australian and german shepherd mix puppies

A bunny hopping gait or loose walk. Trouble getting up from a nap Difficulty walking up or down stairs to greet you. Other common Lab joint problems include osteoarthritis from old age and not necessarily hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can result in lameness of the front legs. Always consult your veterinarian if you see the symptoms of Labrador hip dysplasia. X-rays and a full exam are necessary for proper diagnosis. Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium-to large-sized dogs can be expensive. In most cases, rehabilitation services can also be costly and postoperative care can be long and arduous. Age may keep your dog from being a good candidate for surgery. Non-surgical treatment options often have no age restrictions. Dog hip braces, such as the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace , support the low back and hip area for mild to moderate hip dysplasia. The purpose of the Hip Hound brace is to stabilize the hip and lower back areas by holding the head of the femur in the hip socket. This reduces grating of the bone, which allows for post-surgical healing or pain-free exercise. Braces come in all sizes so you can find one that is perfect for your pet and allows for maximum support. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Since Labs are prone to joint issues, your dog may be diagnosed with elbow dysplasia Fragmented medial coronoid process. A veterinarian we work with has used the Ortho Dog Hock Holder brace for the hind leg over the elbow joint. We recommend you give it a try! This breed already loves water so much, you may not be able to get them to stop swimming! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. However, if you had a veterinarian watching this plump pup play in the grass, they would have a much more sobering outlook. This puppy is suffering from the early stages of Canine Hip Dysplasia. What is Canine Hip Dysplasia? This results in the separation of the joint and the resulting wear and tear on the cartilage and bones. What Dogs Get Hip Dysplasia? No one knows for sure why some dogs develop this painful joint condition. However the severity of the illness seems to be linked to both the nature genetic component and the nurture environmental and nutritional elements that the dogs experience as they grow. However, it seems to be less prevalent in puppies with parents passing rigorous hip testing through the OFA Orthopedic Foundation of Animals. This is why it is vital to only buy puppies from breeders who have tested the parents for both hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia , which is the same joint deformity in the elbow socket. For example, if puppies grow too quickly, are lacking specific nutrients or have electrolyte imbalances, they are more likely to get CHD when they get older. Again, this issue is more often seen in larger breeds since they undergo more growth and skeletal changes than smaller breeds. The main two things you want to avoid are rapid weight gain and over supplementing too much calcium into the diet. You will also need to follow the feeding schedule set out by your veterinarian and not feed your puppy too much food. All dogs have a genetic code of how big they will get as adults. Your job, to reduce their risk of hip dysplasia, is to make sure they grow at a steady growth rate over time and not shoot up too quickly by feeding them a balanced diet specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. Environmental Factors Puppies are not usually born with hip dysplasia; it develops as the dog matures. You can take your pup out for a low-impact game of fetch in a park or a swim in a pool. However, doing activities such as forced running, stairs, jumping or agility courses when joints have not fully matured is thought to increase the likelihood of hip dysplasia later in life. The easiest way to tell if you pup has CHD is to do an x-ray of their hips while they are sedated. This allows the veterinarian to see if the joint fits together as it should. However, barring an x-ray diagnosis, there are a few symptoms to look for in more advanced cases. Signs of CHD include: Sitting in a frog position with one hip splayed out. Exercise intolerance. Swaying gait where the back end moves back and forth in a pronounced fashion. Reluctance to run, jump or climb stairs. Bunny hopping , especially up stairs. Difficulty getting up. Back legs or hips are painful when touched. Hind leg lameness, which worsens with exercise. Back legs are more close together when the dog stands than the front legs. In more severe cases, you may see muscle wasting in the back legs and hindquarters. Arthritis may develop as the disease progresses. Your dog may start to show unexplained aggressive behavior as the pain increases. Again, the best way to diagnose CHD is with an x-ray. These test rank the hips as Excellent, Good and Fair. You should not buy a puppy without ensuring the parents have at least a Fair rating, and preferably a Good or Excellent hip score. Obviously, dogs exhibiting these scores should not be bred. Yet, even if both parents have great hips, this is not a guarantee that the puppy will be free from hip issues. Refrain from making your puppy your jogging or jumping partner until they are grown. Even if you do everything right, if your dog carries the genetic predisposition for CHD, you may still encounter it when your pup reaches adulthood. If your dog develops CHD, there are several ways to treat it. The best course of action should be determined with your veterinarian. You can also add in exercises such as swimming and leash walking to keep the muscles toned around the joints. Physical therapy and massages have also been known to help. Some dogs undergo total hip replacement surgery , just like humans, and have good success with this approach. There are other preventative surgeries, such as juvenile pubic symphysiodesis JPS that vets give puppies with a high likelihood of developing CHD as a preventative measure. Conclusion While CHD is certainly a frustrating diagnosis, there are many treatment options to help your dog live a long, satisfying life. If you take a proactive approach to their treatment, you can still have an energetic, happy companion that will keep you company on walks, swim with you at the beach and lay by your feet when you relax. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Why is My Labrador limping takeaways 1. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint becomes misaligned. It causes pain and lameness in the affected leg. The symptoms usually appear between 6 months and 2 years old. Dog inherit the predisposition to hip dysplasia from their parents. Labradors and hybrid Labradoodles are prone to this preventable disease through improper breeding. Your puppy will have trouble walking if it has hip dysplasia. You need to get an X-ray done on both hips at least once before they reach 1 year old. There are no known non surgical cures for this disease so make sure you keep up with regular checkups. This disorder results from abnormal development of the pelvis and legs. The bones of the pelvic region do not form correctly and instead fuse together prematurely. This creates problems with weight bearing and movement. Arthritis in dogs can also cause limping Dog arthritis the joints of a dog become inflamed, swollen or painful. The most common type of arthritis that affects dogs are osteoarthritis which causes inflammation in one or more of their joints. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, gouty arthritis and crystal-induced arthritis. Genetics plays a role in whether a dog develops arthritis. Age also contributes to its development. Older dogs are more prone to develop arthritis than younger ones. Weight also affects arthritis; heavier dogs are more susceptible to arthritis than lighter dogs. Activity levels play a part in the progression of arthritis. High activity levels increase wear on joints, while low activity levels decrease wear on joints. Diet can influence joint health Dogs who have had an injury such as surgery, trauma or infection will be predisposed to developing these conditions. A Labrador as a guard dog 3. Infections can make a dog limp — especially ones involving bones Infections of the foot or paw are commonly caused by bacterial infections. This includes bacterial infections like staphylococcus bacteria, streptococcus bacteria and yeast infections. These infections tend to affect the skin around the paw pads and sometimes spread into other areas of the body causing fever and lethargic behavior. In addition to causing pain and swelling, these infections can lead to lameness if not treated properly. Infectious diseases like parvovirus and Lyme disease can affect joints and muscles causing pain and inflammation. Your vet will know what tests to order to diagnose these conditions and treat accordingly. Trauma to the foot or paw A traumatic event can lead to swelling and bruising in the area where the injury occurred. In addition, the muscles surrounding the site of the injury may tighten up due to fear or stress. As a result, the leg becomes stiff and sore. Common trauma to dog feet include Abrasions — A small wound caused by a sharp object such as a nail or splinter. Bruises — A bruise is an injury to the soft tissue under the skin. It may be caused by a blow, fall, or other impact. Bruising occurs when blood vessels are broken and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Contusions — Contusions are bruises that are larger than a bruise. They are caused by a blunt force, such as a blow from a fist or another object. Sun burn in dogs or heat burn from hot asphalt 5. Dog Toenail Injuries can make a Labrador limp The nails of dogs grow continuously throughout their lives. However, there are times when the nails begin to look longer than normal. These changes happen naturally over time. If the change happens suddenly, however, then it could indicate something wrong. Toenails should never be trimmed too short because there is a blood vessel and nerve inside the nail. Trimming them too long or not trimming them can result in broken nails. Happy Labrador! Patella Luxation Patellar luxation is a common condition affecting many breeds including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Dobermans and of course — Labs Labs are times more likely to have this than other breeds It involves the kneecap becoming dislocated out of place. This can cause severe discomfort and lameness. Dogs can sprain a muscle and this can make them limp Muscles can become strained through exercise or playing rough with your pet. The most common places for strains to occur are at the elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees. Strains usually heal themselves within three weeks — but if it is not improving or becomes exacerbated you will need to consult your Vet. Over exertion can make a dog limp Exercise causes our bodies to work harder which leads to increased heart rate and breathing. Our legs also get tired quickly so we must take breaks often during physical activity. The exact same is true for dogs! An over fatigued Lab can limp for a while due to muscle exhaustion. Give them a few days of rest and your Labrador will be back in tip top shape soon. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 9. Insect Bites can make a dog walk funny or limp It is common for dogs to run into nature and the creep crawly insects that populate it. Through no fault of their own Labradors LOVE to explore grass and nature — which runs the risk of being bitten by ants, bees or wasps. Most of the time a dog insect bite is not a huge concern BUT sometimes they do leave behind nasty infections on the bite site if the dog licks or chews it. You should always seek veterinary care if you see any signs of infection after having been stung by an ant or bee. FAQ — My Lab has had surgery recently and is now limping? Luckily your Vet is only a phone call away So please contact us today if you think your puppy is limping. An older Labrador limps A reader Sara emailed in to tell us about her elderly Labrador dog just turned 10! As a result, she walks differently than before. Her stride length is shorter and her steps are wider apart. She loves the outdoors — but we know not to push her too far. Labradors are prone to a variety of conditions that can cause pain, including hip dysplasia, arthritic pain, and infections. Make sure you get regular checkups to ensure that your dog is healthy. Dog arthritis is a very common condition that can affect any breed. Bridie is a proud Goldendoodle mom! Part-time health worker, life-time dog writer and lover. She loves to help people best care for their puppies. Load More. Labrador Back Legs Giving Out? I did some research to find out why it might happen. Trauma is another reason, such as cruciate ligament tears. Another potential cause is degenerative myelopathy. Younger dogs are prone to trauma, such as ACL injuries, while older dogs are more often affected by arthritis or degenerative diseases. Keep reading to find out how to diagnose and help your best friend. The muscles get weaker from a lack of use, a process known as muscle atrophy. This can result from recent or more chronic injuries or problems, but it is more common when the problem has been ongoing for a lengthy period of time, such as with arthritis. Muscle atrophy causes the muscles in the leg to become thinner and less able to help your dog stand. It is commonly called muscle wasting and may be reversible with treatments such as physical therapy. It can occur in one leg or in all four. It is often noticeable by the leg or legs being thinner or smaller than they were previously, especially detectable if it is just in one leg. This can happen when they have a fracture or break, or if they have a torn ligament. It is most common in the knee joint, which is also known as the stifle. In some cases, the problem is one that your dog is born with, such as a luxating patella, where the kneecap moves out of place. