and can be regarded as dirt. This is the reason why breeders do not like to use dogs with ticking. The litter could end up with coats looking dirty. Origins of the Poodle According to history, the Poodles came from Germany. Originally used as hunting dogs, Poodles are considered one of the favorite pets these days. Over time, poodles were bred into smaller-sized and distinctive coat coverings. The French royalty even considered it a favored pet. Contrary to popular belief, it is the Parti Poodles that have a rich history. According to an article published by Huxtable the Poodle, Parti Poodles are often depicted in paintings and art during the ss. Even the first ever dog book published in the United States of America has contained information about Parti Poodles. Since most people preferred the Poodle in solid color, breeders would no longer register litters that are two-colored. There is no exact publication supporting where the name came from. There are some write-ups that state that Poodles were bred in the s by French people. The breed had gained a strong following across the European border. Its popularity crossed over the United States and other Asian countries too. The popularity of the Parti Poodle in the 18th and 19th centuries In the s and s owning a Parti Poodle meant that you were either part of the French royalty or a social aristocrat. It has become a status symbol. People with wealth and power are seen owning this dog breed. During this time, European aristocrats would use Parti Poodles during hunting season. Given the popularity of these dogs and their association with the rich and famous, Parti Poodles earned its place in the world of arts, and literature during this period. The decline of the Parti Poodle in the early 20th century In the early 20th, there were other dog breeds slowly taking the spotlight. Breeds such as German Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever have gained popularity causing the decline of the Parti Poodle. Both German Shepherds and Labradors are excellent hunting dogs which were much preferred. The decline in popularity was worsened by the onset of wars where breeding Parti Poodles became uncommon. The resurgence of the Parti Poodle in modern times Despite being on the brink of distinction, Parti Poodles managed to gain back its popularity again. Several factors helped its resurgence. Canine groups recognizing the Parti Poodles Allowing this dog breed to join shows and competition Increase in awareness and appreciation from dog lovers How Are Parti Poodles Bred Selective Breeding is a way in which Parti Poodles are bred. Credible breeders will choose which parents to use following the desired coat pattern. Ethical guidelines are what we practice at Stokeshire. Dogs also undergo genetic testing to avoid any medical issues being passed on to their litters. But how the litter will look is undetermined as their coat colors and markings will be different from one another. At present, particolored ones are still restricted from joining conformation shows or events organized by AKC. Although, they can still be registered in obedience and agility shows. UKC is considered the second-largest kennel organization in the United States. How Long Do Parti Poodles Live Life expectancy is years Some Parti Poodles may live shorter or longer depending on their genetic makeup, diet, exercise, and overall well-being. Some may be susceptible to health risks such as: Hip dysplasia. Standard Poodles are the largest Poodles, whereas teacup Poodles are the smallest. Are Parti Poodles purebred? Yes, Parti Poodles are as purebred as any solid-colored Poodle. Unlike merle or piebald, the gene responsible for Parti-color has always been naturally present among Poodles. Early paintings depicting Poodles often showed them in Parti colors. Unfortunately, the trend of having solid-colored Poodles took over, and breeders would eliminate any Parti Poodle pups to keep them from propagating. However, their recent demand has encouraged breeders to produce more Parti Poodles. What does a Parti Poodle look like? A Parti Poodle has a predominantly white coat with patches of another color. These patches are random, which means no two Parti Poodles are alike. Like fingerprints on humans, Parti patterns are unique to each Poodle. On a true Parti Poodle, the spots are distinct, abstract, and bigger than dots. However, they are not eligible for AKC-organized beauty shows. The UK-based kennel club allows Parti Poodles to compete in all kinds of shows. The gene is recessive, meaning you need two Parti parents to get a Parti Poodle pup. Parti Poodle coat colors The best thing about a Parti-colored coat is its randomness. Since each Parti-colored Poodle is unique, you have numerous color and pattern combinations to choose from. Here are some popular coat colors Parti Poodles come in. Phantom Parti Poodle Phantom Poodles are often confused with Parti Poodles since they both refer to a solid coat with spots of another color. However, the base coat of a phantom Poodle can be of any color, whereas that of a Parti Poodle is always white. A Phantom Parti Poodle would have a white base coat and a secondary color. On top of that, he would also have markings of a third color on the muzzle, chin, eyebrows, throat, chest, legs, and paws. Apricot also fades under excessive sun exposure, which makes apricot Parti Poodles even harder to come by. A popular variation of this coat is a tuxedo coat. A red Parti standard Poodle has bright reddish-brown patches on a white base coat color. They have patches of bright orange or reddish-brown fur as the secondary color. Sable Parti Poodles may still have darker hair on some parts of their bodies. Their base color is white, and brown exists as a secondary color. Chocolate Parti Poodle Chocolate is a unique color that results from a dilution gene. Tri-color Parti Poodles are usually mixed, but they can also be purebred. Phantom Parti Poodles are purebred tri-color Poodles with a white base coat, a secondary color, and a third color in the form of markings at specific points. Brindle Parti Poodle Brindle Parti Poodles are unique because their secondary color is a mix of two colors. Brindle refers to a tiger-like pattern of vertical stripes of another color over a dark base color. However, a merle coat has several characteristics that separate it from Parti coat. Merle also carries tiny dots or ticking, whereas Parti-color carries larger patches. Do Parti Poodles coat color fade as they grow? Parti Poodles experience color fading like their solid counterparts. Save Big On Dog Essentials! Parti Poodle size, height, and weight Parti Poodles come in three sizes, but there are two additional categories. First, we have the official standard, toy, and mini Parti Poodle. Kennel clubs usually recognize the toy, mini, and standard Parti Poodle size. What makes this Poodle so special? Poodles most commonly are solid-colored. They are all-black, all-white, all-red, apricot etc. While it is quite rare, it does happen that Poodles are born with large patches of white. The other part can be any of the common Poodle colors: blue, brown, apricot and others. The patching on Parti Poodles is irregular and random. Every one looks unique, and if you have a Parti Poodle you indeed have a one-of-a-kind dog. Because this type of pattern pops up randomly when breeding Poodles, it is very sought-after. Temperament Like all Poodles these dogs are highly intelligent and attach themselves closely to one person. They require daily exercise and interaction in order to be happy and well-mannered. A bored Poodle is likely to become destructive or show unwanted behaviors such as separation anxiety or reactivity. Poodles are not known to do well when left alone for long periods of time. If you work a job with long hours or like to travel to weekend trips, this is probably not the right dog for you. Training your Parti Poodle Like all Poodles, Parti Poodles are highly intelligent and require daily mental and physical exercise. Training your dog from am early age is the best way to turn him into a well-behaved adult dog that is a joy to have around! You should only use positive reinforcement methods to work with your dog. Plenty of treats are the best way to show him how you would like him to behave. If your Poodle is food-drive, you can even use his regular dog food for training. The most important skills to teach your Parti Poodle are: Coming when called this could be life-saving one day! Walking well on a leash Not running out the door Sitting politely when asked Not jumping up at people If you have small animals in your home, work a lot on impulse control and managing prey drive. With the right training, Poodles can live with cats in harmony. Grooming Many owners pick Poodles and their mixes for their hypoallergenic qualities and their non-shedding coat. Matting can happen quickly in their dense, coarse coat, and it can become so bad that the dog needs to be shaved down to the skin. Every Poodle owner should start bringing their dog to a groomer from puppyhood on — that way the coat is always well-maintained and looking great. Where did Parti Poodles come from? Curiously, Parti Poodles actually are not a novel fad, but a very old form of Poodles. Many paintings and drawings of Poodles in the s and earlier clearly show brown-and-white or black-and-white dogs. The most famous early record of Parti Poodles is from , when Rembrandt was painted with his own brown-and-white Poodle. As dog shows and breeding for certain looks became more popular, parti became an unwanted coloring of the breed. The AKC does not allow them to be shown, so many breeders actually took to culling them right after birth. Are Parti Poodles purebred? Parti Poodles can pop up in litters of two purebred, solid-colored Poodles. While Parti is common in many kinds of Doodle mixes such as the Sheepadoodle or Bernedoodle , it can also be seen in purebred Poodles. It is possible to have a litter consisting of solid colored puppies with one Parti Poodle in the mix — or a litter that has half solid colored puppies and half patched pups, or even a litter that only has Parti-colored puppies. Because this beautiful pattern is becoming more and more popular though, some breeders are starting to specifically select and breed Parti Poodles. Can you show Parti Poodles? The American Kennel Club currently does not allow them at conformation shows. This however does not mean that they cannot be registered. While Parti Poodles are not popular among dog show enthusiasts for this reason, they are very sought-after by many pet dog owners and often actually sold quicker than the solid-colored Poodles that can be entered in conformation shows. If you are planning on attending a conformation show with your Poodle, you should stick to solid white, brown, apricot, blue or black Poodles. How long do Parti Poodles live? Parti Poodles live just as long as their solid-colored counterparts. For a Standard Poodle this is around 13 years, for a Miniature Poodle 15 years and for a Toy Poodle as much as 17 years. Small dogs tend to live longer lives than larger ones, this holds true in any breed or mix Their coloring does not affect their lifespan or health in any way. It is just a different look! What is the difference between a Parti Poodle and a Phantom Poodle? A Phantom Poodle has a coat of a solid color and bits of a secondary color. This secondary color however only covers small parts of the body. Many Phantom Poodles look similar in appearance. The colors are more uneven and the pattern will look random and always unique. Are Parti Poodles more expensive? As always, the demand can and will determine the price. Many dog owners are looking for Parti Poodles because they are so exotic and cool-looking. Many breeders sell Parti Poodles for higher prices than solid-colored ones. In many dog breeds the rare colors sell for higher prices. You should always make sure that the breeder you pick is reputable and does not only breed for a certain color or pattering. Ask the breeder if the parents have health tests and reliable temperaments. It is very important that the parents also have calm and friendly demeanors and are genetically healthy. Which color should you get? Whether you get a Parti Poodle, a solid-colored Poodle or a Phantom Poodle will come down to personal preference. The temperament and disposition of the dogs is the same regardless of the coloring. Do not make color your only criterion when choosing a puppy though: You should always make sure that the puppy is healthy, has a friendly character and fits in well with your family. If however you are looking for a uniquely colored companion dog who will be by your side anytime, any place, the Parti Poodle is the dog for you! Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in miniature and soon, toy sizes. We started in standards but have made the move to smaller sizes. We feel very passionate about health testing, showing, and titling our poodles for our Poodle breeder program though we do give preference to pet puppy homes. More Than Amazing Color While we understand color is part of what makes Parti Poodles so popular, we want you to know that we place high emphasis on temperament and type or build, in our partis and well as solids, so your puppy will grow into a eye catching and distinguished adult that is as sweet and intelligent as any poodle should be. Conformation Show Titles We are proud of our show titles! We understand families searching for a pet do not need a show dog, we do this so families know that what they have purchased from us represents a great amount of knowledge and hard work. We test our Poodles against other great dogs so that we can know our breeding dogs are worthy of your family both in soundness of temperament and that they truly are representations of their breed. We do give preference to pet homes for our puppies. Testament to Temperament We have donated to date five puppies for service dog training and so far, all of our candidates have graduated and gone on to service work! We feel this is a real testament to what we strive to produce for families that want to purchase a puppy from MnJ- a great, stable, sweet and social family member. We are currently raising gorgeous multi colored Parti Poodles and solid colored in small standard and miniature sizes. While many will think we have Moyen Poodles, in truth the FCI breed standard for this size is very misunderstood so we avoid using a marketing term. Past Puppies Just a few of our past puppies so you can get an idea of what we offer!
