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They focus on dogs who have the temperament and character of a friendly family dog. They spend their time seeking out the perfect adoption homes for these Goldens through their volunteer network, applications, social media, and events. They do this to ensure that whichever home the dog ends up in, the owners will be well educated in caring for this specific breed. This organization is amazing because they take many different steps to ensure that their dogs go to a great, loving home with a family that will take care of them. This rescue is amazing because they focus on dogs who are close to being euthanized or dogs that have the possibility of being less likely adopted. Address: P. This club is to give recognition to this amazing breed of dog. This rescue is trustworthy because they are a part of the Golden Retriever Club of America and therefore they are American Kennel Club registered. This club is a great organization for anyone who owns Golden Retrievers because they consistently host events and have many different projects to work on as a team. They also spend their time finding reputable breeders of Golden Retrievers so they can ensure that those looking for Goldens can get the puppies from a trusted source. People love this club because they have a ton of information on their Goldens, puppies, finding a breeder, and more. They host events and they have a community where people can get together to celebrate Golden Retrievers. This ensures that they are a trustworthy and educated club for Golden Retrievers. This club provides education and training for those who own a Golden Retriever or those who are looking to own a Golden Retriever in the future. People are loving this club in specific because they dedicate their time to Golden Retrievers and the education behind them. They even are looking into research to find answers to medical questions that have been a concern for Golden retriever breeds for years. They are consistently contributing to the community by building friendships, providing education, research, and training as well to all the owners and Goldens of central New York. This is the perfect Golden Retriever club because they even have veterinarians and professionals who give educational lectures about the breed. This club is great for those that are looking to get their Golden Retrievers involved in shows, field trials, and obedience trials. This club is also American Kennel Club certified so you know they are trustworthy and ethical. People love this club in particular because they stay busy with events, organizations, and fundraisers. They are accepting new members regularly and they ensure that anyone that joins their club is involved in their organization a lot by having a ton of events to attend. This club is a devised club where even non-members can attend their events, just without their furry friends. This is a great idea if you just want to scope out the club before actually joining and bringing your Golden Retriever. People love joining this club because they focus on a lot of different training and tricks. They involve their Golden Retrievers in competitions, assisted therapy, conformation, obedience, rally obedience, and tracking. This is a really great reason to choose this club because it gives your Golden Retriever a lot of different opportunities to be a part of. Not only that, but this club is also a part of a lot of events that bring their community together in order to celebrate Golden Retrievers. Anyone with a Golden Retriever can join this club in order to bring out the best qualities whether that be in obedience, training, agility, tracking, competitions, or field events. Not only is this a club for Golden Retrievers, but they also have rescue, puppy referral, and referenced clinics. They work with a lot of people to bring Golden retrievers the best care before adoption, after adoption, and as puppies. Golden Retriever owners love being a part of this club because they have a lot of educational opportunities and they teach the dogs a lot about their natural abilities. Final Thoughts Finding the perfect Golden Retriever rescue center or club can be tricky, especially with so many options around New York. We hope to have narrowed down the search a little bit for you by providing you with some of the best and most trustworthy rescues. Rescues that are ethical, registered, and overall show true compassion for their animals are the ones to go with. Not all rescues have the same agenda, so making sure that you go through one that does what they are supposed to do is important. These rescues are the perfect palace to start and a lot of them have a ton of information on their website about their organization. You should be able to find everything you need using the information in this article. We wish you all of the luck trying to find your perfect Golden Retriever for your family! Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read the full disclosure here. Originally bred to retrieve shot waterfowl and serve as gun dogs, golden retrievers are one of the most popular family dogs. Despite their huge popularity and purebred status, you can still adopt purebred goldens from golden retriever rescues in New York state. Before you start researching different golden retriever breeders in New York state, consider adopting or fostering a rescue dog. While it might not seem like it at first, rescued dogs come with certain benefits! If you decide to purchase a puppy from a breeder, be prepared to spend a lot of time on obedience training and house training. On the other hand, most rescued golden retrievers are already fully potty trained and know basic commands. Keep one reading to find out how to adopt a golden retriever in need! Best Golden Retriever Rescues In New York State Highly trainable, friendly, and active, golden retrievers make awesome pets to people of all ages and families with children. Medium to large in size, these athletic and energetic dogs need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Whether you are interested in adopting or fostering a golden retriever, you are probably wondering what are the best golden retriever rescues in New York state. Furthermore, most of these rescues are always looking for helping hands and you can always sign up to be a volunteer and help find homes for goldens in need. Without further ado, here are some golden retriever rescues in New Your state you have to check out! Their goal is to find new homes for purebred golden retrievers and their mixes who have been abandoned, mistreated, or lost by their previous owners. This rescue also takes in goldens whose owners are no longer able to continue caring for them. Like most other reputable rescue organizations, GRROWLS is strongly committed to helping prospective owners understand the golden retriever breed. They are also there to help new owners get prepared for bringing a new puppy home and to know what to expect from the first couple of weeks. This rescue has a fairly straightforward adoption process. If you are interested in adopting a golden retriever through this rescue, you will have to fill out an adoption application first. Before matching you with a particular dog, the rescue will arrange a home visit so they can understand your environment and lifestyle. The Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue takes in dogs from different backgrounds. Some of these dogs are well-behaved and cared for pets whose owners have passed away, while some goldens come with a history of abuse or neglect. A thing worth noting about Sunshine Golden Retriever Rescue is that most of their dogs come from kill shelters in the South and are placed as direct adoptions. This means that approved applicants will meet a dog through pictures, email, and adoption coordinator. Operated solely by volunteers, this organization is dedicated to improving the lives of golden retrievers that were neglected, abandoned, or abused by their owners. The Long Island Golden Retriever Rescue provides veterinary care and loving forever homes to all golden retrievers, from puppies to seniors. The best thing about this rescue is that they have been involved in several international rescue operations. This organization has a list of available adoptable dogs on their site and you just need to fill out an adoption application if you are interested in adoption. Once the staff reviews your application, they will contact you to set up a home visit. Like all other non-profit rescue organizations, the New York State Retriever Rescue has set adoption fees. All golden retrievers that come in New York State Retriever Rescue are evaluated and taken to their vets for a complete health exam. Before leaving for their forever home, all dogs receive the necessary shots and have fecal and heartworm tests. And if for whatever reason you can suddenly no longer care for your adopted golden, this rescue will take the dog back and try to find it another home. Bear in mind, since they are located in Long Island, this organization generally only adopts their dogs in a mile radius. History Where are Golden Retrievers from? One of the best documented and most fortuitous efforts to produce a breed resulted in the Golden Retriever. The man responsible for the breed was Lord Tweedmouth, who lived just north of the Scottish border along the Tweed River. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Goldens can reach a weight of 55 — 75 lbs, and a height between .A Golden Retriever has a dense, straight or wavy outer water-repellent coat, which sheds heavily twice annually and lightly throughout the year. Groom a Golden Retriever weekly to maintain the double coat and control shedding. What are the Golden Retriever colors? The breed was first considered to be a yellow variety of Flat-Coated Retrievers but was recognized as a separate breed, the Yellow or Golden Retriever, in .What makes the Golden Retriever dog so popular? The breed was valued for the hunting abilities so ably produced by the careful blending of foundation stock, and only later became popular as a pet. How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of 10—13 years. What are some Golden Retriever facts and information? Facts Golden Retrievers are best known to: Push through heavy vegetation. We are a c 3 nonprofit relying on donations , supporters , fundraising, and event and retail proceeds for funding to provide top-quality care to all DVGRR dogs. Learn more about our Golden Gateway campus and watch our campus tour video. Watch our video to take a quick tour. Click to learn more. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array of adoptive and educational support for the adopters and broader community. If you are interested in adopting, please attend one of our Monthly Open House: Meet the Dogs, Tour, and Shop events, held every second Saturday of the month from 10am until 12pm. Plus, we always need event sponsors. Learn more, click here! All dogs must remain on lead during the event; no flexis. We ask that each dog be handled by one human. Click here for all the details! Details are coming! Help us cover the costs of renovations! Click here for details! Kennel Caregivers — Dedicated, responsible, hard-working, compassionate individuals. Must be 17 years or older. Click here to learn more and apply.