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia can be present in younger or older dogs. Pets that are affected do not have a normally formed hip ball-and-socket joint. This can cause excessive or irregular motion within the joint. It can even lead to the femur bone slipping out of place and causing a hip luxation. The irregular motion of the joint often leads to discomfort or out-and-out pain. Over time, it will often lead to arthritis. Some pets are minimally affected while others need surgery. Treatment for hip dysplasia may involve surgery where the hip joint is replaced with a total hip replacement surgery. For milder cases or when surgery is not an option, pain medication may be prescribed by your veterinarian to treat the discomfort and keep inflammation at bay. Joint supplements or fish oils may also be used to keep the joint as healthy as possible. Arthritis Arthritis is a common disorder in dogs and many suffer from it, especially as they age. It can occur due to irregular joints or secondary to trauma. Arthritis is often coupled with degenerative joint disease. The cartilage within the joint gets worn down over time. Arthritis can occur in any joint: It tends to be very common in dogs within their hips or knees but can also occur in joints such as the elbows. It tends to be less common in joints such as the digits or toes. Typically it causes discomfort so the limb is used less. This leads to weakness, which can cause the back legs to give out. Arthritis may be treated in a variety of ways: If your pet is overweight, your veterinarian is likely to recommend a weight loss program. Anti-inflammatories, such as carprofen, may be used to combat pain and inflammation, but these should be prescribed by your veterinarian before you give them to your dog. Other treatments include laser therapy, which also helps treat inflammation. Acupuncture can also be used to provide relief. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a devastating disease that occurs more often in large breed dogs than in smaller breeds. It can occur in Labradors although it is more common in German Shepherds. It is a disease that affects the spinal cord and often usually ascends or moves from the back legs to the front. It usually starts as weakness or ataxia in the hind legs. It tends to occur in older dogs, usually those 8 to 14 years of age. Degenerative myelopathy has no known cure. It is treated symptomatically, although pain medication is not normally needed. Slings may be used to help you walk your dog. Trauma Trauma is the most likely cause for your younger Labrador having trouble walking with one or both hind legs. The most common cause in medium and large breed dogs, such as Labs, is an anterior cruciate ligament injury, or ACL injury. This is a ligament in the knee that may partially or completely tear. Other causes of trauma include bone fractures or avulsions. These tend to occur in parts of the leg below the knee, as the femur is the thigh bone and is the strongest bone in the body. Treatment will depend on what type of injury has occurred. For many, surgery is needed, especially with an ACL injury. Without surgical correction, they may continue to have weakness in their hind limb. The injury will also often progress to arthritis as the pet ages, which can cause pain for years to come. As with many other injuries, treatment may involve anti-inflammatories prescribed by your veterinarian, as well as pain medications such as gabapentin. For some pets, braces or splints are used to stabilize the joint and support the limb. Chronic care may be needed, especially when the injury leads to a progression of chronic pain and arthritis. Related Questions How can I help my Labrador with weak back legs? The most important thing to do when dealing with a dog whose legs are weak is to have him diagnosed by a veterinarian. This affects treatment as well as the prognosis. In the meantime, supporting him can help a great deal, such as walking him with a sling. Padded bedding can help support his joints when he sleeps in his bed. Passive range of motion exercises, where you carefully put his limbs through their normal range of motion, may be recommended by your veterinarian to help at home. What kind of treatment is available for my Lab with weak back legs? The type of treatment available for your dog all depends on what is causing him to have weak back legs. Some cases need surgery to be corrected, while many involve supportive care. This can involve medications prescribed by your veterinarian, such as anti-inflammatories or pain medications. Chronic care may involve chiropractic treatment or acupuncture. Laser therapy is often used in acute and chronic cases, as well. Some patients also benefit from rehabilitation therapy, such as hydrotherapy, where they may swim or walk on a treadmill. Trusted by millions of dog lovers worldwide. Limping in dogs is quite common. Limping occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. He may walk slowly or with difficulty and will usually favor one leg. There are two types of limping that your Lab may experience. Some types occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens quickly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be treated at home, whereas others will require professional medical help. Overexertion Too much of a good thing, such as fetch, intense running, or rough play with other dogs, can leave your Labrador sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. However, most dogs will recover quickly after a couple of rest days. Look out for your Lab incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by scorching sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your Labrador to limp. Get your dog some booties or paw protectors in extremely hot or cold temperatures. Toenail Injuries Examine your Labrador for ingrowing or overgrown toenails, as these can cause discomfort and pain when they dig into the skin. My dog once had a dewclaw injury, so make sure you also keep these trim. Insect Sting or Animal Bite Stings and bites can cause limping. Your Lab may raise its paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can cause injury and also lead to infections. Fracture A broken leg should be suspected if the limping occurred suddenly. Broken bones may not always be visible. Sprain A sprain is the result of a stretched or torn ligament or tendon. It can be caused by something as simple as jumping off the couch and landing awkwardly. Your Labrador will be reluctant to put any weight on his paw or leg. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition causing hip and elbow joints to become loose and move out of position. According to the OFA, .Osteoarthritis Older and larger dogs are more at risk of this chronic painful disease. It results in joint inflammation caused by cartilage deterioration. Signs include lameness, stiffness, or difficulty in getting up. My dog Willow has osteoarthritis of her lower spine. Her initial symptoms were lameness of the rear leg and difficulty getting up from a lying position. However, she manages it pretty well along with her hip dysplasia with prescribed medication, and exercise adjustments. My vet recommended these, they get excellent reviews online, and they seem to work for her. She has the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce joint stiffness and pain. You can read my comprehensive review here. Cruciate Ligament Injury or Disease This is where damage is caused to one or both cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together. Limping is usually the first sign of a cruciate problem and can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can occur suddenly or be progressive. It is common in dogs, but Labrador retrievers are three times as likely as other breeds to have patellar luxation. Infection An infection of the paw or leg can cause your Labrador to Limp. He may lick and chew the site and may need to take antibiotics. Lyme Disease This bacterial illness transmitted by certain ticks can cause intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy Older dogs are at risk of this inherited disorder that affects the spinal cord causing a gradual paralysis of the back end. Symptoms are weakness, lameness in the hind legs, and incontinence. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains This condition affects the long bones of the legs due to painful inflammation. Panosteitis tends to affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the Labrador. A shifting lameness from one bone to another is caused and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD This is a bone disease occurring in fast-growing large dogs, usually between 3 and 5 months old. The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds predisposed to Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. The shoulder is most commonly affected, but it can also appear in the elbow, hip, and knee. It occurs when large puppies grow too quickly. Limping, lameness, and pain are symptoms. Labrador Retrievers are predisposed to Osteochondritis Dissecans , but the genes involved have not been identified. Dwarf dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis This disorder of the immune system causes inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your Lab will be reluctant to walk — or he will hobble on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic Neuropathy If diabetes is left untreated, excessive glucose can cause progressive weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in dogs. Congenital Limb Deformities Abnormally developed limbs can cause limping in your dog. These are pretty rare, and this study on the congenital deformities of the distal extremities in three dogs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer Bone tumors can rapidly grow, causing limping and pain, particularly in leg bones. Limping can vary from mild to severe. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. To hold that distinction for 29 years in a row is not surprising since Labs are affectionate, intelligent, and fun-loving family dogs. They are also known for their trainability and versatility, so that you see members of the breed in various endeavors such as search-and-rescue missions, drug and weapons detection, and guide dogs for the visually impaired. For individuals who have Labs as loyal companions, it can be very distressing when they see their beloved dog suddenly limping or, worse, collapsing because of problems with their hind legs. Signs of Back Leg Problems Despite being a sturdy breed, Labrador Retrievers are prone to problems in their hind legs. This is due to a genetic predisposition to certain diseases, their size and body frame, and weight distribution. Please note that an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian after a complete physical examination and diagnostic procedures. Among the most common injuries that younger aged Labs sustain are bone and toe fractures and avulsions or tearing of leg parts below the knee. In middle-aged and elderly Labs, they may develop a partial or complete tearing in the ligament of the knee, a condition known as Anterior Cruciate Ligament ACL injury. The reason for this improper fit is because the socket is shallow and not deep enough to accommodate the femur head. Because of this, the joint wear out faster, causing pain when the head and socket surfaces grind together. There is a genetic predisposition for CHD. If a puppy has CHD, the signs will start to manifest at the age of two years old. In some cases, CHD may develop as a result of nutritional and environmental factors, or you may have these factors aggravating the existing genetic condition. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis in dogs is also accompanied by degenerative joint disease. You may find your Lab unable to walk because of weakness or pain in the legs. First is Canine Diabetes , which presents signs and symptoms that are similar to humans, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, appetite changes, and hind leg weakness. This is frequently seen in senior dogs that are overweight. This is a deceptive condition because it mimics the signs of aging in dogs, including increased drinking and urination, and increased appetite. However, it also manifests with weakness and muscle wasting in the hind legs. A common condition in the breed is slipped discs as a result of their active behavior. Your Lab may also suffer from Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy FCE , which develops when a piece of cartilage travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel in the spine. On the other hand, Degenerative Myelopathy is a painless, but gradually progressing disease wherein the dog exhibits hind leg weakness. Leg weakness occurs gradually over a long period of time until the dog collapses, unable to hold its weight any longer. Treatment When you notice back leg problems in Labradors, they must be brought to the veterinarian immediately for an assessment. Aside from a physical exam, the vet may have x-rays and MRI scans done to determine the cause. Once the cause is determined, the vet may advise surgery, such as in the cases of CHD, tumors, and myelopathies. Dogs with hormonal problems may require regular injections of insulin and other medications. Conservative treatment includes putting the Lab on a weight loss program, reducing their physical and play activity, making changes in the home putting ramps on stairs and couches for ease of access to the dog, and wearing braces or other supportive devices for the hind legs. Many back leg problems in Labradors can be treated. It is vital that they be detected early so that treatment can be done immediately before they become serious. Further reading. What can cause hind leg problems in Labrador Retrievers? It has various causes. So, if your dog has hip dysplasia, there are several possible reasons why. First off, Canine Hip Dysplasia can be a genetic health issue. On top of that, it also disproportionately affects larger breeds, such as the Labs, much more than smaller breeds. There are also other factors behind Labrador back leg problems like this, such as how much exercise a Labrador Retriever gets and other nutritional factors. To understand what hip dysplasia is and how it affects a Labrador, you have to know the mechanism of how the affected area works. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket type of joint. In healthy dogs, this joint should move against each other smoothly without any issues at all. However, dogs with Hip Dysplasia will have trouble with this, as the ball and socket grind up against each other instead of moving smoothly. In short, there will be a lot of grinding, which then leads to losing mobility in that joint. Eventually, if left untreated, this joint may lose function due to the abrasive nature of friction. Hip Dysplasia will cause your Lab pain and discomfort, so it is incredibly crucial to spot it on time so that you can get your Lab the proper treatment, and they can move in relative comfort. Causes of hip dysplasia 1 Genetics Before anything else, genetics plays a major role in canine dysplasia. Because of this, it is important to make sure that you buy from a reputable breeder that clears their puppies from this disorder. Still, early diagnosis is important to make sure that you take the appropriate measures to alleviate any discomfort for your dog. Take note that a lot of factors can contribute to hip dysplasia. On the other hand, one thing you should also know is that if your Lab gets too much exercise especially when they are still puppies , this might cause a lot of stress in their joints. Ultimately, it can also cause dysplasia or make it worse. There are certain types of dog food that are specifically made to help puppies from large breeds appropriately manage their growth rates. Hence, you can tell that proper health management is already a decent precaution for hip dysplasia. You cannot prevent the skeletal disorder if it is genetic, but you can certainly make the proper preparations to not exacerbate the condition. However, lameness in the back legs is one of the behaviors generally attributed to canine hip dysplasia. Other symptoms include:. Does dignity matter to dogs? When is the right time to use that choice, if at all, is an intensely personal and tough decision. This is my personal slant on a difficult subject. One that comes up quite regularly in many doggy forums. Even when quality of life is really all but gone. Palliative Care For Dogs When people are dying, we accept that all we can do is make them comfortable. Palliative care is an important branch of medicine that many of us will depend on in our twilight months. Palliative care for dogs is a somewhat newer concept. When I was young, if a dog was diagnosed with terminal cancer, as my Golden Retriever was, the dog was normally put to sleep on the spot, or very shortly afterwards. Our vet made the diagnosis in his surgery and we took our dog home to have a last couple of days together. The vet then came out to put him to sleep in his own home. At this point, pain meds controlled his pain absolutely without making him drowsy, in a week or two that would not have been the case. He was also in full control of his bodily functions. Still continent, and able bodied. Still enjoying life. Later on he would have become incontinent, and may have had problems with his balance. No one suggested that we extend his last few weeks with drugs. Though he might have lived for several more months this way, it was not considered to be an option by my family or our vet. He never suffered, apart from the mild symptoms that had led us to the vet in the first place. And he spent his last couple of days pottering about the house and garden quite happily. I have no regrets about the decision we made. It was the first time, at just 18 years old, that I had been involved in such a decision, and I have made many such decisions in the intervening years. Yes, he could probably have had a few more days of joyful living. Possibly a few more weeks. And we may have deprived him of that time. But the risk that he would then begin to suffer was not acceptable to us. And knowing that he never suffered at all, was and still is, a comfort to me. I believe that the course many people take nowadays, the course that they may be encouraged to take by their vet and by friends and family, of waiting for the suffering to start before making that final decision, does not benefit our dogs. Younger Dog Euthanasia Of course with younger dogs, especially if the illness is not terminal, then there are a whole range of other factors to consider. With elderly dogs, once illness has set in, there is very often only one way to go. And that is downhill. This is heart breaking for owners and poses a dilemma, because the dog is often otherwise well in himself, and not necessarily in pain. Loss of back end awareness is sometimes accompanied by loss of control over bowels, with the inevitable distress that this causes to both of you. Does Dignity Matter To Dogs? I was saddened to read recently about a person who had nursed their own elderly dog through weeks of incontinence before death. I was sad for her, and doubly sad for her dog. For me, that would not be an option. And that an elderly dog would be very distressed by being unable to keep itself clean. Knowing that there is no hope of recovery, and believing that a dog has no concept of or fear of death, is enough to keep me from going down that route. They hate the mess and stress of caring for a sick old dog, the broken nights, the smell, and the worry. They quite naturally want it to end. So they make the wrong decision. For all the right reasons. They are trying to put the dog first, and to ignore their own needs. So they keep the dog alive for a few more weeks. It is miserable for the owner, and miserable for the dog too. That is a whole other topic, but perhaps we are too reluctant to make use of this option which is readily available for our dogs and can prevent a great deal of suffering. What do you think? Is there ever a right time to let go? Or should we let just let nature take its course? Labs were bred as hunting dogs. Hunters in Atlantic Canada and Britain used labs to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. As a result, your Lab is strong, intelligent, and an adept swimmer and runner. However, your Lab, like all dogs, is more vulnerable to certain diseases than other breeds due to its genetic makeup. Degenerative Myelopathy in Labs Degenerative myelopathy DM , a spinal nerve disease, is more likely to affect your Lab than other dogs. A Lab with degenerative myelopathy will gradually start to lose movement in their legs and lower body. Dogs with severe degenerative myelopathy can actually become paralyzed. Yet it can hold your Lab back. As you know, your Lab loves to run, swim, and socialize. If your Lab has DM, give it a comfortable bed. Keep the bed and the dog clean—a dog that lies around for long periods can develop bed sores, just like a person might. Dogs with DM can get some circulation and sensation back with the help of kinesiology tape. A wheelchair is another helpful tool. A custom-built dog wheel chair can help an animal with DM get around comfortably. Hip Dysplasia in Labs Some Labs are born with hip dysplasia HD , a genetic condition that causes the bones to form a bad fit in the joint. A dog with HD will experience some combination of pain, damage to the cartilage in the joint that connects the bones, and arthritis. Breeders should screen their dogs for this condition. After all, hip dysplasia may not be obvious right away. A Lab with HD might favor one of its legs instead of the other. A dog with HD will be reluctant to exercise due to the pain. HD has a range of severity. Low-impact cases are easy to manage with anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Moderate cases can be mitigated or repaired with surgery. In extreme, inoperable cases, a Lab with HD might require a wheelchair. Obesity in Labs Labs are more likely to be overweight than other dogs. Since they were bred to be an energetic, hardworking dog, contemporary Labs with busy caretakers might not get the exercise they need. A Lab can run around for hours and want to keep going long after their human is ready to take a break. To help your Lab cut their weight, and avoid problems weight gain can cause, like arthritis and diabetes, you should adjust their diet and activity level. Take your dog out for plenty of exercise. Vets recommend these exercise guidelines: weigh your dog, then multiply the weight by two. A pound dog, for example, should get at least minutes of exercise per day. And cut back on the table scraps. If your dog displays any of the symptoms above, take them to the vet as soon as you can.

These dogs are known for their lively personality and cute, furry appearance. Toy Poodles are also intelligent and highly trainable. In addition, Toy Poodles are relatively small dogs, which makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or other small spaces. If you live an active lifestyle and are seeking a fun-loving and intelligent furry friend, look no further than the Toy Poodle. Toy Poodle Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 14 to 16 years — our Toy Poodles for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Toy Poodle puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. This is caused by the soft palate becoming irritated, and can be triggered by excitement or allergies. While it may seem alarming, reverse sneezing is not harmful and will resolve on its own. Another common health concern in Toy Poodles is luxating patellas. This occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, and can cause pain and lameness. Luckily, luxating patellas can be effectively treated with surgery. Finding a Toy Poodle puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat can be either curly or corded, and it comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and apricot. Toy Poodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent the hair from tangling, and the coat should be clipped every six to eight weeks. In addition to regular brushing and clipping, Toy Poodles also need to have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed on a monthly basis. By taking care of their coats, Toy Poodles can stay healthy and happy for many years to come. Meet Toy Poodle Puppies for Sale. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions!

Nutrition information With only six ingredients, puppy chow muddy buddies is extremely quick and easy to whip up, making it the perfect recipe for the busy holiday season. Puppy chow ingredients This sweet snack mix is made of six super simple ingredients! The best part? You probably have all of the ingredients on hand already. All of the ingredients are staple pantry and fridge items that all have a long shelf life. Rice chex cereal makes the base of this recipe and makes this snack mix super crunchy and addicting. Semi-sweet chocolate chips. Peanut butter gets melted together with the chocolate chips and creates an amazingly creamy mixture that coats the cereal. Use smooth peanut butter — instead of chunky — to ensure even melting. Unsalted butter. Vanilla extract. Powdered sugar. Set aside. Place chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter into a large microwave safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract. Pour chocolate mixture over the cereal and gently stir together. Stir in the powdered sugar. Tips for making puppy chow muddy buddies There are SO many recipes for puppy chow, but I promise you, my recipe is the best, because of these tips and tricks. Use the whole box of cereal. Most recipes call for 9 cups of cereal, leaving 2 cups left in the box. What the heck are you supposed to do with 2 cups of chex?! Use the whole bag of chocolate chips. More is more in this recipe. Just throw the whole bag in. Use more powdered sugar than you think necessary. Chunks are the best part. Just trust me on this one. How to store puppy chow Puppy chow can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. It does not need to be refrigerated, but some people prefer it chilled. Puppy chow recipe substitutions If you can, I highly recommend making the recipe as is. It truly is the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, chocolate-y, peanut buttery goodness. Do I have to use semi-sweet chocolate? You can use dark chocolate or even milk chocolate, but semi-sweet is really gives you that perfect sweet, but not too sweet balance. Processed peanut butter — think Jiff or Skippy — works best, but sunflower seed butter should work as well. Butter is essential, but try using a vegan buttery spread instead. Do I need to use vanilla extract? No, you can omit it, but you will loose some of that cozy depth of flavor. I grew up calling it puppy chow but plenty of people call it muddy buddies. It depends on where you live. Other names:. Rubber spatula What are the ingredients for Puppy Chow? Crispix cereal is also a cereal you could use in this recipe, too, though the shape of the puppy chow will be different. Peanut butter — creamy and unsweetened, if possible. A lot of recipes will tell you that the sweetened, more processed kind of best for sweet recipes, but I still enjoy the natural peanut butter. Semisweet chocolate chips — you could also use milk or dark chocolate chips in place of these. In a glass measuring cup or a microwave-safe bowl, measure out the peanut butter, chocolate chips and butter. Stir until smooth. You might have to microwave it upwards of 2 minutes, just depending on your ingredients. Pour the peanut butter-chocolate mixture over the Chex. Use a rubber spatula to stir the ingredients together, coating the Chex completely. Sprinkle in the powdered sugar, and toss gently until coated. Let the chocolate mixture cool for 30 minutes. Stir them together and then serve or store until later. Pro tip! Feeding a lot of people? Double the recipe. I know this recipe makes a lot, but if your friends and family are going to nibble on it for a long while, making double the amount might be a good idea, especially if you know that they like this combination of flavors. Celebrating a holiday? Customize it! Frequently Asked Questions Why is it called puppy chow? Because it looks a little like some dog foods, which are also known as puppy chow. Is it called puppy chow or muddy buddies? Does Puppy Chow need to be refrigerated? It can be kept at room temperature for days, but it will last for a week if refrigerated. How long does Puppy Chow last in the fridge? Chex Cereal Puppy Chow will last in the refrigerator for a week. Though I dare you to make it last that long. Can I feed this to my dog? Store Chex Mix Puppy Chow at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want it to last longer, it will keep for a week in the fridge. Add rainbow sprinkles for a birthday, too! Half the recipe and call it a day! Jump to Video Jump to Recipe This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy. Snack mixes are one of the best party foods. How to Make Puppy Chow You can break the process down into three easy steps. Measure your cereal into a large bowl and set aside. In 1 quart sauce pan, heat semisweet chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter over low heat stirring frequently with a spatula until melted. Remove from heat and stir in a teaspoon vanilla. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into two gallon resealable plastic bags. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag and shake until well coated. Spread over waxed or parchment paper to cool. You want each piece of chex to have an ample amount of chocolaty peanut butter sauce for the sugar to stick to. If you like your mix extra saucy try reducing the Chex amount to only cups. You can also customize it to whatever holiday candy is being sold at the time. This can also be made dairy free by using the right chocolate and a butter substitute like margarine. Sunbutter, soybutter, almond butter, and cashew Butter are great substitutes for peanut butter in this recipe. You can even use Nutella instead for extra chocolatey Puppy Chow. It can stay at room temperature for up to 10 days, or kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. However, at my house it never lasts that long! Allow it to thaw before eating. This will allow it to set and dry.

