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They represent a fascinating gene pool. AKC allows many colors. The French also come in rare colors such as blue, lilac and Isabella. However, the main topic is their eyes, it is really amazing how specific this breed is, especially when it comes to eye color. So let's find out more about the famous blue eyes of French bulldogs. Lately, we could notice there is growing popularity of buying rare colored French bulldogs. Besides, they have unique colors of fur, they also have blue eyes. Blue eyes French bulldogs are rare, but not impossible to find due to the genes that are present in them. The presence of S-locus and M-locus gene gives rise to a wide variety of eye colors in blue French bulldogs. In most cases, it will not, unfortunately, although everyone would like it. However, an exception may occur. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. As they go through a gradual growth process over the next few weeks, you may see different shades in your puppy's eyes; shades of blue, green-gray to brown, which is their standard eye color. But don't be upset because it is natural and common at this tender age of 10 weeks. The standard brown eye color will soon materialize, without you having to worry about it at all. It is not uncommon for them to have light pink skin around their eyes and mouth. Our advice is to protect them with some sunscreen. Corneal dystrophy can also be one of the problems, which can be hereditary. Therefore, the French Bulldog would have vision problems, you will notice a change in color to a dull blue look. Nuclear sclerosis, occurs mostly in dogs over 5 years of age. It may not be painful for your dog, but it can lead to a change in his vision. Our advice is to contact a veterinarian immediately. Also the French Bulldog may have problems with Heterochromia. There are two types of heterochromia- congenital and acquired. As we have already said, our advice is to contact your veterinarian immediately, so that your dog can get the right treatment and get rid of some of the problems if possible, because usually, veterinarians do not want to "touch" if it is not painful for the dog, which is the case in most cases. Please assume all such links are affiliate links which may result in my earning commissions and fees. This will not incur additional cost to you. French Bulldogs have some of the most adorable eyes in the world of dogs. There are some French Bulldog puppies with amazing blue eyes. If you have a puppy with this striking blue and you are wondering if your Frenchie would lose its blue eyes, the answer is, Yes! Your French would lose those dazzling blue eyes as they grow. Many people are attracted to this cute breed of dog because of its physical appearance and its gorgeous glittering eyes. So if you are an admirer of French Bulldog puppies because of those large cute blue eyes, here are some of the things you should know. Most dog lovers fall in love with certain breeds of dogs because of certain unique physical features such breeds possess. For instance, many dog lovers fall in love with the German Shepherd because of its fur. Some people love the bulkiness of the South African Boerboel, the physique of the Doberman, the muscularity of the American Pit, among others. The eye color of the French Bulldog might also influence your decision on getting this breed of dog. When you set your gaze upon the piercing eyes of a French Bulldog pup, you cannot help but fall in love with this breed. Brown and black eyes are the most common type of eyes among Frenchies. There are also French Bulldogs with green or grayish eyes; however, you might also come across French Bulldogs with dazzling blue eyes. The blue eyes are one of the stunning looks which attract many dog lovers to the French Bulldog even though there are many misconceptions about the nature of the blue pigment present in the eyes of the French Bulldog. If you are an owner or an admirer of this breed, you might be wondering how the French Bulldog got its blue eyes. In this article, there would be an in-depth discussion on the eyes of your French Bulldog puppy. At birth, the eyes of a Frenchie can either be black or blue. Therefore, you should not mistake the fact that your puppy has blue eyes as a sign of an eye defect. Your French Bulldog might have blue eyes depending on the recessive gene it carries. This genetic development can also result in your Frenchie having one eye color as brown while the other will be blue. This has nothing to do with an eye infection, and you should not, as a result of this genetic formation, discard your puppy. If your Frenchie has a historical background of blue eyes, there is no course to fret when your puppy also inherits such genes from either of the parents. If you have got a French bulldog because of your affection for the dazzling blue eyes, I am sorry to break it to you that the blue eyes of your pup might not stay blue forever. Once a Frenchie is around ten weeks old, the color of its eye begins to change. The changes, depending on your dog, might take different phases. At first, you would notice the dark blue eyes fading away into shades of blue and then into dim grey, finally into the regular brown eyes. Although, under a special light, you might still notice the blue color of the eyes, although it is not as dominant as when it was between 1 week and nine weeks old. It is common among Frenchies to change their blue eyes as they age to complete brown. However, this might not be the case with the blue fawn French Bulldog. The blue fawn French Bulldog is a rare breed of Frenchie with a mixed genetic setup. This accounts for its unique coat color and its eyes color. Unlike the common French Bulldog breeds, the blue fawn Frenchie keeps its blue eyes color even in adulthood. Most times, when you notice an adult Frenchie with blue eyes, it does not mean such a dog is suffering from an infection. It might simply mean that such French Bulldog is one of the rare breeds of the blue fawn French Bulldog. How To Get French Bulldog With Blue Eyes If you intend to get a Frenchie with blue eyes and you are not interested in getting an adult Frenchie, you might need to get in touch with your vet. Another reason you need an expert to assist you when getting a Frenchie with a blue eye is that the blue coloration in the eyes might result from an eye defect. You do not want to get a French Bulldog with an eye defect that might hamper the health of your puppy. Hence, it would be best if you had the assistance of an expert veterinary doctor. Your vet will help you carry out the necessary checks and medical examinations. It is advisable that if you are not sure of the bloodline of a blue-eyed French Bulldog, you should avoid such blue-eyed Frenchie. It is best that you take the necessary precaution whenever you intend to get a blue-eyed Frenchie. You should know that the blue-eyed Frenchie might also be at risk of various health conditions, which you should also consider when getting your Blue-eyes Frenchie. Health Issues of Blue-Eyed French Bulldogs Frenchies with blue eyes are quite adorable because of their dazzling blue eyes. However, it is quite hard to believe that their beauty is also their major flaw. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs are believed to be at risk of several health complications, and this is due to the genetic formation of this breed of Frenchie. Here are some of the health conditions which your blue-eyed Frenchie might develop; 1. Eye Problems A blue-eyed Frenchie is more prone to having severe eye problems at certain stages in its life, and if not properly managed, it might lead to blindness. This dent in the beauty of the blue-eyed Frenchie is due to the presence of the Merle gene, which is recessive in the blue-eyed French Bulldog. Some of the eyes related problems that are common with the blue eyes Frenchie includes; Juvenile cataracts: This eye problem is common among French Bulldog puppies. A juvenile cataract is hereditary, and this is why it is vital that you know the history of the prospective blue-eye Frenchie you intend to get. Entropion: This is another common eye-related problem that affects the eyelids of dogs, especially the blue-eyed Frenchies. The infection will irritate the eyes of the puppy and might ultimately lead to blindness if not properly managed. Cherry eye: This usually occurs due to swelling on the third eyelid of a dog. This infection is common among blue-eyed Frenchies. This eye problem can be cured by surgery. Other eye problems common among French Bulldogs with blue eyes include glaucoma, nuclear sclerosis, and anterior uveitis. Deafness Frenchies with blue eyes are known to suffer hearing loss at certain stages in their life; this is due to the lack of melanocytes, the melanin responsible for producing the cells in the ear region. When you get a blue-eyed Frenchies puppy, you need to carry out a test on it before six weeks old. The purpose of this test is to detect if your puppy is impaired in its hearing. If your puppy has lost her hearing and has become completely deaf, you will need the help of an expert to teach you how to communicate with your deaf puppy. It is also advisable that you get a dog tag for deaf dogs as this will be handy in social gatherings. These are the two common health problems that French Bulldogs with the unique blue eye might suffer from as they develop. However, in a situation where your French Bulldog has brown or black eyes and starts developing blue eyes, you need to have an urgent appointment with your vet. Sudden blue eyes development in your French Bulldog that initially has brown eyes might be a signal of an infection in your dog. To inform your choice of either buying the standard French Bulldog or going for the blue-eyed Frenchie, you need to know certain differences between them. Frenchies with brown eyes are healthier and physically sound; they are more agile and active. French bulldogs with brown eyes are more smart, alert, and cheerful, while blue-eyed Frenchies might lack these qualities. Final thoughts Finally, a Frenchie with blue eyes might lose its blue eyes if neither of its parents has the blue eyes gene. So if your French Bulldog has blue eyes, it will be best if you take adequate care of it, do not skip your appointment with your vet. Disclaimer : FrenchieBuddy. Pin2 8 Shares Last week we had we had a Frenchie puppy come over to play with our own Frenchie, Claude. She is a week old French Bulldog puppy with the bluest of eyes. They are stunningly beautiful as you can see in the photos lower down the page. I remarked to her owner how blue the eyes were and asked whether they would change color at all. Do French Bulldogs eyes change color? Yes, Frenchie eyes do change color. When they are born, their eyes will initially be blue. Around 10 weeks, their eyes will then start to change color to brown. The exception to the rule is Blue Fawn Frenchies who can have blue or green eyes in adulthood. You can see a still I took from an old video of Claude below. This photo shows how blue his eyes were when he was younger. Regular readers of French Bulldog Owner will know they are now very much brown! French Bulldog blue eyes: Our Frenchie Claude had blue eyes as a puppy which eventually changed color to brown. Are French Bulldogs born with blue eyes? So, what can you expect with your own Frenchie? Well, all French Bulldog puppies are born with blue eyes. They will either be completely blue, or slightly different shades including grey, green, and brown flecks. At about 10 weeks old, the Frenchie eyes will start to change color. It will be a gradual process, and most will go through some shades of blue, green-grey, and then to the standard brown color. In this shot they look more of a grey-green color which means they are going through the change to brown. However, in certain lights they do still appear to be very blue. In most cases they will eventually turn completely brown. However, there is an exception to this rule; blue fawn French Bulldogs. This particular breed of Frenchie is very rare, being renowned for their colorings. They have a dilute gene which accounts for their coat color as well as their eyes. Some blue Frenchies will keep the blue eye gene more than other dogs. What color are French Bulldog eyes? What color eyes do French Bulldogs have? French Bulldogs have brown eyes as adults but will be born with blueish eye color. The exceptions to the rule are blue Frenchies which can keep the blue and green eye tones into adulthood. Why do French Bulldogs have blue eyes? There are certain eye diseases, some which are more serious than others, including: Anterior uveitis: this is a painful condition due to an inflammation inside the eye. Signs include your dog squinting, scratching, redness, discharge, or a change in color to a cloudy appearance. It can be treated, but in some very rare cases the eye will to be surgically removed. Cataracts: these can be caused by diabetes, eye damage, pests, or diet. They can be inherited, can come on quickly, or be a slow to appear. However, what you will notice is that the eyes will have changed color to a blue cloudy appearance. If not treated, cataracts can lead to blindness. You will notice a change in color to a cloudy blue appearance. You might be able to spot it early if you see a change in color to cloudy blue. There are different treatments available which will reduce the pressure, with the possibility with a complete eye removal. Nuclear sclerosis: this tends to occur in dogs once they reach the age of six. As with the other diseases listed here, it can be noticed first when the eyes change color to a cloudy blue appearance. As an age-related disease, your vet might decide not to treat it. Read this guide to health issues and what to look out for. Why are my French Bulldogs eyes red? This is something you should also look out for, as it can be a sign of a health problem. Red eyes in a Frenchie could be:. The most distinguishing characteristics of this breed are its bat-like ears and mushed-up cheeks. Aside from that, they have scraggy and small tails that have not been docked. There are similarities between these dogs and pugs in that they have a stocky and strong compact physique, and their noses are flattened like pugs. Certain Blue French Bulldogs may have big blue rounded eyes to enhance their appearance. The eyes might also be brown, and the nostrils can be black. The wrinkled skin and faces of these canines are one of their most distinguishing characteristics. They are kind, and they flourish when their owner showers their affection and care. Even though they might be clinging, these dogs are highly playful, loving, and devoted to their owners and other family members. They are energetic, active, and alert puppies who like fetching a ball. You may rest assured that they do not require hours of physical activity to be successful. Because of their flat faces, they will be content with a simple walk around the block. All they want is to be with you at all times. You should provide them with an outlet for their energy. If they are not stimulated, they may become extremely destructive — exercise and simple dog activities such as fetch are the most effective options. Tug-of-war is a favorite pastime for Gray Blue Frenchie. They are descended from the English Bulldog, and as a result, they have a natural tendency to wrestle. The Gray Blue Frenchie is an extremely friendly pup who should not be kept alone for an extended time. When kept alone for an extended time, they might become destructive and may experience separation anxiety symptoms. Instructions on how to care for a Gray French Bulldog: These dogs are quite easy to handle and do not require a great deal of grooming. All that is required is to brush their coats once a month with a rubber glove and bathe them every three months. It not only helps to maintain the coat healthy, but it also aids in the development of a stronger relationship between you and your dog. When bathing your dog, use a puppy shampoo to help prevent diseases such as eczema from developing. When bathing gray a Blue French Bulldog, always use pH-neutral items to ensure that the dog is not damaged. You should also pay close attention to their wrinkled cheeks and clean them with wipes suitable for dogs to remove germs and food stains. Keeping their eyes and ears clean is essential to keeping them healthy and happy. Instead, they like to be petted and encouraged. This dog is unable to swim mostly due to its body structure; therefore, if you have a pool nearby, you should keep a watch on them. In addition to having bat-like ears, some of these canines also had rose-shaped ears, which was the original form of their ears in the beginning. They are chatty dogs that may whine and cry if they do not get what they want. These pups are known for farting and will fart a lot, especially if they are not fed properly. Breed guidelines state that this dog should never weigh more than 28 pounds at any given time. The rules are carefully adhered to, especially during dog exhibitions. Are Gray French Bulldogs a good choice for a family dog? Yes, Gray French Bulldogs are excellent family pets since they are kind and like sharing their affection and having a wonderful time. They are also quite flexible, but they are particularly well suited for apartment residents. Children will enjoy the company of the Blue French Bulldog, but it is important to ensure that they are taught how to manage the dog at all times properly. Because of their large size, these dogs are at risk of being injured during play, and you should take every precaution to guarantee that they are dealt with with the highest care. If they have not been properly socialized, they may become aggressive toward other animals, despite their apparent enjoyment of the companionship of other animals. Gray Blue French bulldog Exercise Requirement It is recommended that you take your gray French Bulldog for regular walks of 20 to 30 minutes in length. Ensure it is not too hot outside while taking them for these outings because they do not perform well in the heat. The optimum times to go for a stroll are in the early morning and late at night. You should try everything in your power to avoid heading for swims with this gray Blue Frenchie since it is potentially bad for him. Are Gray French Bulldogs lazy? The Frenchie, in contrast to other varieties of Gray bulldog, is a breed that is not especially energetic. It is not necessary to be physically active to live a happy or healthy. In addition, they are not inclined to become obese or overweight as a result of overindulging in food, and they prefer to lounge around the house sleeping or resting on the laps of their family and friends. With nothing but taking them for brief walks throughout the day and allowing them to use the bathroom facilities in the yard on their own, you can ensure that your gray-blue French Bulldog is completely happy and healthy. Gray blue French bulldogs are not terrific swimmers, and neither are their owners. However, some dogs are excellent swimmers and enjoy spending time in the water, whether in a pool, the ocean, or a lake grey blue French bulldogs are not good in or around water. Some feel that their small legs make swimming difficult for them, which is usually an issue for dogs who spend significant time in the water. Whenever this dog is anywhere near water, whether it is at the pool or on a boat, it is required to wear a life jacket at all times. Unless you live near a body of water, you can anticipate your dog to spend little time near it — they will have little desire to go near water. Ears should be cleaned regularly to avoid the accumulation of wax and dirt. Remove any debris accumulated between the paw pads, and maintain the nails short by trimming them if they go too long. In addition to helping keep the dog from smelling unpleasant, it will also assist in avoiding illnesses that are produced by the secretions present in those glands. Keep all of the items that this dog uses clean and inspect them for ticks and fleas regularly. How to train your Gray Blue French bulldog? Even though these dogs are entertaining and lively to be around, they are not the most clever. They can also have a stubborn tendency, which makes them difficult to teach. You should be extremely brief and clear in your training orders, and you should be patient and consistent in your delivery of them. If you teach them new skills and orders properly, using incentives and positive reinforcement, they will quickly master them. Prepare a workout program that takes 3 to 5 minutes to complete, to begin with. Given that this dog is highly food-oriented, high-quality treats are the greatest rewards for him to get during training sessions. Take the time to learn what treats and toys he enjoys and utilize them as prizes throughout training sessions. These meals should be strong in protein, with the majority of the protein coming from meat. Furthermore, you should avoid diets high in grains since this might irritate their sensitive stomachs, and instead opt for a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. You should give your brachycephalic dog high-quality dry food if you decide to do so. Brachycephalic dogs require special nutrition, so look for kibble that is specifically made for them. These dogs are not very active; therefore, they do not require a large