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. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. We can see when your Boxer puppy will become their adult size and reach its full height. Your new puppy will grow rapidly for the first two weeks. Your pup should weigh between 4. When your doggo is between six and eight weeks old, they should also prepare for their first vaccinations. Males should be around 17 to 19 inches .At one year old, females should weigh between 55 and 65 pounds .Many factors are involved. For your doggo to maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitoring their growth and weight is a good idea. How can you tell how big a Boxer will get? Within the first six months of age, your Boxer will grow rapidly. You can tell how big your pooch may get by looking at their paws and head. For example, your furry friend may look disproportionate for a while. However, some parts of their body will catch up to the rest within a few months or even a few weeks. Is your Boxer at a healthy weight? You can typically tell whether or not your Boxer is at a healthy weight by their ribs. But, on the other hand, if you can feel and see their ribs, they may be underweight. Always check with your vet to be on the safe side. What are some Boxer dog body shape changes? Boxer puppies grow in height faster than their weight gain. When this dog breed matures and becomes an adult, they will have a wide chest. But, overall, Boxer is strong and lean. In addition, different factors are involved when it comes to impacting how your dog grows. In addition, reputable breeders should have this information. The nutrition you feed your pooch can help or hinder their growth. For example, if you feed them dog food with unhealthy fillers and lots of fat, they may become obese, thus hurting their growth and overall health. Will neutering or spaying your Boxer affect their growth? Spaying or neutering your Boxer has more pros than cons. For example, some health conditions may include hip dyslexia, bloat, acne, arthritis, and cancer. The best way to ensure your pooch remains healthy is to work together with your veterinarian. Take your dog to regular vet appointments at least once per year for an annual check-up. In addition, talk to your vet about the type of dog food and exercise your Boxer should be getting. If your doggo is overweight or underweight, the vet will be able to help. Finally, properly groom your doggo. Physical activity Boxers need plenty of room to run around and stretch their legs. However, they love to play and enjoy a round of fetch with you in a fenced-in yard. Just be sure to wait until their bones and joints are fully developed before taking them for jogs or hikes. Otherwise, they could have joint issues later in life. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth If your Boxer is a little bigger or small than the others of its breed, that may not necessarily be a bad thing. However, some issues can occur. For example, your pooch may be smaller due to a growth hormone deficiency. This controls the growth rate in dogs, their bone and teeth development and maintains a healthy coat. Dwarfism could also be the reason. When do Boxers stop growing? You can expect your Boxer to be fully grown and stop growing between 18 and 24 months of age. This system works on a scale of one to nine. One means your pup is underweight and unhealthy. Nine means they are extremely overweight. The ideal place on the scale where you want your large dog to be is a five. What should you do if your Boxer is growing too fast? Growth disorders can occur in larger dogs, such as Boxers. If you notice your dog growing too fast, talk to your vet first. How to help your Boxer lose weight if he is overweight? This includes their diet and exercise. Take a look at what dog food you feed your pooch. In addition, do you feed your doggo people food and table scraps? Do Boxer mixes vary in size? If you want to learn more, you can read about Boxer mixes here. How Big Is Your Boxer? These happy doggos are a delight to have around. Boxers are great companions dogs for anyone young or old. While this pooch can have certain health conditions, they do have an average growth track. Overall, with proper exercise and dieting, your Boxer will develop into a happy, healthy pup. Did your Boxer puppy grow on track? Let us know in the comments below. Further reading: Learn more about the Growth of other Dog Breeds. This will be the age when Boxer newborn is fully weaned and ready to go to his new home. His world expands at this time. Some have a difficult adjustment leaving littermates and dam and transitioning to their new family. A planned introduction to the home will set a good foundation for introduction to other situations. Housebreaking should begin at this age. With an excellent plan and follow-through, expect it to take 4 to 6 weeks for your Boxer to be doing well in this regard. Command training simple commands can be worked in with housebreaking and other daily activities. For example a 2 month old Boxer puppy can learn to sit while his harness and leash is being put on and then learn that walking over to the designated chosen area equals a trip to the bathroom. Sleep may be erratic at this time and a Boxer puppy can sleep as little as 9 hours per day rare or up to 18 hours. Most will take quite a few naps during the day and then wake up 1 to 2 times per night. We've seen 2 month old little ones sleep right through the night, but it is rare - in these cases, the dog is able to enter deep REM sleep quickly and stay there, keeping the number of nap times to a minimum. This is the minimum age a dog must be in order to enter a dog show event. Many clubs, such as the AKC require a dog to be 6 months old; however if you truly want to show your Boxer, you may do so at 3 months with many other dog clubs. By this age, the pup has a good idea of his home environment and since the rounds of puppy shots are almost done, owners should plan on how they will proceed in regard to introduction to the world. To a dog, his world is as big as the owners choose. For some, it is just the neighborhood, for others it is the entire town! The reason that we say "plan" is because how a pup is introduced to other dogs, people and new environments affect how the dog reacts and responds. A planned transition to new elements is a huge part of Socialization Training. During this stage, some owners become a bit concerned if their Boxer is not barking ; however this is not a super vocal breed he makes lots of noises like groans and even some purrs, but doesn't typically bark at every little thing. A quiet puppy will often outgrown this and find their voice as they mature. It is at that time that a Boxer will bark when someone comes to the house, etc. By 1 year, if owners follow through, the Boxer is well trained, for both commands simple and complex and house training. Still, the dog has learned the basic workings of the world. He has been trained to know where his belongings are, who you consider to be friend or foe and is very used to his daily schedule. This is a great Boxer age, the dog looks young, still has the mentality of a puppy with playfulness, etc. You'll have a 40 to 55 pound 20 to 25 kg size puppy jumping on you and acting silly. Females will be on the lower end, males on the higher end. The body structure is slim, the chest is still relatively narrow. Over the course of this year, from the beginning of year 1 to the beginning of year 2, most will gain an additional 15 to 20 pounds 6. Height will increase. The most noticeable physical change will be the widening of the chest, a sure tell sign of a 2 year old adult. It is not uncommon for a Boxer dog to seem too skinny during a quick, temporary phase around this mark. Generally from 14 to 22 months old, a Boxer may have some visible ribs and appear too slim as he struggles to catch up to a quick growth spurt. For most, this is nothing to be concerned about. This is a huge milestone. At 2 years old, a Boxer is considered to be an adult. The dog will be at his adult weight and height. If you are offering commercial food, now is the time to switch to an adult formula. Temperament will gradually change. That playful puppy temperament will slowly turn more serious, but even older adults can have a sense of humor. That puppy that used to leap after butterflies in the field may change into the adult that stands proud and strong, scanning the yard for trespassers. The Boxer will now begin to age at a more steady rate. Still active, yet fully trained, this is a wonderful stage. By this age, status in the house if full established. Other family members may have come and gone kids off to college, a new roommate moves in, etc. However, if the dog was properly trained, he knew, throughout any changes, that his place was as Beta to his Alpha human leader. A Boxer dog is considered to be a senior at the age of 7 or 8 years old. Since there is no official age, it is the veterinarian who makes this declaration. Though, even if it has not been declared, with this breed typically living to a range of 9 to 12 years, 9 years is about as long as you can extend this before you dub your Boxer a senior. It is important to recognize this transition, so that geriatric care needs can be met. Regular visits will normally increase from 1 time per year to twice a year. Changes will happen once again to the diet, moving over to one that is a bit lower in fat, yet higher in fiber. This helps a less active dog maintain weight and fiber is one element that aids in digestion. A geriatric screening will check for kidney function. A Boxer dog with decreased kidney function should be fed a lower protein diet. The vitamin and mineral supplement will now switch to a senior formula as well. Don't let the senior age label fool you, Boxers at this age should still be taken for a daily walk for exercise , will enjoy outings to the beach, etc. One thing to keep in mind is that an older dog will sometimes have less tolerance for puppies and young children. It is a good idea to have a designated area for your senior Boxer to retreat to, should he desire.Older dogs still like to see the family and be aware of comings and goings, but will often want to retreat when youngsters or puppies are at play. Each dog has his own tolerance for the loud noises and commotion that accompanies younger humans and dogs. The average life span of a Boxer is years old. At this age, a senior dog most likely has lived through some health issues. A dog of this age will most likely have some arthritis. Movement may become difficult, it is suggested to have steps and ramps for the dog if he or she is used to climbing up onto your bed or the couch. The dog bed should be evaluated for comfort and support. An orthopedic bed is highly recommended. Any time after this age that your dog is still with you is a blessing. Some Boxers live late into their teens; however you should prepare yourself that your dog is nearing the end of his life cycle. Related: Oldest Boxer Dogs in the World - Though this breed generally lives 9 to 12 years, some Boxers have reached into their teens. You will notice that there is a range in both height and weight. Use the lighter weights for female Boxers and the heavier weights for male Boxers. This principle also applies to the variations in heights. Females tend to weigh less and be smaller in size than males. Between 6 — 12 months of age, Boxers are no longer considered puppies since they start to reach sexual maturity. Boxers are considered adolescents between 6 months to 24 months, and at 2 years old Boxers reach adulthood. They will continue to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. How long does it take for a Boxer to be fully grown? As a medium-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to reach their full size and weight than smaller dog breeds. On average, Boxers will grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. At 2 years old, Boxers are full-grown, reaching their full height and weight. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the breed standards. If your Boxer is less than two years old, he or she is likely still growing. Insider Tip: To estimate how big and heavy your Boxer will get, you can contact the breeder. Puppies rarely exceed their parents weight and height. Boxers above this average may be classed over-weight. Check with your vet to get an accurate diagnosis since more athletic dogs will have bigger muscles and will weigh more. It is important to recognize if your Boxer adds extra weight so that you can adjust his or her lifestyle. After, you just need to deduct your weight to find out how the weight of your Boxer. However, the bigger they get, the trickier it gets for them to stand still on such a small scale. Measure at the withers shoulder whilst standing. Try it out below:.

UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. As early as the 13th century, the dogs were bred for the now-illegal sport of bull-baiting. The English Bulldog is a short-haired, medium-sized dog 40 to 50 pounds with a low, sturdy stance, a large, short-faced head with an underbite, wide shoulders, and short tail. They have drooping lips with many loose skin wrinkles and folds throughout their face and neck. Caring for an English Bulldog The English Bulldog typically displays a friendly, yet stubborn, temperament and can make a great family dog. As a brachycephalic, or short-nosed, breed, English Bulldogs are not well-adapted to hot climates. Owners will need to be cautious if they live in warmer climates or during spring and summer seasons. Their wrinkly skin will also require frequent maintenance to prevent skin infections. The unique physical traits of the English Bulldog make it predisposed to an array of medical concerns. The short face, sensitivity to temperature extremes, excessive skin folds, and elevated hip position above the shoulder line can lead to medical issues. Some of these issues may require lifelong treatment or surgical correction, so this dog breed can become very expensive. Pet insurance is a great option for any pet parent considering adding an English Bulldog to their family. English Bulldog Health Issues English Bulldogs have some unique features that have made them into the popular and identifiable breed they are today, but many of those characteristics come with potential health risks. The combination of these abnormalities leads to difficulty breathing in air and getting enough oxygen. The short-faced, brachycephalic nature to the English Bulldog means they already have, or have a high potential to develop, some or all of the anatomical issues associated with BOAS. The brachycephalic nature of the English Bulldog also makes them sensitive to temperature extremes, and especially prone to overheating. The characteristic snorting and snoring noises from the English Bulldog are also caused by their brachycephalic face. Skin Fold Pyoderma and Allergies All of the excessive skin wrinkles throughout the face and neck can cause skin issues for the English Bulldog. Any time an English Bulldog gets wet, their wrinkles can trap moisture if they are not properly dried. This keeps bacteria and yeast from building up and prevents moisture from becoming trapped and turning into a breeding ground. Depending on the allergy, your dog may require a special diet, medication, or medicated wipes to help manage and alleviate symptoms. Hip Dysplasia The English Bulldog is very prone to developing hip dysplasia , a condition in which the hip joint does not function properly and can cause pain. This abnormal position creates an unstable hip joint, which can lead to arthritis and possible bone fractures over time. There is testing available—PennHIP screening—to detect the likelihood that a dog will develop hip dysplasia in their lifetime. If your dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, there are a few options for treatment and long-term management including medications , joint supplements , and surgical intervention. Weight management will also be important, because any excess weight will exacerbate the issue and increase discomfort for the dog. Entropion The English Bulldog can develop entropion , which is the inward rolling-in of the eyelids usually the lower eyelids. This condition causes the outer hair of the eyelid to make contact with the surface of the eyeball cornea. Entropion can irritate the eyeball and soft tissues around the eyeball, causing redness, pain, swelling, and discharge. While eye products like artificial tears and pain medication can help these symptoms, surgical intervention to correct the entropion may be necessary for permanent relief. Obesity The English Bulldog is prone to obesity , and the extra weight can exacerbate other health concerns. To help prevent unnecessary weight gain, pet parents need to be diligent about the type and amount of food given daily. Since English Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures and prone to breathing difficulties, weight management through food is even more important because exercise can be difficult. There are some dog foods on the market that are specifically formulated for the English Bulldog. These breed-specific diets offer a special dry kibble shape for easier eating and certain ingredients to promote gastrointestinal, joint, and skin health. The English Bulldog can be very food-motivated, so overfeeding or offering excessive amounts of treats during the day should be avoided. There are also puzzle toys, which require your dog to think and interact with the feeder to get to their kibble. How Much to Feed an English Bulldog In general, the amount of dog food offered should be based on the ideal weight of the adult English Bulldog, which is typically between 40 to 50 pounds. Your veterinarian can work with you to find the appropriate amount of food per day for your English Bulldog. For English Bulldog puppies, the amount of puppy food offered is based on their current puppy weight. Nutritional Tips for the English Bulldog Multiple supplements can help maintain the overall health of the English Bulldog. Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, and glucosamine supplements can improve and maintain healthy skin and joints. Probiotic supplements promote healthy gastrointestinal bacteria, which can alleviate flatulence and promote good digestion. Talk with your veterinarian to learn which supplements make the most sense for your English Bulldog. Behavior and Training Tips for the English Bulldog English Bulldog Personality and Temperament The English Bulldog is typically friendly, loyal but stubborn, good with children and other pets, and likes to make its presence known without being aggressive. The stubborn nature can often be observed as laziness. Despite the stubborn temperament, the English Bulldog does enjoy and benefit from daily moderate exercise. English Bulldog Behavior Although the English Bulldog is quite docile, they can be curious in new situations and act protective of their family. The English Bulldog is not shy to make an entrance and may muscle their way to their pet parent and often to other people to get affection. English Bulldog Training As with most dogs, the English Bulldog responds best to training and socialization early in their puppy life. Because the English Bulldog is devoted to their pet parent, they can respond well to training, especially with a toy or food reward. Basic training commands sit, stay, leave it, etc. Their coats can come in a wide range of colors and combinations: red, white, fawn, fallow, piebald, or brindle, to name just a few. Their wrinkly skin will mean that their grooming needs are more frequent and time-consuming than for other dogs. To help keep their skin healthy, pet parents need to be diligent and thorough about their skin and coat care. A soft, dry cloth can be used to gently wipe out debris and dry the skin wrinkles. Coat Care The hair should be brushed about twice a week. Be sure that skin wrinkles are clear of debris and gently dried with a soft cloth after bathing or splashing in water to prevent skin infection. Eye Care Since the English Bulldog can be prone to eye issues or allergies that cause eye discharge, you may need to clean around their eyes routinely. This can be done using pet-safe wipes—but again, make sure that you always fully dry the skin after cleaning. Ear Care After every bath or splashing in water, the English Bulldog should have their ears cleaned with a dog-specific ear cleaner. Considerations for Pet Parents Some of the major considerations for pet parents of an English Bulldog include brachycephalic syndrome, sensitivity to extreme temperatures, skin fold pyoderma, allergies, hip dysplasia, and entropion. These considerations are important because they can greatly affect the overall lifestyle of the English Bulldog. They may require lifelong medical care and may ultimately need surgical intervention or a referral to a specialist veterinarian to fully alleviate these medical issues. Pet parents considering the English Bulldog breed should consider getting pet insurance to help handle the medical costs of the breed. Most English Bulldogs make excellent family companions, especially with children and other pets. However, some English Bulldogs, especially ones that have had difficult developmental years, may display fearful or aggressive behavior that is not characteristic of the breed. Are English Bulldogs smart dogs? What are the drawbacks of an English Bulldog? By far, one of the biggest drawbacks of making an English Bulldog part of the family is coping with their medical issues. A great deal of emotional and financial stress can be mitigated by investing in pet insurance for the English Bulldog right after adoption. How much does an English Bulldog cost? When purchased through a breeder, English Bulldog puppies can cost as much as several thousand dollars. However, there are English Bulldog rescue organizations that have young to older adults and sometimes puppies available for adoption at lower costs. Likewise, some animal shelters may have English Bulldog puppies and adults available for adoption. Is an English Bulldog an aggressive breed? While historically the English Bulldog was bred for the sport of bull-baiting and displayed quite an aggressive behavior, this characteristic has largely been bred out of the breed over time. In general, the English Bulldog breed of today is known for being friendly and docile. Their affectionate, outgoing personality is what most people love about this breed. Bulldogs bond with almost any kind of person, young or old, boisterous or quiet, and are not known for aggressive behavior. Bulldogs are truly social creatures. But their favorite social interaction of all is curling up next to you on the couch. They will pout and sulk if they feel rebuffed, making some hilarious faces in the process. Once you give them the attention they crave, Bulldogs immediately slip into silliness and roll all over the floor with excitement and paw at you for more. But Bulldogs can be stubborn, too. But their skin is a different issue. Use a damp cloth or a baby wipe to clean underneath all the hanging skin, especially the wrinkles around the nose and tail, and then be sure to dry the exact same areas; moisture can create bacterial breeding grounds. Look for signs of skin irritation as you go, and, if you notice any redness or flaking, talk to your vet. They may recommend applying a soothing ointment to the areas for a few days while keeping an eye on the condition. If they have skin problems, talk to your vet about bathing more frequently. Be sure to start grooming your Bulldog puppy as soon as they come home to get them used to being touched and groomed. Speaking of paws, be sure to keep their nails trimmed. You may need to trim them about once a month. Oh, and good treats, of course! Bulldogs are just not that into obeying you. Bulldogs can learn all the important commands—sit, come, stay, leave it—to keep them safe. Use positive reinforcement treats, cuddles and special toys to reward your Bulldog for listening. Pup parents say that once a Bulldog learns a command, they never forget it. As with all breeds, early socialization with other dogs is key for Bulldogs to learn how to, well, be a Bulldog! Dogs teach each other when and how to play and when to back off. Make sure the food you choose meets the nutritional standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials. You might have read that Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Unfortunately, their facial structure leads to a condition called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS and causes breathing difficulties see the Health section for more information. But BOAS can trigger digestive issues, too, including vomiting, gagging or regurgitation. To lessen these issues, feed your Bulldog small amounts at a time they are speedy eaters who will gulp down whatever is in front of them in seconds! Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which makes the symptoms of BOAS worse. Talk to your vet about an appropriate feeding schedule for your Bully and their appropriate weight. Your vet is in the best position to help you pick the best food for your pup based on their individual needs. Exercise The breathing difficulties caused by their flattened snouts makes vigorous and extended exercise a no-go for Bulldogs. Although they will get a burst of energy and run around in circles from time to time aka the zoomies. Overexertion—especially in hot weather—can actually be dangerous for this breed. Three easy-going, minute walks a day, mixed in with a few dog-park play sessions or doggy playdates throughout the week is plenty. Be sure you schedule these in the cooler parts of the day and avoid the heat at all costs. Other than that, Bulldogs are content to stay inside, making them great apartment dogs for city living. Oh, and Bulldogs love to play tug-of-war! So stock up on tug toys and play a quick game—it counts as exercise! When it comes to the safest, most comfortable environment for this breed, it comes down to one thing: air conditioning. Other than that, Bulldogs are adaptable and social pups who would love to be in a home with lots of people—kids and babies included—to give them attention. They even get along well with aloof cats! That said, Bulldogs can be just as happy bonding with one doting pet parent. Back to Top Bulldog Health For all the fantastic things there are about the Bulldog, there is one drawback. Their overall health is not that great. Years of breeding for the pugilistic-looking flat face have created myriad problems for the English Bulldog. Either way, it is important pup parents are aware of these health concerns so they can help their Bully stay healthier, longer. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome: BOAS is an inherited condition that almost all Bulldogs have to some degree due to their short muzzles and the shape of their heads. Keeping your Bully at a normal weight is one way to help them breathe more easily. If their breathing problems are more severe, surgery may help. Soft-palate surgery opens up the breathing passages allowing your dog to breathe more easily. Skin Infections: Bulldogs are prone to developing skin infections in their delightfully wrinkly skin. It is essential you clean and dry their folds every day. Signs of infection may include increased itching or scratching, a bad odor or a greasy or really dry coat. If you do suspect your pup has a skin infection, get to your vet pronto! Your vet can determine the best course of action, most often a topical medicated cream. Eye Issues: Cherry eye looks like a red or pink bulge in the interior corner of their eye. It occurs when their third eyelid swells and is out of place and is sometimes due to weakened connective tissue or inflammation. There are surgical and non-surgical treatments depending on the severity. Bulldogs also suffer from entropion, a condition in which the eyelid rolls in and rubs the eye, causing irritation. Entropion can be treated by surgery; if left untreated, blindness may occur. Birth: One of the distinctive traits of the English Bulldog breed is their massive head. More often than not, Bulldog puppies are born via c-section to safeguard the puppies and the mother. Back to Top Bulldog History Were you once a college athlete who now gets winded bringing the laundry upstairs? Though their precise origins are unclear, Bulldogs most likely originated in England and may have descended from ancient mastiff-like breeds. This brutal practice was gruesome and bloody for both the bulls and the canines; naturally, it became a popular spectator sport. Gamblers bred Bulldogs for vicious temperaments and shorter and shorter snouts, which could latch on to the bull more easily. Thankfully, bull baiting was outlawed in .By this time, the peculiarly cute, compressed faces of the Bulldog had won the hearts of the English people, who continued to breed them for their looks, not their aggression. Shortly after, Bulldogs were brought to America, where the American Kennel Club recognized them as an official breed in , and the Bulldog Club of America was formed in .Today, most of the qualities that made Bulldogs such successful bull baiters have been bred out of them. Their lovable personalities make them the fifth most popular breed in the country. Their flat faces, though, continue to be popular symbols of pluck and determination: Bulldogs serve as a mascot for many high schools, colleges and universities think Yale University and the University of Georgia , Mack Trucks, and the US Marine Corps. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bulldog Overview The Bulldog, a beloved and iconic dog breed , holds a special place in the hearts of many, with a history that spans centuries. With a history dating back to the 13th century, Bulldogs have evolved into the lovable and devoted companions we know today. Their journey from the bullbaiting pits to becoming cherished family pets is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. This breeds appearance is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive features and unique physique. Their short-muzzled head is massive and square, adorned with dense wrinkles that add to their endearing charm. These wrinkles serve a functional purpose, helping to protect their eyes and funnel moisture away from their face. Bulldogs have a muscular and low-slung body, coupled with a sturdy build and broad shoulders, giving them a powerful and determined appearance. Despite their strong physique, Bulldogs are surprisingly gentle and docile, making them excellent companions for families, including children. Their stocky legs and wide chest contribute to their distinctive gait, often described as a waddle rather than a typical walk. This amusing gait, combined with their snorting, snoring, and grunting habits, endears them to their owners and adds to their unique charm. Their devotion to their families knows no bounds. They thrive on human companionship and seek out attention from their owners. While Bulldogs are generally calm and dignified, they are also known for their courageous and protective instincts. Despite their sweet disposition, they will not hesitate to defend their loved ones if they sense any threat. Their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unmatched. Bulldogs are prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their distinctive facial structure and stocky body. Their popularity has grown steadily over the years, and they have become cherished pets in households worldwide. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments and family homes, has contributed to their status as a favored breed for many families. Their unique appearance, combined with their loving and devoted temperament, make them stand out among dog breeds. Whether they are representing school mascots or snuggling up with their owners on the couch, Bulldogs continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and lovable character. For those seeking a canine companion filled with loyalty, love, and a touch of quirkiness, the Bulldog is an exceptional choice that will undoubtedly bring joy and affection to their home for years to come. Bulldog Highlights Bulldogs, with their charming and endearing personalities, are known for being a bit stubborn and inclined to laze around. As they mature, their enthusiasm for walks may wane, but it remains essential to provide them with daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. In warm weather, Bulldogs can struggle to tolerate heat and humidity. Keeping a close eye on them when outdoors is crucial, as signs of overheating should not be ignored. Many caring owners find relief for their furry friends by offering kiddy play pools filled with refreshing water in shaded spots, creating a relaxing oasis for Bulldogs to enjoy while everyone is outside. Conversely, Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather. During chilly days, providing them with appropriate protection, such as cozy blankets or insulated jackets, will ensure their comfort and safety. As affectionate as Bulldogs are, their distinctive wheezing, snorting, and snoring sounds are part of their charm. Yet, these adorable noises can sometimes be accompanied by sleep apnea , a condition that requires attention and care from their loving owners. Bulldogs have also earned a reputation for their occasional bouts of flatulence. While this is common among the breed, excessive gas may warrant a visit to the vet to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Due to their characteristic short noses, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory ailments. Some may even have pinched nostrils, making breathing more challenging, and in severe cases, surgical correction might be necessary to alleviate their discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Bulldogs, as they have a propensity to be greedy eaters. Without careful monitoring of their food intake, they can easily become overweight or even obese, which can lead to various health problems. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to keep these charming canines fit and happy. When it comes to reproduction, Bulldogs face unique challenges. Their relatively large heads and front structure often necessitate caesarean sections for safe delivery of their puppies. Therefore, breeding Bulldogs requires experienced and responsible practices to ensure the well-being of both mother and offspring. Discussing this matter with the veterinarian beforehand is essential to ensure their safety and well-being. In the quest for a healthy and well-adjusted Bulldog, it is vital to avoid obtaining puppies from unethical sources like backyard breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, responsible pet seekers should seek reputable breeders who prioritize genetic health testing and good temperaments in their breeding dogs. With proper care, attention, and love, Bulldogs will flourish as devoted and cherished members of their families. Their unique personalities and delightful quirks will undoubtedly win the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these lovable and affectionate companions. By embracing the responsibility of providing for their specific needs and ensuring their happiness, Bulldog owners can look forward to years of joy and companionship with these endearing canine friends. Bulldog History The Bulldog of today stands in stark contrast to its ancestors, descended from ancient mastiff-type dogs and exclusively developed in England. It was an incredibly popular spectacle, captivating audiences in a time before professional sports, television, movies, or video games. The early Bulldogs were taller and heavier than their modern counterparts, selectively bred to excel at this gruesome activity. Their short, flat noses allowed them to breathe while maintaining their grip, and their tolerance for pain was heightened to endure the demanding battles. The wrinkled skin on their heads even had a practical purpose, redirecting blood away from their eyes during the gripping struggle. No longer bred for aggression, the Bulldog faced