Articles German Shepherds have for the last decade or so held steadily in the top 3 of most popular dog breeds according to the American Kennel Club. Dachshunds are also pretty popular, especially in the lap dog category. The Dachshund Shepherd Mix, though not very common, is equally as appreciated. Now I must admit that this is one mixed-breed doggy that I did not see coming given how fundamentally different the two breeds are. However, their unique appearance and strong personalities actually work and if you are interested in one you have a lot to look forward to. Due to the differences in size, breeders prefer to have the German Shepherd as the female carrying the pups. The resulting mix usually takes after the Dachshund in terms of build with the sausage dog silhouette. In terms of size, the dogs range from small to medium. Everything else from coat traits to temperament varies from puppy to puppy. In the sections below, we shall take a look at everything that makes the German Shepherd Dachshund Mix so special from appearance to grooming needs. That way, you will be able to make an informed decision when it comes to getting and raising one of your own. More often than not, the contributing Dachshund is of regular size but it could be a Miniature Doxie or a larger one. With this combination, the female German Shepherd is in the best position to safely carry and deliver the mixed pooches whether they end up being large, medium, or small. In order for you to understand what to expect from the Dachshund Shepherd, you have to have a bit of understanding about their parents. Dachshunds are a small breed of dog that is widely known for their unique build. They have long torsos and disproportionately short and muscular legs. The breed can be traced back to Germany where it was used as a hunting dog. The German Shepherd , on the other hand, is a medium to large breed of dog that can also be traced back to Germany. They are known for their strength, bravery, and intelligence. In the past and now, they have been used in different capacities from herding aids and guard dogs to law enforcement and military work. The Dachshund Shepherd takes after both of these dogs in a lot of ways. When it comes to the build. They are more often than not small to medium dogs with a more proportionate version of the sausage dog silhouette. They are also known for their coat colors which range from dark brown and intense tans to black, strikingly similar to the sheltered pets of the 46th POTUS. They also usually have the signature dark face mask that is found in German Shepherds. The size that a Dachshund Shepherd Mix will grow to is quite hard to predict. This is because of the existing size differences between the small Doxie and the beastly shepherds. It all depends on genetics and chance. For some perspective, here is what you would expect from both parents. Dachshunds are considered small dogs. When it comes to height, they are very short as a result of their stubby, little legs. Dachshunds grow to an average of 15 inches in height at their tallest. With weight on the other hand, the range is pretty wide and the Doxie can weigh between 16 and 30 pounds. It is also influenced by the specific type of Doxie with miniature and rabbit Dachshunds being significantly smaller and lighter. On the other hand, German Shepherds can measure 22 to 26 inches at maturity and can weigh anywhere from 48 to 88 pounds. Indeed they are quite large. More often than not, Dachshund Shepherd Mixes fall in the middle when it comes to size and are considered medium-sized dogs. They measure 10 to 20 inches in height and weigh between 20 and 60 pounds. These mixed-breed pooches can be smaller than the ranges provided. This usually happens if a regular German Shepherd is bred with a Doxie that is smaller than the regular size. They may also be significantly larger and this is often due to strong genetics from the shepherd parent. However, they never grow to the height and size of the German Shepherd. They also have a bad reputation for being occasionally stubborn and aggressive. German Shepherds are considered intelligent, obedient, and brave which is why they are so popular. However, they can be a bit aloof and mistrusting and are generally not the most affectionate of pooches. Despite these differences, Dachshunds and German Shepherds share several personality traits which are often passed down to the mixed doggy. Here are a few that you may come across. Confident Dachshund Shepherd Mixes are very confident dogs and they will walk all over your house like they own it. This makes them open to exploring unfamiliar places and even human beings which makes socialization easier. Intelligent They take after both parents who are celebrated for their intelligence. German Shepherds, in particular, are super smart and their contribution to this mix makes the resulting dog smarter and much easier to live with. Selectively Affectionate Dachshund Shepherds are more affectionate than their German Shepherd parents. However, they do not show this love to everyone. Like Doxies, they have also been shown to cling emotionally to one member of the family. Emotionally Clingy These doggies are not exactly the most independent all the time. They particularly hate being left alone whether you are leaving for work or for a different room in your house. This is often a sign of separation anxiety which is something you will have to deal with sooner rather than later. They have a lifespan of 7 to 14 years. For some perspective, Dachshunds live for 12 to 16 years while German Shepherds have a lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Despite being strong, they occasionally suffer from some diseases that are inherited from both parents. Some of the common problems they face in this case include hip and shoulder dysplasia, patellar luxation, and intervertebral disc disease. Consider giving glucosamine supplements to your Dachshund Shepherd to boost its bone structures and relieve its joint pains. It helps by providing useful compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin which promote joint and bone health. German Shepherds typically live to 7 to 10 years due to their larger size and potential health issues, versus Dachshunds with a good breeder can live on average 12 years , and sometimes even up to 16 years old. IVDD is a neurological condition that affects the cushioning in between the vertebrae of the spinal column. The discs can bulge, and herniate causing paralysis, severe pain, and sometimes nerve damage. This breed, in addition, has a long list of conditions that are common with the two breeds, such as: Bloat : When the stomach fills up with gas, food, or fluid and the stomach flips, which if not treated urgently can result in death. Degenerative Myelopathy Hip Dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are when the joint does not develop properly and can cause instability and even deterioration. Eye conditions Check in details being cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Mitral Valve Disease is common with Dachshunds. Luxating Patella Seizures inherited from its Dachshund side. Irritable bowel syndrome is common with German Shepherds as well as a couple of other common Gastrointestinal diseases. Some Pet insurance for a small premium will offer pre-approvals for emergency visits, so if the stay is thousands of dollars, you will only have to pay a small portion of the visit to receive veterinary care. Care Credit is also a medical credit card often used at emergency visits. You can apply for that day that offers zero interest for a year for you to pay off your Veterinary bills. Dachshund Shepherd Grooming Dachshund Shepherd If your little guy has a double coat, you better prepare to invest in a good vacuum and brush weekly! At the beginning of the warmer weather, German Shepherds have whats referred to as a blowout. They shed their winter coats in preparation for the hotter season. You should expect hair to cling to every surface of you and your home. Thankfully they do make plenty of brushes designed specifically for that tricky double coat, and a handheld vacuum does wonders for upholstery in between your weekly vacuuming. Recommended to check: How to groom your dachshunds with care. It is also essential to make sure their nails are routinely trimmed, and teeth brushed regularly to help prevent any type of dental issue or disease. Obesity can cause and put your dog at higher risk for potential health issues. Veterinary hospitals often use Royal Canin , and a science diet when feeding hospital patients. Stray away from using any type of raw diet or grain-free diet, due to its long-term effects relating to heart disease, for prevention of arthritis or any other orthopedic issues developing, put a glucosamine supplement in their food daily. Exercise is vital for behavioral wellness in all breeds, but especially for this breed. This mix will be high energy, and both parents were used as working dogs. You should start with 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day and adjust accordingly. This mix can potentially become destructive if not adequately exercised mentally and physically. If you cannot put aside an hour of your time a day, this breed might not be the one for you. The Dachshund Shepherd will be more than happy to run around with your children in the backyard. Walks are also a great way to exercise your mix without putting them at risk for any type of exercise back-related injuries. Is the Dachshund Shepherd Easy to Train? The short answer is YES. They should be. The Dachshund is one of the more difficult breeds to train because of its feisty, independent personality. German Shepherds are bred specifically for their easy trainability and obedience. However, this mix needs to be trained and socialized early on to avoid potential behavioral issues. If there are any aggressive situations noted like resource guarding, please seek out the help of a professional dog trainer. German Shepherds are typically good with the whole family, and the mixes counterpart Dachshunds are pack dogs and can be good with small children too. It is important to teach small children how to interact with any dog in the home appropriately. Due to the dog having a high prey drive might not be recommended for you to have small children with this dog. When getting a puppy, socialize them and always supervise them with any small children. This dog does have a high likely hood of not getting along with other animals. If you have another animal in the home, it might be good to get a puppy and socialize with them from a young age. Rescues are typically significantly less. Most of the time, the dog is already spayed or neutered and vaccinated by the time you receive them. What do you think? They are a lovable, loyal, and intelligent breed that will make a great companion for the whole family. Just be prepared to put some work into this puppy. All dogs should be trained from a young age and taught basic manners. Both German Shepherds and Dachshunds are breeds that need a lot of training, in the beginning, to prevent any behavior issues from arising. It might be better to adopt this breed because of all of its potential health risks. I can guarantee though if you put the time, energy, and love into this little guy, you will get the same return tenfold. They will be the most loyal, loving pooch you can ever ask for! Other Choices of Dachshund Mix You might want to see other Dachshund mixes , check out the list below:. Talk to your veterinarian to find out the best way to maintain your Dachshund German Shepherd mix happy and healthy for many years! German Shepherd Dachshund mix dogs have medium-long coats that are usually dark brown, black or tan. Some dogs might have white, cream, and red markings. You may like: Corgi Dachshund mix. Dachshund German Shepherd mix must be brushed regularly to prevent mats or tangles. They also require their nails to be trimmed once a month. The type of fur your puppy has will determine how often you need to brush it. Double coats signify that your dog needs to be brushed and vacuumed regularly. German Dachshund mix dogs shed moderately. For German Shepherd Dachshund mix dogs to be happy and healthy, they need to get exercise every day. This cross will need to walk two miles per day, but this will depend on their parent. You can keep your mixed breed dog moving with a brisk walk, jog, or playtime in the yard. German Shepherd Dachshund mix enjoys swimming and hiking. If this mix is not exercised properly, it can become destructive. This breed may only be right for you if you dedicate an hour a day. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods like praise, treats, and petting. These German Shepherd Dachshund mix dogs can be stubborn, so patience is key to training them. You may like: Shiba Inu Dachshund mix. Are they get along with kids and other pets? Yes, German Shepherd Dachshund mix dogs are good with children and pets. They are well-known for their loyalty, obedience, protective nature, and commitment. It is not good breed if you have children under the age of 3 with this dog. The breed can be aggressive toward its owners. It is possible to adopt a puppy if you already have an animal. German Shepherd Dachshunds, a mix of German Shepherd Dachshund breeds, are loving, loyal, intelligent, and wonderful companions for all members of the family. You will need to work hard with this puppy. The Dachshund Shepherd Mix is a wonderful breed for anyone looking for a loving and loyal dog to add to their family. German Shepherds and Dachshunds require a lot of training to avoid behavior problems. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Lifespan Sociability The Dachshund German Shepherd mix is not standard, so finding an actual breeder might prove difficult. Unfortunately, the puppies can be unhealthy with improper breeding and can suffer serious health consequences. If you suspect this is happening, avoid the litter altogether. Because this is a mixed breed, it might be relatively easy to find one at a local shelter or rescue. Most of them are usually adults who have been surrendered for one reason or another. But there is still a possibility of finding a litter of puppies. If you can find it in your heart to give a dog a second chance with a loving family, this is an excellent option. This method tends to be less expensive, with most healthcare already being done before buying the dog. Dogs usually come with all necessary vaccinations and spay or neuter surgery. Both parent breeds hail from Germany. The German Shepherd was a military and herding dog in Germany s. Dachshunds were developed to hunt badgers and other hole-dwelling animals dating back to the 15th century. While they had very different roles, they are from the same country. This hybrid cross is very protective of its owners. Both the Dachshund and German Shepherd are highly protective of their families. Even though they can be very social, sometimes enjoying the company of outsiders—their families come first. There are lots of physical possibilities with this mix. Dachshunds are long-bodied, short-legged dogs with floppy ears and lengthy snouts. German Shepherds are large with athletic bodies, sloped backs, and pointy ears. German Shepherds are typically very protective dogs who are sharp, affectionate, and easy to train. Dachshunds are spirited little dogs with big personalities and quite a bit of sass. These dogs are brilliant, but they might not always be so willing to listen on command. They need a job to do as their energy levels require it. Dachshunds can be pretty territorial sometimes with people outside of their family, and German Shepherds can be the same way. So, early socialization is essential. With proper introductions, these dogs can blend well with strangers and other animals. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, we do recommend this dog for children ages 6 and older due to their activity levels and possible personality quirks. If your family is active, this dog will love joining in on the fun. They will love to be outdoors exploring all around—so much that it can be hard to persuade them to come back inside. As for older adults, if you adopt this cross as an adult, you probably have nothing to worry about. However, due to high activity levels and training challenges, a puppy might be a little more challenging to handle. German Shepherds have relatively high prey drives incompatible with farm animals in smaller pets. So always be mindful when bringing a dog into a new situation. There is a risk of same-sex dog aggression with this breed because of its territorial nature. Not all of them exhibit this characteristic, but it is something to watch out for and to know before purchasing. The Dachshund Shepherd mix temperament can be yet another great unknown. They tend to be friendly and lively, and they are usually highly protective of their owners. Oh, they are extremely yippy, too! For example, if the German Shepherd parent is dominant, the pup will make for an ideal snuggly companion! They love to cuddle and can be quite spoiled when they decide so. If the Dachshund prevails, the cub may be a bit more stubborn and mischievous, which can be adorable in its own right. Another important trait of a German Shepherd mix is that they come from one of the top 10 most intelligent dog breeds in the world. If they take after that parent breed more, it means that they will be relatively easy to train, which is great if you are a first-time dog owner. Luckily, one half of their genetic code comes from the German Shepherd, one of the most easily trained dogs in the world. They are used as service dogs for the disabled and are disciplined and intelligent enough to also be employed by the police force and special military units. It is nevertheless crucial that you start with obedience training and potty training early on. You can use one of the best dog treat brands and avoid the worst dog treat brands as rewards during training. We wrote an extensive article on Dachshund training tips , so give it a read if you want to tame your beast without a constant headache! This bit depends on your family as well as the lineage of the puppy. If your kids are small and the pup is as feisty as its Dachshund parent, they may not put up with the toddlers always poking and pinching them and may retaliate. This mix is also not very open to other pets, so if you have any, either opt for a different puppy or keep a watchful eye on all of your furry and feathery! In other cases, these mixed-breeds thrive in families. Their lovable personalities and their general openness to adult humans make them great additions to the family so long as there are no tiny beings around, human or animal. As with behavioral traits, mixed breeds can inherit health problems from their parents. Luckily, most of them can be kept under control with proper food and exercise regimes so that your dog remains healthy for as long as possible. Some of the most prevalent health issues in German Shepherd and Dachshund mixes are: Bloat — Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus Syndrome , is often observed in German Shepherds, although it affects Dachshunds, too. It is a dangerous condition of the digestive system whereby the stomach dilates, rotates, and twists. It can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, damage the blood vessels, disrupt the blood flow to major organs, and potentially have more serious consequences, like organ failure. Degenerative Myelopathy — Degenerative Myelopathy is a chronic condition that usually slowly leads to paralysis. It initially shows up in the hind limbs, but can also spread to the front legs. Elbow Dysplasia — The condition affects German Shepherds to a high degree and is frequently inherited by their cross-breeds. Just as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia results from the constitution of this particular breed. Knee Dysplasia — Also known as Patellar Luxation , knee dysplasia is common in both parent breeds. The dislocation of the knee cap can be quite painful and discourage the dog from leaning on the affected leg. Intervertebral Disc Disease — All Dachshund mixes are prone to spinal degeneration. If they inherit the short legs and the elongated body of their Dixie parent, the chances are that they will suffer from a disc eruption at some point. If the condition gets severe, it can lead to pain and paralysis. Hip Dysplasia — Hip dysplasia is possibly the most common ailment in German Shepherds. It can transfer to their mixes if they inherit similar body build. The shorter hind legs and lowered hips in relation to the front portion of the body lead to grinding in the hip joints and cause damage that can result in hip dislocation. Cancer — German Shepherds are among the breeds with the highest rate of cancer development. That mainly refers to Hemangiosarcoma and Osteosarcoma, the cancers of the circulatory and skeletal systems. That puts their mixed breeds at high risk as well, so frequent checkups with the vet are essential. You should also be aware of Dachshund seizures that can happen more often than you think, as well as other health issues to look out for. It might not be a bad idea to think about the benefits of pet insurance so you and your pup can be ready for anything that comes your way. In fact, regular vet visits should always be on your to-do list. Major concerns. A post shared by Ms. The Shepherd is often trained to be smart, fast, muscular, and strong with a high sense of smell and vision. The 17th-century German hunters used the Dachshund as a hound dog to scare away farm rodents such as moles and badgers in underground tunnels. And some people claim the famous hot dog fast food got its name from the dog. Dachshunds usually have a long lifespan of up to 20 plus years. Dachshunds are great watchdogs, eagle-eyed and easily triggered by sudden distractions such as a moving leaf; they often keep out unwanted guests such as other animals or strangers. If the phenotype is dominated by the Shepherd, the dog is usually large and can weigh up to 60 pounds 27kg , and can be as much as 20 inches 50cm in height while standing with a medium-length double-layered coat type. If the phenotype of the dog is dominated by the Dachshund, the pooches tend to be smaller sausage dogs , short-legged, with smooth and long hair. They usually have a double coat of fur that will shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during the season. The Dachshund mixes often have large triangle ears of both parents which can be floppy or erect. They have big dark round eyes which could be green, amber, blue, brown, or black. Their cute little noses are usually black or brown. The Shepherd Dachshund crossbreed is a relatively new designer dog whose weight may range from 20 to 60 pounds 9 to 27kg and may measure between 10 to 20 inches 25 to 50cm while standing. They are not as tall as the Shepherd and not too small as the Dachshund doxie; their stature is often somewhere between the weld. Adult male Shepherd Dachshund mixes are taller and weigh more than their female counterparts. They have thick long hair on the chest, ears, underbelly, and behind the legs. Whichever coat the dog has, it will have a double coat that sheds from time to time, so the owner should be ready for a fur fest. These canids are very loyal and overprotective of their owners. They are very super conscious and vigilant watchdogs. GSDs are often caught snapping at intruders or fomenting trouble around children. Depending on the parent breed dominance, they could be spoiled and attention-seeking canines or stubborn and mischievous poochies. Their Dachshund genes make them intelligent mollycoddles, often not so sociable with strangers at first but warm up to them afterward. They can be pig-headed or stubborn or even aggressive and can burrow or dig anything when having a fit due to their Dachshund trait. The Dachshund mix is very energetic and can often go nuts when they are bored. So they need to be allowed enough space to play around and given enough exercise in order to vent off all their energy. The Shepherd Dachshunds are very confident canids and they like to strut around the house like they own the place, they like to be the cocks of the walk, not the feather dusters. This kind of Dachshund mix is very loyal and protective of their master friends, and this is why they are invaluable as animal companions to Military Police K9 Groups. They are a perfect mixture of their parent breeds. They are strong smart German Shepherds but smaller and doting lovable and lappy Dachshunds but bigger. They love to cuddle and show affection. They can easily mount on their owners while asleep or stay on their laps if they are awake. They can be stubborn doggies because of their Dachshund genome, therefore they need owners who can show them enough attention. Both parent breeds of the mix are fierce barkers, so the Shepherd Dachshund is going to be a loud barker by nature; a stranger striding into the compound, a wobbling leaf, their own shadow, or a stray cat is enough to draw a bark from them 3. They can mistake other smaller pets like parrots, hamsters, and small cats for intruders. Hip and Joint supplements such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin should be given to the doggy in their food servings to increase bone strength and joint stability. These dogs may suffer eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts which may result in permanent blindness in old age. Mitral valve disease is the commonest cardiovascular disorder that affects Shepherd Dachshunds due to obesity that may arise from obesity. Droopy-eared GSDs are often prone to ear infections due to the outburst of fungi and bacteria infections in the ears because they are always warm and closeted. They may not be suitable for people with fur allergies. Regular nail clipping and ear cleaning to reduce the incidence of bacterial infections should be done on the doggy. The doggy should be bathed regularly and their coats brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week, which helps to detach already loose fur and a heap of one giant furball. Vacuuming can also help to brush much easier. The ration sizes for GSDs depend on the size, weight, and activity of the pooch. But they normally consume about 1. Overfeeding can cause obesity which will, in turn, cause cardiovascular problems, spinal degeneration, and intervertebral disc herniation. It is also important to feed the doggy a diet rich in fish oil, chondroitin and glucosamine supplements in order to prevent bone and joint disorders common with their kind. It is important to train them well so you will love them as they can be used as service dogs for the disabled, the military, and the police because of their discipline and intelligence. Owners must understand their personality traits, like their sometimes aggressiveness and stubbornness, and show strong authority over them so they can behave. Since they are overprotective of their owners, they can act up in the presence of children who do not know how to treat them, so discipline is often required in the presence of strangers. German Shepherd Dachshunds are very active and energetic canines and need to be exercised for about 30 to 60 minutes every day. But be careful not to overstretch them as when they show signs of fatigue when they stop dead in their tracks and expect you to carry them. They can be that spoiled. Exercise your pooches with interactive games, and provide them with enough space to play around. Stimulate them mentally with witty games and reward their achievements. When buying a GSD puppy from a breeder, you must make sure to get a healthy pup. The same goes for pet shops. If you want to buy a healthy breed look for an excellent breeder. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd Dachshund mixed breed is a wonderful doggy that has a strong mixture of the traits of a German Shepherd and a Dachshund. The Shepherd gives the dog their strength and smarts, while the Dachshund makes it a cute little doting creature who could be just the right playmate and companion for you! Having noticed the inherent passion and zeal in me to care for pets, I took a step further to create a team of I and like-minded individuals to provide an informative resource in order to broaden the knowledge base of a regular pet owners. The author of this website is a passionate pet lover, and researcher. After gaining experience in raising and training various pets, I realized the need to provide answers to frequently asked questions from pet owners as well as insightful advice I've learned over the years to assist pet parents raise healthy and well-behaved pets. Size and Appearance of German Dachshund Mix Their size and physical appearance can vary to a large extent depending upon the parent types. Image from IG : aritheschaekel Their weight may range from anywhere between 20 to 60 pounds and size in between the range of 10 to 20 inches. Height is a mixture of the sizes of shepherd and dachshund parents. He will certainly inherit the large triangle ears of both parents that can be either floppy or erect. He will surely have big dark round eyes that will add to his personality. So overall, you will get a very handsome-looking chap with all the desirable characteristics. The mixed-breed can either be smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired. So there is a wide set of textures and colors. Such dogs usually shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during the shedding season. German dachshund can come in colors dark blue, brown-black to solid white, red, blue, or even merle. Training of German Shepherd Dachshund Mix The basic laws of training and learning are the same for all the species across the universe. You will have to train your dog by using the basic training techniques of punishment and reward. Do your research and find out what your dog loves the most? Is it cheese, ham, toys, meat, or anything else? Join any puppy training classes available in your area. Lifespan The German shepherd dachshund mix is usually a healthy breed having a lifespan of 7 to 14 years or even longer in some cases. Nutrition The portion size for this mixed breed depends on their size, weight, and activity level. They usually consume 1. Do not overfeed your dog since obesity can be fatal for their health. Always check and carefully follow the serving recommendations printed on the packaging. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, high cholesterol, GIT disorders, and back problems. The mixed breed is prone to spinal degeneration and disc hernia. They carry traits of both their father and mother, so have a mixed temperament. Generally, they are friendly and lively towards their owners. They are happy, energetic, and yippy! They are extremely protective of their owners. If the dachshund traits are dominant, the dog will be more stubborn and mischievous and if the German Shepherd traits are dominant, they can be a nice cuddling companion. This totally depends on your family size, nature, and preference. The dog may terrify the baby or wake him up from sleep. Secondly, they are not very friendly and open to other pets. They want to get all the love and attention of the family themselves. So, keep these things in mind when selecting this mixed breed. Health Concerns Related to German Shepherd Dachshund Mix Just like any natural breed, mixed breeds also inherit health problems from their parents. Some common health hazards in Dachshund mix breed are listed below: Bloating. SausageDogWorld is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. However, it is also a very new combination in the designer dog world. It comes under scrutiny by potential owners, fans of both dachshunds and German Shepherds, and registered dog clubs alike. Two feisty dogs with one noticeable size difference, this article considers the Dachshund German Shepherd Mix in further detail. We will focus our attention on areas such as physical appearance, temperament, personality, health, and exercise requirements of this particular mix. We will then sum up and offer our opinion as to whether the Dachshund German Shepherd Mix is the right choice for you. In this situation, the German Shepherd in question will be a female and the Dachshund a male. The female German Shepherd will be then inseminated using the sperm of a male Dachshund. However, this is a process that will obviously need some assisting with! So, the question remains why pair such a stark contrast of dogs together? For most people considering this mix, the reasoning tends to concentrate on creating one of the unique looking of dogs. In other words, people want to produce a dog, unlike any other already found in the canine world. However, due to the apparent size difference between the two, combined with the plentiful health issues, this mix is not one that experts and health professionals will recommend breeding. The German Shepherd has been long known for its structural problems, namely that of its hips and back legs. This crossbreed can potentially take on the appearance of either of the parent breeds. Therefore, no one can say ahead of time what the puppy of this mix will look like. So, when considering the possibilities of this mix, we can only look to the parents as a guideline. Firstly, German Shepherds are classified as large dogs. They can weigh up to as much as 95 pounds 43 kg. They can also be as much as 26 inches 66 cm in height while standing. With a coat that can also vary greatly, most German Shepherds boast a medium-length double-layered coat type. The fur is usually dense in appearance and can often be wiry. Colour-wise, German Shepherds tend to display black as their primary colour, coupled with cream, silver tan, grey, or red. Dachshunds, on the other hand, are smaller dogs and go by the name of sausage dogs or wiener dogs because of their low-lying body structure. Short-legged, they can display smooth, wired, or long-hair and come in a variety of colours. Generally, the most popular colour is black, coupled with tan, red, chocolate, or cream. Therefore, when it comes to identifying a Dachshund German Shepherd Mix, you can expect anything from a large dog or a small dog. You can also get a crossbreed with German Shepherd pattern or a Dachshund pattern, and a selection of coat types! Dachshund German Shepherd Mix Personality and Temperament schaxenfrida Once again, when it comes to determining the personality and temperament of a Dachshund German Shepherd Mix, we need to look at the parents. German Shepherds have a fantastic sense of loyalty towards their owners. That is why they are perfect for roles as security dogs, army, and police dogs. A highly intelligent breed, German Shepherds are classed as working dogs and thrive on having something to do during the day. Initially, some people consider these dogs to be more guarded and aloof for their owners. The bond German Shepherds form is usually one of the most protective, and they will place their owners above all else. Many owners of this dog breed will tend to recommend only those more capable and experienced owners take on a German Shepherd. In other words, even though German Shepherds are loyal and at times easy going, they tend to show their strong personality. Therefore, they can become quite a handful for those not used to such strong and confident breed as this. Dachshunds also have a strong, independent, and feisty streak in their personality. They too can be quite the demanding of dogs, despite their smaller stature. But, once again, with the correct socialising and training, it can display a whimsical and quirky nature. Consequently, a dachshund can be one of the most loyal of sidekicks for the families it lives with. Considered an easy-going dog to have around the home, a Dachshund does not require as much dedication as a German Shepherd. However, it still needs an equal amount of socialisation to ensure their personality remains easy-going, rather than stubborn! Therefore, when combined, the corresponding personality of this mix will depend significantly on the most prominent traits it takes from its parents. In particular, when you consider the potential for further health issues, it remains hard to suggest a time frame for the lifespan of this dog mix. Yet, this will all be dependent on the health and welfare of the dog in question. It is due to the most common issues already present in Dachshunds, and even more so in the German Shepherd breed. Dachshunds are susceptible to spinal problems. It is especially true if there is no proper care or right environment for their smaller size and stature. As a rule, you should not allow your dachshund to climb up the chairs or jump down off furniture. This care also extends to how you pick your Dachshund up. The reasoning behind this is their sausage-like appearance and tendency to experience spinal issues due to their low spine and short legs combined. A well-known fact is that dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease. However, perhaps the more problematic issue here is the genetic health issues of a German Shepherd in this mix. These dogs can succumb to Hip Dysplasia , which shows itself in lameness or the rear legs. When this health issue is combined with the onset of arthritis, it can become an excruciating condition, indeed. Thus, when considered mixing these two breeds, the potential for severe structural problems is rife. These issues may well centre solely around the joint area. The best way to help your dachshund live longer? Watch our video to find out! Exercise and Activity Requirements The exercise and activities suggested for a Dachshund German Shepherd Mix will largely depend on two factors. They are the size and body structure of the individual dog. If this mix takes predominantly after the German Shepherd, in physical stature, then longer distances are possible. For instance, you can walk your dog a couple of times each day and for longer time lengths, as you would with a purebred German Shepherd. However, if the predominant breed is similar to Dachshund in stature, meaning a shorter body structure and indeed legs, then shorter walks are better. You should prevent your dog from attempting lengthy walks regularly throughout the day. Instead, shorter bursts of regular activity will benefit the Dachshund German Shepherd mix more. All in all, the physical state and body structure of the Dachshund German Shepherd mix will be the final determiner here. Besides, this crossbreed is an outcome of two individual dogs that are often very intelligent. Therefore, it needs an excellent form of mental stimulation. Secondly, you should ensure Dachshund German Shepherd mix gets all the mental stimulation it needs, no matter what their outward appearance. As yet, there is not enough information about the Dachshund German Shepherd Mix. That is why it is hard to provide a strong opinion as to whether it could be the right dog for potential owners. Currently, health experts, veterinarians, and kennel clubs strongly advise against actively looking for a puppy of this nature. This warning is merely due to the potential for a variety of possible health complications of a Dachshund German shepherd Mix. However, if you do come across this mix at a shelter and are considering whether to adopt, do not disregard this option. Above all, this crossbreed has the fantastic loyal nature of both of the parental breeds combined. Therefore, we would certainly recommend taking on a Dachshund German Shepherd Mix in these particular circumstances. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our review about German Shepherd Beagle Mix.

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Incredibly active dogs, the best way to keep a golden happy and healthy is to take them on regular walks and outings. But how long should a Golden Retriever be walked? A Golden Retriever should be walked at least 1 hour every day. If easier for the dog owner, walks and exercise time for goldens can be broken up into two minute sessions daily. This, of course, is the recommended walking time for a healthy adult Golden Retriever. Keep reading to find out more! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Their job was to retrieve downed waterfowl, such as ducks and upland game birds during outings with their owners. These hunting excursions could last hours or even days, and golden retrievers were created to be able to last out in the field for long periods of time. These hunts included regular amounts of walking, running, climbing, and swimming. Even though most golden retrievers today are usually domesticated house dogs, they still have the genetic profile of a working dog and have been bred to be high-energy and very active. A long walk helps a retriever to relax its energetic mind and take in all the sights, sounds and smells they experience along the way. A golden retriever could literally walk all day long and cover dozens of miles. Fortunately for us, that much walking is not required. Ideally, a good walk for a golden can be 30 to 60 minutes in length. The daily walk with your golden retriever can be done all at once, or it can be done for shorter periods of time, multiple times a day. The speed of the walk should be pretty fast. A brisk walk is necessary because golden retrievers are difficult to fully tire out. Running with your golden, however, is not a requirement. How Long to Walk A Golden Retriever Puppy Golden Retriever puppies require daily walks as well, but you will want to reduce the duration and length, depending on their age. Golden retriever puppies require short 10 to 15 minute walks or no more than about 5 minutes per month of age. As a golden retriever puppy grows you can add an extra few minutes each month to your regular walking routine. Doing so will guarantee your puppy grows into a strong and healthy dog. Providing the proper amount of puppy exercise is also a great opportunity to introduce your young pup to other people and dogs. A regular shorter walk gives them a chance to become better socialized, which will make for a happier adult dog in the long run. Walking a Senior Golden Retriever For senior dogs, try walking approximately 30 to 45 minutes daily. As golden retrievers age, their bodies go through physical changes and begin to slow down. However, their joints need to remain mobile and their weight still needs to be monitored. So, they need to be walked, but not too much or it could be detrimental for their health and cause hip dysplasia. Dogs love routine. Try to plan a walk at the same time each day. Consistent walking throughout the week is considered healthier than one long weekend stroll. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Besides walking regularly, it is also important to have some high-intensity exercise and play to help exhaust your golden retriever and retain their muscle tone. Golden Retrievers need three types of regular exercise to thrive and be happy. Long walks — The longer the better within reason. Purposeful high-intensity activity and play — Activities such as playing fetch, swimming, or running off-leash. Mental exercise — Mental stimulation is a form of exercise as well and is absolutely necessary for a healthy golden. Find out which toys golden retrievers love to keep them mentally stimulated in our article here. The average adult Golden retriever needs at least 1 hour of exercise a day, ideally more. Their genetic bloodlines can also influence how much exercise a golden retriever requires. Golden retrievers coming from a working stock would need much more exercise than golden retrievers bred to be lap dogs. Failure to provide ample physical exercise and mental stimulation to a golden retriever can contribute to loneliness and behavioral problems. This can include aggressive actions, digging, constant barking, and even running away to have their own fun. Golden Retrievers are very food-driven breeds. Not exercising enough to burn off the calories they eat can eventually lead to them being overweight. Obesity can lead to extreme tension on the joints, possible injury to internal organs for example, the heart , and diabetes. Exercise is the pill that cures most golden retriever mental and behavioral issues, and a good long walk is at the top of the list. Generally, golden retrievers are obedient and typically have a strong recall if they are trained correctly. Proper dog training is the key to being able to successfully let your golden run off-leash. Alternatively, you can use a retractable dog leash to allow more flexibility while still retaining control during walks. A leash like this will give your golden plenty of room to run and explore, while staying in your control. To be safe, make sure the added weight is no more than 10 percent of their total body weight. Doing this is more than enough to fatigue a dog with endless energy, and it will help to strengthen their muscles without overworking them. Another option to increase resistance and wear your dog out and you too! Choosing a walking route with some challenges will increase the amount of exercise your dog gets from an outing. Hard surfaces such as these can be jarring on both the joints and paws. Instead, walk your retriever on a lush lawn or playground. Many major cities have dog walking areas or dog parks that are deemed safe. These waterproof booties will protect your dogs feet from the hot pavement, as well as ice and snow. Spread a little bit of this on their paws and it will take care of any cracking pads on their feet. This can be an issue on some trails and beaches, as well as sidewalks in the city. They are also incredibly smart, meaning they need to keep their minds busy as well as their bodies. To avoid boredom, it is imperative to have sufficient physical and mental activity. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks and purposeful play, for muscle building and mental relaxation is required for a happy and healthy golden retriever. Not doing so can result in an anxious and frustrated dog, which creates behavioral problems such as barking, digging, escaping, and overall aggressive behavior. Because golden retrievers are also vulnerable to being overweight, regular walking and a balanced diet can help regulate their weight and reduce their risk of obesity. Leash training begins not with your dog but with your mindset. Goldens are intelligent, people-pleasing dogs. Begin your leash training — and every walk after that — with a calm mindset, and your dog will follow. The leader goes through the door first, so work on proper door etiquette until your puppy or dog has the right idea. This sets up your walk to succeed from the beginning. If you allow your dog to pull you over to greet the dog across the street or to sniff that really lovely tree, your dog is the winner in this tug of war. Instead, when your dog starts pulling, stand in one spot. Beginning this training with puppies makes stopping easier, but plant your feet even with a full-grown dog. Reward walking correctly Choose a very small type of treat your dog only gets on walks and use this to reinforce good behavior. Every so often as your dog walks correctly, praise your golden and dish out a treat. Eventually, wean your dog off the treats but always praise good behavior. Goldens respond really well to this type of verbal confirmation. Walk often Make walks a regular part of your routine. At least once a day, preferably twice, walk your dog for a period of 15 to 30 minutes. This routine is a huge part of keeping your golden leash trained for walks. Put it in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone — whatever it takes to get outside. Remember to always use positive reinforcement. Yelling or other punishment types of motivation could backfire. Your golden may end up with more energy or fear of walking. Step 1: Put the leash on your golden while in the house. If your golden is afraid of the leash, reward him with treats when he allows you to put it on him. Step 2: While inside, walk back and forth with your dog, stopping when he pulls on the leash. This method begins to teach your golden what to expect. Jumping You probably noticed that all of the things above are unwanted behaviors. This can lead to heart problems, joint problems, and other potential health problems. These following suggestions for exercising your pup will cover both mental and physical exercises. Play tug with your golden Another good game to play with your pup is tug. This is also a great opportunity to work in some training, as you can teach your golden to drop it , take it, and even have them do sits or downs to resume the game. Play chase This is a great game to play, especially with puppies, since most puppies love nothing more than to chase or be chased. Get your dog hooked on chew toys Teaching your dog to love to chew on chew toys is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. Chewing releases feel-good endorphins and channels their chewing energy into an appropriate toy, instead of something in appropriate, like your household items. It can also help them relax, and put overtired puppies to sleep. Play with a flirt pole Using a flirt pole is great for young puppies because it allows them to chase and pounce a toy while you stay a safe distance away from their razor-sharp teeth. Oliver loves it, plus it takes a ton of mental energy to figure out how to get all of his kibble out of it. Other puzzle toys include the Kong Wobbler , snuffle mats , and food balls. This is a win-win since he loves the puzzle toys and it takes more energy to work for his food than to just gobble it up from a food bowl. Play hide and seek This is a great game that combines training and a little bit of exercise, but it does require that your golden knows how to stay. Just be sure to fully dry them off because goldens are susceptible to hot spots. Take your golden to doggy daycare After a day of daycare, Oliver is usually wiped out for the night, as well as half of the next day. Set up a doggy playdate If you have any friends that have nice dogs, or if you meet anyone in a local Facebook group, try to set up a doggy playdate. Your golden will love it! This is especially good for young puppies, since they need to be socialized with other dogs and you can make sure the other dog is up to date on their vaccines. Conclusion Since golden retrievers were bred to hunt out in the fields and marshes all day, they need a lot of exercise. How much exercise does your golden need per day? Have any questions about exercising your golden retriever? Let me know in the comments below. Related articles:. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy About the Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever originated in Canada in the 19th century and is now a world-wide beloved dog breed. These dogs are medium-sized dogs, females have a height of .Their average weight as an adult is pounds for females and pounds for males. They have a life expectancy of years. When it comes to their temperament, Labrador retrievers are very loyal, friendly and affectionate companion dogs. They are known for being very social towards strangers and other dogs. Labrador retrievers also come in three colours : black, brown or yellow. These dogs are very active as they need plenty of walks, play time and affection. They are great with children and make a great companion dog. If you're thinking of adopting a Labrador retriever puppy, keep reading as we go through how to care for them! Learn more about the Labrador Retriever in our breed sheet. When to collect your Labrador puppy You can adopt and collect your Labrador puppy once they are 8 weeks old. This way, you make sure that they have had enough time to socialize with their family, mother and siblings. It also makes sure that they have developed good bite moderation before being adopted to their new family. Other advantages are that they have had time to drink their mother's milk and properly wean off. They will also feel more independent and will transition better to their new home after being 8 weeks old. We also encourage you to check out your local animal shelter before buying from a breeder. Where your puppy should sleep the first night When it comes to sleeping at night, your puppy will have some difficulties. This may be due to the new environment and new people. They may feel unprotected and disoriented. For this reason, it's normal to hear them cry as they may be calling their mother for guidance and company. Now that you've adopted this puppy, this is your job as their human companion. When they call out, try to be there for them as they are scared and lonely. Be understanding as your puppy learns to adapt to their new home. As a puppy is very dependent and on their first night they will feel scared and disoriented, it's best they sleep near you on their first night. Remember that puppies tend to sleep with their siblings and their mother. Being alone in a new place for the first time will be difficult for them. The best option for your new puppy is to sleep in their own bed inside your room, near you. So that if they feel scared or lost and cry, you can let them know that you are there with them. Once they feel more oriented and safe in their new home, you can move their bed to another location where they can sleep. Learn more in our article where we elaborate on how to prepare for your puppy's first night in their new home. What to feed your Labrador retriever puppy When feeding your Labrador retriever puppy, you will need to provide them with a rich and balanced diet. Keep in mind that puppies begin weaning when they are around weeks old. This means that they will slowly transition from their mother's milk to a solid food canine diet. A natural canine diet mainly consists in essential fatty acids and meat-based protein. The protein should have two or three types of protein from meat. For example: whole chicken, lamb, beef and fish. For fat sources, you can opt for chicken fat. Good fat sources can solute some of the most important vitamins a dog needs. When it comes to carbs, it should be kept in a low amount as dogs thrive on meat. If you are cooking for your dog, then we recommend to include low amounts of whole carbs, such as sweet potatoes. Lastly, you can offer some fruits and vegetables that provide good vitamins and minerals to help your dog's over-all health. Training your Labrador retriever puppy Labrador Retrievers are very active and intelligent dogs. Other than daily exercise, they will need basic dog training. Yes, even as a puppy! You can begin training your dog with paper training. Learn more about that in our article about paper training for puppies. You can then begin to teach them basic commands, such as to sit, stay, or even to play fetch. Remember to always train them for short amounts of time each day, not exceeding 15min, and always through positive reinforcement. This way, training will be enjoyable for them and will help you create a greater bond with them. To learn more, read our article about when to start training your puppy. Exercising your Labrador retriever puppy Your Labrador retriever puppy will needs plenty of exercise. Due to their small size as a puppy, this will mostly be at home. They will begin by playing with their siblings and walking or running around the house. Then, after their first round of vaccinations, usually around the age of 7 weeks old, puppies will begin to go outside. This is a very important part of their puppyhood as they will learn to go out on walks with their caregivers and will begin their socialization period. During this period, they will meet and interact with new people and other dogs. They will also explore new places. It's very important that during this period they have good interactions and don't get traumatized. When a puppy is well socialized from a young age, they will have a balanced temperament as adult dogs. Learn more in our article about socializing puppies. Hygiene care Next, we're going to talk about maintaining our puppy's hygiene. As Labrador puppies haven't grown their full coat, they won't need to be brushed regularly just yet. A bath is only necessary when they get very dirty on their outdoor walks. Dental hygiene is also important when it comes to caring for a puppy. You can opt for a dog tooth paste or a dental canine treat. Talk to your veterinarian to see which would be best for you puppy, and learn more in our article about dental hygiene for dogs. Other than that, we must make sure that their everyday environment is also clean and that we refresh their water bowl everyday. This way, our puppy will have great personal hygiene and we can help them prevent certain health issues from a young age. Health care Lastly, we're going to talk about your Labrador retriever's health. The Labrador Retriever is a relatively healthy and long-living dog, especially if they stay in shape. However, the lack of genetic diversity resulting from breeding programs makes them prone to certain hereditary diseases and conditions , which are usually manifested as the dog grows old. For instance, Labradors tend to suffer from hip dysplasia. When your Lab is a puppy, you must ensure they get the necessary vaccines, and you must follow their vaccination schedule during the rest of their lives. This will prevent them from suffering very serious diseases that tend to affect dogs. If you want your dog to stay as healthy as possible, go to the vet for check-ups every 6 months. You can prevent the development of common diseases by watching your Lab for symptoms and caring for them as best as you can. Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity - they love treats, and if they don't get enough exercise they will soon become overweight, with the related muscular and joint problems. Helpful tips for caring for your puppy We hope that this article has given you great insight when it comes to caring for a Labrador Retriever puppy. Here are some other helpful articles for caregivers that are adopting puppies:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. If yes, you need to be extra careful when handling the dog. You will take a lot of time to adjust to the needs and demands of the dog and spending quality time with the dog will help in this task. Labradors are highly attention seeking dogs. They may not have a lot of demands, but they can certainly not do without attention. Ignoring them is the biggest blunder when handling them. Since, Labradors are even tempered and lovable dogs, they constantly shower their owners with a lot of love and want the same to be reciprocated. Thus, the pet owners need to be quite open with their feelings and shower love on them and show them that they are loved and cared for. They are always ready to please their owners and many times, they bank upon their intelligence so as to please their owners. Labradors also need a lot of fun and excitement in their life. Taking them to the park and indulging in a lot of energetic play can help them to build a nice and strong bond with each other. There can be a lot of intelligent interaction between the pet and the owner that will help in cementing the relationship between each other. Having a highly energetic Labrador may pose a lot of problems as far as its security and protection is concerned. Many pet owners go microchip way to ensure complete protection of their friendly pets. While taking care of your Labrador, you also need to be particular about its diet and nutritional demands. They must be given food that is rich in the nutrients and minerals necessary for their proper growth. Moreover, Labrador love to indulge in a lot of exercising; hence their diet demands are also on a slightly higher side. Daily and regular exercise can make them more energetic and active. Some variations in the exercise can help the dog to enjoy the whole routine. The dog will enjoy boundless energy as a result and some outlet for this energy will ensure a well balanced pet. About Rahul From Delhi, Rahul is an animal lover at heart. He is a writer and most of his writing revolves around making people aware of animal issues like health, training and grooming. More like this.

As mentioned above a full-grown Mini English Bulldog still weighs between 25 — 40 pounds 11 — 18 kg. Carrying them around all day would be a serious workout. Males reach up to 11 to 14 inches 27 — .This breed looks like your standard English Bulldog, with a deep chest, rounded ribs, broad shoulders, and short snout. The only notable physical difference is size. The average English Bulldog height is 16 inches 40 cm maximum and a weight of 55 pounds 25 kg maximum. Back in the s, breeders crossed a Pug and an English Bulldog to create this designer dog mix. They wanted to design literally a healthier English Bulldog…but were they successful? I can tell you right now from my experience that this parent breed comes with a lot of health issues. More details on that later. Both the Pug and English Bulldog have ancient histories with royal families. Pugs were favored by the Chinese, specifically the Shang dynasty, who ruled from to BC. English Bulldogs were praised by… the English! What a surprise! Out of all the Bulldog breeds, the American is the largest at a maximum of pounds 59 kg and a height of 28 inches 71 cm. The smallest Bulldog is the Frenchie. The one thing all Bulldogs have in common is their friendliness and need for positive attention. Even Bulldog mixes like the Beabull and the Valley Bulldog are huge sweethearts, especially with kids. The Teacup Bulldog was primarily bred to be an excellent companion. As I mentioned briefly before, the Pug and the English Bulldog are both prone to many health issues thanks to their snout and wrinkles. English Bulldogs are prone to overheating so keep your dog indoors in the summer , cherry eye eyelid issue , hip dysplasia, and joint injuries. Pugs have very similar health concerns. With that, we can deduce that a Toy Bulldog could experience one or all of those concerns. Be prepared to spend a lot of money on vet visits, especially in their old age. The good news is that a healthy Mini Bulldog can live up to 12 years! The temperament of an English Bulldog is docile, friendly, and willful. The personality of a Pug is also docile, clever, charming, and social. They do carry a stubborn side, too. Combining these traits makes for a very outgoing and sweet Mini English Bulldog. Overall, the Toy Bulldog is a great family pet. When it comes to noise, the Bull-Pug has two levels. They hardly ever bark…but they snore like crazy! Consider sleeping with your dog in the other room. This breed sheds moderately and is not hypoallergenic. The Mini Bulldog can adapt to any size home, from a small apartment to an echoing mansion. Miniature English Bulldog vs. English Bulldog — which breed is stronger? Watch the video below to see who wins the toy fight! Not the most low-maintenance breed. It would much rather sleep all day than run. Puppies are more active than adults, but Teacup Bulldogs of all ages are happy with a short walk twice a day. Yes Please This chunky dog eats more than your typical small breed. Puppies need cups each day. And the lack of exercise only makes things worse. Pugs are included in the list of top hardest breeds to house train , so you may have some wet carpet stains around your home for a while. The sit, stay, and roll over commands will take some time with the Toy Bulldog. Most dogs learn best when there are treats and positive reinforcement involved. If your Toy Bulldog is not trained properly, it could try to be the alpha. With its fragile health conditions, this dog cannot be left alone for hours on end. It needs a responsible owner with enough money to take care of any health issues right away. Otherwise, it may suffer. These breeders typically focus all their time and energy on raising healthy dogs, so it may be worth it in the long-run. It could save you future vet visits. For Miniature English Bulldog breeders, check out these websites:. Sometimes called a Bull-Pug, the Miniature Bulldog is a cross between an English Bulldog and a Pug, Puggle, or French Bulldog to create a smaller size bulldog that will be perfect for your family. English Bulldogs were bred to bait, guard, and control bulls while Pugs have been companions to royals since about BC. They are peaceful and get along well with animals and people. You may find that some males are territorial or try to display dominance or aggression toward other male dogs. By nature, Bulldogs may occasionally display overprotective behaviors, but early training and socialization can help you manage it. They can be stubborn and slow during training, but they retain what they learn well. It frequently has a shortened muzzle like both parent breeds, which can sometimes lead to difficulty breathing especially in extreme temperatures. Eyes are dark, large, and round, and ears are thin and small and hang in a rose or button configuration. Mini Bulldogs have sleek and short, smooth and glossy coats that shed moderately but almost never tangle or mat. Black and fawn is the most common coloration, but you can also see brindle, red, and white. Typically this breed will be about 15 inches tall and weigh 15 to 45 pounds. They are not likely to ask for walks, and you may even find your pup to be lazy! But