amount of food. You should also keep an eye on their eating habits to ensure that they are not overfed. Their combined weight should not be more than 28 pounds. Gray Blue French bulldog needs a lot of care and attention: This gray-blue French Bulldog is similar to the standard French Bulldog in that it is a highly needy dog that requires your full attention at all times. This dog does not want to be neglected , left alone, or excluded from any activity or situation. This puppy is in desperate need of affection, and it wants it now. Should it not receive enough care, the grey-blue French Bulldog will begin to cry. If it believes that its wants are not satisfied, it will begin to protest. They are canines who demand more care than a newborn infant and having children while having a French bulldog in the house is not always easy. Make sure you have the time and energy to devote to ensuring that your new dog is healthy, happy, and free of problems if you contemplate getting one of these breeds. Gray Blue French Bulldog Health Issues: No dog breed is completely devoid of health issue concerns, but finding a trustworthy breeder who is not only interested in making money might help lessen some of the dangers. They Are Prone to various Allergies. These pups can also be at high risk for dilution alopecia, which is characterized by hair loss and self-destruction of the follicles in the skin. They are also prone to allergies and might develop skin conditions such as eczema as a result. Final Words on Gray Blue French Bulldogs The Gray Blue French Bulldog is an excellent choice for a family dog, and we hope this blog post has provided you with further information on this breed. If you decide to adopt one of these adorable dogs, be sure that they are a good fit for your lifestyle before committing. Dino Man Dino is a passionate French Bulldog lover and owner who has dedicated himself to learning everything there is to know about these charming and charismatic canines. This is because the breed standard calls for dark eyes, meaning that breeders typically select for dogs with brown eyes. However, a recessive gene called the dilute gene can cause French Bulldogs to have blue eyes. When the dilute gene is present, it can cause the pigment in the iris to be less concentrated, which leads to blue or grey eyes. Some may have hazel or green eyes, while others may have a more muted blue or grey color. For example, a black French Bulldog with the dilute gene may seem more of a blue-grey color. In Doberman Pinschers, for instance, the dilute gene is associated with a higher risk of skin allergies and other health issues. However, there is no evidence to suggest that French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes are at a higher risk of any specific health problems related to the dilute gene. French Bulldog Puppy with Grey Blue Eyes As with any physical characteristic in dogs, whether or not grey blue eyes are desirable in French Bulldogs is a matter of personal preference. Some people find this feature extraordinarily appealing and seek out French Bulldogs precisely because of it. Others prefer the more traditional dark-eyed look and may view grey blue eyes as a deviation from the breed standard. Health, temperament, and overall breed characteristics should always be the top priorities when selecting a French Bulldog, rather than focusing solely on appearance. However, the gene is not particularly common in the breed and is recessive, meaning both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their offspring. As French Bulldogs have become more popular over the years, breeders have started experimenting with different breeding techniques to create new and unique traits. For example, while breeding for eye color is not necessarily the most ethical or responsible breeding practice, some breeders may start intentionally breeding for the dilute gene to produce French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes. If this trend continues, it could increase the number of French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes in the future. While grey blue eyes may be attractive, they do not necessarily make for a better pet or guarantee good health or temperament. For example, in Dalmatians, the dilute gene is associated with a higher risk of deafness. However, there is no evidence to suggest that French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes are at a higher risk for any specific health problems related to the dilute gene. Doing so can help ensure that your French Bulldog is as healthy as possible and does not develop any preventable health issues. Reputable breeders will typically perform health tests on their breeding dogs to screen for any genetic health issues that may be passed down to their puppies. For French Bulldogs, these tests may include hip and elbow evaluations, cardiac evaluations, and DNA tests for genetic disorders such as Von Willebrand disease and spinal dysraphism. Regular grooming, exercise, and veterinary checkups are essential for all dogs, regardless of their eye color. When it comes to grooming, French Bulldogs require regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They also require regular nail trimming, teeth cleaning, and ear cleaning to maintain their overall health and hygiene. Exercise is also vital for French Bulldogs, as they are prone to obesity and require regular physical activity to keep them healthy and in good shape. Daily walks, playtime, and other activities can help ensure your French Bulldog gets the necessary exercise. Regular veterinary checkups are also crucial for all dogs, including those with grey blue eyes. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps or other unhealthy foods, and instead opt for high-quality dog food that provides all the necessary nutrients for their overall health and well-being. French Bulldog with Grey Blue Eyes Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash French Bulldogs are already a relatively expensive breed, and the addition of grey blue eyes may further increase the price of a puppy. However, the cost of a French Bulldog with grey blue eyes will ultimately depend on a variety of factors. Reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and ethical breeding practices are likely to charge more for their puppies, as they have invested significant time and money into producing high-quality, healthy dogs. Dogs with a strong pedigree and a history of producing healthy puppies may command a higher price tag than those with less impressive bloodlines. Finally, the demand for puppies with grey blue eyes is another factor that can affect their price. While this trait is relatively rare in French Bulldogs, demand for puppies with this particular feature may increase. If this happens, breeders may be able to charge more for their puppies, especially if they are one of the few breeders producing French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes. This can help ensure that you get a healthy, well-bred puppy that will bring joy to your family for years to come. One of the best places to start your search is by looking for breeders who prioritize health testing and ethical breeding practices. This can help ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-bred puppy raised in a loving and responsible environment. Some unscrupulous breeders may try to take advantage of the rarity of this trait and charge exorbitant prices for puppies that may not be properly bred or cared for. Make sure to ask plenty of questions and research before making any decisions. In addition to working with a breeder, you can check with breed-specific rescues or shelters to see if they have any French Bulldogs with grey blue eyes available for adoption. Adopting a dog in need of a home is a great way to provide a loving home for a dog in need while also potentially saving money compared to purchasing a puppy from a breeder. It is more likely to occur if the dog has a higher concentration of brown pigment in their iris. This brown pigment can cause the eyes to darken over time, which may result in the grey blue color becoming less visible or changing to a different color altogether. This is because the amount of pigment in the iris is determined by genetics and is generally a fixed trait. For example, if a French Bulldog has been genetically predisposed to having grey blue eyes, it is unlikely that their eye color will change drastically over time. In that case, taking them to the veterinarian for a check-up is important. These changes may be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as an infection or injury, that needs to be addressed promptly. These eye colors are relatively rare in the breed and are not typically intentional breeding traits. Heterochromia is a particularly rare occurrence in French Bulldogs. This condition results from a genetic mutation that causes a variation in the amount of melanin produced in each eye. While heterochromia can occur in any breed of dog, it is relatively uncommon in French Bulldogs. French Bulldogs with heterochromia often have one eye that is dark brown or black and another eye that is blue, green, or hazel. This unique eye color combination can be particularly striking and adds to the overall charm of the breed. French Bulldogs with hazel or green eyes are also relatively rare, but they do occur from time to time. These eye colors result from a combination of different amounts of melanin in the iris. In some cases, the eyes may appear more green or hazel in certain lighting conditions or from certain angles, making them particularly eye-catching and unique. Instead, breeders typically prioritize traits such as health, temperament, and conformation. While eye color can be desirable for some potential buyers, it should never be the sole factor in choosing a breeder or a puppy. Final Thoughts Choosing a dog based solely on physical appearance is not advisable as it can lead to overlooking important aspects such as temperament, health, and breed characteristics. Temperament is critical for French Bulldogs, known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They make great companions and are well-suited to apartment living due to their small size and relatively low exercise needs. However, they can also be stubborn and challenging to train, so prospective owners should be prepared to put in the time and effort to properly socialize and train their new pet. Health is another crucial consideration when choosing a French Bulldog. Unfortunately, Frenchies are prone to several health issues, including breathing problems, skin allergies, and spinal disorders. Reputable breeders will prioritize health testing and responsible breeding practices to reduce the risk of these issues occurring in their puppies. Prospective owners should also be prepared to provide regular veterinary care and to follow any recommended preventative measures to ensure their pet stays healthy throughout their life. They are playful and energetic, but not excessively so, making them a good fit for families with children or other pets. By working with a reputable breeder and providing proper care and attention, a French Bulldog with grey blue eyes can make an excellent companion for any dog lover. Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Popular Posts. If the default eye color for most dogs is brown, why do French Bulldogs get blue eyes? However, genetics is the number one cause of blue-eyed French Bulldogs. If a Frenchie has a long history of blue eyes, they are likely to develop blue eyes. Here are the three main reasons Frenchies are likely to get blue eyes. This gene is responsible for random pigment dilution lightening of the nose, eyes, and fur. French Bulldogs without this genetic mutation are more likely to develop brown eyes. Melanin Levels Melanin levels can influence the eye color of French Bulldogs. Generally, dogs with higher melanin levels in their iris tend to have brown eyes. Conversely, a lower concentration of melanin results in lighter eye colors in dogs. Genetically, blue eyes in dogs do not mean more health issues. It is possible to have a perfectly healthy blue-eyed Frenchie. However, it is important to note that blue-eyed Frenchies may have an increased likelihood of significant health risks compared to brown-eyed Pit Bulls. Deafness Deafness, or hearing loss, is common in French Bulldogs with blue eyes. This health issue is present in certain dog breeds that carry the Merle and Piebald genes. Congenital deafness is linked to the merle gene, while the Piebald gene is responsible for spotted or multicolored coats on dogs. So, if your French Bulldog pup has blue eyes due to the merle gene or has a spotted color coat piebald gene , he may be at a higher risk of hearing loss. Affected Frenchies are at greater risk of injury, for instance, in road traffic accidents. You can rule out congenital deafness by conducting a BAER test in Frenchie puppies as young as six weeks old. Additionally, consider acquiring a collar specifically designed for deaf dogs and ensure your dog has an identification tag to promote awareness and safety for everyone in their vicinity. Blindness French Bulldogs with blue eyes may potentially develop vision defects. The presence of blue eyes in Pit Bulls can indicate that your pet carries the Merle gene, which is a dominant gene. However, it is essential to note that not all blue-eyed French Bulldogs will inevitably become blind. The likelihood of eye defects such as blindness is higher if both parents carry the Merle gene and pass it on to their offspring. This test can help identify whether your Frenchie carries the gene s for blue eyes, other genetic disorders, or complications. Given the susceptibility of eye problems in Frenchies, supplementing their diet with eye dog supplements like Zesty Paws eye supplement and using dog eye drops to provide long-lasting corneal protection and hydration can be beneficial. Lastly, French Bulldogs are prone to thickening and hardening skin on the nose, also known as nasal hyperkeratosis. Using a dog nose butter can bring relief or prevent it. Because Frenchies are susceptible to many health issues, we advise looking into pet insurance for French Bulldogs. While brown eyes in dogs derive their color from melanin, dogs with blue eyes have colorless irises that lack any pigment. The coloration of blue eyes is achieved through a similar mechanism as the blue color of water and the sky. This occurs because all the light entering the eyes of a French Bulldog is scattered back into the atmosphere, creating the optical illusion of a blue appearance. The mutation of the ALX4 gene in dogs with blue eyes seems to decrease pigment production in the eye. The lack of pigment causes the eye to appear blue. In general, the French Bulldog resembles a Bulldog in miniature, with a stocky and muscular appearance. Frenchies look active and intelligent, with a smooth coat and medium or small body structure. Males can grow between 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh 20 to 28 pounds. Female Frenchies have about the same measurements. A large and square head, with heavy wrinkles rolled above the extremely short nose, are common physical traits among French Bulldogs. They seem alert, curious, and interested at all times. Eye Color Characteristics According to the United Kennel Club breed standard for French Bulldogs, eyes in Frenchies should be dark in color, wide apart, set low down in the skull, as far from the ears as possible, round in form, moderate size, neither sunken nor bulging. In lighter-colored dogs, lighter-colored eyes are acceptable. No haw and no white of the eye showing when looking forward. Anything outside this description, including blue eyes, is considered a serious fault and not a standard. On the other hand, solid coat colors are determined by the levels of melanin. This alteration prevents the cells from producing a full-strength black pigment, resulting in various coat color shades ranging from gray, brown, tan, and everything in between. Blue-eyed French Bulldogs with brown, black, grey, and silver coat colors are probably the most difficult and rarest of all blue-eyed Frenchies. Because the melanin levels are full-on black or closer to the black pigmentation. Also, the Merle gene is less likely to be present among these color coats. Their brown eyes are due to high levels of melanin and the possible absence of the merle gene. These colors range from dark brown to light hazel, which may look greenish. You may find Frenchies with darker blue eyes, while others may have lighter blue eye coloration. The main reason for blue eyes in Frenchies can be found in M-locus and S-locus genes. Their dark eyes are due to high levels of melanin. A post shared by Zootopia Pet Sitter zootopia. As they grow, melanin increases, typically darkening their eyes. Some genetically retain blue eyes. The breed standard was introduced in stating that brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white are approved. The following colors are listed as disqualified including, mouse blue , solid black, liver, black and tan as well as black and white. The blue coat color of French Bulldogs is disqualified because it is not accepted by the official breed standard. It is considered a fad color. The reason why they disqualify this color is to preserve the breed standard and to protect the work of responsible breeders who adhere to the breed standard. Many people who breed fad colors such as blue are motivated by greed as these rare colors sell for very high prices. These breeders intentionally spread color genes that are unacceptable through the gene pool which causes problems for reputable breeds who are aim to produce quality French Bulldog puppies. No, you cannot show a Blue French Bulldog because their coat color is an instant disqualification. The B locus determines coat color which in the case of a Blue French Bulldog is originally black. The D locus is what determines if a Frenchie is fully colored or diluted. The D Locus dilute genes The D Locus controls the intensity of eumelanin pigment black coat color in Blue Frenchies as well in the pigement their eyes and noses. The two alleles on this locus are D and d. Blue French Bulldogs have a diluted coat because their melanophilin gene is mutated. Melanophilin is responsible for transporting and fixing melanin containing cells. No, Blue French Bulldogs do not change their coat color. The only change that may occur when they are a puppy is coat color lightening. For example, a Blue French Bulldog may look black when born but then over the next few weeks of their lives will develop a blue hue. A Blue French Bulldog is a diluted black color coat dog while a Lilac French Bulldog is a diluted chocolate color coat dog. Color dilute dogs such as Blue French Bulldogs are more susceptible to health issues such as color dilution alopecia which is a genetic recessive inherited condition that causes patches of hair loss or thinning as well as flaky or itchy skin. Just like all French Bulldogs, Blue French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed so they have a risk of obstructed airways, narrow nostrils, overheating and dental problems. Are Blue French Bulldogs Rare? Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are very rare. The dilute gene that causes their unique coloration is a relatively rare gene.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. But did you know that not all of them strive for the same quality? Ethical Bernedoodle breeders only produce new litters from dogs that have passed health screening with flying colors. Ethical breeders also offer health guarantees that are usually applicable for either one or two years from adoption. Additionally, you can also ask around your friends and family members in case any of them have recently adopted a Bernedoodle in your area. Bernedoodle Buddies Located on a beautiful farm right outside of Columbus, Bernedoodle Buddies has standard-sized Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Ohio. Their goal is to breed puppies for health and temperament and their focus is on all sorts of enrichment activities and early learning to give their pups a solid foundation. As a family breeder, they raise all of their puppies in their home. Moreover, this exceptional breeder follows the Puppy Culture and Badass Breeder programs. They introduce the puppies to all sorts of sights and sounds, potty training, crate training, clicker training, basic manners, and even car rides and grooming. In addition to that, they also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation method ENS that helps the puppies get used to regular body handling and human interaction from an early age. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Their breeding dogs are all fully health tested and some of them are also registered with the AKC. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I fell in love with not only their beauty, but intense loyalty and happy go-lucky attitude. After loosing my first berner to cancer at the young age of 4 and knowing the short life span of the breed, I started exploring dogs with the beauty of the berner but life span of a mix breed. That's when I came upon the Bernedoodle. Not only do they not shed or very minimally , they come in a range of sizes for those not wanting a giant breed. The are also perfect for people with allergies and have a lifespan of years. Twice the length of the berner! Since bernedoodles are a hybrid, they are only likely to inherit a health problem common to both the poodle and bernese. Genetic testing greatly reduces the risk of many diseases. This is why all of our dogs are health tested and do not join our breeding program if they have not been. We hope you enjoy our website and look forward to providing you with your new family member! We are a small Bernedoodle breeder located in Southwest Ohio. We strive to produce healthy, happy, long-living puppies with fantastic temperaments. Our dogs are health tested and make wonderful family pets. We are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns. Share 0 Shares The Bernedoodle is a hybrid dog that is obtained from breeding a playful, hardworking, and energetic Bernese Mountain Dog with an intelligent, beautifully coated and highly trainable Poodle. As such, the gorgeous Bernedoodle breed inherits some, if not all of these beautiful traits from its parent breeds. This hybrid dog or designer dog breed is quite popular in the United, as it is arguably one of the most popular doodles you can get, with lots of breeders. If you reside in Ohio and you are interested in getting a Bernedoodle puppy as a companion dog, then you definitely should check out any of the breeders we have listed below. They breed highly socialized, top-quality Bernedoodles for numerous families in the state. Located in Coshocton County, Ohio, Angel Breeze Puppies are fine breeders of standard Bernedoodle puppies that are bred according to the highest breeding standards. They produce Bernedoodle puppies of all sizes that grow up to become excellent family companions due to their loyal and empathic nature. The puppies also make great show dogs for confirmation events and this is due to their well-groomed beautiful coats that are simply adorable. The breeding program started in so they boast over 15 years of Bernedoodle breeding experience so you can get quality assurance. All their Bernedoodle puppies are raised in the family house. This is a very beautiful and spacious acre property in the Coshocton town of Fresno, Ohio. It provides them with more than enough room for the puppies to run and practically play to their complete satisfaction. The puppies are raised in a loving and free family-oriented environment where they get to socialize at will. They are exposed and allowed to interact with people of varying age groups as well as with other pets and animals. They are also exposed to a wide variety of interacting sounds, sights, and textures to help boost their socialization. They have spent a lot of time and resources trying to boost their breeding line. This has resulted in numerous AKC-registered Sires and Dams that are added to their breeding program. They are loved and each comes with impressive bloodlines. The breeding parent dogs each come with their impressive pedigrees, they are genetically health tested for conditions that could affect the Bernedoodle puppies and they are each well checked and certified by the OFA and Cerf for good functioning parts. All their Bernedoodle puppies come with a written 2 years health guarantee. This frees them from genetic health issues as well as dysplasia. They also are fully vaccinated and dewormed and each comes with updated health records from a licensed vet. Angel Breeze Puppies Contact Details. Research: First and foremost, make sure that the breeder is reputable and has a good track record. There are many ways to research this, including reading online reviews and talking to other dog owners who have purchased Bernedoodles puppies from them. Health: Second, you want to make sure that the Bernedoodle puppies are healthy and well-cared for. Ask the breeder about the health of the parents and grandparents, and whether or not the puppies have been to the vet for a checkup. This means they should be introduced to a variety of people, and other animals, which will be beneficial for novice owners. Puppies from a reputable breeder are going to be more expensive than those from a backyard breeder. But, in the long run, a puppy from a reputable breeder is going to be healthier and have fewer behavior issues. Meet the Parents: If possible, you should meet the parents of the puppies before making your final decision. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of temperament and appearance. But if you need more convincing, here are just a few reasons why a Bernedoodle might be the perfect pup for you. Coat: Bernedoodles come in three different coat types: wavy, curly, and straight. Temperament: Bernedoodles are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They are also very loyal and affectionate with their families and get along well with children and other pets. Size: Bernedoodles come in three different sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Standard Bernedoodles can weigh anywhere from pounds, while Miniature Bernedoodles usually weigh in at pounds. Toy Bernedoodles are the smallest of the bunch, weighing in at 12 pounds or less. Health: Bernedoodles are generally a healthy breed, and are not known to suffer from any major health conditions. However, like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. But with proper care and regular vet check-ups, your Bernedoodle should enjoy a long and healthy life. When it comes to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Ohio, price is often a major consideration. While there is no definitive answer when it comes to how much a Bernedoodle puppy may cost, there are a few things that can help you budget for your new furry friend. However, depending on the specific breeder and bloodline of your puppy, the price could be higher or lower. In addition to the cost of the puppy itself, there are also a few other expenses to consider when bringing a Bernedoodle into your home. These include things like shots, spaying or neutering, and microchipping. All of these costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your budget when deciding whether or not a Bernedoodle is the right breed for you. When it comes to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Ohio, price is certainly something to consider. If you know any great Bernedoodle breeder who lives in Ohio, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Ohio? It really helps others who are looking for a Bernedoodle Puppies in Ohio. Conclusion for Bernedoodle Breeders in Ohio Hope you Like this post, so these are the best Bernedoodle Breeders in Ohio that we have added to our list. And we believe there are many but we will thoroughly review and close check the breeder before adding it to our list. If you are looking for the best Bernedoodle Breeders in Ohio, you can consider one of these breeders. Newfypoo Testimonials Sharing our love for Doodles with the world, one puppy at a time! Angel Breeze Puppies is located in the beautiful rolling hills of Coshocton County, Ohio, on 36 beautiful hilltop acres that include gorgeous views and wooded areas. With no children to care for, our four-legged creatures are like family to us. We are poodle people, so naturally we are in love with the doodle breeds as well — Bernedoodles, and Sheepadoodles. We are not breeding the Goldendoodles or Newfypoo puppies at this time. Breeding for quality puppies since , we now have puppies in 39 states and Canada. Our facility is climate controlled with doggy doors that allow access to the large fenced in yard. If you are happy with your puppy, tell us AND all your friends! If for some reason you are unhappy with your new puppy, please let us know! We truly care about our doodles and our customers, and sincerely appreciate and value your business. Have a blessed day. Start browsing our testimonial pages by clicking one of the buttons below. Bernedoodle Testimonials Sheepadoodle Testimonials Get Started We're sure that you're excited to start the process of bringing home your new companion. To join our waiting list, you'll need to send us your application, and also a small deposit. Visit our application page to get started today! Step 1: Find Your Puppy Whenever we have a new litter ready to adopt, we post each puppy here on our website as well as our Facebook page. Step 2: Reserve Your Puppy Once you find the perfect pup you can reserve it right here on our website. You can even choose a delivery option during the reservation if you would like us to provide delivery to your doorstep. This include vet checks, provideing all the paperwork your vet will need including vaccination records and out-of-state travel papers. Our goal is to make the whole process easy and smooth for you. Safe Delivery of Your Puppy We can deliver your puppy safe and sound right to your door anywhere in the continental US with our puppy delivery service! Your puppy will be delivered safely by puppy bus or car to make things convenient for you and your puppy. We offer hand delivery of your puppy right to your door anywhere in the continental US! Call or text us at What you get with every puppy! Our goal is not only to provide you with a high-quality puppy, but to give you everything you need to make the transition for your new puppy as smoothly as possible! We send along a favorite toy that your puppy loves. Puppy microchip To protect your puppy from being lost or stolen, your puppy will receive a custom microchip… Shot record We always have your puppy up to date with all shots and vet visits. Genetic Guarantee Each puppy comes with a 1 year genetic guarantee that covers any genetic issues that may occur. We love him so much. You can tell The Bernedoodles socialize their puppies from a young age. He loves… Courtney E I am beyond pleased with the baby we brought home. He is absolutely the sweetest and smartest puppy we have ever had! He has been sleeping in his kennel with no concerns since second day… Yana Zolotov Here is our sweet boy Henry Don now 5 months. He is so sweet and the best dog, so smart, and did amazing with potty training and kennel training. Elton was super communicative, and we had a seamless transition having our puppy delivered to us in Oregon. Enzo kudy is almost 8 months! He is a super dog! Now 20 poundsWe love him! Thanks again! By partnering with a best-in-class puppy nanny delivery service, we are able to deliver a happy and healthy Mini-Bernedoodle puppy directly to you. Let's start a conversation about finding the perfect furry friend. Available Mini Bernedoodle Puppies Sign up to be Notified of New Litters Please click the button below to sign up to ur notification list so you will be one of the first to know! Get Notifications We offer a 1-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. You can see the details on our Policies page. We are happy to provide references and share our experience and suggestions. We make it a point to place our puppies with families that are a good fit for everyone. If you have any questions, please Contact Us. Nationwide Shipping Available Customer Testimonials Hello Leroy, I just want to say thank you since my puppies have come to fill our family with love and of course we also give them a lot of love. Hello Mr. Raber, This is Vicki K. We love, love, love our puppies! Both girls are doing just wonderfully! We have taken training classes together and they are both very smart in addition to being so beautiful! We attract a lot of attention when we go places together! Bella weighs 28 pounds and she is such a joy and a blessing. She was incredibly easy to house train. Thank you so much for letting us be her forever home! I am attaching a few pictures of Bella. You and your family have a wonderful and blessed Christmas!! Hi Leroy. I have been meaning to do this for a while, but with holidays, etc… Sending along pics of Layla. The best temperament, loving…pretty much house trained herself via the doggie door. Not perfect, but close! When I have him out in public, people create such a fuss about him because they think he is so cute! Cassie H. Murfee is settling in nicely. He has learned to navigate our backyard steps, both up and down. He is a very vocal little guy-definitely makes his wants known, especially early in the morning. Thanks for allowing us to give him his forever home. Lois J. He has been easy to train and is incredibly social! Thank you. Joshua R.

These specially designed harnesses can help prevent pulling and teach your puppy good leash manners. However, they may also be very independent and pull on the leash, which can be challenging for new owners to control. One effective method for teaching your German Shepherd puppy not to pull on the leash is a no-pull harness. This article presents the 5 best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherd puppies that are designed for comfort, durability, and control. What is the best harness for a German Shepherd that pulls? Size: from S-XL Colors: black, green, blue, grey, orange, tan The rabbitgoo Tactical Harness is a comfortable and durable harness that is perfect for German Shepherd puppies. It is made of soft, but strong nylon material, and it features a padded chest strap to provide extra comfort for your puppy. The harness is adjustable, so it can be customized to fit your puppy's size, and it has a front D-ring attachment that helps to discourage pulling. It is made of sturdy nylon and has a padded chest strap for your puppy's enhanced comfort. In order to reduce pulling, the harness incorporates a front D-ring attachment. It also has a back leash attachment for everyday walking. It is made of high-quality nylon material and 3 different leash attachment points as well, allowing you to find what option is best for yourself and your pup to provide extra comfort. This feature also helps to discourage pulling. It features a durable nylon construction with a breathable mesh lining for added comfort. The harness is adjustable to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your dog and includes a sturdy handle on the back for better control and safety during walks or other activities. The harness is made from soft, breathable, and lightweight materials that are gentle on your dog's skin and won't cause any irritation or discomfort. The no-pull design of the harness distributes pressure evenly across your dog's chest, reducing pulling and choking, and allowing you to have more control over your dog's movements. Are no pull harnesses good for puppies? Yes, for puppies, no-pull collars can be an excellent solution, especially if they have a tendency to tug on their leash while being walked. By teaching your puppy to walk calmly on a leash and preventing dragging, using a no-pull harness can make walks more pleasurable for both you and your puppy. So it's crucial to pick a harness that's made especially for puppies and that fits them appropriately. Puppies grow quickly, so it's important to check that the harness fits properly and to make any necessary adjustments. Choose a harness that won't irritate your puppy's sensitive skin and is composed of soft, lightweight materials as well. As with any training tool, it's crucial to be patient with your puppy as it learns to walk on a leash and to apply positive reinforcement tactics. A no-pull harness can be a useful tool for teaching your puppy excellent leash manners and ensuring its safety on walks if it is used in combination with proper training and equipment. Summing up, One effective method for teaching your German Shepherd puppy not to pull on the leash is a no-pull harness. These picks presented in the article, are all excellent choices to take into account. No matter whatever harness you use, make sure you adhere to the fitting and usage guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Your German Shepherd puppy will quickly learn to walk gently on the leash with a little time and instruction. Related articles:. A proper-fitting harness with the correct features can provide the best fit, comfort, and control. Whether you have a small pup or a large adult, some harnesses can provide the safety and security your dog needs. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the best harnesses for German Shepherds so you can choose the one that works best for your pup. Several key factors must be considered when selecting the best harness for your German Shepherd. These include the type of harness, adjustability, leash attachment points, and comfort. The type of harness should be based on your dog's activity level and the type of walks you plan to take. A no-pull dog harness might be a good option if your dog is a puller. For more active dogs, a pull-style harness can help control their energy and provide structure during walks. Additionally, adjustable straps, leash attachment points, and breathable fabric are important features to look for when selecting a harness for your pup. Finally, comfort is key for any harness you choose, as you want to ensure your pup is comfortable and secure. How Many Types of Harnesses for German Shepherds Several types of harnesses are available for German Shepherds, each designed to cater to specific needs and preferences. Understanding these different types can help German Shepherd owners select the best harness for their furry companions. The most common harness types for German Shepherds include: 1. No-Pull Harnesses No-Pull Harnesses, often called range dog harnesses, are designed to reduce pulling and help with training, making them perfect dog harnesses for German Shepherds. Typically made of sturdy nylon or neoprene, these harnesses feature a loop around the dog's head and neck and another loop around the dog's chest. The loop at the neck tightens when the dog pulls, redirecting the German Shepherd dog's attention away from the pulling and towards the handler, ensuring maximum control. The benefits of no-pull harnesses include better control and improved training for German Shepherds and other breeds. However, drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility, difficulty properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs and potential pressure on the dog's throat. Nonetheless, the best harness for German Shepherd dogs will provide the ideal balance of control, comfort, and durability, making it an essential tool for dog handlers and German Shepherd owners. Front-Clip Harnesses These harnesses, commonly known as front-clip harnesses, have a clip in the front, allowing the handler to control the German Shepherd or other breeds from the front instead of from the back. They are a great option for dogs that pull, as the handler can easily redirect the dog's attention by gently tugging on the leash, making them an ideal choice for German Shepherd puppies and adults alike. The benefits of front-clip harnesses, such as improved training and better control, make them popular among the best harnesses for German Shepherds. However, drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility and difficulty in properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs. Overall, well-designed German Shepherd harnesses with a front leash attachment offer handlers an effective tool to manage their dogs, ensuring a more enjoyable and controlled walking experience for both the dog and its owner. Back-Clip Harnesses These harnesses have a clip on the back of the dog, allowing the handler to control the dog from the back. They are often used for show dogs and those that need additional control. The benefits of back-clip harnesses include better control and improved training. Drawbacks include a possible decrease in mobility and difficulty in properly fitting the harness for smaller dogs. Dual Clip Harnesses These harnesses have two clips, one in the front and one in the back. They are a great option for dogs that pull, as the handler can easily redirect the dog's attention by gently tugging on the leash. The benefits of dual clip harnesses include better control and improved training. Tactical Harnesses These harnesses are designed for military and law enforcement use and are typically made of heavy-duty nylon or canvas. They have a loop that goes around the dog's neck and several metal leash attachment points. Benefits of tactical harnesses include better control and improved training. Range Dog Harnesses These harnesses are designed for tracking and search and rescue work and are typically made of breathable air mesh. Benefits of range dog harnesses include better control and improved training. Key features to look for in the best harness for German Shepherds Material and Durability: Look for a harness made from a durable material that can withstand the strength and activity level of a German Shepherd. A range harness with breathable air mesh is ideal, as it keeps the dog cool and prevents overheating. Adjustability and Fit: The harness should have four adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. It should also be designed to fit the dog's body shape, with a snug fit around the dog's chest and throat without causing discomfort. Comfort and Padding: A good harness should have soft padding to prevent rubbing or chafing, especially during long walks or strenuous activity. This ensures maximum comfort for the dog while wearing the harness. Reflective Elements and Visibility: It is important to look for a harness with reflective elements, especially if you walk your dog in low-light conditions. This enhances visibility and ensures that motorists and other pedestrians can see your dog. Ease of Use and Maintenance: A good harness should be easy to put on and take off, with quick-release buckles allowing easy adjustment. It should also be easy to clean and maintain, with washable material that doesn't fade or lose its shape over time. Leash Attachment Points: A harness with two metal leash attachment points, including a front and back clip, provides maximum control and lets you choose the best position for your dog's leash. A front clip harness is especially useful for training purposes and discouraging pulling. Some examples of popular and highly rated harnesses for German Shepherds include the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness, which features a front clip and a range of sizes for a customizable fit, and the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness, which has a sturdy design and is highly durable. Top harness recommendations for German Shepherds 1. The harness features a stylish, sporty look with reflective stitching to ensure your dog's visibility in low-light conditions. Adjustable straps provide a snug, customized fit. While the no-pull design prevents strain on the dog's neck and spine. The harness's soft, padded material ensures maximum comfort, and the built-in handle allows for greater control during walks or training sessions. With Chai's Choice, you can trust that your German Shepherd will be safe, comfortable, and stylish. This heavy-duty harness features a military-inspired design with MOLLE webbing to attach gear, such as water bottles or treat pouches. The adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit, while the no-pull front clip discourages pulling behavior during walks. The harness is made from high-quality, water-resistant materials, and its reinforced stitching ensures long-lasting performance. The OneTigris Tactical Harness is the ultimate choice for those seeking a rugged and functional harness for their German Shepherd. Its no-pull design features a front and back clip, allowing you to attach the leash in the best position to control your dog's pulling tendencies. The harness is made from breathable, lightweight material to ensure your dog's comfort during extended walks or training sessions. With adjustable straps and a customizable fit, the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness ensures that your German Shepherd will feel secure and comfortable. At the same time, you enjoy a more relaxed walking experience. This robust and durable harness features a dual-clip design, allowing you to attach the leash to the front or back clip for optimal control. Its adjustable straps and easy-to-use buckles make it a breeze to find the perfect fit for your German Shepherd from puppyhood to adulthood. The harness is constructed with high-quality, breathable material, and its reflective strips ensure your dog's visibility during nighttime walks. Its no-pull design includes a front clip to discourage pulling and a back clip for more relaxed strolls. The harness is made from a soft, padded material to ensure your dog's comfort, while its sturdy construction guarantees long-lasting performance. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit, making it suitable for German Shepherd puppies and adults alike. With the Big Dog No-Pull Harness, you can confidently walk your German Shepherd, knowing you have the best harness to support its strength and energy. A harness benefits a German Shepherd by providing better control, reducing the risk of injury, and discouraging pulling. The best harness for a German Shepherd would be a no-pull harness, which helps to distribute pressure evenly across the dog's body and prevents choking. How can I tell which clip style to buy? There are two main clip styles: front-clip and dual-clip harnesses. Front-clip harnesses attach the leash to the chest, which helps to reduce pulling. Dual-clip harnesses offer both front and back attachment points, providing versatility in handling your dog. A dual-clip harness is recommended for a German Shepherd as it offers more control and adaptability. How do I size my German Shepherd for the right fit? To size your German Shepherd for the right harness fit, you must measure its girth the circumference around the widest part of its chest, just behind the front legs and its neck size. Use these measurements to select the appropriate size according to the manufacturer's sizing chart. Remember that each brand may have different sizing standards, so always consult the specific size chart. How can I tell if the harness is too tight or too loose? A properly fitted harness should be snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog's body. If you can fit over two fingers, the harness is too loose and may cause chafing or allow your dog to slip out. If you cannot fit two fingers, the harness is too tight and may cause discomfort or restrict movement. Do I need a handle on my harness? A handle on a German Shepherd harness can provide extra control and support, especially in crowded or challenging situations. While not necessary for every dog, a handle can be helpful for training, handling reactive dogs, or assisting with mobility issues. A tactical harness often includes a handle, which can benefit German Shepherds in various situations. Conclusion Selecting the best harness for your German Shepherd is crucial to ensure the perfect fit, comfort, and control during walks and training sessions. By considering factors such as clip style, size, and features like breathable air mesh lining, you can decide on the best harnesses for your German Shepherd puppy or adult dog. Investing in a high-quality harness is essential for your dog's comfort and safety and helps create a well-controlled and enjoyable walking experience for you and your furry friend. Embrace the journey with your German Shepherd and experience the benefits of a thoughtfully chosen harness that prioritizes their well-being and happiness. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. After all, you want the best for your canine companion. So, what do you need to consider to ensure you get the best dog harness for your German Shepherd? The easiest way to ensure comfort for your German Shepherd is to pick one made of the lightest material available. The material used on the interior of a harness is important for comfort too. We would also recommend picking a harness with a vest design since these tend to give the neck better protection by not tugging against it and relieving it of any pressure. After all, with their sheer size and strength, it can be a nightmare getting them back under your control when they escape from a harness. The material the clasps are made from is important too. You need a strong V or D-ring as a leash attachment for a strong and reliable connection. Proper Fit Before buying a harness, you need to know what size fits them. So use all the adjustable straps available, making it bigger or smaller until you get the proper fit. Ideally, it needs to be snug enough to keep them secure, but loose enough to be comfortable. A general rule of thumb is to be able to leave room for two fingers to fit between your dog and the harness. Budget A good-quality harness will inevitably cost a fair bit. Consider a harness a long-term investment. A no-pull harness is ideal for large breed dogs — the less they pull, the easier and more pleasant walks will be. Some German Shepherd harnesses that claim to be no-pull harnesses simply distribute pressure across the whole body. The front leash attachment point discourages your German Shepherd from pulling by redirecting them towards you whenever they tug at the leash. If they ever tend to pull, it might be best to pick a no-pull dog harness to train them not to pull. Regardless of which harness you pick though, you need to make sure that you get the right size and can adjust it to the best fit. But when it comes to walking, collars are never as effective or as safe as a harness. A harness can also help you as the dog owner control your German Shepherd and discourage them from pulling, making walks much more pleasant for both of you. Matt Twinley Matt spends his days working with Halie, his adorable cockapoo puppy, by his side. Having owned a variety of pets his whole life, Matt is passionate about animals and always feels most at home with a furry friend. He loves learning about animals and how to care for them. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. Each one of the items is made by hand, with love. Browse through our site and we are sure you will find the perfect custom leather dog collar, leash, harness or muzzle for your German Shepherd companion. If not, contact us and we can help you to find something truly special and unique for your dearest pet! German Shepherd Dogs are unique creatures who are one of the most easily recognised breeds in the world. Muscular by their appearance, alert with a noble and aloof attitude and smart by nature, they are favourite pets for plenty of families in the world. The dogs are agile, well balanced and carry themselves with pride. Their coats come in a range of colours. Due to our wide range of accessories and colors available black, brown, tan, white, pink , you can choose the most appropriate for your canine. The German Shepherd makes the best friends with the handler developing a very close bond with him. This dog is eager to learn and very responsive to training. The young pups, puppies and adult German Shepherds need some hours of daily entertaining after exercising. With our attractive toys and bite tugs, you can combine these 2 activities in one. Grooming should be done several times a week, with a vigorous brushing to remove any dead or loose hairs. If it is a longhaired German Shepherd dog, combing will also be necessary. Buy comfy brushes for your darling doggie! German Shepherd Collars Dog Collars impress with their variety. Collars can be used for helping to control your dog, can be personalised for identification and have also become popular as pet fashion accessories. Dog collars are commonly paired with a lead and used for dog walking. A dog collar can also be used for attaching ID tags and medical information too. Nappa Padded Leather Dog Collar with Braids Durable, tough and functional, these handcrafted dog collars have timeless appeal. Their classic, extraordinary or elegant look features durable metal buckle with D-ring. These qualities make collars ideal for everyday use. Metal Collars are produced by sophisticated techniques, consistent quality control, superb craftsmanship and the highest quality raw materials. Herm Sprenger German chain products are superior by no means. Will not tarnish, rust or break. The harness is a great tool to help the dog owner to take control over his dog in a kind and humane way. Nylon Dog Harness with Patches Harnesses for large dogs prevent your dog from pulling and reduce the risk of neck injuries. FDT harness spreads the load around the chest instead of concentrating it around the neck. This is very comfortable and safe for little pets. So you can choose appropriate gear for even a puppy or small dog. A harness, chosen and fitted properly, can be safer than a collar for your dog to wear when being walked. German Shepherd Muzzles Dog muzzles are considered a very helpful aid to a dog training program or just daily walking. When your German Shepherd is muzzled, it is safe to walk with him everywhere. Visiting public places, special occasions or planned vet visit will become a pleasure for both of you. Leather, metal or nylon, FDT muzzles are different and respond to many purposes. Special wire cages allow your pet drinking and eating. Basket muzzles provide free barking and panting but still prevent biting. So do leather mesh muzzles. Padded on Nose Leather Dog Muzzle If you wish to stop your canine barking, there is a nice choice of anti-barking gear. If you are a fan of exclusive accessories, here are studded dog muzzles. The common features of these tools are their strength, reliability, durability, comfort and high quality. German Shepherd Leads After purchasing a perfect leather dog collar, harness or muzzle, you will definitely need a leash to go with it. And not just an ordinary leash you can buy at our store for your German Shepherd, but exclusive handcrafted accessories. There are different types of leashes to choose from: plain, handcrafted, braided leather and nylon. Leather leashes come in black, brown and tan. Nylon are only black. Our leashes are available in different lengths and different widths - you are sure to find a leash that suits you and your dog! Genuine leather is super soft from the start and extremely durable. To pamper your German Shepherd, there is a nice opportunity for you. The best dog treats , safe and tasty; cool pet toys and bite dog tugs, great as for training as for playing; different kennel accessories to take care of your canine every day and many other interesting goods made with the dog in mind!

They have a short muzzle and have been bred to have an even and pleasant temperament which makes them a great companion for families with children. They are very playful in nature and even have some hilarious moments as they thrive for human attention and long, lasting friendships. French Bulldogs are typically less than 28 pounds. They're consistently in the top 10 of most popular registered dog breeds in America. Before you start asking where can I find a "French Bulldog for sale near me" you need to make sure it's the right breed for you. Here is everything you need to know about French Bulldogs, including their history, appearance, disposition, activity level, care needs, and cost. History French Bulldogs are the result of a cross between Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local ratter dogs in Paris, France, in the s. The breed was then exported to France, where it became known as the Bouledogue Francais. In , these dogs were brought back to England and they eventually made their way to America. Frenchies are now their own specific breed. Appearance When it comes to appearance, the number one thing people associate with them are their large, bat-like ears that are set high on their heads. French Bulldog puppies for sale typically have a stocky build with short legs, a large head, and a stubby tail. A French Bulldog puppy has a wrinkly appearance and a short nose and muzzle. French Bulldogs typically weigh between 20 and 28 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their incredibly gorgeous, short-haired and long-haired coats come in several colors and patterns, such as fawn, tan, brown, chocolate, cocoa, blue or dilute, cream, lilac, Isabella, black, brindle, piebald, and merle. Disposition If you're looking for a small, lovable companion dog, you can't go wrong with a Frenchie. These dogs are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and loving, easygoing personality, and they make great pets for families with children. They can be lively and hilarious. Searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me for sale" and finding the right pup will leave you a companion dog through and through. They love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite person and they make excellent lap dogs. They do well in homes with children and other pets, although they can be a bit boisterous at times. They don't bark much and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. French Bulldog puppies thrive in any environment from apartments to rural areas. Activity Level Looking for French Bulldogs for sale may have you wondering how much exercise a Frenchie requires to be happy and healthy. They are relatively inactive dogs and don't require a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy occasional walks and playtime. They are a great choice for busy people. You won't need a large yard for a Frenchie. Grooming Requirements French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming needs. They can have a short coat that is smooth and soft to the touch. Some long-haired French Bulldog puppies are called Fluffies. When it comes to grooming, French Bulldog puppies only need to be brushed occasionally, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. They are also moderate shedders, so you'll need to do some regular vacuuming to keep your home clean. Training Opting for a French Bulldog puppy for sale is the perfect choice if you're looking for a funny, even-tempered, social pup. Training them can be more challenging since they are so incredibly stubborn. These dogs have big personalities and a mind of their own. You can make training a French Bulldog puppy into a game and offer rewards like food or treats, praise, and playtime. However, with consistency and motivation, their people-pleasing personality will have them trained in no time. Cost If you're wondering, where can I find a "French Bulldog puppy for sale near me? French Bulldog puppies for sale can be higher priced due to their coat length, genetic makeup, and rare coat colors, including which genes they carry, such as the intensity coat color gene variant, dilution, merle, lilac, or Isabella. They also have some health problems that can be expensive to treat, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and respiratory issues, so be aware of these expenses in addition to regular veterinarian care. However, with proper care, a Frenchie can be a loving and loyal companion for years to come. When looking for Frenchies for sale, it's crucial to factor in the ongoing costs beyond just the initial price. Food, toys, veterinary care, vaccinations, and other ongoing expenses should be taken into consideration. For instance, if you're planning to travel with a fluffy friend, be ready to pay for a pet-friendly transportation service. However, for many owners, the joy and companionship that these beautiful pups provide are well worth the investment. If you're looking for French Bulldog puppies near me, be sure to research breeders carefully. A trustworthy breeder with Frenchie puppies for sale will provide documentation of vaccinations and other health records for their puppies. A good breeder will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the breed, including size, temperament, and grooming needs — so don't be afraid to ask away! Some unscrupulous breeders are known for selling sick or poorly-bred puppies, so it's important to find a reputable source like Pawrade offering happy, healthy French Bulldog puppies for sale through pre-screened breeders. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier Ready to find your perfect French Bulldog? Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a French Bulldog for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog, choose Pawrade for your French Bulldog for sale and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of 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. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. If you already decided to buy a French Bulldog puppy then you might find yourself in a dilemma on how to choose the best one. When I say the best one, I mean on choosing the puppy that is cleaned from potential health issues that are caused by genetics. What kind of dog are you buying actually? Who are the parents of that puppy? Is that a purebred Frenchie? What can you expect from such a dog in the future? These could be only some of the question you should ask yourself. Let me clear out something. How to find a reputable French Bulldog breeder? Luckily, today is much easier to find a reputable Frenchie breeder thanks to the internet and social networks. On the other hand, you can also ask your friends and the vet for advice. They rather produce 2 or 3 healthy French bulldog puppies than 6 or 7. The reasons for such a rule are many. Why is a French Bulldog puppy so expensive? We all know that the French bulldog breed is unique in many ways. Starting from their appearance to their diet and then to breeding, and mating. Due to their specifically shaped hips and short legs, Frenchie dams need to go through artificial insemination. As you can guess, it presents a certain cost for a breeder. Finding a good stud also presents a challenge. Both the stud and the bitch need to be completely healthy and need to have all the papers including the ones relating their health. When it comes to the pregnancy part, pregnant Frenchies require a high protein diet in order to provide the puppies with plenty of vitamins and to improve lactation. Talking about the time for a puppy delivery, they need to go through a C-section. Otherwise, if the delivery starts, it may turn out to be fatal both for mom and babies. Considering all these facts, French bulldog moms are very brave and go through many stages before they deliver the puppies. The number of puppies usually goes from one to three and for a breeder, the cost is always the same. No matter if a dam carries one or three puppies, he always spends the same amount of money on surgery, diet, and care. Who plays the main role? Unfortunately, gremlin moms can accidentally lay over some of the puppies and cause a tragedy. In other words, raising newborn puppies is a 24h job. The price much depends on a number of puppies in the litter, color of fur, and carried genes. It includes providing a Frenchie with the right nutrition, care, and training. Therefore, think smart! Unfortunately, not all dogs get the chance to live a healthy life free of health issues.

Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch. Less - The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium-sized dog of great strength, and possesser of fluid, agile movement. He is well balanced and proportioned, while appearing capable of performing without any breathing restrictions in either heat or in cold. Serious Faults: Excessive wrinkle, lack of pigment around eyes, nose or mouth. Olde English Bulldogges are docile, but capable and protective, fearless and athletic, fierce-looking, determined and courageous, bold and friendly around their family and friends, but fearless adversaries to anyone who threatens their masters or property. This breed likes to chew and should be supplied with plenty of toys and bones. This breed tends to drool and slobber. History In a breeding project began using a linebreeding scheme developed by Dr. Fechimer of Ohio State to rapidly achieve a purebred dog. They are, first and foremost, excellent companions, while also possessing the drive, temperament and agility to perform in numerous working venues as well as being service dogs. The revival of a healthy dog with the longevity to live well into its teens is a primary goal. How much do Olde English Bulldogge puppies for sale cost? The cost for an Olde English Bulldogge puppy for sale varies greatly and depends on many factors such as the breeders' location, reputation, litter size, lineage of the puppy, breed popularity supply and demand , training, socialization efforts, breed lines and much more. Before searching "Olde English Bulldogge puppies for sale near me", review their average cost below. This is the price you can expect to budget for an Olde English Bulldogge with papers but without breeding rights nor show quality. Expect to pay less for a Olde English Bulldogge puppy for sale without papers, however, we do not recommend buying a puppy without papers. Looking for an Olde English Bulldogge puppy with a superior lineage? Are you trying to determine how much an Olde English Bulldogge with breeding rights and papers would cost? You should expect to pay a premium for an Olde English Bulldogge puppy with breeding rights or even Olde English Bulldogges for sale advertised as show quality with papers. What can I expect to pay for a Olde English Bulldogge puppy near me? Annual cost of owning an Olde English Bulldogge puppy for sale When googling "Olde English Bulldogge puppy for sale near me" it is important to understand the associated costs of owning a dog. The annual cost or "upkeep" is often overlooked when determining an Olde English Bulldogges true ownership cost. Where did the Olde English Bulldogge originate? He began a project to develop such a dog in , using a livestock line breeding scheme developed by Nathan Fechimer. In the s, Leavitt worked closely with Sandisfield, Massachusetts, based Ben and Karen Campetti to develop this line further. By , Leavitt had stopped breeding, and his breeding stock was turned over to Working Dog Inc. Currently, this is not a recognized breed by the AKC. The American Kennel Club still recognized the Olde English Bulldogge as a crossbreed whose characteristics are too unpredictable from litter to litter. However, as more and more generations of these dogs are bred, the AKC may still recognize the breed in time. What does an Olde English Bulldogge look like? Source: mr. The rectangular, big-boned body has a broad, deep chest and straight muscled hind legs slightly longer than the forelegs. The head of the dog is large, sitting on prominent shoulders and a thick, powerful neck. The muzzle is square and wide, with an undershot or reverse scissor bite and a moderately curved jawbone. The almond-shaped eyes are set wide and low and brown with black eye rims and a defined furrow that runs between them. The ears are small, set high and wide, and can be tulip, button, or rose-shaped, although rose ears are preferred. Faults in physique include a narrow skull, domed forehead, excessive wrinkles, and a lack of pigmentation around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Size: Is an Olde English Bulldogge a large breed? The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium to large-sized breed with males reaching between 17 and 20 inches 43 and 51 cm in height at the withers, and females standing just slightly shorter at 16 to 19 inches 41 and 48 cm tall. Males of this dog breed weigh around 60 to 80 pounds 27 and 36 kg , while females weigh between 50 and 70 pounds 23 and 32 kg. What type of coat hair does Olde English Bulldogges have? The Olde English Bulldogge has a short, coarse coat of medium density. This coat can come in a variety of solid colors and brindle, with or without white patches. The striped brindle patterns can include red brindle, brown brindle, fawn brindle, or grey brindle. Patches of red and gray are also possible, while solid colors include black, white, red, or fawn. Coats that are wavy or have a fringe or curl are considered faults. Blue and black with any rust, mahogany, or tan trim are considered disqualifications, as is albinism. Temperament: Are Olde English Bulldogge good family dogs? Exhibiting a generally gentle and docile nature, these dogs are exceedingly loyal and will bend over backward to obey commands. They do, as a result, need frequent attention from their owners and family. If given this attention, they can be a happy family companion, which is good with children. However, they can tend to be a bit mouthy, carrying and chewing things around the house. Are Olde English Bulldogges aggressive? Confident and fearless, the Olde English Bulldogge makes a good watchdog. Unlike some other Bulldog breeds, they are friendly even to strangers but will make a fuss and a noise if they recognize a real threat, being a courageous and alert guardian. They can, however, be territorial with other large dogs, especially those of the same sex. These dogs are also quite headstrong, so they need a confident owner to dedicate time and effort to socialization and training. Owners will need to establish themselves as the pack leader, being positive but firm in their approach towards this independent breed. Unlike other Bulldogs, this breed can perform well in hot or cold climates without breathing problems. However, caution should be used in extreme heat. They also tend to be gassy and drool a lot, so new owners need to be aware! This intelligent dog has lots of energy and a keen sense of adventure. They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive tendencies from setting in. Their high energy levels and athleticism are best channeled into some sort of work exercise, while their impressive strength and stamina mean they are always up for playtime and chewing games. These dogs excel in many disciplines, such as obedience training and weight pulling. They may, however, prefer long, more leisurely even-paced daily walks than high-impact cross-country runs. They are naturally slow dogs and should not be encouraged to participate in activities that are hard-wearing on the joints, such as jumping, especially as puppies. At least two minute walks per day should be sufficient for this breed. Grooming: Do Olde English Bulldogge dogs shed? This breed has low grooming needs and generally good health. They shed a moderate amount. To keep them looking and feeling their best, these dogs need to be brushed once a week, while their ears should also be checked and cleaned weekly, even as a puppy. The one thing that this dog does require grooming is regular cleaning of the face, especially between the skin folds. This is necessary because they tend to slobber and drool an excessive amount. Feeding: Olde English Bulldogge food consumption Make sure to feed your Olde English Bulldogge a high-quality diet that is age-appropriate. This diet should be kept consistent, and human food should be avoided. These dogs need dense kibble to supply them with the fuel they need to support their muscular, energetic bodies. It is recommended to feed this breed 3. Dog food should be given as small meals throughout the day to prevent bloat and other digestive problems. What health problems do Olde English Bulldogges have? They have a life expectancy of around 12 years. Swiss breeders have even started crossing other Bulldog breeds with the Olde English Bulldogge to create the Continental Bulldog to relieve these breeds of some of their genetic health problems. There are still some common ailments that you need to be aware of with this breed. One of the big ones is hip dysplasia, although hip x-rays of breeding dogs can help see if pups will be predisposed to this condition. It is also advisable to get your Old English Bulldogge spayed or neutered when old enough to do so as this eliminates the chance of unwanted puppies and decreases the risk of certain cancers. Other health problems that can affect this breed include obesity, which can lead to joint problems, back pain, digestive issues, and heart disease. These dogs are also prone to developing skin allergies and entropion, an eye disease in which eyelashes rub against the cornea. Hypothyroidism is also a common condition amongst Bulldogges that can lead to dry skin, hair loss, skin disease, weight loss, and behavioral changes such as increased aggression or fearfulness. How much do Olde English Bulldogge puppies cost? To keep the breed healthy, artificial insemination and overbreeding are not encouraged or standard protocol. Olde English Bulldogge breeders If you are looking for an Olde English Bulldogge puppy, always look for a reputable breeder. Good breeders will follow the breed standards, striving to create healthy dogs that do not have any genetic disorders. You can try searching for your pup at a specific Olde English Bulldogge rescue or one that specializes in providing homes for a range of different Bulldog varieties. These dogs are of medium size, averaging around 50 pounds 23 kg , making them considerably lighter and smaller than the Olde English Bulldogge. English Bulldogs are characterized by their stocky bodies on short legs, blocky heads, and abundance of wrinkles. The English Bulldog has a short nose and is known as a brachycephalic breed with breathing issues. They are costly dogs because of their numerous health problems. However, English Bulldogs are loved not only for their looks but also for their loveable, loyal and protective personalities. They are, however, also known to be stubborn. American Bulldog vs. American Bulldogs also need much more training and socialization than the Olde English Bulldogge and are thus only recommended for experienced owners. Who should get an Olde English Bulldogge? They have fewer health issues than other Bulldog breeds, a good, friendly temperament, and an athletic, hardy physique. They make excellent watchdogs and family pets for owners that can give them the exercise, training, and socialization they need. Do you have an Olde English Bulldogge at home? Let us know in the comments below. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. On the other hand, the English Bulldog is an AKC-recognized, purebred dog breed and also one of the most popular breeds around the world. What is an Olde English Bulldog? They are also involved with judging, showing, training, etc. If you visit their websites, you will find that they clearly mention that they do not keep English Bulldogs. The price of your Old English Bulldog puppy will depend mainly on the efforts the breeders have put in. Good breeders breed selectively and their hard work and dedication can be seen in their pups. They also vaccinate and deworm all their dogs. Their breeding stock is cleared for eyes, joints, and heart-related genetic issues. Their pups also come with a health guarantee and a lifetime temperament guarantee. Good breeders will never breed for aggressive tendencies. Any Olde English Bulldog that shows aggression is a result of poor breeding. However, colors like merle, lilac, blue, blue tri, chocolate, and chocolate tri are rare and usually cost more. Many breeders socialize their puppies with kids, other dogs, and even cats. This makes them confident and ready to go to their permanent homes. Some puppies are shipped with a pet airplane nanny and that can cost higher. The reasons why breeders charge purebred dog breed prices for this dog are: Popularity The OEB dog breed is in great demand because of its stocky and aggressive appearance. Many people want aggressive-looking dogs to guard their properties. Old English bullies make excellent watchdogs. They are also fiercely loyal and guard their humans and territory to the best of their abilities. Well-bred OEBs also make great housepets and loyal companions to adults. Rarity Although dog fanciers are striving hard to ensure the well-being of this designer dog, they are still quite rare. Also, there is no canine registry tracking these dogs other than the IOEBA- therefore, finding reputed breeders nearby could be tricky. The few breeders who breed OEBs often have to ship their pups over long distances. This increases the cost of the puppy greatly. Certain colors like merle, lilac merle, or tri merle can cost higher. What is the rarest color of Olde English Bulldogge? The rarest color of Olde English Bulldogs is merle. You could also have patterns in it like tri merle, lilac merle, etc. Are Old English Bulldogs cuddly? Well-bred Old English Bulldogs are known to be affectionate, loving, and loyal companion dogs without any aggression. They make cuddly pets and great family dogs. Dog Pricing Welcome to Dog Pricing, your comprehensive source for all things canine! As the team behind this thriving hub, we're dedicated to researching and presenting the best and most reliable information to dog lovers everywhere. Our mission is simple: to help you become the best dog owner you can be. Related Articles Bull Terrier , Breed Prices Before introducing a spirited and affectionate canine companion to your household, one must be aware of the financial commitments of pet ownership. This guide delves into the costs linked with owning the charismatic and vivacious Bull Terrier. Below, you'll find a

How to accept discipline and more besides So taking a puppy any earlier is wrong and detrimental to their development. We follow many of the guidelines set forth by a program called Puppy Culture. Know that once you have your puppy, everything you do, everything they see, every good experience, bad experience, taste, smell, sight, reward and punishment trains them in some way. All of these experiences are granted to them by you and they will be looking to you for guidance through these experiences. Puppies are exactly like children. They take their cues from you to learn where they can go, where they should not, what they should be scared of, what they should not, what they can play with, what they can not…and on and on. You may as well take advantage of this innocence, when they have no idea of what life is with no preconceived ideas, no habits formed or needing to be broken, to start training them to fit into the life that they will lead with the skills that they will need. I believe you should start to train your Labrador puppy as soon as you get them home, from 8 weeks of age. But I stress this important point, to make it fun! You have to think of a puppy as a very young child. A puppy is just as impulsive, has just as little self-control and just as short an attention span. You need to think the same with a puppy. They are just like a child. A puppy will eat what they like, when they like. Go where they can, when they can. And they will not be able to listen to and act on your every word. They will have a very short attention span and no self-control. It would be totally unfair. While watching TV train your puppy during the commercial breaks. Commercial breaks are usually about minutes long perfect time for training your pup! This means going very slowly and not expecting too much. Having many small wins is very encouraging. Just do very gentle training exercises for short periods of time. Most people with a Labrador as a family pet will think of training as obedience commands and performing tricks. But you can train them basic things such as: Sit Stay for mere seconds…with no distractions! Keep it easy! Roll over. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. And yet, many new owners get so caught up in the cuteness of these bundles of fur that they disregard any training until the dog is much older. Sometimes new owners are just overwhelmed with taking care of their new puppy. Others lack the information needed to make good decisions regarding training for their new family member. Unfortunately, though, some bad behaviors or missed socialization and exposure opportunities are difficult to address with an older dog. So, if your goal is for you new retriever to eventually grow into an excellent duck dog, here is a guide to raising your Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. Picking up the puppy The journey with your new retriever pup starts the day you pick him or her up from the breeder. Hopefully you have done your homework and selected a litter of puppies with parents who have proven trainability. If you have a pick from the litter, you will want to take some time to observe the puppies. Even so, most trainers will tell you that picking a puppy is a complete crapshoot, meaning there really is no way to know how good the dog will be while looking at them as a puppy. Genetics and a proven pedigree are the best way to stack the odds in your favor from the start. Beyond that, if you have a good breeder, they are the next best source for information regarding the pups. A good breeder will give you a recommendation based on what you plan to use the pup for and your family situation. Check out this post on searching for a great retriever puppy and what to look for in breeders. If possible, bring someone with you to pick up the puppy. While you can put a puppy in a crate to transport them home, leaving the litter is a traumatic time for most puppies. Being held on the way home is a good way to start bonding with the puppy. Learn what to buy for your new Lab puppy. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. The first week raising your Labrador Retriever puppy There is very little training needed the first week you have your puppy home. Use this time to hold, pet and play with your new puppy. Bonding with the puppy is important and this is a good time to do that. You will likely be exhausted this week from getting up multiple times each night to let your puppy outside. Learn more in What should I do the first week with my new Lab puppy? Socialization is key for retriever gun dog puppies While socialization is important for all dogs, it is essential for retriever puppies destined to hunt. Socialization is the act of putting your retriever puppy in new situations and allowing the puppy to figure it out. Your puppy may handle new situations well, or she might show timid or frightened behaviors. This is not the time to coddle your future gun dog. Dogs are very aware of their owners and if you act or acknowledge your puppies fear, they will likely think you are scared too. This is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve with socialization. We want puppies to learn to adjust quickly to new situations. We want them to learn how to figure out new conditions and handle them without fear or hesitation. Puppies need to be socialized to people also. Let your puppy interact with people of all ages, including children. In addition, it can be helpful if they are also socialized to other dogs and cats. And yet we see too many retrievers with little to no retrieving desire. Sometimes this is just the result of bad breeding, but it can also be the result of poor introduction to retrieving or using the wrong items for retrieving. Many people like to play fetch with their puppy using a ball or Frisbee. But if your puppy is destined to be a hunting partner, this is going to make some retrieving problems down the line. We may use a ball to encourage a very young week old puppy to retrieve, IF, and only IF, the puppy is struggling with retrieving desire. Otherwise, we strongly discourage ongoing use of these items. Gun dogs and duck dogs are working dogs and they need to retrieve birds that fall to the ground. The rolling action of the ball or frisbee will create an excitement and energy that will make retrieving birds seem boring. We have found that dogs that have only retrieved balls or Frisbee often struggle when they need to retrieve a bumper or bird. We have an entire post on this subject, see How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Expose your Labrador puppy to common hunting elements A retriever that is going to be expected to hunt, should be introduced to hunting equipment and elements at an early age. Hills and mounds, flat areas and shallow divots are terrain that a hunting retriever should learn to traverse with ease. In addition to land, different water is also an important factor. Lakes are good, but you should also try to expose your puppy to dirty water. Water with lily pads, cat tails and algae are all things a duck dog will need to handle to work. Hunting equipment Labrador retriever puppies need to learn all about the equipment you use when hunting. Doing this when they are young and continuing the