a transformation. Dedicated and patient breeders set their focus on the temperament of the breed, selecting only dogs with docile and gentle personalities for breeding. Over time, this re-engineering process successfully transformed the once ferocious Bulldog into the affectionate and amiable companion we know today. The journey to rehabilitate the Bulldog was not without challenges. In , the first Bulldog breed club was formed, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years. However, the tenacity of Bulldog enthusiasts prevailed, and in , The Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing a new standard for the breed. This standard underwent revisions and adaptations, eventually gaining acceptance in and remaining in use to this day. As Bulldogs were brought to the United States, their popularity began to grow steadily, leading to their recognition by the American Kennel Club in .Throughout the s and s, Bulldogs enjoyed popularity, ranking close to the top 10 breeds. Today, they proudly stand as the 12th most popular breed among the registered by the AKC, a testament to their credentials as beloved companions. The transformation of the Bulldog from a once feared and ferocious creature to a friendly and tranquil companion stands as a testament to the human ability to rehabilitate and refine an entire breed through thoughtful and dedicated breeding practices. The once-feared Bulldog has evolved into a loving and cherished member of countless families, a triumph of human compassion and dedication. Bulldog Size A medium-sized breed, Bulldogs are known for their sturdy and compact build. Mature male Bulldogs usually weigh around 50 pounds, while females tend to be slightly lighter at approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size. Despite their weight differences, Bulldogs maintain their iconic charm and distinctive appearance. In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. Their low-slung bodies and stocky frames give them a unique and endearing look. Despite their relatively short stature, Bulldogs exude confidence and presence, captivating everyone they encounter with their charming demeanor. Their compact size and well-proportioned bodies make Bulldogs agile and adaptable, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their gentle and loving nature, combined with their unique physique, ensures that they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Whether as devoted family pets or show champions, Bulldogs leave an indelible impression wherever they go, becoming beloved companions to those lucky enough to have them by their side. Their mere presence is enough to deter any would-be intruders. Temperament is influenced by various factors, including genes, training , and socialization. To ensure your Bulldogs grow up to be well-adjusted dogs, early socialization is key. Expose them to a range of experiences, people, and environments during their formative months. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their social education. Regularly inviting visitors and taking them to busy places will help them polish their social skills, turning them into delightful and well-rounded companions. With a blend of charm, courage, and affection, Bulldogs are truly one of a kind, canine confidants that will undoubtedly bring endless joy to your life. Bulldog Health Like all breeds, Bulldogs may be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. Choosing a responsible breeder increases the likelihood of getting a healthy Bulldog, as they ensure vaccinations and deworming for their puppies. Responsible breeders use physically sound, mature dogs, testing them for genetic diseases relevant to the breed. The following conditions may affect Bulldogs: Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes, creating a red, swollen appearance that resembles a cherry in the corner of the eye. While not typically painful, it can cause discomfort and potential irritation for the dog. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the gland and alleviate the issue. This can result in discomfort, redness, and a blue haze over the cornea. Veterinary consultation is essential to diagnose the condition accurately and provide appropriate eye drops or ointments to manage the symptoms effectively. In severe cases, corneal damage can occur. Surgical correction is often recommended to reposition the eyelids and prevent further complications. Inverted or Reverse Sneezing : While not a health problem per se, inverted or reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in Bulldogs. It happens when nasal fluids drip down the soft palate, causing a temporary closure of the airway. Owners can soothe their Bulldogs during these episodes by gently massaging their throat or offering a distraction. Brachycephalic Syndrome : Bulldogs, with their short heads and narrowed nostrils, can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which results in obstructed airways. This may cause noisy or labored breathing, especially during exercise or warm weather. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and even collapse. Head Shakes: Head shakes in Bulldogs can resemble fits but only affect the head. They are involuntary movements from side-to-side or up-and-down, possibly linked to stress or low blood sugar levels. If the shaking is unrelated to excitement or stress, a prompt veterinary visit is advised to rule out any underlying health issues causing discomfort. Timely veterinary attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to poor fit between the thighbone and hip socket. Although Bulldogs often show signs of hip dysplasia on X-rays due to their naturally shallow hip joints, they may not always experience significant lameness or pain. Proper weight management and controlled exercise can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of joint problems. Tail Problems: Some Bulldogs may have abnormal tail formations, such as screw tails or inverted tails, which can cause skin problems. Keeping the tail clean and dry is essential to prevent infections or irritations associated with these tail types. This can cause lameness, an abnormal gait, or even joint arthritis over time. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Bulldog Care Having a low to moderate energy level, bulldogs are well-suited for indoor living. They prefer a relaxed lifestyle and are content with about 15 minutes of play before needing a nap. This adaptable energy level makes Bulldogs suitable for various homes, from apartments to houses with yards. A mile or two walk during cooler times of the day is sufficient, but even a short stroll along your street brings them joy. Due to their brachycephalic pushed-in face structure, Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold weather. They tend to breathe heavily and struggle to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heatstroke, especially in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Providing a cool, air-conditioned environment and ensuring access to fresh water is crucial for their well-being. Another important consideration is their inability to swim due to their heavy heads. In terms of training, Bulldogs may not excel in obedience trials, but they are highly capable learners. They have an excellent memory and respond well to fun training sessions that involve repetition, positive reinforcement, food rewards, and praise. Patience and consistency are key to successful training with Bulldogs. Bulldog Feeding Feeding your Bulldog the right amount of high-quality dog food is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. However, the exact portion your adult dog needs depends on various factors, including size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals, and their dietary needs can vary. Opting for high-quality dog food is crucial as it provides better nourishment, reducing the quantity needed to meet their dietary requirements. Be cautious not to overfeed your Bulldog, as obesity can strain their joints and lead to health issues. You can do this with the hands-on test by feeling their ribs without having to press hard. For more detailed guidance on feeding your Bulldog, consider our guidelines for choosing the right food , feeding puppies , and feeding adult dogs. Proper nutrition is vital for a happy and healthy life for your beloved Bulldog. The head is adorned with heavy wrinkles, and there are two loose folds forming a dewlap from the jaw to the chest. Bulldogs come in various colors, including red brindle, other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow pale cream to light fawn, pale yellow, or yellow-red , and piebald large patches of two or more colors. Solid black is less common and not highly admired in this breed. Daily cleaning of their face is essential, paying special attention to cleaning inside the wrinkles. Dry the wrinkles thoroughly after washing, and consider using baby wipes with lanolin and aloe vera for gentle cleaning. Bulldogs are moderate shedders, and regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Other grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. The ears should smell good without excessive wax or debris, and the eyes should be clear without redness or discharge. Bulldog Children And Other Pets An amiable temperament and sturdy build make Bulldogs a wonderful companion for children, including young ones. Nevertheless, if they ever get tired of being tormented, they will simply walk away, showcasing their sensible judgment. Teach them to be gentle, respectful, and considerate towards their furry friend. Supervising any interactions between dogs and young children is of utmost importance to prevent any unintended mishaps, such as biting or pulling of ears and tail. No dog, including the gentle Bulldog, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. While Bulldogs are known for their amiable disposition, any breed of dog may react unpredictably to certain situations. Therefore, adult supervision is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog during their interactions. Beyond their affinity for children, Bulldogs exhibit a pacific nature that extends to other pets, including dogs and cats. Their sociable demeanor makes them generally great companions for various household animals. However, like any dog, Bulldogs may display some reserve or caution when encountering unfamiliar dogs. Proper introductions and gradual socialization can help Bulldogs become more at ease in the presence of other canines. By teaching kids how to approach and interact with dogs respectfully and under adult supervision, the bond between Bulldogs and their human and animal companions can thrive in a harmonious and loving environment. Bulldog Rescue Groups Often, Bulldogs are acquired without a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved, leading many of them to find their way into rescue groups seeking adoption or foster care. However, opting to adopt an adult Bulldog presents several compelling advantages. Adult dogs frequently come with pre-existing housetraining and basic obedience skills, making the transition into a new home smoother. Moreover, they have already outgrown the boisterous puppy phase, sparing potential adopters from dealing with the inevitable mischief and destruction associated with young pups. He is characteristically big-boned, goofy, and full of love. Although they were originally bred as fighting dogs—and later became a worldwide symbol for toughness and tenacity—the bulldog evolved into a gentle, family oriented dog who just wants to watch the world go by from the comfort of his bed. You're also likely to see this handsome breed on TV, patrolling