Place your dog on a regular feeding schedule so you can predict when they'll need to go outside, and praise them, pat them, and give them a small treat every time they demonstrate good behaviour. Wee Away is great and smells great. It is an enzyme based product that sanitizes your dog Toilet area, remove smells, and breaks down the acid in your dogs wee that can cause carpet stains. With regular use Wee Care creates an odor free, living area for your pet We recommend frequent tooth brushing with pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste. Teaching your puppy to accept toothbrushing early makes it easier and more enjoyable for them as adults. We like Virbac C. Enzymatic Toothpaste in Vanilla Mint. The Quantum LeashTM is an award-winning, versatile dog lead that converts into 6 different styles. With a simple carabiner adjustment, this leash easily switches styles depending on your activity. With a quick change, it can become a double dog walker. A floating padded handle provides you with the utmost comfort and support in every configuration. Available in regular nylon and reflective nylon. Grooming An Exercise Pen is another great option for house-breaking. Helping to keep your pup safe and contained, exercise pens can be used in conjunction with a crate so pup can go in and out as they please. This can help alleviate some of the whining and crying that can occur as they adjust to the crate. A collar may be used for control, identification, fashion, or other purposes. Collars are often used in conjunction with a leash, and a common alternative to a dog collar is a dogharness. Book an appointment before your puppy goes home. This could happen, but most likely, your pup will prefer the feel of cool tile or hardwood floor beneath them. We love the raised hammock dog beds. There are many to chose from. You can see a few options here. How often will I need to groom my Bernedoodle? A thorough brushing 2 x a week until you puppy is 6 months old will be enough. You will want to bath your puppy every 6 weeks. Before bathing brush out all matts. This will prevent matting. Between baths you can use a leave in shampoo. We use the slicker brush if there are no matts. If they are matted we use the rake style brush first than the slicker brush. You will not need to shave your bernedoodle all the way down until they are around 12 months unless you let them get matted. Pictures below are an example of one of our Mini Bernedoodles. We gave her the doodle groom and to show what a shaved Bernedoodle looks like we shaved her all the way down. Are you planning for the arrival of your new puppy from Utahberneoodles. We consider the following items as proactive investments to tackle some challenges inherent with a new puppy. We understand the abundance of "stuff" that one can accumulate with a new puppy, and we hope this list will give you a head start on getting organized and identifying helpful tools to create a solid foundation for adulthood. Airline Approved Puppy carrier Walking harnesses make walks more enjoyable. A dog harness is piece of equipment for dogs, generally similar to harness tack for horses. There are various designs depending on the type of use, whether it be for assistance to a person with a disability, hauling a cart or sled, or pulling a human being, such as in skijoring or pulka. Will you be flying in to pick up your puppy? If you plan to fly in and meet us at the airport, you will need an airline approved puppy carrier that can fit in cabin with you. You can get my favorite carrier at amazon using the link below. Your pets deserve the best start in life. Short bursts of energy on a grassy surface is optimal. We recommend having several different chew toys for your puppy. You can see a few different options here. Pet Insurance Most puppies have sensitive stomachs. When bringing a new puppy home is is a good idea to have a few things on hand. We like to have dia gel and a good probiotic. Toys Puppy Books We believe nutrition is the number one way to maintain a healthy dog. We have tried a variety of foods and there are many great dog foods to choose from. Do your homework and feed your beloved family member a quality diet. We will let you know what we are feeding your puppy so you can be prepared for your new family members arrival. If you plan to feed something different that is fine. But please do so after your puppy is home for at least 1 month. Nutrition Dog Bed Exercise Pen We list Pet Insurance as a top "shopping" item because sometimes it goes by the wayside until an incident occurs. Many plans do not activate until the following month of purchase, please plan accordingly. We're advocates of crate training. When integrated properly, crate-training is extremely effective for house-training and transitioning a puppy to their new home. We like the Midwest iCrate because of its quality, affordability, and the fact that it folds down easily for transport. The included divider panel allows you to use the same crate from puppy to adult. Preparing for Your New Puppy -Schedule an appointment with your vet I ask that you have your puppy seen by your veterinarian within 3 days of bringing them home. It is important to keep them up to date on their vaccinations. Please send me a copy of the vet report within 30 days of taking your puppy home. You can text it to me at or you can email it to me at backroadsminibernedoodles gmail. I offer a 1-year congenital health guarantee and will refund the price of your puppy if a congenital health condition arises within the 1st year, however, you will be responsible for fees beyond that amount. Having Pet Insurance can give you peace of mind in knowing that your pet is covered if the unexpected were to occur. I recommend feeding the puppy starter food for days after bringing your puppy home. I will be sending a gallon sized bag of it home with you so there is no need for you to purchase any starter food. I will be sending a pint-sized bag of it home with you as well. Please follow the chart on the back of the dog food bag for instructions on how often and how much to feed your puppy. There are many wonderful brands of dog food available for your puppy. If you choose to feed something other than Royal Canin, please remember to do a gradual transition when switching it up. Changing their food, without a gradual transition period, can cause unwanted stomach and bowel issues for your puppy. Simply put, it is the best nutritional supplement available today. Hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats are using NuVet Plus to provide optimal health and a strong immune system. A strong immune system will protect them from environmental and food toxins such as back yard pesticides, hormones, toxic formaldehyde in furniture and carpeting. NuVet Plus also supports proper development as well as a beautiful skin and coat. This is not just a vitamin. For puppies — Fills the immunity gap all puppies experience. Shortly after birth maternal antibody effectiveness is greatly reduced. Once in their new home, the immune system is weakened by the stress of adoption and exposure to novel bacteria and viruses in their environment. This is also when the vaccine series is started. Vaccines are most effective if the immune system can respond properly. Starting NuVet Plus now is important to helping your puppy grow into a healthy adult. For dogs in their prime — Provides the necessary antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to sustain peak performance during the prime of their lives. For older dogs — Helps provide the nutritional needs to live long, happy, and productive lives in their senior years. I highly recommend NuVet Plus to keep your puppy on the path to perfect health! For your convenience, you may order directly from the manufacturer by calling and using Order Code: or ordering online at www. Please order prior to picking up your pup! They will be eager to please you so use lots of positive reinforcement. Set clear boundaries and limits and again, be consistent. For potty training, I would recommend taking them outside every hour during the day for the first couple of weeks. Take them to the same spot every time. Be sure to affirm them with a positive response when they complete the task! Your puppy will also need to go outside right after waking up and a few minutes after eating or drinking. Bell training your puppy from the start is also helpful. Simply hang a bell next to the door and have them touch it with their paw each time you take them outside to potty. You might have to help them at first, but they catch on quickly. Crate training is highly encouraged! Visit the link below for a short, helpful video on how to crate train your puppy: -Exercise Bernedoodles require a moderate amount of exercise. It is recommended that they be groomed every weeks. I would recommend a medium sized crate that has a divider in it so you can adjust it as your puppy grows. Air freshener Where to Find an Adorable Bernedoodle? Looking for a Bernedoodle puppy? PuppySpot is the perfect place to start your search! Each puppy comes with a comprehensive health guarantee, so you can be sure that your new furry friend is healthy and happy. They give back to the pet community by supporting various animal-related charities and initiatives. PuppySpot really is a convenient and ethical way to find your adorable Bernedoodle puppy. So why not check them out and add a new furry family member to your home? Getting Your Home Ready Thinking about the logistics of having this new member of the family living in your home is essential. Do not leave it until the Bernedoodle puppy arrives. Potty Place Think about where your new puppy is going to go potty. Your new Bernedoodle puppy must learn from the very beginning that this one place is OK to go potty, and that other places it is not OK. Postponing this training will lead to the puppy adopting bad habits. I had a friend once who brought their puppy home in a wire cat box. They placed it down in the corner of the living room on a hard floor, and the puppy decided that this wire cage was the place to go pee and poo. They laughed about it at first and allowed this to continue thinking that the puppy would soon move on to somewhere more suitable. Recently they have managed to convince it to go outside next to the wire cage, which has been placed in the yard, but it is slow progress. Sleeping Arrangements Now just like when you bring a new baby home, you are likely to have some disturbed nights at first. Your puppy is used to sleeping with the rest of the litter and not used to being alone. Leaving its parents and brother and sisters is a huge hurdle to overcome. You and the puppy will get better sleep at night if at first, you let the puppy sleep in a cage at the side of the bed. They will be reassured by being close to you the substitute parent. Inside the cage place a simple waterproof mat and a comforter an old teeshirt or something that has your smell or that of the breeder. Internal Gates Your new puppy is going to be curious and wanting to look around the whole house. We were fortunate when we brought our puppy home as we had open plan stairs and looking through the steps at the floor below scared him. He had a real fear of heights; even if we held him close to an upstairs window, he would turn away rather than looking down. So climbing the stairs was an issue and he never built up the courage to climb past the first couple of steps until he was about ten months, when suddenly he bounded up the stairs at speed. Placing child gates around the house will make life so much easier and allow you to confine the puppy to designated rooms. It will enable them less chance of creating mischief and ensures they remain safe. Potential Hazards Your house is full of potential hazards. Log trailing cables running across the floor will be something that your puppy will take great delight in trying to chew. A bottle of bleach standing beside the toilet will be a challenge. Your puppy will see just about anything as something he can play with and chew. Keep hazards out of his reach. Garbage Bins Indoor rubbish bins, especially in the kitchen, are a source of great wonder for your puppy. All those interesting food smells coming from inside, and all that stuff to play with. If your puppy gets the opportunity, he will find a way of tipping it over so he can access the goodies inside. Similarly, when he gets access to the yard, he will also take great delight in the challenge of accessing your garbage. Playtime aids You will find it much easier if you use the baby gates to seal off one room or a playpen to seal off a small area of the house. In that living space, you can place his water and food