some daily exercise is crucial to keep these naturally thick-set dogs from becoming obese. Obesity runs in both parent breeds, so Mini Bulldogs are especially prone to putting on unhealthy weight. We recommend 30 minutes of activity per day and about 2 miles walking per week. Take care when exercising because their shortened muzzle makes them particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures. Getting along well with other family pets, they may be quarrelsome with unfamiliar or strange dogs, possessing a strong sense of determination, being dominating and stubborn at times. At times, they snore while sleeping. During their puppy days, they are lively and energetic but get less active as they grow old. Care Exercise The puppies would enjoy exercising while some of the adults may not be interested in too much activity, loving being indoors, but daily walks are needed to ensure fitness and better health. Grooming A firm bristle brush should be used for combing and brushing their short, smooth coat at least thrice a week, whereas they are to be bathed only when required. Cleaning their wrinkles with a damp cloth and shampooing twice a week is necessary to prevent infection. With a dribbling tendency after drinking, wipe their mouth after meals. Health Problems Like their parents, they may have breathing difficulties, at times even having small windpipes. Whelping difficulties in females, hip and knee problems, demodex mange skin disease , cherry eye and poor eyesight are some health concerns. Heat stroke during warm weather or when kept in hot cars or rooms are also not uncommon. Training Obedience and socialization training should be imparted since their puppy days to help them get along well with strangers. Feeding The Mini English Bulldog puppies should be fed at least 2 to 3 times a day when they are 2 to 4 months of age. The adult dog should be fed with high-quality dog food divided into equal meals. Overfeeding should be avoided. With both parent breeds very popular dogs, it is no surprise that the Miniature Bulldog is also rising in popularity. The Miniature Bulldog is a crossbreed with two different parents and is therefore considered a hybrid dog. The English Bulldog was first used for bull and bear baiting in England as far back as the s. Back then, the English Bulldog was a taller and heavier dog than it is today. Luckily, a few breeders wanted to save the English Bulldog and kept breeding and the first Bulldog breed club was formed in .Their popularity then continued to rise throughout the 20th century. One of the oldest dog breeds in history, the Pug dog could be dated as far back as BC. It is thought they were originally worshiped in Egypt and bred as companion dogs for Tibetan Buddhists. Then, around two thousand years ago, the Pug came to China where it is believed they originated from. Many Emperors believe that these dogs brought good luck and began to worship them. In the s, Dutch traders brought the Pug from China to England and Holland and these pups became a popular dog among aristocracy and royalty. After the Civil War they made their first appearance in the United States. Being such a new breed, the Miniature Bulldog has a very limited history and we cannot be sure when the first litter was bred. However, it is thought that these dogs began to be bred between and .Characteristics Of The Miniature Bulldog Finding a Miniature Bulldog puppy can be difficult, due to the fact they are a new breed and fairly rare. Miniature Bulldogs are normally born in litter sizes of between 5 and 7 puppies. They normally reach adulthood by the time they are 18 to 36 months of age, although it can depend which parent breed they take after more. It can be difficult to know exactly what characteristics a Miniature Bulldog will inherit from each parent breed, especially as they are such a new dog with no breed standard. They may take after their Pug parent more, or their English Bulldog parent more. Appearance These dogs have a muscular body, broad shoulders and a round head. They are often thought of as stubby dogs because of their short legs and round body. They also have small ears and wrinkles, which gives them an adorable look! This breed can also sometimes have an underbite, where the teeth protrude out in front of the upper teeth. This breed is a brachycephalic breed with a brachycephalic skull. This means they have a flat face look with a squished nose. This can cause health problems, which we will go into more detail about later on. The Miniature Bulldog can stand between 12 to 16 inches tall, and can weigh between 20 to 45 lbs. They are considered a small breed, unless they weigh over 40 lbs and are considered medium sized. It is also quite dense. They shed moderately, so are not the dog for those with allergies, but do not shed huge amount and therefore do not require too much grooming! We will discuss their grooming needs further on. Color The Miniature Bulldog is normally a mix of two color combinations. The most common colors are white, black, silver, brindle, fawn and red. Temperament It can be difficult to know the exact temperament of the Miniature Bulldog because they are not a purebred dog. They will like inherit different temperaments from their parent breeds. However, more often than not, the Mini Bulldog is a friendly and loving pup who loves humans. They are known to form strong bonds with their owners and are extremely affectionate. As both parent breeds are bred as companion pets, it is no surprise that the Miniature Bulldog also makes an excellent companion. They do not have a strong prey drive and get on very well with children. They can be a little aloof with other animals, but socialization can help. They can also be stubborn when it comes to training, but with patience they can learn! When raised in the right environment, these dogs are very loving and friendly. Due to the fact they love their humans so much, they can sometimes suffer with separation anxiety, but this should never be shown through aggression. Providing they are socialized properly, these dogs will grow up to be well-rounded pups who can get on with everyone. Lifespan The Miniature Bulldog has an average life expectancy of between 9 to 13 years. Many of these health concerns are passed down to them from their parent breeds. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. It can lead to breathing issues and loss of breath if they are overexerted. This skin can also be very sensitive and can become irritable, so you must watch out for itching. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Bulldog mix, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these dogs on a day to day basis is really like. Fortunately, they do not have high care needs, which makes them perfect for new dog owners. Below, we will cover their food and diet, their grooming requirements and their exercise needs. Food And Diet The Miniature Bulldog requires around calories of food a day, which equates to around two cups of kibble. This should be split into two meals a day. Of course, you should always check the back of the food packet to see how much of a certain food you should be feeding your Miniature Bulldog based on their weight. Always feed your dog high-quality food that meets all their nutritional requirements. If possible, you should purchase a food that is tailored to their specific needs, especially taking into consideration their size. Take a look at the food we recommend for this breed. Your dog will function at his best with enough protein. Without adding any grains, their recipes are created with the assistance of doctors to provide your dog the ideal ratio of protein and fat. Each batch is checked to ensure it meets our high standards, and high quality ingredients are mixed in the USA for quality control. Exercise The Miniature Bulldog does not have excessively high exercise needs, and only need around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise a day. This can be split up into walks and playtime. They will especially love it if the whole family get involved! Due to the fact they are a brachycephalic breed, they can be prone to overheating as they find it difficult to breathe properly when they over-exert themselves. Therefore, if you live in a hot climate, try walking your Miniature Bulldog after the sun has gone down. The Mini Bulldog requires mental exercise too, and should be kept mentally stimulated when they are not running around. You can give them toys and puzzles to play with to keep them entertained. Family Compatibility The Miniature Bulldog makes an excellent family pet. Thanks to their small size they make great playmates for children too and are very gentle with kids of all ages. These dogs can be a little wary of other animals and so if you have other dogs or pets in the home, socialization is recommended. Also, due to the fact the Miniature Bulldog is a small breed, they do not require a lot of space to live. As long as you dedicate a bit of time for taking them for a walk in the park and then engage in playtime with them, they will be a happy pup! Training The Miniature Bulldog can be a little stubborn at times and therefore training can often be tricky at first. It will require a lot of patience and perseverance from you, but stick with it because they will eventually learn! These dogs respond best to reward based training and positive reinforcement training. This includes verbal praise as well as treats. You should never get angry or annoyed with your Miniature Bulldog because this will make them not want to learn. Training your dog can be a great way to bond with them. You should start training them from a young age so they learn to be obedient and well-mannered. However, they can be aloof around other animals and, if not taken care of, can be shown through aggression. This is why socialization from a young age is so important. You should introduce your Miniature Bulldog to different sights, sounds, places, smells, people and animals in a safe and controlled way to ensure they learn there is nothing to be afraid of. This will help them to develop into a well-rounded and good mannered pup! You should brush them once a week with a rubber mitt to remove any excess hair and keep their coat healthy and clean. They do not need to be clipped as their fur will stay short. You can bathe your Bulldog as and when it is needed. You may find that their wrinkled skin causes them to be a bit smelly from time to time. A groomer or veterinarian can help you trim their nails and you should regularly brush their teeth the prevent dental decay and disease. You can also use dental sticks if this is easier. You should always make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder who can give you health clearances for both parent breeds. Unfortunately, because the Miniature Bulldog is a relatively new breed, finding a breeder can be difficult. However, a search online may turn up some breeders or those enthusiastic about the breed! If buying from a breeder is out of your price range, you can always check your local shelter. You never know, there may be a Miniature Bulldog there who is looking for their forever home! Their size means they have less of a chance of hurting children while playing and they love to show their family members affection. Summary A crossbreed of two very popular breeds of dogs, the Miniature Bulldog is a wonderful pup to bring into your home. Excellent for families, these dogs form a bond with their owners immediately and love children, making wonderful playmates and companions. That being said, make sure you can dedicate time for playing and training and be prepared for some separation anxiety when you leave the house — these dogs will love you and not want to let you go! Do you think a Miniature Bulldog could be the pup for you? Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The head of the Miniature English Bulldog should be large, but not exaggerated out of proportion to the body. Broad muzzled and short faced, but with a definite protrusion of muzzle. The face is measured from front of cheekbone to tip of nose, long enough for unhindered breathing. Muzzle is broad and turning up. Loose folds of skin across nose, but in no way excessively wrinkled. Undershot but not to excess to level jaw. Flews are broad and hanging over lower jaw at each side. Eyes are set low and wide, never bulging or sunken—preferably without visible haw. Eyes of any color are acceptable; however, blue eyes are undesirable. Ears are small to moderate size and set wide apart. Rose or button preferred; never erect. Mouth is broad jaw. Full dentition desirable with incisors a large as possible. Canines set wide apart. The neck is moderate in length; thick, deep and strong with loose skin forming small dewlap on either side. Chest is broad and deep. Shoulders broad, rounded ribs. Forelegs powerful and straight, not bandy or curved, well boned, set wide apart, but under the trunk, presenting a straight front. The back is short and straight giving compact carriage, but not so short as to interfere with activity. Ribs well sprung and deep. Hindquarters are strong and muscular. Hocks are slightly bent. The feet are round and compact. Excessively splayed feet undesirable. The tail is thick set at the root. Straight long or short , crank, pump-handle tails all acceptable. Set high on rump, slightly rounding down. Screw tails acceptable, but tight screws undesirable. Docked tails definitely undesirable. Gait and movement are balanced and vigorous. As true straight as possible with drive from rear. The coat is smooth, short, and tight to the body. Acceptable colors are all brindles, solid white or pied, solid red, fawn or any combination. Fallow black not acceptable. It is not a mixed breed. Loyal, extremely affectionate in nature. Extroverted and gregarious, this breed's happiness requires human attention. This breed is good with family pets, but can be scrappy with strange dogs and needs an owner who understands how to correct this behavior. Gets along well with children. May dribble a little after drinking but is not considered a big drooler. Tends to snore while sleeping. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent. They do not give up easily. A lot of human attention is required for the breed's happiness. Some Miniature English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating and need an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and understands alpha canine behavior in order to raise a Bulldog that understands its place in the human pack , and is nice to, and reliable with all people. When Bulldogs are young, they are full of energy, but slow down as they get older. Height, Weight Males: Height 11 - 14 inches 27 - 35 cm Females: 10 - 13 inches 25 - 33 cm Males: Weight 25 - 40 pounds 11 - 18 kg Females: 25 - 38 pounds 11 - 17 kg Health Problems Breathing problems; some have small windpipes as well. Also poor eyesight, very susceptible to heatstroke in warm weather or hot rooms and cars. Very cold sensitive. Puppies often delivered by caesarian section because of their broad heads. Its digestive system is very active and may be offensive to people with sensitive noses. Susceptible to skin infections. Also hip and knee problems. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is an indoor dog. Bulldogs do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather. Exercise Some adult Miniature English Bulldogs would just as soon not take any exercise, while others are full of energy. In any case all Bulldogs need to be taken on daily walks to fulfill their primal canine instinct to walk. Fit English Bulldogs are capable of moving very quickly for short periods of time. Life Expectancy years; females usually live longer. Some say their Mini Bulldogs have lived between years. One Mini Bulldog lived 17 years. Litter Size 4 - 5 puppies; as a result of this breed's large head they are difficult to whelp. Most Miniature Bulldog dams need to have cesarean sections when whelping their puppies. Artificial insemination is often necessary. Grooming The smooth, fine, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face with a damp cloth every day to clean inside the wrinkles. This breed is an average shedder. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions….

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.