the sideline at a college football or basketball games, or in the movies, famously trying to keep an inflated Aunt Marge from floating away. It's no wonder you find them everywhere, the bulldog is the fifth-most popular breed in America. They're beefy boys and girls. A staple trait is their huge underbite, and sometimes the pups will " hang a fang. English bulldogs sit low to the ground and have wide shoulders, two characteristics that behooved them in their dog fighting history. They can be any combination of these with additional brindling, ticking, or black masks. Their eyes should always be dark brown or black. You won't confuse an English bulldog for the other members of the bulldog family. The French bulldog is smaller and has tall bat ears. The American bulldog is an athletic all-purpose working dog with longer legs and a leaner body made to guard, hunt, or farm. The Olde English Bulldogge, a larger, more muscular mix of English bulldogs, pit bull terriers, American bulldogs and bullmastiffs, is the least common bulldog. Temperament A bulldog's temperament is far more friendly and goofy than he may look. Although they're intimidating physically, bulldogs are actually extremely family and kid friendly. The more positive interactions they have with new situations, the better off they'll be. The bulldog is rarely aggressive. In fact, he's almost dopey. He doesn't always understand what you're saying, but he's kind and earnest in his ways. Their low energy level means they can thrive as apartment dwellers. They certainly don't need a huge yard to run and romp, as they'll get tired after 10 minutes of playing and need a snooze. The bulldog absolutely loves children and will put up with all the noise, yanking and tugging that come with them. They'll never show anger; they'll just walk away if they feel bothered. This breed doesn't bark a ton, but they make great watch dogs that can frighten someone off with their appearance alone. They are also known for having courage, and will protect their loved ones no matter what. Bulldogs prefer a slow life lounging on the couch or squeezing onto your lap yes, even at 50 pounds. They are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a wide skull and a flat face that can make exercise tough. Their heavy heads and chest make them poor swimmers and they should be watched closely around water to avoid drowning. Care A bulldog's coat is very fine and short, so they only require brushing once a week. The more you brush, the less hair you'll find on your furniture and clothing. More important than brushing is keeping his face clean and dry—with so many wrinkles, they can get irritated or infected if not cared for properly. Trim his nails once a month or so, until you can't hear him click-clacking on the floor. Weekly or daily teeth brushing will prevent future vet visits down the line. While the bulldog doesn't care much for exercise, he still needs it to maintain a healthy weight, as he is prone to weight gain. A daily walk around the neighborhood during the cooler hours will wear him out, as will a quick play session. He would much rather be cuddling with his child companions or taking a nap in the AC. Consult your vet about the right food for your bulldog, and monitor that food intake to prevent weight gain. Bulldogs are better off with two measured meals a day rather than leaving the bowl out all the time. If nobody stopped them, they'd keep eating. Because they can be lazy, bulldog owners need to have focus and patience with their puppy. Once he learns something, he will remember it, especially if treats are involved. That short, bullish stature can give way to joint or respiratory difficulties. The brachycephalic bulldog can get overheated quickly, so he shouldn't be left in enclosed warm spaces and must be monitored outdoors. Always have plenty of water, shade, and access to AC for your bulldog to reduce the likelihood of heat stroke. History The modern day bulldog is quite the turnaround from his ancestors. In the 13th century in England, bulldogs were used for the sport of "bull baiting," the AKC writes. Before we had professional sports, spectators would gather and bet money on this inhumane practice. One or multiple bulldogs would attempt to pin a bull to the ground using their powerful bite. These early bulldogs were slightly taller and more muscular than today's English bulldog, and only the most aggressive were bred. The AKC writes that the bulldog's tenacious character stems from their history in the ring, because they developed a high pain tolerance and kept fighting until the last second. It wasn't until that bull baiting was outlawed in England, and bulldogs faced extinction without that purpose. Many people admired the strength, determination, and appearance of the breed, and didn't want to see them die out. Luckily, there were breeders who dedicated their lives to re-engineering the bulldog. They used only the even tempered dogs to reproduce, until only the docile were left. In , the English bulldog was recognized by the AKC. The dog that originated in England has come to symbolize their people. And, well, he looked like a bulldog, too. Today, the bulldog is known as one of the most gentle, kid-friendly dogs in the world. President Warren G. Harding also had a bulldog in the White House, Old Boy. Yale was the first university in the United States to adopt a mascot—a bulldog named Handsome Dan. Today, dozens of colleges and universities use a bulldog as their mascot. Otto, a bulldog from Lima, Peru, set a world record in " the longest human tunnel traveled through by a dog skateboarder. Was this page helpful? Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The English Bulldog is a wide, medium-sized, compact dog with short legs. The body and head are massive with extra skin on both the skull and forehead falling in folds. The cheeks extend to the sides of the eyes. The muzzle is wide, short and pug with a broad, deep stop. The black nose is broad with large nostrils. The dark eyes are deep set. The rose ears are small, thin and set high on the head. The jaws are massive, very broad, and square with hanging upper lips. The teeth should have an under bite. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. The short, flat coat is straight, smooth and glossy. Coat colors include red brindle and other shades of brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow, piebald, pale yellow or washed-out red or white or a combination of these colors. Temperament Although the English Bulldog's appearance can be somewhat intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs. Just the same it will see off any intruder , and few would risk a close encounter with a dog brave enough to bait a bull. It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent. They do not give up easily. Bulldogs are very much a people's dog, seeking out human attention and loving every bit it can get!! A lot of human attention is required for the breed's happiness. Some English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating and need an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and understands alpha canine behavior. A Bulldog who understands its place in the human pack is nice to, and reliable with all people. This breed is good with family pets , but some can be combative with strange dogs if they do not see themselves as followers in their pack. When Bulldogs are young, they are full of energy, but slow down as they get older. They snore very loudly, most have drool and slobber tendencies and are messy eaters. Bulldogs that display guarding behaviors, such as guarding furniture , food, toys, or other spots in the house, or that are dog aggressive do not have humans who are being the dog's pack leader. This behavior only happens when dogs are allowed to take over. These behaviors can be corrected when the owners start displaying the proper leadership. Dogs that feel they need to run the home are not as happy as dogs that know they are human followers, as it is very stressful for a dog to need to keep "his" humans in line. Height, Weight Height: about 12 - 16 inches 31 - 40 cm there is no prescribed height, but shorter Bulldogs are more prized when being shown Weight: Males 53 - 55 pounds 24 - 25 kg Females 49 - 51 pounds 22 - 23 kg Health Problems Prone to breathing problems; some have small windpipes as well. Also poor eyesight, cherry eye , very susceptible to heatstroke in warm weather or hot rooms and cars. Very cold sensitive. Prone to mast cell tumors. Birth defects are common in some lines. Susceptible to skin infections, hip and knee problems. Prone to flatulence, especially when fed any other type of food other than their regular dog food. Puppies are often delivered by caesarian section. Some say it is because of the dogs' large head size, however others claim you can hardly tell the difference between the head size of a Bulldog with the head size of other breeds when the pups are first born; claiming not enough dams are given the opportunity to try and deliver naturally because of the large head myth. A lot of Bulldogs do run the risk of having weak labors and this could increase the risk of a caesarian. Living Conditions The English Bulldog is good for apartment life. 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 The English Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk to fulfill its primal canine instinct to migrate. Those individuals that do not get this need met are more likely to have behavior issues. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Teach them to enter and exit all door and gateways after the human. English Bulldogs that are in good shape are capable of moving very quickly for short periods of time. Life Expectancy An average of 8 years. Some live longer while others live shorter lives. Litter Size 4 - 5 puppies; as a result of this breed's large head they are prone to needing a caesarian section Grooming The smooth, fine, short-haired 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. The dog was given the name "bull" because of its use in bull baiting and for its robust look of a little bull. They were aggressive, ferocious and courageous with the power to attack full grown bulls, which they did in arena combat before the practice was banned by law in the 19th century. Bulldogs would attack from the bottom up going underneath the bull and aiming for the neck, making it hard for the bull to fight back. Today's Bulldog has a very different temperament from those of his ancestors, but still retains a strong determination. Post by: Eric M. Once bred for sport and work, the English Bulldog has evolved into a loyal and easygoing member of the family. About the Breed With a knack for getting along with everyone, English Bulldogs can make themselves at home with any type of family. An extremely loyal breed, these pups are known to form strong bonds with children, while being laidback enough for pet parents who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. And even though their large jaws and underbite can give the impression of sadness or concern, anyone familiar with this breed knows that these playful, even comical, pups are more silly than sad. With adorable wrinkles and a playful temperament, the English Bulldog is sure to turn a lot of heads wherever they go. Breed History Originally bred for bull-baiting in England, Bulldogs were first referenced in works of literature dating back to the s. The breed developed their stocky frame, large head, and notorious jowls due in part to the strenuous activities they participated in. As the English Bulldog transitioned from a working dog into a show dog, the breed eventually found their way