bowls, some toys, and somewhere to lay. The absolute worst thing you can do when these situations occur is to shout and scare the dog or smack it. All that will achieve is to make the dog scared of you, which will slow down future training. The dog is not doing it to annoy you; he genuinely has not worked out what your master plan is and where the potty area is. Bernedoodles are clever dogs, and he should learn this faster than some other breeds. Choosing the Correct Diet When you first bring your Berndoodle back from the breeders, hopefully, you will have supplies of the same food that he is already used to eating. When you first get the puppy, his stomach is only just adjusting to solid foods, so make sure that you are feeding him puppy food specially designed for sensitive stomachs. Do not just buy and dog food. House arrest Keeping your dog confined to a designated part of the house or in a playpen is in his own interest. You are protecting his safety. The area within the playpen or designated area should be free of things that your puppy can choke on, or harm himself with. The confinement is also very much in your interest because you know that when you are out of sight, he is not doing any damage around the house, or finding ways to break out. Choose somewhere that has hard floors, so that if there are ay accidents, it is easier to clean up. Now whether you think so or not, there will be times when your Bernedoodle is going to have to be left alone. It happens. In this case, it is essential to confine your dog to his designated area — the puppy haven, for his safety. He will be familiar with this area and less frightened than less familiar parts of the house. Puppy Haven Let your dog feel good about the designated area. Do not make your Bernedoodle think it is a punishment. Instead, make him believe that it is a playground that contains his favorite toys and foods—a place where he likes to go. Comforters Comforters will contain your scent on an old unwashed shirt or something along those lines. They feel calm when they have the comforter; These should be in the puppy-haven if you have to go out and leave them. They should also be in the cage when they are put there to sleep. The presence of the comforter should make these places feel safe. Taken away from their parents and siblings, they are suddenly all alone and unsure of what is happening. By making the right preparations, you can make this transition easier for your Bernedoodle. Do it right, and they will switch that famous Bernese Mountain Dog loyalty to you and form a lifelong relationship. You have made an excellent choice in selecting a Bernedoodle. A little patience and thought for the first few weeks will be an investment that is repaid for many years by your dog as he grows. We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Made of ecoFLEX, a non-toxic recycled plastic-wood polymer composite material that won't warp, crack or split. Spindles made of stainless steel tubing and a stainless latch; double latches on large and X-Large Crates. Easy, no-tools assembly. Make sure to check the size before purchasing. Buy Now These are our absolutely favorite beds for our dogs! They give your dog a lift with the orthopedic support and comfort of a patented chew proof design. Dogs are kept cool in summer months because of air circulation underneath the bed and are lifted up off cold hard floors in the winter! Buy Now This exercise pen works great as a puppy playpen. This pen comes in multiple sizes, so make sure to check the size before ordering! Installs in seconds with quick-release clips and sturdy seat anchors. Hose it down, wipe down with a moist towel, or toss it in the washer to keep it looking fresh and clean. The recipe is formulated with no corn, no wheat, no soy, no added sugars, an no poultry. The XL bag is triple the amount for double price of the small bag. Our pups are loving the real white fish and brown rice. Buy Now Unlike most pet treats on the market that are made up of empty calories and fillers, and are high in carbohydrates, pawTreats are made with real meat and complementary fruits and vegetables. No fillers whatsoever! They're all natural and completely grain free. Available in freeze-dried or dry-roasted varieties to preserve the goodness of our ingredients. Buy Now GI Issues are one of the most common reasons people see their vets. Supporting proper digestion and bowel health, Gastro Pro Plus is a natural and complete combination of probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes and soothing herbs that help your dogs and cats maintain a healthy, active lifestyle with good gastrointestinal health. It provides essential fatty acids that are critically important to your dog's overall health. This contains 15 heart-healthy Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids. This helps ensure you're giving the correct amount. Not a huge deal, but good to avoid if possible. FYI we have Nationwide and are pretty happy with it so far. Socialization classes: Socialization classes with other dogs the same age and same vaccine level were a huge win for us. Knowing she will confidently run up to and play with any dog makes us so happy and is the result of just a few of these classes. Sign up for these early as spots are limited, especially during Covid times. Vet appointment: Similar to socialization classes, vet appointments are hard to come by with all these new puppies. Once we knew what date we were getting Moose, we made her first vet check up for the next day. Training plan: Start figuring out how you want to approach training. We did all of our training at home from Zak George videos on YouTube. Here are the essential items for the first few weeks. Crate : You likely hear about crate training a lot. We can post more about crates if people are interested! The two worked really well together. We also adjusted her playpen from a small circle around her crate to blocking off part of the living room and eventually blocking off half of the apartment. Bed optional : I would wait on this one, honestly! So many things to buy and set up at once. Food, snacks, etc. Kibble: Find out what food your dog has been having with the breeder or shelter. We chose to keep Moose on the recommended kibble. Treats : Again, you have years to buy more treats. We did a lot of dehydrated chicken before expanding to other meats. We used ice cream bowls the first few months because her bowls were way too large for her servings. Many people swear by potty pads, but we mostly stuck with grass and tanbark patches. These made it easy for her to transition to pottying outside once vaccinated. Lots more to say here so let us know if you have questions. Potty spray : Accidents are going to happen. Poop bags : These are a good one to get a subscription on because you know.We used them a ton before Moose was fully vaccinated if she went anywhere public to help reduce the risk of a disease etc. Brush : Start brushing your puppy in the first few days so they get used to it. Lightweight ones are great while your pup is small. We got a rope one we loved, but it was too heavy for Moose until she was 6 months old. We ended up getting a few of the same one but you can mix and match. Start with smaller, lighter toys. Learn which toys your dog is having the most fun with, then buy more. Rotate them around so they still feel new and exciting. We got a simple soft one for carrying her around before she had her vaccines. It also gave us more peace of mind and confidence leaving her alone for short periods of time without worrying that she was disturbing our neighbors. Have questions or topics you want to hear more about? Let us know in comments below! Choose small or large breed depending on the full grown size your puppy will be. You can buy this online at Chewy. You can also find it at Tractor Supply Stores. Feed your puppy by hand fun task for kids! Grain free has been linked to heart problems in multiple clinical studies. An Adjustable Crate: Extra large, large, medium or small depending on the full grown size your puppy will grow to. When the divider is incerted correctly, your pup should be able to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably. If your puppy is attending Foundations training, for the smoothest transition, purchase a hard shell travel crate fitted snugly to your puppy based on measurements. This is the type of crate they will have become accustomed to at Foundations Training. The collar will be for the puppy ID information. Front lead harnesses are best for teaching your puppy not to pull and for having kids walk the dog but only after they have learned how to walk on a leash with either a collar or back lead harness. Schedule a Vet Visit for their 10 week Distemper Shot: This should be given when the puppy is 10 weeks old along with the kennel cough vaccination. At 14 weeks old, the final distemper shot and at 16 weeks old, the rabies vaccination can be given. We will go over this in detail on gotcha day as well. A thin blanket or towel works well. Recently I discovered amazon sells machine washable area rugs in all sizes! This is a critical time for socialization as the window for introducing new people, places, things and animals closes at 16 weeks. If you have kids, this makes for a fun scavenger hunt! Any neighborhood dogs? Schedule play dates! Supervise closely if there is a big difference in size and do make sure the other dogs are up to date on vaccinations. Some trainers are great patient, understands puppy development, love their job vs. Be selective! And, be present unless you have vetted your trainer very well and they have excellent, recent reviews. Private sessions for basic obedience if you prefer should only be in addition to group puppy training, not instead of. Half days are also great! Dog Walkers: There are two kids of dog walker; A. I recommend having the puppy sleep in your room for at least weeks until they have adjusted to life as an independent puppy, without their siblings around them. This visit should be short and full of praise and rewards for being good. Blow dry C. Ears cleaned E. Nails trimmed. Establish with the groomer before you leave your puppy and agree that your puppy is not matted. Groomers shave doodles down for 4 reasons: 1. The boss requires X number of dogs to be groomed per day 4. Your pup is actually matted. If you love certain features ie; brown eyebrows or long eye lashes tell them to keep them! If your puppy is squealing when you brush them, double check that you bought the correct type of brush slicker. Rounded end scissors for trimming around the eyes in between grooming appointments, Nail Trimmers and Kwik Stop: Incase you cut the nail too short by accident and it bleeds. The quick will grow into their nails as their nails get longer. Flea and Tick Preventative: Ticks those nasty little buggers are active anytime the ground thaws, even if there is a one day thaw in February. They work for months! The only exception to this recommendation is if you have children who have hands in their mouth a lot. Tip: leave the collar long enough to allow 7 months of growth! This is a prescription only and you can get it through your vet. Heartguard is not optional! The treatment for heart worms is a series of injections directly into the spine- very painful. Never mind the consequences of having heart worms…which can include death. Foundations Training. .Please see the video below and click this here for more information. This one is magical. .Welcoming a Bernedoodle Puppy: How to Prepare with Proper Supplies February 13, Bernedoodles are lovable, playful dogs that like spending time outside as much as they enjoy curling up on the couch. They are excellent family dogs and have a special affection for children. Because they are the offspring of poodles, they also inherit a nearly hypoallergenic coat. The Bernedoodle, a hybrid between a Bernese Mountain dog and a poodle, was first bred in .They were raised primarily to be family pets, and thrive when showered with affection and cuddles. When it comes to Bernedoodles, they are equally at home on the sofa or trekking with their owners. They might be stubborn and uncooperative at first, but quickly learn to control their behavior. Preparation These preparatory tasks will help you and your house to welcome a new dog. Before bringing home a new puppy, certain considerations should be taken into account. These include where the puppy will spend its first night, who will be responsible for its care, and whether you have the necessary materials on hand. Keep your cool and avoid bringing home a Bernedoodle when it is not the right moment. Make sure you do your homework beforehand. Learn how to care for and nurture a puppy before you bring one home. Many adjustments will be necessary for your house to accommodate this new family member. And if finding the right items seems hard, Doodle websites like WeLoveDoodles can help you with the required information. It is common practice to teach dogs to sleep in crates to give them a sense of security. Pick a spot for your dog to eat. Keep their food where they can reach it. Baby gates can be used to keep your puppy out of particular areas of your house. Ensure your house is safe for your puppy by performing proper inspections, such as toxic plants, cleaning chemicals, and wires. Buy the Right Supplies Your new puppy will need a place to sleep, such as a kennel or a bed. Bowls for food and drink are a necessity. You cannot take them on a stroll without a leash, tag, harness, or any other type of leash attachment. When training your puppy, you should use a harness. If you are a frequent traveler, a vehicle restraint is a must for the protection of your dog. There are poo bags and puppy pads for both indoor and outdoor usage. Food Check with the shelter or breeder on food the Bernedoodle has been used to. Purchase the same bag and keep it on hand at your home. When it comes to welcoming your puppy to their new home, nothing beats a delicious dinner and some playtime! Having their food brand on hand will save you the stress of running to the store to find the brand they need. Choose a vet-recommended brand specifically designed for young puppies and ease them into it with a bit of new food mixed in and gradually increase over time. Bed If you are house training your Bernedoodle, we suggest that you choose a bed that takes up the majority of the available space in your cage. Collar You should start training your puppy to wear a collar as soon as possible. Treats After using the potty, your dog probably wants a big snuggle and some playfulness. Grooming Tools Every weeks, you should take your Bernedoodle to a professional groomer to get their hair trimmed. The sooner you start brushing your dog, the easier it will be for them to adapt to it. Brushing can be done as frequently or as little as you choose. Also, you will need to get bath supplies for your dog. Dogs should be bathed correctly and with the right items. Here is a list of supplies you should get before welcoming a Bernedoodle puppy. Puppy food.