exposure as they grow, will make this second nature to them. Boats and blinds If you hunt out of a boat or blind, introduce your puppy to it. For boats, start on land. Get your puppy comfortable getting in and out of the boat. Throw retrieves from the boat. Similarly, introduce your dog to the blind as a good thing. If you are using a dog blind or hut, make sure your spend lots of time getting your pup comfortable going into and out of it. Make it a fun place to go to get retrieves. Duck or goose decoys If you will use decoys when hunting, take time to expose your puppy to them. Many times over the next few months, put some out on your lawn and let your puppy learn what they are. Eventually, move them to water and again allow your pup to explore them. Throw retrieves through them and teach the dog that he can ignore the decoys. Guns This is one of the most important things that you need to exposure your new puppy to. And it really needs to be done right. The last thing you want to do is create a gun-shy dog. That is very difficult to fix and the dog may never be able to hunt if the damage is too deep. Learn more about how to do this correctly in Introduction to gunfire. Basic obedience for your gun dog puppy Your puppy is ready to learn obedience early on, and you will find that if you start when they are only a couple months old, they will learn quicker and be more obedient as they age. This will make a huge difference as they get older. Teaching HERE to young pups will require a long lead. Squat down a few feet from your puppy and say HERE as you gently pull them to you. Praise is essential with young pups, but the praise should be given when the puppy does something right. For instance, you say SIT and push his bottom down. You can use treats to teach your puppy obedience and reward him or her for obeying commands. But treats should only be used for very young puppies under 4 months. Many Labs will soon learn to only obey when given a treat, that is not the lesson you want your dog to learn. It can be difficult to discipline a cute little puppy, but it is essential. Here at Otter Tail Kennels, we get more than our share of calls from people whose puppies are out of control and causing problems in the home. The pups are causing friction in the family relationships. Small issues often become much larger issues if they remain uncorrected. If you see your puppy doing something wrong, you need to take action to let him know that the behavior is not acceptable. Final thoughts on raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog The time to start training your Labrador puppy to be a duck or gun dog is now. Right away. Even if you plan to send your retriever puppy to a professional trainer in the future, you still want to take the time to socialize, expose, teach and discipline your dog now. Each week your puppy is growing and learning, and those first five months are the perfect time to get him or her off on the right foot. The socialization, exposure, and obedience are all steppingstones they need to advance in their role as a hunting partner. Do not skimp or disregard this time. You can give your ultimate duck dog some essential skills — the ability to adjust to every and all situations with ease. Nothing could be more important. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. Raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. Print When to start training your retriever to hunt As a professional retriever trainer, I am often fielding calls from people who need advice regarding dog training. One question that I hear the most is: At what age should I start training my retriever puppy to hunt? My answer is always the same — start now! Everything you do with your puppy from the time you pick him or her up from the breeder is technically training. Who can I jump on or step on? Is it okay to steal food off the table or counter? What things in the house are okay to chew and which are not? Even this most basic training can substantially impact the ability for your retriever puppy to transition into a hunting machine. What age to start training retriever as gun dog or duck dog? There is no specific age that you should start training your dog for bird hunting. These traits will determine how fast or slow you are able to progress through hunting training. But the good news is, you can help shape and develop these traits in your new puppy! During this time, and ongoing through that first year, you can and should do some essential training. And the more socialization you do, the better. How can I socialize my hunting dog? Socialization is simply the process of introducing your puppy or young dog to new things and teaching him or her how to adjust quickly to changing circumstances. As a hunting dog, your retriever is required to adjust quickly to new locations, new terrain, and new hunting situations. You will expect your dog to hunt well and consistently regardless of the day, the weather conditions, or the type of bird you are hunting. To do this, your dog must be very well socialized. Like young people, young dogs are eager and ready to learn new things. So, while you can socialize an older dog, it is much more difficult. Here are some suggestions on how to socialize your hunting dog: Take your dog to new places. Expose your dog to different terrain, weeds, or cover. Expose your dog to water — both dirty weedy and clean. Put your dog in new situations. Walk your dog in the rain and snow. Attend family gatherings where your dog will be exposed to new people, young and old. Walk your dog in the country or on a dirt path, through a weedy field, anywhere there will be many new scents. Introduce your dog to new people, noises, and equipment. Have your dog sit in a boat or hunting blind with you. No shooting! We are just looking for exposure! Expose your dog to noise from cars, trucks, ATVs and other loud noise. These are just some ideas. Every new experience will help your dog learn and adjust. The importance of socialization cannot be understated. Learn more about preparing your dog to be a hunting dog in this post. If you want your dog to be well-adjusted and quick to adapt, socialization is how you do that. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Housebreaking and crate training Even if your dog is going to be an outside dog, I highly recommend house breaking your hunting dog. Because you will never regret having a clean dog! House broken dogs tend to keep their kennels and runs clean because they have learned that there is a right place to empty go to the bathroom and a wrong place. Outdoor dogs do not always learn this lesson. Crate training is also an essential step for preparing your dog for hunting and home life. I know some people think using crates is cruel, but I wholeheartedly disagree. Dogs are den animals. They like small, confined spaces because these spaces make them feel secure and protected. Introduced your dog to a crate when he is brought home from the breeder. Our dogs often go into their crates to sleep on their own. We leave the crate door open during the day and they willingly go into the crate to sleep or just have some time alone. Manners Teaching a dog manners while they are young is critical. By setting up rules and boundaries, you will be teaching your dog to handle pressure, a trait that is vital to teaching a dog to hunt. Some behaviors are cute when a dog is a puppy, but these same behaviors can quickly become problematic as the dog grows. Learn more about these behaviors in this post. Use the OFF command with a correction to keep your dog from jumping on you. Yes, even when they are only months old. In fact, especially then. If your puppy learns at this young age that jumping on you or others is not acceptable, you are less likely to have a jumping problem as the dog ages. A few other ways to teach good manners include making your pup SIT before he is allowed to eat and SIT before you allow him to go through the door to outside. Your corrections do not need to be harsh, but they do need to be firm and consistent. Getting used to a collar will take some time, that is okay. This is also a good time to get your pup used to a leash. Every once in a while, pick up the leash and hold on to it. Each dog will react differently to this type of pressure. Some may throw themselves on the ground in a full-blown temper tantrum, others will think nothing of it. This would be the worst thing you could do. Rather, just remain calm and hold or step on the leash until the dog settles down. Once they settle down, let go of the leash and repeat this exercise often so that your dog learns to handle pressure and not throw a fit. There is a correct process of working on these first retrieves, and it is important that you follow it. For complete details on how to do this properly, check out this post. Lastly, you should remember that your puppy is growing, so do not do too much running or exercise during these first two months or you could damage or injure your pups growing bones and muscles. After socialization, the next most important trait we look for in hunting dogs is high prey drive or desire. High prey drive is not something you can create in your dog. It is something that is handed down genetically through the pedigree. But there are things you can do, to help develop the drive and desire provided the dog already has a genetic inclination in this area. Many high-quality breeders will introduce the pups to a pigeon or bird wing while they are still in the litter. Even if this is the case, you will still want to do a live bird introduction with your pup. We will discuss this more in the next section. Hunting dog training age months You should start obedience training for SIT and HERE when your pup is around 3 months old, but around the 5—6-month age, your dog is ready to learn formal obedience. Obedience is always the first step. All our programs here at Otter Tail Kennels begin with obedience. In my opinion, a dog can never have too much obedience training. It is the foundation on which all other training will rest. Even older dogs can benefit from obedience tune up drills. Teach these commands on-lead, with a chain collar, and in short sessions minutes each day. Taking your dog for a short walk and stopping frequently to make him or her SIT is a great way to get obedience work in each day. Doing obedience work with a flat collar will create more problems than it will help. Your dog needs to learn how to handle the pressure of a chain collar and you will get much better heeling results. Introductions to hunting equipment and situations In addition to obedience, if you have not already, now is the time to start introducing your dog to various hunting equipment and situations. If the weather is appropriate, this is the best age to introduce your dog to water. Make sure that you find a shallow area and allow the dog to enter on his own terms. You can encourage him or her to get into the water using a rubber bumper or other toy. You should also take time to introduce your dog to a hunting boat, a hunting blind, decoys and live and dead birds as we discussed previously. Lastly, you can start working on gun introduction at this time. Gun introduction MUST be done slowly and correctly. The last thing you want is a gun-shy dog. For more information on how to properly introduce your dog to gunfire, check out this post. If your dog is not firm on the HERE command, make sure you do all retrieving on a long check cord. We do not want the pup to get away with not returning to us with the bumper. That is a bad habit that we do not want to start. With a long check cord, you can gently direct the pup back to your side. Do not get carried away throwing retrieves with your young dog. Too many people love to play fetch with their dog so much that they throw a bumper dozens of times — resulting in the dog getting exhausted or bored with the game. This can cause other issues to pop up. Limit the amount of retrieves you do each session to three or four and work instead for quality — a good retrieve and a good delivery. This is where the real hunting training begins. This is also the age, if you are considering having a professional train your dog that you would want to make that decision. What age to send my dog to a professional trainer? If you are considering sending your dog to a professional trainer for retriever training, generally trainers accept the dog any time after the adult teeth have come in. Formal training ideally should begin around the 6—7-month age, but, generally, any time under 2 years is considered acceptable. Preparing your dog for hunting Up until now, the training has been generic — the training focused on making your pup a good citizen and family dog. But at this age it is time to dig into preparing your dog for his future hunting career. It is also at this age that many retriever owners get anxious, or impatient, and decide they can jump right into actual hunting. Training beyond obedience will depend largely on what you plan to use your dog for. Moving to e-collar pressure Hopefully, you have been doing the obedience work with a chain collar as previously recommended. If you have, your dog should be obedient on-lead and now its time to start working with an electronic collar. If you are using an electronic collar, make sure you take time to properly collar condition your dog. Not sure how to do this? We have a series of posts on this topic. If your need help understanding electronic collars and training with them, check out this post. Finish up hunting equipment introductions If you have not completed the introductions suggested in the 5—6-month-old training, now is the time to work on that. Gunshot exposure should be ongoing during these months, but make sure that you are doing this correctly. This is one area that can quickly spell disaster if it is done incorrectly. Learn how to do it correctly here. Do I have to force fetch my retriever? I am constantly getting emails from people who have dogs that recently stopped retrieving. They wonder what they can do to fix this problem, and I will admit it frustrates me. I know that if they were following a proven, reliable training plan for their dog, the dog would never have gotten to this point. Force fetch is a controversial topic, but as a retriever trainer for over 30 years I can attest to the importance of the process. Learn more about force fetch in this post. Lastly, force fetch will clean up mouth and delivery problems you might be having with your dog. If your dog is dropping the bumper on return and not delivering it to hand, force fetch will fix that problem. Retrieving with a 7—month-old dog Around age months, your retriever should be retrieving consistently and bringing the bumper back to you. Now is the time to really put some energy and focus into setting up marking scenarios for your hunting dog. There are limits to how far you can throw a bumper and it is rare that a bird would approach you from your back and fly directly in front of you. By using another thrower, you can set up marking scenarios that more closely represent what your dog might see while hunting. Vary the distance and direction of the marks, and preferably take time to learn about marking drills and how they can help your retriever. Now is also the time to set up simulated hunting scenarios. Think about how you hunt, and then do marks with your dog that mimic that. If you hunt from a boat, incorporate that. Or if you hunt from a blind, or sitting on a bucket, add those elements to your training. Try to make the scenarios as close to reality as you can. Specific training for bird dogs During age months is also the time to start working on field and hunting blind manners. If you are strictly an upland hunter, this may mean working hard on control and keeping the dog quartering close to you while walking through a field. It may also include enforcing a HERE command under exciting and difficult conditions so that your dog does not keep chasing after a bird that you missed shooting. For waterfowl and duck dogs, blind manners could include working on noise issues so that you can hunt without your dog whining or barking. It can also mean just getting your dog to sit still for long periods of time in the boat or blind. When can I take my dog to the field? At this age, I understand if you are anxious to get your dog out in the field or blind hunting. And if you have been following these guidelines, you are getting close. You will notice I call it on-the-job-training and not hunting. Tips for that first hunt No matter how many simulated hunts you do, simulated hunts cannot exactly duplicate the experience of actual hunting. So, you need to make sure that your first hunts will produce quick success for your dog. If you do this, you will be on the right road to helping your dog develop into a super hunting machine. Learn more about how to introduce those first few hunts and why this is so important. Reasons to skip that first season While I understand being anxious to get your pup hunting, I cannot overstate the importance of waiting until your dogs training is at the point that your first hunt will likely be successful. If your dog is not ready, if you have skipped some training steps and are seeing issues like startling at gunshot, or not picking up or delivering birds, your dog is not ready to hunt and you would be wise to back up and hold off until your dog is ready. Here are a couple other reasons to skip that first season if your dog is not ready. Bad habits are often extremely hard to break if they have been allowed to go on for any time. You very well may have to go back to earlier training to fix issues that arose due to hunting a dog that was not ready. Risking bad experiences This one is even more important. You cannot always control the experiences your dog runs into while hunting. What if your inexperienced dog gets bitten by a goose? Or, severely startled by several guns going off all at once? These are only a couple examples of bad experiences that can ruin or severely delay your dogs hunting education. If your dog is not quite ready, you are better to wait. Keep training, keep socializing, keep exposing your dog to new situations, but make sure that the first hunts you go on are controlled and produce easy success and learning for your dog. What if I am not starting with a puppy? Older dogs can be taught hunting too. But the key is to start training an older dog as if they are a week-old puppy. Skipping steps is how you get a dog that is afraid of gunshots or even birds. And those are very difficult problems to address without the help of a professional. For more training tips and education, visit our education section of our website. Final thoughts on what age to start training a puppy to hunt Every day your retriever is learning. Retrievers are smart, resourceful dogs. They bring such joy to our lives. But they are like children, they need direction, rules and boundaries. Take time to train your retriever. Follow a complete training program and you will greatly increase your odds of success. If you are looking for a professional retriever trainer with proven hunting and hunt test programs, check out our training programs or give us a call .We also do one-on-one training to guide owners who want to do the training themselves. Until next time, happy retrieving. What age should you start training a puppy to hunt? You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. What is the best age to start training a Lab puppy to work? This guide will answer all of your questions regarding when to start training a Lab puppy. It will combine my personal experience with that of other experts in the field, along with information from behavioral research, to guide you with your decision of when to start training a Labrador puppy of your own. Congratulations on your fluffy new bundle of joy. Labs gained their well-deserved place among favorite breeds for so many reasons. Enthusiastic companions, fast learners, loyal and brave, Labrador Retrievers are fantastic pets. How Puppies Learn In the natural canine world, mother dogs teach their pups everything they need to know about their world, survival and living together happily in various stages of development. Most professional trainers try to mimic the natural canine learning process in their puppy training phases. In fact, we only recommend positive training techniques. Rewards can include food, special treats, praise and petting, playing with a favorite toy, etc. Basic Training Concepts Every Puppy Should Learn The first two components of your puppy training should be thorough socialization and potty training. Here are a few tips with each of those early behaviors. Socialization actually refers to exposure to a wide range of situations and individuals. This goes for being around lots of different people, including children. While your pup is still impressionable and inquisitive, introduce her to friends, neighbors and strangers. Introduce her to children with careful instructions to stay quiet, move slowly and pet gently. They could end up grabbing her tightly, and scaring or hurting her. Being handled by other people will be very key in socializing your puppy. Your dog should be properly socialized to gentle and careful handling, teeth brushing, touching ears and paws and tail. This will make trips to