english bulldog puppy tips - A post shared by Jami Miller portie. They require tons of exercise, though you should be careful not to over-exercise them. They require plenty of socialization and training to become well-behaved adults. These dogs are extremely intelligent, so they often take well to training. However, they also need lots of mental stimulation. Without it, the puppies can become quite destructive. Your best bet is a specialized breeder, though you may have to travel far to pick up your puppy. They may come at a higher price than other breeds due to their rarity. As always, be sure to research any breeder before purchasing a puppy from them. Ethical breeders will produce healthy, well-adjusted puppies. Ask about what health tests they perform before breeding the parents, as well as any health certificates and health records for the puppies. They perform well in dog sports and other high-intensity activities that require a lot of training and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. These dogs also love to be around their family and love attention and affection. They require plenty of attention compared to other breeds. Portipoos tend to be extremely intelligent. However, they can also be headstrong if not trained early. Dogs often experience an adolescent period just like humans, when they can be more stubborn. These dogs need lots of exercise and playtime. Their intelligence means they require lots of mental stimulation, too. Many of them love swimming, but they have to be introduced to the water at a young age, otherwise, they may be fearful of it. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, they only do best in active families, as they have a very high-energy temperament. They may also not be suitable for families with younger children, as they can be a bit too hyper and energetic. They need regular exercise and playtime. The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix can absolutely get along with other pets. Of course, you should always supervise the Portipoo with other pets, as they can be a bit too rough in some cases. However, they do not have any special dietary needs. Because of their active nature, they may require more protein and overall calories than other dogs. There are many dog foods out there for active dogs, and these may work best for Portipoos. A high-quality commercial food is vital for their health. However, be sure to choose the correct food for your particular dog. Puppies should consume puppy dog food, for instance. If your dog is overweight, you may want to switch to low-calorie dog food. Plan to take them on walks and play with them regularly. These canines love just about any type of activity, including swimming, playing fetch, and walking. Be careful not to overexercise these dogs, especially as puppies. They can push themselves too hard and damage their growth plates, which can lead to hip dysplasia. Therefore, they take well to training and are often extremely obedient. Early socialization is necessary to prevent behavioral issues, though. While they do learn quickly, they are extremely intelligent and need a lot of mental stimulation. This mental stimulation need can be fulfilled partly by regular training. They have thick, curly coats in most cases, and they require regular brushing to prevent matting, as well as professional grooming. Brushing also helps keep their coats clean, as the brush can remove loose hair and dirt. However, they do need a bath every 2—3 months. Being a mix prevents them from inheriting many of the common health conditions that affect other dogs. For instance, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the joints. It causes mobility problems and arthritis-like symptoms, though at a much earlier age than arthritis. These can lead to weakness, weight loss, and lethargy. Because Portipoos have floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections. Keeping their ears clean can help, including drying them completely after swimming. Skin allergies are often common, causing itching and irritation. History Mini Portidoodles are playful, loving, and happy-go-lucky dogs. They enchant with a cheerful attitude and a great love for all things fun. These gorgeous pups are very fond of water, dog sports and games, and most importantly, their family. Known to form strong attachments, the Mini Portidoodles are entirely dedicated to their humans. They enjoy entertaining with comical tricks, are affectionate, fun, and wonderful with children. As great family dogs, Mini Portidoodle pups bring a great deal of love, joy, and laughter into their lucky-to-have-them home. With a cheerful disposition and a friendly demeanor, the Mini Portidoodle Mini Portipoo appears docile, approachable, happy, and sweet. The Mini Portidoodle adult has a sturdy-built body, a long fluffy tail, a medium-length muzzle, cute floppy ears, and dark expressive eyes. Its coat is of medium length, soft, curly or wavy in texture. It is low-shedding, hypoallergenic, and can come in various colors and color combinations. Mini Portidoodle colors include white, black, brown, cream, gray, merle, sable, with various patterns and markings. The Mini Portidoodle size is between small and medium, depending on which side of the family the doodle puppy takes after more. Typically, a full grown Mini Portidoodle weighs between 14 and 28 pounds. F1b Mini Portidoodle dogs can weigh less than 14 pounds. The adult Mini Portidoodle height can range from 10 to 20 inches. They are great with family children, docile with their fur siblings, loyal to their owners, and entertaining for the whole family. These unique dogs exude happiness and are friends with everyone they meet. They are energetic, playful, outgoing, and fond of fun activities. They enjoy social interactions with dogs and humans alike, family adventures, canine games, dog sports, chew toys, jogs, and cuddles. As the offspring of two water-loving dog breeds, the lively Mini Portidoodles love to splash in puddles, swim in lakes, jump in beach waves, and chase sprinklers. Mini Portidoodle puppies are small, adorable, and fluffy bundles of joy. They love to play, bounce, zoom, chase, chew, and get cuddled, pampered, and spoiled. As the fur-babies of two exceedingly bright dog breeds, the Mini Portidoodle puppies are fast learning students, excellent people-pleasers, and eager learners. They pick up on basic tricks and commands impressively fast and are quite eager to move on to more complex training. Training a Mini Portidoodle can be a rewarding experience. For more insights on training dogs effectively, check out our blog Easiest Dogs to Train - Top 5 Pups for Effortless Training Insights Mini Bernedoodle vs Mini Portidoodle Comparison A warm-hearted dog that resembles a cuddly teddy bear or a fun family dog that loves games and adventures — meet the Miniature Bernedoodle and the Miniature Portidoodle. These two dog breeds are among the most popular doodles in the canine kingdom. They are favored for their joyful personalities, keen intelligence, and eagerness to please. Both the Mini Bernedoodle and Mini Portidoodle train easily and are generous with affection. They are a fantastic fit for a wide variety of families, Hypoallergenic Puppies Allergies to dogs are a common thing around the world. Care Grooming Mini Portidoodle dogs are medium to low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Because they have a medium-length wavy or curly coat, they require a quick brush every other day. Their ears should be cleaned regularly, and their teeth brushed a few times every week. It is recommended to start the Mini Portidoodle puppy Mini Portipoo puppy grooming process early to accustom them to the grooming tools and get them comfortable with their ears, paws, and bodies getting handled. Grooming your Mini Portidoodle is essential for their well-being. They enjoy running, chasing, fetching, playing Frisbee, swimming, and any activity that allows them to burn off energy. Because they are great at dog sports like agility, tracking, rally, and water sports, these dogs love challenges and having a job to do. To keep them fit, healthy, and exercised, they need to be walked for an average of 30 to 60 minutes each day and given canine puzzles, toys, and activities that keep their minds stimulated and their bodies worked out. Health Mini Portidoodle puppies are bred by carefully crossing two healthy, routinely vet-checked, purebred dog breeds. They enjoy superior health thanks to hybrid vigor, and they have very few health concerns that can be possible during their lifespans. Common issues in all dog breeds include hip dysplasia, cataracts, allergies, dental issues, and in some cases hypothyroidism. These can occur in Mini Portidoodle adults, most commonly during their senior years. Lifespan Like their parents, Mini Portidoodle dogs are long-lived, happy dogs. Their average lifespan is between 12 and 15 years. Dogs that are loved as members of the family tend to live longer, happier lives. Training Mini Portidoodles are very smart and highly trainable dogs. They can be taught up to words as well as complex obedience and agility lessons. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and reward-based methods. As eager-to-please dogs, Mini Portidoodle puppies can be motivated with praise, a gentle and fun approach, and vet-approved treat rewards. Early socialization, as well as early leash and crate training , are recommended for the Mini Portipoo puppy. Early socialization ensures that the Mini Portidoodle puppy grows up into a well-mannered, friendly, and non-aggressive adult dog. The Mini Portidoodle is somewhat independent and can be left alone for up to 6 hours each day. It is not recommended to leave the Mini Portidoodle or the Mini Portidoodle puppy alone for more than 6 hours each day as they might develop separation anxiety. Early training is key for a well-behaved adult dog. By mixing two highly popular dog breeds, professional breeders aimed to create a hybrid that would possess the hypoallergenic qualities, keen intelligence, agility, and fun nature of both parent breeds. A gift to the world, the Mini Portipoo breed impressed from the get-go and is one of the most sought-after doodle breeds. The Portuguese Water Dog puppy , also known as Cao de Agua dog of water is a centuries-old breed that originated in Portugal. With their webbed paws, excellent swimming capabilities, and great love for water, the Portuguese Water Dogs were trained to lure fish into nets, retrieve fishing gear and nets from the water, and act as messengers between fishing vessels. When fishing ships joined the modernized era, the Portuguese Water dogs moved on to become loyal, affectionate, and treasured companion pets. The Poodle puppies , famous for their big brains, gorgeous looks, and sweet nature, are a breed with a most impressive history. Developed in Germany, Poodles have been long admired for their stunning looks, retrieving skills, performance with the traveling circus, therapy work, companionship, and sporting titles. Officially recognized by the AKC for their three sizes Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Toy Poodle , Poodles, regardless of their size, never fail to impress with their agility, friendliness, and learning skills. They are considered the second most intelligent dog breed in the world and the top breed in many countries. Should a Portuguese Water Dog Mix take after their PWD parent, they will be an energetic, playful, and loving dog that is likely to love the water! Portuguese Water Dogs are known to have friendly, playful dispositions. They bond closely with their families and love being around them. They also tend to get along with just about everyone. As long as they are properly socialized, they do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are even open to meeting strangers! If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they will their own quirks you will want to be aware of. You can also meet the mother to see what her temperament is like and what behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should have started some socialization and training, but it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. PWDs tend to be highly adaptable dogs. As long as they get enough daily exercise and attention, they do well in apartments as well as larger homes. They are not overly sensitive to the heat and cold, but you still need to be cautious with extremes as with all dogs. These dogs also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs. Both of these are genetic and reputable breeders should be testing for them. Reputable breeders should be screening their dogs regardless to avoid passing issues to puppies. Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. As long as you can handle their energy and keep training interesting, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, then you will want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes. A Portuguese Water Dog Mix can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a combination of both. If they end up with a Portuguese Water Dog coat, they will be low-shedding, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy dog that needs daily walks, plus playtime, some time to run, and other activities to be happy and healthy. They are an agile and athletic breed that tends to be well-suited for several dogs sports and are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy breed, then you should expect a high-energy Portuguese Water Dog Mix. If the other parent breed has a lower activity level, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A fully-grown Portuguese Water Dog Mix stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. A PWD generally lives for years on average. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span in a Portuguese Water Dog Mix. Two members of the same family Poodles and Portuguese Water Dogs split centuries ago. The Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix combines the history, heritage and popular conceptions of these breeds. This takes us back to a type of dog that started it all in the beginning. As dogs and men began to work together, various types of dogs were bred and selected. Guard dogs, herding dogs and hunting dogs were probably the first three sorts. Some dog breeds may have been chosen and bred specifically for certain takes. Many other dogs were simply allowed to be themselves, and work was tailored around them. A need arose for dogs who could work as hunters and retrievers in the water. These dogs would bring back ducks, geese and other waterfowl to their owners. And these dogs are the parents of both the Portuguese Water Dog and the Poodle. The major difference is that the Poodle is now generally regarded as coming from France, while the Portuguese Water Dog is from Portugal. This mix brings the two branches of the family back together again. While Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are mixed breeds, they bring many of the advantages of purebreds with them. This includes an intriguing history, good looks and a dog that is uniquely yours. Some lesser known facts about these dogs include: They can be mistaken for poodles on a regular basis. Their tight, curly coats may make them better for those with allergies. This mixed breed generally results in excellent swimmers. Beyond these general facts, Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are a bundle of surprises just waiting to be unlocked by you. They are 17 to 22 inches high and can weigh up to 60 pounds. They are not going to be as small as some Poodles may be. This includes brown, black, silver, blue, white and red. You may also find a fawn, cream or grey-coated Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. Their eyes are usually brown or amber, and their coats tend to be curly and on the shorter side. This means some extra time spent on grooming. These dogs may have long necks, tapered tails and well-defined toplines. Any combination of the above is also possible. The best way to find out what your pup may look like is to find a litter or a group of older dogs and take a look. As both of the parents are intelligent to start with, this mix tends to be even more clever. This can have interesting repercussions. Because of their need for mental stimulation, Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes can be very destructive. However, this is not malicious or aggressive behavior. It also makes them great with small children because they are always up for a challenge. Small children provide that in plenty. They are also very friendly, extroverted and social. Given these traits, deliberate socialization and training are a must in order to provide the best possible experience for you and your pup. To a lesser extent, resources for working with adult dogs are also available. We offer both on our site. What are some specifics for this mix in particular? Kind but firm training is a must, as is enough mental simulation. Intelligence puzzles and obstacle courses may be great choices for a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. A wide variety of toys and playtime will also help prevent boredom. As these pups tend to be more sensitive and touchy when disturbed, it is a good idea to get them used to other dogs as soon as possible. What can be expected on a daily to yearly basis? And what should you know about the projected lifetime of these dogs? A Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix can be expected to live about 10 to 12 years. While these dogs have no known chronic or ongoing health problems, a few concerns may crop up over the years, both major and minor. Less serious issues that you may face generally circle around eye issues. Eye examinations in particular can be requested if you find any cause to worry. On a day-to-day basis, these dogs have no special medical or health needs. As with every dog, quality food will go a long way to prevent troubles down the road. Talk to your vet or breeder about your options to make sure your choices are headed in the right direction. Daily care for a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix includes frequent two or more times a week brushing and grooming home sessions. Depending on the family, the first answer is yes. Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes are highly adaptable and very intelligent, which makes them a good fit for most family situations. Because they are very active dogs, they might not be the best for a family who is not at home very often or who is not physically very active. Elderly people may have a harder time keeping up with these dogs. However, for families with small children, children with special needs or changing schedules, a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix might be the right dog for you. Because they adapt and adjust quickly, these pups can handle situations that are not predictable or set in stone. Every family is different, but overall, this mix is qualified to become a new member of almost any family. Rescuing a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix While it brings different challenges than a puppy, it gives a dog another chance and another life with a loving, caring owner. Because a Portuguese Water Dog looks so much like a poodle, it may be hard to rescue this exact breed. Check your local shelters and ask around; those people may have other resources to help your search. Focused social media pages may help you out as well. As you network, you may find families or people who have to give a beloved dog up or strays that have not been taken to a shelter just yet. These are all viable options. Regardless of the network you tap into, it can be done. It might take a little longer and be a little harder, but you have a great chance of finding your forever friend as a rescue. First of all, please avoid puppy mills, obvious and otherwise. These places are out to make money off of unsuspecting people and unloved dogs. No one wins in these situations. These places may also sadly be some of the first places you find through the Internet. When talking to or meeting any breeder, take a double or triple look at their practices and papers. Look for breeders who do not pressure you in any way to buy a pup right away, who may have a wait list or nothing available at the moment, and who will interview you as to your ability to raise one of their pups. Breed clubs for Portuguese Water Dogs or other local focus groups surrounding this mix are a great place to start, as are any referrals they may give you. Online focus groups can also be very helpful. What are some of the best ways to raise a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix puppy? Most puppy advice training is not breed-specific. For Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mixes in particular, it may be helpful to focus on their intelligence. These dogs are very smart and may not need to be told things very often. However, this can lead to them finding new avenues for mischief. Thus, the emphasis on training their intelligence. In any case, loving, caring and firm training will only improve the bond between you and your pup. Most poodle mixes share many of the admirable traits of the Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix. Depending on the other parent, you may be able to find to some extent a pup that is almost ideal for your needs. Both parent breeds are an option as well. Ask around at various places for other ideas. Everyone will have an opinion. Your best bet is the Internet and focus groups once again. Depending on your location, they may or may not be available. Check particularly with Poodle rescue organizations because they may have a much better understanding of the rescue landscape that you may have. If you are looking for an intelligent, loyal and adaptable companion to be at your side, this mixed breed is right for you. If you are willing to put in the time and effort to help this dog bond with your family, the answer is probably yes. Best of luck to you on your decision. References and Further Reading:. Portidoodles are affectionate, loving designer dogs obtained by cross-breeding a Portuguese Water Dog with a Standard or Mini Poodle. Portidoodles are also known as Portuguese Water Doodles. The first Portidoodle might have arrived on the scenes in the early s when breeders began experimenting with creating hybrid dogs having one Poodle parent. Often, they have low-shedding coats thanks to their Poodle genes. Breeders often aim to breed dogs that shed minimally. After all, there is a great demand for hypoallergenic dogs in families having individuals with pet allergies. The Portuguese Water Dog is ideal to mix with a Poodle because Porties as they are called fondly have hypoallergenic coats as well. In fact; President Obama selected a Portuguese Water Dog named Bo for his daughter Malia since she suffers from pet allergy symptoms around dogs. Let us take a look at the origins of the parent dog breeds in brief so we can understand more about the Portidoodle. They are smart, shed minimally, and are easy to train. Poodles are a German breed — often known as the pride of Germany. The word Poodle comes from the German word — Pudel — meaning to splash or water puddles. Poodles were bred to work in the water and help hunters to retrieve waterfowl. Today, Poodles consistently top the list of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. Their smartness has earned them great accolades. Many Poodles have become famous because of their extraordinary abilities to perform tricks, dance, and even play musical instruments! No wonder you find Poodles performing in circuses, dog shows, etc. Their compact sizes also make them easy to travel with; a feature that circuses need in their animals. Today, Poodles are popular as companion pets because of their affectionate natures and easy trainability. Most importantly, people love them for their extraordinary charm and intelligence. Like Poodles, Porties are equipped with a curly, water-resistant, and hypoallergenic coat. They also have webbed feet which help them propel through choppy waters easily. Porties were mainly bred to assist fishermen to retrieve fish from the nets. They even helped rescue shipwrecked sailors and to retrieve gear tossed out in the water. Due to their ability to work in water, many Porties were employed by National Baseball teams to retrieve their balls from the bay. These dogs even earned money from this job and the proceeds were all given to various pet charities and animal shelters. Portuguese Water Dogs are a rare breed in Australia. After all, these hybrid dogs are not recognised by any of the major Kennel Clubs. In general, you could expect to find Mini Portidoodles PWD x mini-Poodle weighing in the range of pounds kg and measuring between inches cm. The colours seen in the hybrid dogs are black, white, fawn, grey, chocolate, merle, and sable. You could also have various markings and patterns. Are Portidoodles Hypoallergenic? Portidoodles tend to be low-shedding since both the parent dog breeds shed minimally. The Portuguese Water Dog and Poodle both have tight, curly coats. As mentioned, both breeds were originally developed to work around water bodies, and their water-resistant coats dried quickly while also keeping them warm in freezing waters. You may also follow the same precautions as you would when you are around dogs that shed. This includes washing your hands frequently, not allowing your Portidoodle to lick your face, taking baths frequently, vacuuming with a HEPA filter-based vacuum, etc. Do check out my guide on Hypoallergenic Poodle Mixes. Like both parent dog breeds, they are incredibly intelligent and respond well to obedience training. Puppy training with this cute dog is a must since rewards and praise can