the vet and groomer easier. Make sure to also check out our guide to taking puppies outside for more help with socialization. Crate Training for Dogs Crate training is the process of teaching your dog to love spending time secure in their cosy den. Some puppies basically crate train themselves, loving their crate from day one. Others need a more gradual introduction to this safe space. The trick is to not turn crating into a punishment , but instead make it a wonderful place to have a short undisturbed rest. Most puppies will go through a play biting phase, so if you need help training your lab not to nip, you can follow this guide. It will be important for your dog to sit quietly in the field or duck stand. Self-control should be incorporated throughout daily routines and all training phases. Finally, learning how to walk politely on a leash in public is important. In addition to the behaviors listed above, there are a few extra considerations for training a gundog. As early as 8 weeks old, professional gundog trainers begin introducing lab puppies to various scenarios. The core behavioral requirements for a gundog that can be started in puppies this young are: Thorough socialization and desensitization to various environments and sounds. Be sure to start with quieter sounds and build to louder sounds, especially when introducing the sound of gunfire, to avoid creating a frantic dog. Calmness and steadiness amidst distraction. The earliest introduction to this is teaching your pup to sit for his meals, which can be captured as early as six weeks. There are, however, two important considerations to your Lab puppy training. Before their leg bones are fully developed, Labs can develop joint issues if they run too hard and long. Second, resist the urge to play fetch and retrieve every day with your Lab puppy. They overdo it with tossing a ball or dummy to try to encourage the pup to retrieve. The retrieving instinct typically kicks in quite strong around puberty between five to 10 months. Instead, we suggest focusing on sit, stay and waiting quietly with self control. Those are the more difficult behaviors for a lab to learn once adolescent hormones kick in. Start with socialization and household manners as early as 8 weeks old. Then move to sit, stay, steadiness training, and walking on a leash between 12 and 18 weeks. Training is an ongoing life skill, rather than something you do once and consider done. For a hunting Lab, adding various distractions and practicing perfect recall in different environments will be the two biggest training techniques to work on throughout life. Enjoy your training! January 21, 0 comment Training Labrador of different ages and stages: Do you have questions about how to train your Labrador puppy or when to begin training your puppy? This article will provide you with an overview of what your Lab puppy is capable of learning at certain months. Many tricks are easily learned by Labrador retrievers, which are well known for being smart dogs. Labrador owners may find themselves getting carried away with puppy training because they are generally so eager to please. However, make sure you know what your Lab can and cannot handle learning at specific ages and stages of their lives to ensure you do not overwhelm or underwhelm them. While no two trainers will ever agree exactly on what the stages of training these little Labradors are, an approximate Labrador puppy training schedule will give you a general idea of what to expect from the pup at each stage. From sleeping and drinking milk to opening their eyes and learning how to walk, they will be occupied with learning the basics of life at this stage. As a result, you do not have to worry too much about puppy training since they are still learning about the world. Instead, just enjoy spending time with them. Pet them or give them a treat when they reach you, and then repeat. When there is a distraction, your dog can be taught to come to you even when he is distracted. Offer them treats and rewards to encourage them to ignore other distractions. Moreover, your Labrador needs to learn how to socialize with other people and dogs every day. You can do this inside and outside the house. During this stage, your puppy may want to bite everything in sight, so you have to discourage this behavior. Additionally, you can teach them how to take food from your hand without biting you or snatching it from your hand. Labrador retriever puppies are like young children in that they are impulsive, have little self-control, and have a short attention span. As a result, you must be patient and let them be sometimes during this stage of their puppyhood. Clickers are a great tool for teaching him this. You should also continue to train him to remember things. The socialization skills of children should be maintained at an early age. You need to discourage puppies from biting for a while, as they are still learning to control their urges. It is also possible to teach your Lab pup to use their nose to touch your hand. This training cue is important because it teaches your Lab that an outstretched hand is not a threat. It is important to train your Labrador pup at an early age to do to prevent behavioral problems from escalating. In addition to retrieving, you can also begin teaching your Labrador retriever this skill at this stage. Give them an item that they can chase and retrieve for you. If you walk your Labrador retriever more often, and if they understand when their bathroom schedules are, you may notice fewer accidents at home. During this time, your Labrador retriever may also be at the peak of wanting to bite everything, so be firm and consistent when training. Your Lab can also be trained to enter their basket or bed. Once they enter the basket, you can reward their obedience by giving them the treat. The simple act of patting your Labrador on the head will be enough to reward him once he has mastered the trick. Additionally, you can start teaching them some of the classic tricks. Introduce them to three different positions, such as sitting, standing, and lying down. You should only teach one trick at a time to your Lab pup, however. Make sure they master one before progressing to another. It is important to repeat each newly learned trick each day and to take a day off before teaching the next one. By doing so, you can reinforce the lesson you were trying to teach them. Do not forget to remind them about the basic tricks that they learned e. Your 4-month-old Labrador puppy should also be potty trained by now. However, you should still be patient with your pup since accidents may still happen, especially if your Lab has been cooped up indoors for too long. You can also teach your Labrador puppy how to heel for a short duration. Once you feel confident that they are good at heeling on command, try to add a few distractions to challenge them. Make sure the distractions are mild. If necessary, you can also incorporate some distractions into the training. Ensure that your dog listens to you and does not pay attention to the distractions around them, so be careful not to shock them with distractions. Introducing distractions gradually will help. For example, if you are teaching them to sit and stay, you can use mealtime as a practice time. Tell them to sit and stay while you slowly place their food bowl down. When your Labrador retriever is six or seven months old, it is too big, so it should begin learning the basics of training and manners. It should also learn more complex behaviors over time. You can teach your Labrador puppy to heel for longer distances past all sorts of distractions, for instance. Besides teaching them to sit and stay, you can also teach them to do it while other dogs are playing nearby. Your Own Labrador Puppy Training Labrador puppy owners and trainers hold differing opinions about when to begin training a Labrador puppy. Bear in mind, however, that there is no right or wrong answer here since it ultimately depends on you and your little Labrador. Train both you and your puppy at a pace that your Lab is comfortable with, and keep the training fun. In summary Patience and consistency are the keys to training your Labrador puppy. As you follow the guide above, you should understand that your puppy is like a child. It will take them some time to get used to it, but once they do, it will be worth the wait! What is the best age to train a Labrador? Puppy training should start very early—as early as 8 weeks old. If you wait until your dog is older, say 6 months old, you might regret it. What age are Lab puppies the naughtiest? The chances are your dog has a few naughty behaviors. Most dogs pick up a few bad habits along the way, especially if their owners are inexperienced. The last two tend to feature most strongly in the first eighteen months. But the first two can occur in Labradors of any age.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. I was dumped, along with my friend, in my foster mom's neighborhood, in the dark during a thunderstorm. I was left to wander on my own and fend for myself. It was absolutely terrifying and I didn't trust that people were trying to help me. After about 3 weeks of being homeless and starving on the streets, ACS finally caught up to me and I ended up at the shelter. But thank goodness my foster mom saw that I was at ACS and after getting spayed and current on all my vaccinations, she came and got me! Now that I know I am safe and my belly is full, I know that I can trust the good humans again and I get to show my true, silly, fun-loving personality. There can never be too much snuggling as far as I'm concerned. I love to sniff around in the backyard but I don't love the water. When my foster mom waters the plants, I run back inside, away from that scary hose! I love to play tug of war with my rope toys and am learning to chase and bring back the ball. I am crate trained and sleep like an angel through the night. I mostly go potty outside, but because I was a street dog and used to going wherever I was, I have had the very rare accident inside, but only a handful of times. And my foster family is helping me remember that I'm only supposed to go outside so I should be an ace at that in no time! I love frozen blueberries, broccoli and cucumbers gotta keep my girlish figure! But my foster mom and sister are working hard with me to teach me the difference between "sit" and "stand" and also working on teaching me to stay. I want to make my foster family proud, so I'm trying hard! I have not been around small kiddos, but I think I would like them - I like anyone who wants to snuggle me! The only thing I don't like are kitties so no feline sibling for me. I am a sweet, sweet girl who just wants to be with my human. I will be your best, most loyal friend forever!

Shih poos are a cross between a shih tzu and a toy poodle. While some shih tzu breeders breed a poodle to a shih tzu to create first-generation shih poos, it's also common practice to breed shih poos to one another to create multigenerational dogs. As cross-breeds, shih poos are not an officially recognized breed, and there is no breed standard regarding appearance or temperament. Even shih poo puppies born to the same litter may take after one parent more than the other and appear vastly different in coat texture and coloring, says PetGuide. Shih poos fall in the small to tiny range, typically standing between eight and 18 inches at the withers and weighing anywhere from eight to 18 pounds. Their coat may be long, straight and silky like that of the shih tzu, shorter and curly like that of a poodle or it may fall somewhere in between. Despite the appearance, the shih poo's coat barely sheds, making these dogs a good fit for someone with mild pet allergies. Coloring can take after either parent breed. While poodles have solid coats that are typically black, white, gray, brown or apricot, shih tzu coats may be solid or come in various color patterns and combinations. Shoodle coats may mimic the coloring pattern of either parent. Personality: Often, mixed-breed dogs develop a temperament that balances the qualities of their parent breeds. Shih tzus tend to be highly affectionate and extremely charming, but possess a stubborn streak that can make them difficult to train. Poodles, on the other hand, while equally charming with playful and comedic personalities, are highly intelligent dogs who are more eager to please and easier to train. Shih poos, as a result, are often playful, affectionate and quick-witted little charmers, although they may inherit their shih tzu parent's willfulness. Because of this, they often need a firm but patient guide in training, and might not be the best choice for first-time dog parents. What shih poos may lack in trainability, they more than make up for in love and affection. They love to play with toys and get along wonderfully with older children, although due to their small size and hair that's easy to grab and pull, they should be closely supervised around small children. While friendly and great at getting along well with other pets, especially if introduced as puppies, older shih poos might not love having other dogs around. They often do well as only dogs. Even so, these fluffy pups love being close to their people and don't tolerate being left alone for long periods of time. If work or school takes you away from home for long hours, you may need to consider doggie daycare to keep your shih poo happy. Living With: Shih poos are generally versatile dogs that can do well in small apartments as well as larger homes. They need up to 30 minutes a day of play and exercise, which can be satisfied with two or three short walks each day or minute sessions of vigorous playtime twice daily. The rest of the time, they'll be content to curl up in your lap or to cuddle up next to you on the sofa. Shih poos are highly social and love to be around people, so expect them to stick close as you move around the house. While shih poos tend to be long-lived, with some living 17 years or more, they can be predisposed to the same health problems as their parent breeds. These include allergies, patellar luxation , vision problems and endocrine disorders such as Addison's disease, hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Shih poos that inherit the shorter snout of the shih tzu may also be prone to respiratory issues, reverse sneezing and snoring. Extra care should be taken to prevent overheating and heat stroke, says Dogtime. And like many small breeds, these dogs may be prone to dental problems and will benefit from regular dental cleanings and daily tooth brushing. Regardless of the length or texture of your shih poo's coat, it will be thick, fast-growing and prone to matting. Daily brushing and monthly visits to the groomer are recommended to keep the coat under control. Limit baths to a few times a month to prevent the skin from drying out. When bathing, be sure to prevent water from getting in the ear canals to prevent ear infections from developing. Shoodles have healthy appetites and will overeat if given the chance, which will lead to unhealthy weight gain. It's best to keep them on a consistent feeding schedule rather than allowing them to graze on kibble throughout the day. Feed your pup a high-quality food dog formulated for small breeds , and keep treats to a minimum. History: Not much is known about the backstory of the shih poo. Unlike other boutique breeds, no breeders have come forward to take credit for introducing the shih poo. Most likely this cross-breed came about unintentionally, with breeders in the U. As a cross-breed, shih poos are not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, although they are recognized by various designer breed registration clubs, including the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry. 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. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Poodle parents. Shih-Poo coats can be curly like their Poodle parent, straight like their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two. They are generally considered hypoallergenic. Shih-Poos can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Like most small dogs, Shih-Poos can be prone to dental health issues. Maintain proper dental hygiene for your Shih-Poo. Shih-Poos are pretty versatile and can live in just about any kind of home. Shih-Poos come from the loyal, adorable Shih Tzu, and the intelligent, sophisticated Poodle. Unfortunately, like any other breed, these little cutie pies wind up in shelters, from people not wanting a long-term commitment. If you keep your eyes out for a Shih Tzu or Poodle rescue, in your area, that is most likely where you will find a Shih-Poo awaiting adoption. They are not acknowledged as an official breed at the present time. That said, as a mix between Shih-Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect the Shih-Poo to be on the small side Most weigh in at eight to 18 pounds and range in height from eight to 18 inches. As Poodle and Shih Tzu size can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih-Poo will also vary. Shih Tzus can be stubborn, but what they lack in trainability, they make up for in personality ten fold. They are incredibly friendly, attentive, and cute, while Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and active. Shih-Poo personalities can vary but typically will fall in the middle of parental traits. Most Shih-Poos are described as friendly and playful. While Shih-Poos enjoy a good siesta, they also enjoy walks and thrive on playtime. They may not be eager to learn new tricks but do enjoy interaction and attention. Shih-Poos may not be as barky as their Poodle parent, but may alert you to any displeasures, such as a missed meal, with a single bark until every few minutes until needs are met. Training and socialization should be established early on. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the ways to go with Shih-Poos. Shih-Poo Health While many designer crossbreeds have improved overall health, they can inherit health issues their parents are prone to. That said, Shih-Poos can typically live approximately 16 years on average in relatively great health. Watch for signs of heat stroke if your dog happens to have a shorter snout. As a small dog, they can be prone to dental problems. Maintain good dental care and have their teeth regularly checked and professionally cleaned. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Make sure Shih-Poos are kept on a dietary schedule. Do not allow free-feeding as they will overeat and rapidly gain weight. They will need regular potty breaks and one or two ten-to minute walks a day for optimal health. Dental issues can be problematic. Regular teeth cleanings are recommended, as well as systematic dental chews and teeth brushings. Your vet should be able to help you establish a routine. Shih-Poo ears should be kept clean and dry. After bathing, take extra steps to ensure this. If your pup gets a smelly, pungent odor, they may have an ear infection. Ear cleaning solution can help keep your pup from getting infections and unnecessary trips to the vet. Shih-Poo Feeding An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. High quality food is recommended, as they do tend to have dental issues. They should not be allowed to free feed as they may gain weight. A feeding schedule is ideal with a minimum of treats. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. The color will vary, as well. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Daily brushings, as well as monthly groomings, will help keep your pup looking and feeling their very best. You may also want to give them a few baths in between, but not more than weekly, as their skin and coat can get dry and irritated. Shih-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. That said, for children who learn early how to properly approach and play with a small dog, the Shih-Poo can make a great companion. When it comes to other pets, Shih-Poos can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Shih-Poos can be left alone for short periods of time, but a second dog could be ideal for them, especially in their later years. However, you may want to try Shih Tzu or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Although purebred dogs are carefully bred over generations according to the breed standard the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed , hybrid dogs like the shih tzu—poodle mix have no official standard. This means that characteristics like height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament are less predictable than they are in purebred dogs. Different breeders may have different ideas of what constitutes the perfect shih tzu—poodle mix. Additionally, shih tzu—poodle mixes are not recognized by any of the reputable purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. Shih Tzu—Poodle Mix Care The low-shedding coats of both shih tzu and poodles require of upkeep, and the grooming requirements for shih tzu—poodle mixes are similar. Brush daily or every other day to keep the coat untangled and to prevent mats from forming. Like poodles and shih tzu, shih tzu—poodle mixes require regular haircuts from a professional groomer. Also trim the nails every two weeks and check the ears once a week, cleaning them with a pet safe ear cleaner if they appear dirty. Excessive dirt or redness in the ears means a veterinary visit is in order. Shih tzu—poodle mixes are smart, but how trainable they are depends whether they inherited more the eager-to-please personality of the Poodle or the more stubborn nature of the shih tzu. Regardless, positive-reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards gets great results from any dog. Despite being indoor dogs, shih tzu—poodle mixes still need some exercise. Aim for two walks a day or one walk and one play session in a safely enclosed space like your fenced yard. More energetic shih tzu—poodle mixes with trainable personalities might also like training for fun dog sports like agility, flyball, and obedience. Each breed has certain inherited health disorders in their family background, and those health issues can be passed on to the puppies in a litter. Breeding shih tzu to poodles means the puppies could potentially inherit any of the genetic diseases common to either breed. Shih tzu are prone to hip dysplasia , patellar luxation slipped kneecap , and various eye problems including cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and eyelid abnormalities. Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred shih tzu and poodles and test them for the genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together. Responsible breeders should also test their adult shih tzu—poodle hybrids before breeding them to decrease the odds that the puppies will inherit genetic issues. Responsible breeders also offer a health guarantee on their puppies that protects the puppy buyer in case the puppy develop a genetic disease later in life. Many shih tzu—poodles will overeat if you keep the bowl filled, so instead serve measured meals twice a day. Ask to your veterinarian for a recommendation for a healthy food for your shih tzu—poodle mix, as well as an ideal healthy weight for your adult shih tzu—poodle. Because of their small size they are the perfect lapdog and are known as a designer breed. Poodle crosses are one of the most popular form of hybrid dog breeds. The Shih Poo was bred to be a hypoallergenic lapdog, making it perfect for those with allergies. Although they are very popular, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club as an official breed yet. You should always remember to purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder, or you can adopt at your local shelter. A Shih Tzu was originally Chinese Royalty and were pampered by Emperors and spent their days as lap warmers. They are known for being very loyal to their owners but are also outgoing and stubborn dogs. Although they are a sociable breed, they love to be at home too. The Poodle came from Germany and was originally a popular dog among artists. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as an official breed in , and now recognize it as the 7th most popular dog breed. So, when we cross a Shih Tzu with a Poodle, we get a Shih Poo, which combines the characteristics from both parents into this fun, cuddly little dog. While it is not always possible to know the exact characteristics of your Shih Poo because they are a hybrid, there are some general traits that are more common in this small breed. Take a look below to learn more about them. Characteristics As we mentioned above, because the Shih Poo is a relatively new breed, it can be difficult to predict exactly what they are going to look like. We can take a look at their parents and guess many of the statistics and traits though. Appearance Because both of their parents are small, it is easy to guess that the Shih Poo is going to be small. On average, a Shih Poo weighs in at 8 to 18 pounds and ranges in height from 8 to 18 inches. However, as Poodle and Shih Tzu sizes can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih Poo will also vary. Although small in size, they have a sturdy body. Coat Shih Poo coats can vary and it can be long and silky or short and curly. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. Their fur is hypoallergenic, which is what makes them such a popular hybrid. The Shih Poo inherits this hypoallergenic fur from their Poodle parent, as the Shih Tzu has a non-hypoallergenic coat. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle and all variations and color combinations. It is not uncommon for puppies of the same litter to be born with different colored coats. A Shih Poo is normally friendly and playful and, with moderate energy levels, would be very happy napping in your lap for a few hours. They can be quite vocal dogs, although not as vocal as their Poodle parent. Shih Poos are most likely to bark if they are frustrated at something, so it is important to train them from an early age to ensure they do not exhibit unwanted behaviors later on in life. A Shih Poo can make a great family dog when given supportive and positive training and lots of attention , but they are also adaptable and may be suited to the quiet life too. This means they can be a great pup for single individuals who are retired and want a cuddly companion dog to curl up with! They do well in different living environments, including big houses, small houses and apartments. Lifespan The life expectancy of a Shih Poo is relatively long. They can normally live for anywhere between 10 to 18 years, although on average it is 13 years. Known Health Issues Again, because the Shih Tzu Poodle mix is a crossbreed, and a new crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what health conditions they may face. However, we can guess based on their parents. Luckily, if they inherit the longer muzzle from their Poodle parent, they may not have any issues with breathing problems that Shih Tzus inherit. Shih Poos are also known for having dental issues, which we go into more detail about below. Of course, these are all possible health problems but not for definite. Daily Life Now you know all about the characteristics and temperament of a Shih Poo dog, it is time to take a look at what everyday life with one is like. Food And Diet As with any dog, you should always make sure to feed your Shih Poo a healthy and balanced diet. Shih Poos are known to love food, so you should never allow them to free-feed otherwise you may end up with a very overweight dog! An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be a dog food formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. You should change their diet as they grow from a puppy into an adult and then again as they go into their senior years. If you need help with the type of food you should be feeding your Shih Poo, you can always ask your vet. They should exercise every day, with it recommended that you should take your Shih Poo on one or two 15 minute walks every day. They will also regularly need to go outside to go to the bathroom, because of their small body and small bladder. Family Compatibility Shih Poos make great family dogs because they love attention. They are friendly and playful, although they need regular grooming and exercise. Because they are an adaptable dog, they can thrive in many different situations, whether you live in a big house or a small apartment. They also love to cuddle up with you and are the perfect lapdog, which may make them perfect for a retired individual who wants a furry companion! It is worth mentioning that Shih Poos are very delicate dogs and may not do well in environments with small children, unless the children have been taught to be gentle with the dogs. Children have a tendency to be rough with animals, and this could end up harming your Shih Poo, so a family with older children might be a better fit. Your Shih Poo will get on with other dogs in the home if they are socialized properly. They do not really like to be left alone and can benefit from having a furry playmate in the home, especially in their later years. Training Many Shih Poo owners have reported that their pooch is energetic and playful, which means they are not difficult to train. They are intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, with verbal praise and treats as rewards. Punishment based training is never a good idea and will not help your Shih Poo to understand. Depending on which parent your Shih Poo takes after more, they may be more inclined to learn tricks. If they take after their Poodle parent, they will likely have a very high IQ and will want to learn. However, a Shih Tzu is much less inclined to impress you! You should start training your Shih Poo as soon as you get them. Housetraining can be a challenge with a Shih Poo puppy, but a little vigilance goes a long way and staying on top of their training will make them much happier. You will need to be patient with them while they are potty training and remember not to express anger at your Shih Poo puppy. Socializing Socializing your Poodle mix puppy is also important from a young age. This is especially important if you have young children in the house or other pets. You should always remember to do this slowly so you do not overwhelm them. Grooming Unfortunately, Shih Poos do require quite a bit of grooming. Neither of their parent breeds have very easy coats to maintain, although a Shih Poo does have a hypoallergenic coat and is very low-shedding. The Shih Poo may have long and silky or short and curly fur, depending on which parent they take after more, but it is likely to be a mix of somewhere in the middle. They need to be brushed daily and trimmed monthly to keep their fur in the best shape and mat and tangle-free. Regular bathing is not really required because they are a very clean dog, although they may need a bath from time to time. A bath can also help to ward off any skin issues they may have inherited. Professional Grooming Many Shih Poo owners take their dogs to the groomers for a hair cut. The type of cut they get will depend on the type of fur they have, but if they have curly fur then you might choose a puppy clip or lamb clip. You will also need to trim their nails occasionally and check their ears for any sign of infection. It is especially important to make sure their ears are dry after bathing, otherwise they may end up with an infection. Both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle breeds are prone to tear stains, so you can expect your Shih Poo to also suffer from tear stains. Gently wiping around the eyes once a day can help this problem. We mentioned above that Shih Poos can have a lot of dental issues. You will need to make sure you are cleaning their teeth daily to ensure this does not become a big problem. You can do this with chewable dental sticks if needed. You vet can help you to establish a routine. A Shih Poo is a very adaptable dog that can thrive in many different situations. They like attention and to be doted on, so if you live in a family where many different people can give them lots of attention, they will love living with you! Equally, they are happy living in individual homes with one carer. Are Shih Poos aggressive? Shih Poos are not known for being aggressive. They are energetic and playful and love attention, although they also love curling up on your lap for a cuddle. Summary Shih Poos are an adorable little mixed breed of dog that is the result of breeding a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. Because they are a hybrid, you cannot always be sure what traits and characteristics this designer dog breed is going to take from each parent, but your Shih Poo will be energetic, playing and loving. While they like to exercise and be outside, they also love to curl up with you on the couch and are a true lapdog. Their adaptability makes them perfect for both families and individual people, and they can thrive in a big house or a small apartment. Is a Shih Poo puppy the right companion for you? Search Dog Breeds. Life Span Did You Know? The Shih-Poo has an adorable, alert expression and small, sturdy body. They can take after the Poodle parent, the Shih-Tzu parent, or be any combination of the characteristics of both parent breeds. Shih-Poos tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love their families and are avidly devoted to them. They tend to be friendly to other dogs, strangers, other pets, and children. They tend to do better with older children who have been taught how to carefully handle a dog. Due to their small size, a Shih-Poo can be easily hurt by rough play or accidental falls. They can do well in families with younger children as long as any time with them is closely supervised. The Shih-Poo tends to be a courageous little dog. They make excellent watchdogs because they are very alert. However, they can become territorial and barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies and help your Shih-Poo puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog. This designer dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as in larger homes and tend to do well in most climates. They are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, so they do best in moderate climates. Due to their small size, they may need to layer up for short trips outside when winter rolls in. Because Shih-Poos crave affection and love their humans, they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. The Shih-Poo is a generally healthy designer dog breed. Although the genetic mix can sometimes result in winning the genetic lottery, a mixed dog breed can still be susceptible to health conditions common in one or both of the parent breeds in the cross. By talking with the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances, you can allay several of these potential health concerns. This designer dog breed is highly intelligent and can be easy to train. However, they can also have a stubborn streak that can cause some difficulty for first-time dog owners. This is often easily remedied with the help of some puppy training classes. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but it can be done with plenty of training, consistency, and patience. Crate training can also help. Shih-Poos respond best to positive, reward-based training. Whether with praise, treats, or play, you can reward your Shih-Poo for the behavior you like, which will encourage them to do more of it. Coat types and colors can vary greatly in your Shih-Poo. They can have the long, silky, and straight coat of the Shih Tzu, the short, curly, and non-shedding coat of the Poodle, or a combination of both. Most Shih-Poos end up with a curly or wavy, low or non-shedding coat. However, you should be prepared for your Shih-Poo to exhibit either coat type of the parent breeds. This coat looks its best with a combination of brushing a few times a week at home and then professional grooming every four to six weeks. This will help remove tangles and loose hair and prevent matting. Regular dental care is also important. Small dogs are more prone to dental disease. Drop down ears, or floppy ears, are more prone to ear infections because they can trap moisture, dirt, or debris. Daily walks and some indoor playtime will give this dog plenty of exercise. Beyond that, most of them can keep up with you on longer walks and can even compete in dog sports like rally, obedience, and agility. Be sure to check with your vet first and get your dog cleared before taking on any rigorous activities or training for dog sports. A Shih-Poo will generally stand 8 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. The size of the mother dog can give you a good idea of what to expect in your dog. This designer dog breed usually lives for 15 years or more. Some have even been known to live for 21 years! Featured Shih-Poo Article. Best Food for Shihpoos Specific health issues in the breed. FAQs What is a Shihpoo? Origins and History of the ShihPoo The s saw an explosion in the intentional cross-breeding of dogs. Most breeders wanted dogs with hypoallergenic coats for people with pet allergies. One of the first crossbreeds, the Labradoodle a cross between the Poodle and Labrador Retriever became immensely popular due to its high trainability, intelligence, and its hypoallergenic coat. Because the Poodle was known for its low-shedding hypoallergenic coat, more and more breeders started crossing the Standard Poodle and its variations — the Toy and Miniature Poodles — with other dogs. Often, the miniature Poodle was used for breeding with other small dogs. One such mixture was with a Shih Tzu, a popular and ancient dog breed that has a small size and cute looks. Little is known about the exact origins of the Shih-Poo but it is estimated that the hybrid dog might have been around since the late s. Today, the ShihPoo has become one of the most popular designer dogs in the world. It is known to inherit significant intelligence from the Poodle breed which enhances its trainability. In the subsequent sections, we will cover various traits that make the Shihpoo so popular. The Shih Poo is a teddy bear dog and its cute looks make it one of the most in-demand hybrid dogs today. Having a Shih Poo is like having a living breathing stuffed toy! The best part is that this teddy bear dog wants to play with you as much as you want to play with it. The reason this hybrid dog is so adorable is that the parent breeds are so adorable in their own right. The small Shih Tzu was deemed the royal, noble dog breed in Imperial China. It was given a royal status and people seen with Shih Tzus outside of the palace were actually imprisoned! The Toy or Miniature Poodle is not only a sweet-looking dog, it is incredibly smart too. It is no wonder that the Shih Poo has inherited these qualities as well. The height of a Shih Poo is between 8 and 18 inches or .Your puppy could inherit the tight, curly, non-shedding coat of the Poodle parent or the soft, silky, long hair of the Shih Tzu. Accordingly, you will need to vary your grooming methods for your pet. The coat colors in Shih Poos could be white, black, brown, apricot, blue, brindle, and combinations thereof. They are also versatile; there are Shih Poos that are known to fit right into hospice situations as therapy or comfort dogs and also as family pets or companion pets for children. They can fit in with a small family with older kids or with an elderly year-old sedentary individual. They simply love people! Shih Poos are affable, athletic dogs. They need plenty of exercise to prevent them from getting into trouble. Being active is a part of their nature since both parent-breeds are fairly active. Just like Shih Tzus and Poodles dislike being left alone at home, the Shih Poo is also known to have separation anxiety. But your pet will be an entirely different dog when everyone is at home: cheerful, well-behaved, and obedient. Like the parent breeds, Shih Poo puppies need plenty of positive reinforcement-based training and handling from the start. Bad habits can quickly set in and they can be difficult to break. Shih Poos are known for barking. Ignore your dog and it will try and get your attention in different ways — even if that attention is negative. So you must train your dog, not to bark or bark on cue else it could become an annoying habit that irritates your neighbours. Is Shih Poo a Good Pet? Who is the Right Owner for This Breed? Shih Poos make excellent pets. They are also great for novice dog owners. However, one must invest time and effort in training else they could develop bad habits. A well-trained Shih Poo is an excellent family pet that gets along with kids and other pets as well. You must desensitize your Shih Poo to other dogs, cats, and house pets from a young age. Shih Poos are great with kids and love having company. The cost of a Shih Poo can vary from breeder to breeder. Their price also depends on the parent bloodlines, the coat colour, etc. These include cost of food and treats, vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick prevention, grooming, dog training, costs of travel and pet boarding, etc. What To Feed a Shih Poo? Feed your puppy the same meal that the breeder was feeding it. This is important to avoid digestive issues in your vulnerable puppy. However, once your puppy has settled in you can transition them over to a raw food diet or quality freeze-dried food of your choosing. Puppies need at least 4 meals a day as they expend more energy through running and playing. The size of your Shih Poo will play a key role in how much to feed it. In general, a 10 lb. A 20 lb. You may feed your adult Shih Poo times a day. Choose a nutritionally dense dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with by-products, fillers, and other empty calories. Some Shihpoos are sensitive to grains, gluten, and even certain proteins. In such cases, you might want to feed special grain-free diets or even prescription food to your buddy. Shih Poos are prone to dental health issues. Avoid foods with added sugars as these can contribute to canine cavities. Are Shih Poo Healthy Dogs? When you purchase your Shih Poo from a good breeder, it is likely that your puppy will be healthier than one purchased from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. They also conduct health checks on their dogs and only breed ones without genetic health problems. Since the Shih Poo breed is relatively new, not many health issues have been documented so far. However, from time to time, we tend to see some problems like: Hypothyroidism.