lead your dog to excellent behaviour. Never punish your Portidoodle or use aversive training methods and tools like prong collars, electric shock collars, slip leads or check chains. Such training methods have been shown to increase aggression, stress and fear. Your Portidoodle loves humans and will enthusiastically greet people. Portidoodles make friends easily and do not have a mean bone in them. This trait means that they do not make the best guard dogs, but they are still extremely loyal and possessive about their humans and their territory. Due to this possessive tendency, a Portidoodle might bark at mailmen, squirrels, and even other dogs that walk past your property. They are fun to be around and love to play with children. After all; these small dogs could get injured easily if the kids play rough. Also, you should socialise your Portidoodle with other dogs and cats from an early age. The best doodle breeders do this job for you. They raise their Portidoodle puppies at home where they are exposed to loud noises, doorbells, kitchen gadgets, and car rides, as well as other dogs, cats, and kids. This desensitises the puppies to various human experiences and makes them confident dogs. Inherently, Portidoodles are dependable, brave, and curious. It is rare to see a tired Portidoodle! They are eager to learn new things and quickly learn the commands and words for common objects. Like both parents, Portidoodles love water. Your pet will look forward to going to the beach and swimming and diving. Swimming is an excellent exercise for Portidoodles as it has a lower impact on their joints. Portidoodles are also prone to separation anxiety. Check out our guide to preventing and stopping separation anxiety in doodles for tips. They tend to get lonely, depressed, and bored if left home alone all day. You might want to consider enrolling your puppy in doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter to watch your dog and take it out for walks especially if you will be gone out all day. How Much Do Portidoodles Cost? They are also rare as there are just a handful of breeders selling these pups. So, you could expect to pay more than purebred dog prices for this hybrid dog. Some Portidoodles including the mini size and those with rare coat colours and patterns can cost even more. You can always consider adopting a Portidoodle. But not many dog shelters have rescued, neglected, abandoned, or abused Portidoodles — they are a rare poodle cross. Try contacting a shelter near you. There is no shortage in the variety of dog food available in Australia. So much so, that it can get confusing as to what to feed your Portidoodle. You can always ask your breeder for guidance. Later on, your vet nutritionist can also recommend the right food for your pet based on its age, overall health, and activity levels. In general, look for dog food containing USDA-certified, human-grade ingredients. It should be minimally processed and ideally made in the USA. The Raggy Dogs enjoy homemade raw dog food meals. Their diet consists of human-grade meats, raw meaty bones, homegrown organic vegetables, offal and Ziwi Peak freeze-dried treats. Portidoodle — Portuguese Water Dog Poodle Mix: Health Issues and Lifespan Portidoodles are known to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and thyroid issues. Some dogs even develop progressive retinal atrophy, eyelid problems, and skin infections. Like Poodles, Portidoodles could experience cataracts, epilepsy, and ear infections. The best Portidoodle breeders DNA test their breeding dogs and conduct hip and elbow scoring. The lifespan of a Mini Portidoodle is between years. Standard Portidoodles have a lifespan of years. The Porti poodle mix is particularly popular because of its non-shedding, hypoallergenic coat and high trainability. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information, exclusive offers and access to our community of reputable breeders. These Poodle Portuguese Water Dog crosses are still a great pet for the right family The origin of these parent breeds is much more similar than many would expect There are misconception about the Poodle because its status as a fashionable dog — once upon a time. Yet, this was a retrieving animal right at home in the water too. The difference is that they retrieved ducks and waterfowl in Germany, while the Portuguese Water Dog originated in Portugal. This origin leads to similarities in their athletic build and the quality of their coat. They are lean, energetic dogs with dense coats. This has two implications for the Portuguese Water dog and Poodle mix — their grooming needs and activity levels These Portuguese Poodle mix pups should have that same thick, dense coat — either tightly curled like the Poodle or a little looser like the Water Dog. This means that they need lots of regular brushing and grooming in order to keep this coat in the best condition. Be careful which tools and products that you use because of the quality of the coat. However, there is also the fact that these cross bred pups are sure to be hypoallergenic. Both parents are, with the most minimal of shedding and no dander. Therefore, these mixes are a great choice if there are family members with allergies. As for the exercise needs, this active dog will require plenty of walks and a good diet to stay lean and strong. They share the affectionate, loving and playful tendencies of both the parents. However, this is best achieved with the right training and socialization. This is because of their tendency to be a little more sensitive than some other breeds. Most families will love playing with this loyal cross breed. This is important because of the intelligence of the dog, as well as that need to bond with the family pack. Problem solving games and agility are a great option here. This is important when dealing with that sensitivity and socialization, as well as obedience, barking issues and any other problems that arise. Those that continue to struggle to get results should turn to an online guide for help. Other important information about these Poodle Water Dog crosses Training, exercise and a good diet are all important for a happy, healthy pup. On that note, there are some health issues to remember when taking care of this cross. There is a chance that these dogs could develop some of the more common conditions of their parents. Still, they could be long lived, with an average life expectancy of years. Anyone with concerns over the health care of this dog should check out the Ultimate Guide to Dog Health. It offers great advice on a range of subjects, with accessible information for new owners. Finding the right breeder for a healthy Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix So far in this guide we have highlighted the benefits of the cross between the Standard Poodle and the Portuguese Water Dog. This is because this is the safest, most viable Poodle cross around. This appealing to all those that want to find a way to shrink a Portuguese Water Dog. However, there are health implications and risks. Image source The solution here is to search for Portuguese Poodle breeders that know what they are doing — preferably with a Standard Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog. They best way to be sure is to visit them at home. Take some time to meet the litter and parents to understand more about the pups. There is also the option of Poodle Water Dog mix adoption. Some shelters may have one of these animals in need of a good home. However, it can be difficult to know the precise parentage of some dogs. These Poodle Portuguese Water Dog crosses are still a great pet for the right family Whichever you end up with — a Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix or a mini Portuguese Water Dog — there are some great traits to this dog. They are smart, keen to learn and play and a joy to have in the home — with the right training. They are also playful and hypoallergenic with minimal risks to family members. As long as you are careful when searching for Portuguese Water Dog Poodle mix puppies for sale, and treat them well, this should be a great pet. Featured Image Credit: Source.
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english bulldog puppy tips - Why do you think the police force and military are using the German Shepherd so much? Sure, a Doberman can do the job just fine and there are definitely dog breeds that have stronger olfactory senses or stronger bites but they may not be willing to obey every command in every situation. They are too intelligent to outright obey everything which can sometimes be perceived as stubborn. Does that mean the German Shepherd is not smart? Absolutely not. In fact, the German Shepherd is often cited as one of the smartest dog breeds, right after their cousin the Belgian Shepherd, also known as Malinois. Their will to please outranks. How trainable is the German Shepherd Husky mix? Well, the Husky is known to be quite independent by design. So even though pairing these two very smart dog breeds makes sense at first glance, a Shepherd Husky mix might not be as easy to train as imagined. That being said, pairing a German Shepherd with a more agreeable Husky can certainly help. Genetics and temperament of the parents always play a pretty big role. This is not always the case and even a purebred may struggle with protection without proper direction and training. Always consult a professional to avoid teaching your dog negative behavior patterns barking at strangers on walks, lunging at dogs, and so on. Huskies are incredibly enduring. How could they not, they were bred to run hundreds of miles in very cold climates. But their original working purpose was quite specific and they may need to have an outlet for this desire to run. Training your dog early on will prevent behavioral issues in the future and gets your dog used to brain training. Since both breeds are relatively high energy, you need to walk your Shepsky at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes each. The German Shepherd is known to be a formidable family dog while the Husky can be quite reserved. Huskies are used to living and working in a pack and can be very sociable animals while Shepherds develop a deep bond with their owners. Although pairing these two breeds can produce great family dogs, there are other large dog breeds that are even suitable for apartment living out there that are very patient with children and also perfect for guarding property. Expect to have a very smart dog that will challenge you throughout the day. He will probably grow into a medium to large-sized dog with a weight of about 40 to 80 pounds. Both dogs are working breeds so you can expect a Shepsky to have high exercise needs. A task or daily job would keep them the happiest. Grooming Both dog breeds can have relatively similar coat types. Huskies have a thick double coat, meaning an undercoat plus guard hair. While the undercoat is soft and dense, the guard hairs are straight and somewhat smooth. Depending on the specific pairing, the coat can be a toin coss. Be ready for shedding seasons with both of these dogs. You can expect your male German Shepherd Husky mix to be in cm with a weight of lbs kg. Female German Shepherd Husky mixes range from in cm , weighing in at lbs kg. Apartment Living Can you live in an apartment with a high-energy dog like the German Shepherd Husky mix? It depends. If you provide your dog with an outlet for his exercise needs which means lots of walks, play, and training then there should be absolutely no problem. However, their tendency for high-pitched barks or howling may cause problems with your neighbors. Proper training will help and entails teaching your dog the quiet command. Would I advise you to buy a mixed breed from a breeder? Definitely not. There are far too many mixed breeds sitting in shelters and waiting to be chosen. As long as there are no health issues present in their ancestry, you could argue that mixed breeds might be healthier than purebreds from backyard breeders. Beware of backyard breeders mixing in a third breed without stating so. Make sure to check out my breeder questions before you fall victim to scammers or backyard breeders. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist first. Do you have a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested dog or rescuing. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Shepskies are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. One hour of exercise per day is a good starting point. They need dog parks and wide open spaces. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Shepsky Feeding A Shepsky diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with high energy and exercise needs. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your Shepsky and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your Shepsky and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of Shepskies are brown, black, cream, white, red, and blue. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require a few good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. These pups are well suited for cold weather. Their Siberian Husky parentage is straight from Russia, which is about as cold as it gets. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. The Shepsky is part pack dog and should be socialized early on. Introducing an adult Shepsky to a household with other pets can be more difficult if the German Shepherd parentage personality prevails and may require more work and professional trainers. Find out if this is the right dog for you by learning about their German Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents. Shepsky Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Shepskies because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Siberian Husky breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Each litter typically produces adorably fluffy puppies, each of which may look different. Some will inherit heterochromia — or different colored eyes — from their Husky parent, while others will receive the longer snout of their German Shepherd parent. History: Emergence of the Gerberian Shepsky To understand this active and loving mixed breed, we must first understand purebred Huskys and German Shepherds. As we mentioned, the German Shepherd is known as a herding dog. They were developed in for herding and guarding sheep in Germany. The Husky is a working dog, first bred over years ago in Siberia. They arrived in Alaska in where they ran hard as sledding dogs and stole the hearts of locals with their goofy personalities. No formal records document the first hybrid litter of Gerberian Huskys. In general, the German Shepherd Husky Mix has an ideal temperament. They get their friendly, silly, and gentle qualities from the Husky side, while they receive loyalty and bravery from their Shepherd side. While Huskies never meet a stranger, shepherds are standoffish. The combination leads to a perfect balance. Once grown, your Gerberian Shepky will protect you, and guard your family from anything- all while providing love, cuddles and plenty of adorable moments to last a lifetime! They are great around children, and when socialized from a young age, can live well with other animals. The German Shepherd Husky mixed breed is incredibly intelligent will learn quickly when trained appropriately. Huskies can be stubborn and become bored easily, while the German Shepherd loves to learn new things and have a job to do. If your puppy is more Husky, he may prefer hours of running, rather than mental stimulation. For example, hold out a toy or treat and let your pup catch a whiff. Then, hide the object and let your pup sniff it out. Get creative with your training and bond with your puppy to find what works for you! Be sure to keep your Gerberian Shepsky well exercised and mentally stimulated to avoid developing unwanted negative behaviors like barking, howling a husky favorite , and chewing. Calorie requirements differ based on age, weight, activity level, and sex. For example, a quickly growing puppy requires more calories than an adult Shepsky and should eat food specifically formulated for puppies. In contrast, active adult German Shepherd Husky mixes require about calories, while less active and senior dogs only require calories per day. A high quality food, formulated for large breeds is best. Remember to account for special treats in daily caloric needs! Get the whole family together for a walk or run. Continuously switch up the route so your Shepsky never gets bored. Other recommendations include providing at least 2 hours a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. German Shepherd Husky mixes do best in an environment where they can play, run, and roam. Your new pet will be most content when able to participate in interactive activities like obstacle courses and challenging puzzles. With lots of love and attention, your Gerberian Shepsky will settle into a nice routine of work and play. Be sure to snuggle up for plenty of cuddles at the end of a long day! Shepsky Health Considerations Like their purebred parents, German Shepherd Husky mixes may suffer from certain health issues due to their genes. When you purchase a puppy, your breeder should be happy to provide a detailed health screening of the parents. Joint Dysplasia causes the elbows and hips to develop abnormally, leading to pain and eventual loss of movement if left untreated. If caught early, the condition can be treated successfully with medication or corrective surgery. Cataracts, inherited from the Husky parent, are issues with the lens of the eye that will lead to decreased vision over time. If left untreated, your Gerberian Shepsky may become disoriented, confused, and even aggressive as he loses his ability to process his surroundings. Again, if caught early, this disease can be treated with medication or surgery. This condition causes the stomach to swell and twist around it self. The risk is passed on to your Shepsky and great care must be taken to avoid it! Simply remain attentive to how much and how often your pup is eating and you should be safe. And, much like a wolf, the Shepsky mix possesses a strong snout and piercing eyes. They may even have two different colored eyes! Puppies with heterochromia are highly coveted and will cost more. But they are worth it — so gorgeous and unique! Just like the eyes, Gerberian Shepsky coats may be a variety of colors based on which parent they most closely resemble. Common colors include white, gray, silver, tan, red, and the classic German Shepherd coat color — Sable! Because the Husky originated as a sled dog, their coats are adapted for the cold climates of Siberia and Alaska. However, they are double coated and may shed one coat to accommodate warm temperatures. Your Shepsky will also have a double coat that requires twice weekly brushing sessions to promote proper shedding and skin health. Additionally, frequent full bathes are harmful to your German Sherpherd Husky mixes natural oils. This can lead to irritation and dry, itchy skin. Instead, only bath them when necessary with a gentle shampoo. Simply spot clean in between with a damp cloth, and use a non-toxic deodorizing spray if necessary! We've included some summary facts and stats below to help you make your decision. Do you think this gorgeous, regal looking dog is right for your family? Yet, cuddly, friendly, and adorable! So what do you think? The German Shepherd Husky mix is a relatively new designer dog breed. Very little is known about where and when it originated. Many dog experts claim that the first of this kind was bred intentionally sometime in the late s. Originally, a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky parents were mated to produce a first-rate working dog, since both the parents are excellent working dogs. Soon, because of their sheer strength and quick intellect, they were used to assist with search-and-rescue operations and took military and police roles. It would help to get a glimpse of the origin of the parent breeds to have a better understanding of German Shepherd Husky mix. The German Shepherd , which originated in in Germany, were used to herd sheep and pull heavy loads under tough conditions. They were imported and used as sled dogs during the Alaskan Gold Rush. The breed eventually became popular throughout Canada and the United States as great pets. The Siberian Husky is believed to have originated over two millennia ago from the Siberian Arctic. Nomadic Indian tribes used these dogs to help with pulling sleds and heavy loads. The Siberian Huskies made their way to North America in the s. Despite having relatively short history, German Shepherd Husky mixes have already become fashionable and increasingly common. German Shepherd Husky Mix Puppies! For the most part, when two different thoroughbred canines mate, the puppies will most often inherit traits from their parents. This will vary from litter to litter, of course. But rest assured that German Shepherd Husky mix puppies look a lot like their parents in terms of how they look as well as their personality or temperament. This striking creature has a medium to long head and a strong, somewhat pointy muzzle. A German Shepherd Husky has pointy triangular ears and a set of alert almond-shaped eyes. The puppies of these parent breeds are well-built, energetic, and athletic. German Shepherd Husky mixes are super fluffy and their beautiful coat contributes to their attractive appearance. Like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, this designer dog has a double coat. It has a tough top coat and an insulating layer of undercoat that is made up of short hair. The undercoat protects and keeps the dogs warm in cold regions. Some of their undercoat will shed during the months of summer, keeping them nice and cool during the hotter weather. All in all, the coat of German Shepherd Husky mixes is not only beautiful, but functional as well. Husky German Shepherd Size. What is the size of a typical Husky German Shepherd Mix? Expect the size to be from the smallest Siberian Husky to the biggest German Shepherd. A Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog that usually grow up to around 20 to 23 inches in height. On the other hand, a German Shepherd is categorized as a large breed and can grow up to around 22 to 26 inches tall. So expect your Husky German Shepherd Mix to be between 20 and 26 inches tall. When talking about weight, Siberian Huskies weigh between 35 and 60 pounds, while German Shepherds are much heavier at around 49 to 88 pounds. So perhaps the weight of a Husky German Shepherd Mix will be from 35 to 88 pounds. This can also be due the gender of the dog. The most common color combinations are brown-black and white-black. The color of you German Shepherd and Husky Mix is simply a product of genetics. These dogs are: Good guard dogs. They inherited this characteristic from their parents. But they can be excessive barkers. Compared to some other breeds, they learn things quickly because of their higher cognitive abilities. They will always put you first before themselves. They are well-loved because they are affectionate. Be prepared to pet them all day long. These dogs mix well with other pets and with people. They are trusting. These dogs may be naughty at times, but they are very dignified. Active and powerful. They are energetic and need regular training and exercise. They need at least one walk every day. They are the ultimate dogs! They are known for their energy. They get bored and sometimes mischievous when they lack physical and mental stimulation. As mentioned before, this hybrid is also intelligent, loyal, playful, and very trainable. A Husky German Shepherd Mix is an alpha dog and may get somewhat aggressive or do naughty things if its owner is not firm. On the other hand, your dog may inherit the calm and gentle behavior of the Siberian Husky. A Husky German Shepherd Mix with this demeanor can be clingy with their owner. This hybrid loves to take part in various activities with you. Some owners let their friends engage in fieldwork, herding, and the likes, but these dogs will also have fun playing outdoors, jogging, walking, and hiking. While the Husky German Shepherd mix is friendly, warming up to other dogs and strangers may take time. And since the coat is super fluffy, it mats and tangles easily. So, regular grooming of your dog is necessary to prevent matting. Brush your German Shepherd Husky mix several times a week. On top of this, take your dog to a qualified groomer every two months. Remember, start grooming your pups from an early age so they get used to the process. Bathe your dog when needed. Ear check Wax may build up in the ears of German Shepherd Husky mixes fairly often. You should clean their ears carefully using a dog-friendly cleaning solution and cotton balls or cotton buds. This will keep the ear canal clean and reduce ear odors. Remove these parasites in their entirety to reduce discomfort and risk of infection. Dental hygiene The dental hygiene of your German Shepherd Husky mix is also an important part of their grooming process. Also, this dog needs high-quality dry food to keep its gums healthy and strong. Nail grooming In addition to the abovementioned grooming requirements, also make sure that the nails of your German Shepherd Husky mix are trimmed or groomed regularly. This activities is often stressful for the dog. This is because new genes are introduced to the existing pool, strengthening and widening it. However, even a hybrid dog like a German Shepherd mixed with Husky can inherit health conditions from one or both of their parents. This hybrid lives between 10 to 13 years, and during this lifespan, they can develop different health issues. These include: Elbow and hip dysplasia. Problem in the formation of the joints, which usually results into painful arthritis. Juvenile cataracts. The opacity of the lens of the eyes of the dog, which often causes blindness. Corneal dystrophy The accumulation of abnormal materials in the cornea, causing visual impairment. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA. This happens in the twilight years, with symptoms including night blindness, dilated pupils, inability to see in bright light. Bloating of the stomach, which results in the stomach twisting around itself. Failure to produce enough enzymes necessary for digesting meals. Excessive bleeding caused by a defective platelet functioning. Cancer is prevalent in this hybrid. Anal furunculosis. This is an inflammatory bone disease. German Shepherd Huskies are particularly at risk of airborne, contact, and food allergies. A neurological disorder causing uncontrolled seizures and loss of consciousness. This is perhaps the most frightening thing that can happen to this dog. Impaired thyroid function, dwarfism, footpad disorders, nasal cavity tumors, and eczema German Shepherd Mix With Husky Food Recommendations In terms of its dietary needs, the strong and athletic Husky German Shepherd Mix requires a high-protein diet. Provide a diet that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Be careful with foods that contain common allergens such as lamb and egg Give your dog supplements depending on the age of the mix. German Shepherd Mixes are picky eaters, so look for a brand that matches the needs of your dog and try to stick with it. These dogs have a high risk for digestive diseases. So, you must ask your vet for recommendations. The first step is to provide them with balanced nutrition by making sure you opt for best dry dog food, which you can also find in Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Prior to making any change in their diet plan, consult with your vet. If your buddy is older, try to get any formula from the best senior dry dog food list that will help extend their lifespan. Puppy pups have a bit different diet requirements and you can find the top-quality food for your little companions in the best puppy food brands list. Their parents are working dogs, so they have unparalleled energy and can engage in physical activities without getting tired. What they need is a regular exercise to maintain and improve their strength and endurance. Your dog needs some off-leash time. Dog parks and fenced yards are great places for this. A Husky mixed with German Shepherd that is free to play stays happy. Playing also mentally stimulates the dog. They will increasingly become frustrated and use their intelligence to do naughty things around your house: digging up, chewing on furniture and other things, non-stop howling, and trying to escape. What stimulation or exercise your dogs need depends upon their motivation and temperament. German Shepherd and Husky Mix Training Suggestions A fairly intelligent breed interested in learning and in caring for their owner, a German Shepherd and Husky Mix is relatively easy to train. Not properly trained, these dogs can acquire habits that make the owners clench their teeth pull their hair out. From howling too much to knocking things over to chewing on shoes, there are many things you must keep your dog from doing. A German Shepherd and Husky Mix is very sensitive to vocal commands, making the training process more efficient and much easier. Start obedience training at an early age to prevent annoying habits from developing, and so that you and your pup both can live a happy life together. However, it has a predatory nature, and without proper socialization or training, it might get inro trouble with rodent-type pets or even cats. They can also be extremely overprotective of children and other members of the family. If they feel that the humans they love are in danger, they may attack strangers, so watch them for this kind of behavior. We all know that every dog is unique, so you must socialize them correctly to prevent any untoward incidents. Known to be intelligent and extremely loyal, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is a fun loving, sweet, and pleasant dog. It is great service or companion dog for the family. Getting a dog with a Siberian Husky or a German Shepherd descent can break the bank for many first-time owners. Lucky for them, the Siberian Husky German Shepherd is a relatively affordable dog. Be warned, though. Proper breeding costs a lot of money when it comes to veterinary care, health screening, vaccinations, flea treatments, deworming, and many other procedures to ensure that the puppy is healthy. While herding dogs were being bred in Germany throughout the 19th century, the first formally recognized German Shepherd was registered by Max von Stephanitz in .The dog, named Horand von Grafrath, was the result of several generations of selective breeding to create a working dog ideal for herding sheep. The German Shepherd has a very forceful bite, and they are often mischaracterized as aggressive and likely to harm humans. However, while German Shepherds are responsible for a large number of canine attacks on humans, this is largely due to their popularity as pets and how abundant they are rather than any natural, breed-specific aggression. German Shepherds are actually considered great family pets, and they are known to be very good with children, though they can also be somewhat overprotective. .The Siberian Husky, in contrast, comes from Northeastern Asia where they were bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull sleds. The result is an active breed with a lot of endurance that just loves to run. These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush. While you will still find these dogs working in some frozen terrains, they are now popular household pets. While they are energetic, friendly, and excellent with children, they are also troublemakers if not trained and socialized properly. They enjoy digging, chewing, jumping, and generally escaping any kind of confined space. Both dogs are of a similar size and have a wolf-like appearance, which is part of what made them prime candidates for crossbreeding. What Are Crossbred Dogs? It is worth noting that crossbred dogs, sometimes called designer dogs, are dogs that have been intentionally bred by mixing two or more recognized breeds. It is not a term for dogs bred accidentally or without purebred ancestors. However, crossbred dogs are not recognized as separate breeds in their own right, so their behavior and characteristics are not as predictable as purebred dogs. One of the advantages of purebred dogs is that it is relatively easy to predict their size, appearance, and temperament. Gerberian Shepsky Appearance As both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a wolf-like appearance, you can expect similar traits from their offspring. German Shepherds tend to be considered medium-to-large-sized dogs. Males typically measure 24 to 26 inches in height at the withers, and the females are usually a bit smaller at 22 to 24 inches. However, both sexes tend to look bigger than other dogs of a similar height, as they have very long necks. Siberian Huskies are a bit smaller, measuring between 19 and 24 inches and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds on average. The females are at the smaller end of the spectrum, and the males are at the larger end. As a result, you can expect Shepskies to be around the smaller range for German Shepherds, with males ranging from 22 to 25 inches and females ranging from 20 to 24 inches in height. When it comes to their weight, males tend to be between 50 to 80 pounds, while females weigh a bit less at 40 to 70 pounds. Shepsky puppies tend to have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears and long noses inherited from both parents. Their eyes will either be brown or blue, and some individuals might have the distinctive dual eye color often associated with huskies. Both parent breeds have a coat ideal for colder climates, so this is something that can be expected from their offspring. They typically have a dual coat with a dense, soft undercoat and another layer of more durable guard hairs on top. As German Shepherds can have either medium-to-long outer coats, the same is true of their Gerberian Shepsky offspring. They are almost never one solid color and will almost always be a mix of at least two different colors. One thing you can expect from all Shepsky coats is that they will be high shedding. Anyone with an allergy to dog hair should be wary about adopting a Shepsky! Gerberian Shepsky Temperament German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and they are also highly motivated to please, which makes them one of the most trainable dog breeds out there. This quality is also why they are such good working dogs. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent, but they are far more independent. They have been bred to make challenging decisions while running across dangerous arctic territories, so problem-solving is a necessary skill. As a result, while your Shepsky will almost certainly be a very intelligent dog, they might be a bit more troublesome to train than a German Shepherd. Alternatively, they might choose to entertain themselves by digging or chewing. Both breeds were created to spend a lot of time with humans, with Huskies often staying indoors with their families for warmth. This means they tend to bond quickly with their people and are very good with smaller family members though very small children should never be left unsupervised with any dog. While German Shepherds tend to have guard dog-like protective instincts, Huskies are pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. So, it is difficult to predict whether your Shepsky crossbreed will display more alpha-like behavior or be more submissive and play well with other pets. Remember, proper socialization training can go a long way when it comes to ensuring that they play well with others regardless of their temperament. Neither parent breed tends to bark excessively, but your Shepsky will get vocal if they want to alert you to a threat. Huskies tend to howl rather than bark, so keep in mind you might end up with a Shepsky with an adorable howl that may disturb the neighbors. If you do find yourself with a barker, read our guide on dealing with excessive or nuisance barking. Overall, expect your dog to be high energy, combining the herding instinct of a German Shepherd with the running mandate of a Siberian Husky. Caring For A German Shepherd Husky Mix Shepskies tend to be highly trainable, so an experienced dog owner should be able to train them at home using basic positive reinforcement training. Shepskies do best when they have a large backyard where they can spend their energy. Remember, they can be escape artists, which means they need a space that is securely fenced. Fences at least six feet tall are recommended. In addition to having plenty of space, Shepskies need a lot of exercise. They should be taken outside at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes at a time. Dog parks where they can run around off-leash are ideal, as it lets them stretch their legs and burn off excess energy. Just make sure they have been properly socialized before letting them loose. They are not ideal pets for people who spend most of the week in the office or traveling for work. Expect your Shepsky to engage in destructive behavior when they are feeling the stress of abandonment. Shepskies tend to have fairly dry coats. Huskies do not have oily coats, and they will often pass this trait down to their crossbred children. Avoid excessive washing to prevent drying them out further. Regular brushing is advisable to remove shedding hair, since these dogs tend to shed a lot. This is both for their comfort and to make cleanup around the home a little more manageable for you. Shepsky Health Concerns Shepskies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, and you can expect them to live for around 10 to 14 years. Shepskies can develop joint conditions, particularly in their elbows and hips, which can lead to pain and discomfort moving as they age. Adequate exercise and an orthopedic bed that allows them to take the pressure off their joints are both useful tools in preventing these issues. This unique crossbreed can also be prone to developing eye conditions such as canine glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, juvenile cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Losing at least some of their eyesight in later life is a common concern. German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. Medications exist to help manage this condition. This can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance. You might be able to find a Gerberian Shepsky in a local shelter to adopt for a small fee, or you can opt to find a dedicated Shepsky breeder. Do Gerberian Shepskies shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherd Husky mixes shed a lot, and there is no getting around it. Both parent breeds have a thick winter coat that is prone to shedding, so this is a common characteristic in their offspring. If you are looking for a medium-sized low shedding dog, consider something with the Poodle breed in the mix, such as a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that they typically pass on to their crossbred offspring. Do German Shepherd Husky mixes smell? Many Huskies pass on their low-oil coat to their crossbred offspring. If you do adopt a Shepsky, remember not to bathe your dog too regularly. The lack of oil can make them prone to having dry skin, and excessive washing can exacerbate this problem. Do Shepskies get cold? Siberian Huskies were bred to deal with extreme cold, and German Shepherds also have a thick coat to deal with colder temperatures. This means their offspring are very well insulated against the cold, and you will almost never have to worry about them being uncomfortable in colder temperatures. Overheating, however, can be an issue, so always carry water when you go out. You will probably find that your Shepsky prefers to relax in cool, shady areas. What is an Alusky? This is a very popular designer breed, as they often have distinctive black and white patterning as well as an overall wolf-like appearance. What dog breeds are commonly mixed with Huskies? As well as German Shepherds, you will find a number of other dog breeds that make a good mix with a Husky. The Verdict On Shepskies If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice. Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy. They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. However, they are known for their delightful wolf-like howl. Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family. Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home. You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders! Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments 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.