to the United States in the s. Once in the States, their popularity grew. Outside of finding major success in the show ring, the English Bulldog found celebrity status, too! The original Yale mascot was an English Bulldog named Handsome Dan — the name gets passed down to each successor. During WWI, the U. Marines became associated with the breed and made them their mascot, as well. Each Marine bulldog takes the name Chesty. The University of Georgia Bulldogs are represented on the sideline by an English Bulldog named Uga and, you guessed it, each mascot proudly takes the name Uga. This unique build gave them a wide stance and bowlegged gait. The breed has short, smooth coats that come in a variety of colors, including brindle, white, red, fawn, yellow, and piebald. On average, these pooches reach 12 to 15 inches in height and weight 40 to 60 pounds. There is little size difference between genders with males tending to be just a bit heavier. An occasional bath and a few brushing sessions with a short bristle brush each week should be enough to keep their coat looking marvelous. Unfortunately, their upkeep goes beyond getting out the brush. If left unclean, these folds can be a haven for bacteria and other unpleasant surprises. Dental hygiene is also especially important with this breed due to their compressed jaw. In addition to requiring an increased focus on teeth cleaning, the shape of their head can also lead to a few other less than desirable features, including snoring, wheezing, and drooling — of course, these are all normal side effects. Learn more about how pet insurance could help you cover your pet's eligible veterinary care expenses. Training By their nature, English Bulldogs are people pleasers, even though they can be slightly strong willed from time to time. They learn best when owners make training fun, especially if it involves repetition, positive reinforcement, and, of course, a few treats of encouragement. Outside of training, English Bulldogs are known to be independent dogs who can solve problems on their own without needing help from their humans. Aside from a few preventable concerns, like their lack of swimming ability, a tendency to quickly overheat in the sun, issues with reproduction and the need for caesarean section, and exercise-induced breathing issues, English Bulldogs face a lot of genetic issues. Get a free quote now! Instead, human intervention has lead to many issues and exacerbated many others. Poor practices, selective breeding, and overbreeding have led some experts to believe that any breeding of these dogs is inhumane. While there is no consensus when it comes to the ethical quandaries of English Bulldogs and breeding, it is important to be aware of all of the factors at play when deciding on which breed is right for your family and lifestyle, while also noting the importance of knowing where a dog — no matter the breed — comes from. This is especially important when it comes to these wrinkled wonders — the price tag on an English Bulldog can reach quadruple digits. Despite their many health concerns, English Bulldogs do have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. And, if well cared for, can live happy, comfortable lives while providing unflinching companionship and boundless entertainment in the proper home. Check out our online resources to learn more about your insurance options and get a free quote today. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian. Fun Facts About French Bulldogs Learn more about these free-thinking, cuddly, and lovable little dogs.

Bug, originally named Lady, earned the named Bug as a pup and it stuck. Bug and Rex are our oldest members and they are our pets first and foremost. We began breeding in so that we could bless others with the same loving affection and protection that Bug and Rex have shown us. We breed AKC registered and non-registered dogs. Our non-registered puppies are purebred and the parents are health-tested. We have seen many breeders only offer AKC registered dogs for enormous amounts of money. We are not like those breeders. We breed because we love the dog and we want to bless others. You'll find that we provide the same loving care and attention as others do for a fraction of the cost. We raise our dogs in our family home and they are our pets first and foremost. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised with puppy culture and taught basic manners before leaving our home. I tell people that they shed twice a year, for 6 months at a time. Our dogs are great with children and other animals however, I fully recommend socialization and training as soon as you take your puppy home. German Shepherds need a job, these are not a breed that you can ignore or they will get destructive, they need guidance and they will work hard to please you. Suggest a Great Read And why did I create this mini-reading list? Having to care for another living being is a serious challenge and bits of wisdom can be found in many places. But in this day and age, disinformation is just as popular and sometimes more appealing than good advice for raising a GSD the right way. Using HayesHaus. I consider these books good places to start for any dog owner, German Shepherd or otherwise. Buy on Amazon The Art of Raising a Puppy is a wonderful book, as is obvious in it being revised and released for a second edition. The monks lead owners through raising a puppy in what I would call an artful manner. Their methods are carefully crafted to produce results and have done so over the years this book has been in circulation. The Art of Raising a Puppy is a must read for any new dog owner and should be a staple in home that puppies find themselves a part of their families. When monks have to take extra time out and write a book to teach people to be patient with their animals you should take them seriously. However, do note that you are in all likelihood not a monk. It is filled with informational pictures of the history of this great breed. Max goes into infinite detail about the German Shepherd Dog and his intentions with the breed. He was well versed in anatomy, biology, the science of movement, and veterinary medicine. It is important to deal with grief in a healthy manner in order to give the still living beings in your life all you can. The Pet Loss Companion is a helping hand on the road to emotional recovery for those grieving a lost friend. Did I miss a great book about German Shepherds? Turning it over to you, which ones did I miss? Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon. My aim is to provide resources that make being a dog owner easier and recommending products is one way to do so. All German Shepherd Puppies from this litter are reserved via deposit. Interested in a future German Shepherd Puppy vom Zauberberg? Contact us today and start the process! One of the last Jago vom Zauberberg sons! Easy to handle. All he always wants is to be with people. His temperament is rock solid, like a working German Shepherd should be. His expression and appearance is liked by everybody that meets him. Friendly and interacting with everybody he meets. Conrad is an energetic puppy. Solid drives for the work with an exceptional desire to bite, with firm grip. To learn about the process, please call or email info zauberberg. Breeding German Shepherds the German way. His pedigree is from excellent and exclusive West German Bloodlines. His parents are very social, friendly, and have easily trainable qualities. As all of our German Shepherds, he is bred for the health and intelligence that the German Shepherd breed is well known for. He is fully vaccinated, dewormed, and micro chipped. Walt vom Zauberberg is a sable male German Shepherd puppy for sale in Arizona. His parents are of very social, friendly, and easily trainable qualities. Her parents are of very social-, friendly temperament, and easily trainable. His parents are of very social, friendly and easily trainable. As all of our… continue reading.

Age : 1wk Location : Doncaster, UK We are happy to announce we are now taking reservations for our Fox Red Labrador puppies from extensively health tested parents. Litter born 21st August .Amber is a steady natured, very loyal and loveable girl, very trainable and clever standing at 21in tall, with 15 field trial champions in her breeding. As our family pet she is fantastic with adults, children and other dogs. Her colour is a deep dark red and very sought after. Troy has 35 field trial champions in his pedigree with many more Field Trial Winners in his breeding. Troy gained his Field Trial Champion status as a 3 year old in his first year at Open level. He is a strong athletic fast dog but retains a lovely biddable nature. He has very natural game finding ability and a great temperament with a good head and confirmation that seems to be coming through in his progeny. Troy has sired some gorgeous examples of Labradors over the years, whom have ended up in both working and nonworking homes, and adapted beautifully to each situation. It is caused by the degeneration of both rod and cone type photoreceptor cells of the retina. Dogs affected with the condition start to show signs of the disease before they reach to 10 years of age. Dilated pupils and decreased response to light are common signs. We also do short periods of crate training to help them for your journey home, and they will be well socialised with our family, from children aged 1yr old through to 8yrs old. There are a few other breeders out there that we are in contact with that may have a litter of fox reds that we will refer you to. We will let you know what the puppies parents temperaments are and if we feel they will suit your needs. We have been breeding labs for about 17 years now. We produce both English and American Fox red Puppies. If you have done your research you know that Fox Red is a shade of yellow so even when breeding 2 fox red parents they can still produce a light yellow in their litter. Our puppies are thoroughly examined by our Veterinarians prior to leaving us to join their new families and also fully guaranteed in writing. In some litters we still cross the English Lab with the American Lab. The Outcome is producing a very calm Companion labs until its time to go to work in the field. We are totally honest with our new puppy families and will be here for support and advise for the lifetime of your lab. We will let you know which parents will produce better hunting partners or which will produce better companion labs. Our Reputation is truly growing 1 puppy at time and so is our waiting lists. I have been a Paramedic for 12 years and am currently working at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita. We have 5 boys between us. Trenton is our die-hard duck hunter and has recently graduated from Pitt State with a Bachelor of Science degree, He is a big part in the training of our labs. Chas is also a die-hard duck hunter he is married to Katie and they have a new son Aaron that is the center of their world Collin graduated from welding from welding school. Then there is Titan. I truly could not do this without him. He the reason the puppies all go to their new homes so socialized. He is responsible for the puppies love for children at such a young age. Each puppy is born inside our house and then moved out to our puppy house at around 4 weeks of age , the puppy house is air-conditioned-heated. When you come to visit we hope you will be impressed with the time we have spent to ensure the puppies start their lives out in a clean happy healthy environment. We usually wont let you visit your puppy until they are moved out into the puppy house. We are located in southeast Kansas.

Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. We all know it and have seen it multiple times: the dog sit. The pup is sitting upright with his knees flat to his sides and the feet are neatly tucked underneath. But sometimes the positioning of the dog sit might change and before you know it, the dog sits sloppy on your feet. To owners, it may seem like the dog sits weirdly, but often this is completely normal behavior. I will go into detail below, the reasons might surprise you. In case you ever wondered if that or any other dog position has a specific meaning, I will tell you, yes it does. The Puppy Sit Photo by Steshka Willems on Pexels The puppy sit — also called lazy sit, sloppy sit, or frog sit — is a phenomenon that occurs most often as the name suggests in young puppies. The dog sits with his legs splayed to one or both sides and flops into a sloppy posture. But why is it seen so commonly in puppies and is it something you need to worry about? When puppies go through these awkward growth stages you will find them running around with their limps flying to the sides and sometimes they just take this lazy stance. Puppies are very flexible because their joints are not yet connected and the bones are soft, leading to uncoordinated walking and sitting. A constant sloppy posture may need to be discouraged with techniques that I will explain below in order to prevent damaging the joints. Health Issues May Be the Cause Your dog assuming the lazy dog sitting position or the sloppy sit might point towards an underlying medical condition. At the very least, you should take measures to prevent these from happening. Conditions like hip dysplasia or luxating patella commonly result in different symptoms including the puppy sit to soothe sore joints. Arthritis or spinal problems prevent your dog from adapting a straight sit. A serious trauma from a car accident will also cause damage to the skeleton which could be permanent or a passing problem. Routinely sitting in a sloppy posture is probably a sign that something is wrong and causing your dog discomfort but what steps should you take in such a case and will it resolve without action? More on that at the end of this article. Your dog chilling in this position once in a while is probably a result of him imitating you. Some dogs also adapt to this posture because they like your reaction to it when you burst out in laughter. Keep in mind that any sitting position should be closely monitored and you should look for cues of discomfort. This is the only position that should be taught to puppies from the beginning and should always be encouraged to prevent back pain. Just like humans, dogs should take care of their posture and an effortless straight sit is a sign of a healthy spine. The leader always chooses the best resting spot so sitting beside you must be the best option and it may even get your attention. There is nothing you need to be worrying about when it comes to this position. If you are annoyed by the lack of personal space, provide your dog with a stuffed Kong and place it in his dog bed. Dog Sitting On Your Face Placing their bum on top of you is a type of scent marking, your dog simply wants to claim you as his pack member. It can also be a weird form of cuddling with the goal to be as close to you as possible. Similar to the human sit, your dog perhaps wants to get a certain reaction out of you. What to do: In the case of learned behavior, you will want to stop giving the reaction that you previously displayed. This might eliminate the behavior altogether. If your dog is just looking for a warm cuddly place, an orthopedic dog bed with soft blankets should do the trick. Redirecting your dog onto his dog bed may also be an option if the behavior persists. Dog Sitting On Other Dogs Well, some dogs like to cuddle a lot with their humans but what does it mean when your dog is sitting or laying on top of other dogs? If there are no particular signs of dominance, then they could simply be playing. Playful behavior is always relaxed and both dogs will feel comfortable with the situation. The sooner you catch the issue the better his prognosis will be. If your dog gets the unfortunate diagnosis of a skeleton issue, your vet will probably recommend physiotherapy or hydrotherapy for healthy exercise without straining the joints. Pain medication or surgery may be necessary for more serious problems. However, some breeds are prone to developing joint problems and my Rottweiler is among these breeds. There are various other options like the nature-based green lip mussel powder or general joint supplements to help with preventing joint issues. Not all work equally well though so research beforehand. Provide your dog with a comfortable dog bed — an orthopedic dog bed like mentioned above might be worth the investment. If your dog is healthy, encourage the right sitting positions. After the vet examined your pup and declares him healthy, then you can start working on a proper sit. If you have an adult dog, you can also redirect your dog into a straight sit or lie down whenever you see him sitting sloppy. These are only slight corrections and not in the slightest invasive. Once your dog connects the right sitting position with a reward, he will do it much more on his own which can make this little exercise really fun. Pin This: Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. The way that your dog sits can be a positive sign. For example, it may mean they are trying to form a deeper bond with you. Otherwise, it may be a sign they have some underlying health conditions. This can be quite dependent on age. If puppies sit sloppily with outward splaying limbs, this is completely normal because of their flexible limbs. Older dogs using this sitting position may be a cause for concern and may be worth checking with a vet. Dog Sitting Position Meaning The Puppy Sitting Position Also known as the frog sit, sloppy sit, or lazy sit, this is known as the puppy sit because younger dogs sit this way the most. The cause for concern here could be due to a number of reasons: Arthritis Spine pain Inflammation of muscles They may be in this sitting position to relieve some of the symptoms of pain in their back, joints, or muscles. If you begin to notice the early warning sign of them sitting in a different way, make sure to look for some other changed behaviors. There are two other common, yet very serious conditions that would cause a dog to sit in different ways, which I have listed below and is important to get diagnosed as early as possible to alleviate their symptoms. Hip Dysplasia While hip dysplasia will begin in puppyhood, dogs may not display clinical symptoms until they are older. It will often take years of gradual bone degeneration before a dog becomes symptomatic. The inflammation causes pain in their hip joints , resulting in dogs changing the way they sit to relieve the symptoms, or their gait may change when walking, or how they move in general. Torn cruciate ligament If your dog has torn their cruciate ligament , they will refrain from extending or stretching their sore leg, resulting in them sitting in this way also. You will also notice a change in the way they walk and will appear lame, so watch out for this too. Dogs Sitting Like Humans It can be quite humorous to see our doing sitting like humans do, or engaging in human-like activities! When their actions like this are met with laughter and adoration, this is seen as positive reinforcement which will probably cause them to repeatedly sit like this. Some larger dog breeds who have longer legs may find this way easier to sit, or have realised that sitting like this takes some of the pressure off their lower spine. You can be proactive by observing them as they move about, and if you see them getting up or walking in a stiff manner, then maybe there might be something wrong. The Straight Sit The straight sit can be recognized by an elongated spine sitting upwards and symmetrically with a knee on either side and their feet underneath them. In this position, your dog has a straight spine which is very good for their posture. The straight sit is actually a good way for your dog to sit and is often taught to puppies when they are young. Like humans, dogs benefit hugely from practicing good posture. If your dog sits with a straight sit, they are showing signs of a healthy spine with good posture. This is why obedience schools always use this position for dogs to sit in. Your dog will view you as their role model and leader, and the resting spot that you choose, in their eyes, is the one for the pack. So naturally, they are going to stay close, and even snuggle close to you to get your attention. If your dog is sitting at your feet, they are using this as a sign of bonding, and want to stay close to you. They could also be asking for pets. Dogs Sitting by Your Face If you find your dog trying to sit their rear on your face, this means that they are trying to scent mark. They would like to claim you to be a part of their pack. This odd type of cuddling is just a sign that your dog wants to be close to you. While this can sometimes mean dominance, it is quite unlikely this is what is meant. Most cases will find that your dog is just trying to form a closer bond with you. This may also be a way that your dog is trying to get a reaction from you by engaging in some strange behavior. If you are wanting your dog to quit this behavior, you need to communicate that this behavior is not acceptable. Make sure you do not encourage them to do it again in the future. Your Dog Sitting on Other Dogs There is two reasons why your dog will sit on or cuddle other dogs, which are either dominance or play. While you might think that this need to assert dominance is a personality trait of your dog, it is in fact natural instinct. In cases like this, when referring to dominance it is actually just the social relationship in which dogs have with each other. These signs of dominance may be displayed by putting their paw or head on top of another dogs back. This could also be meant as a playful gesture. If both dogs seem relaxed and comfortable then this is nothing to worry about. Dogs can end up sitting in a variety of different positions, particularly when they are playing. Below is a list of the most common sleeping positions: Lions Pose If your dog is sleeping with their front two paws outstretched and their head resting on or between their paws, then they are sleeping in lions pose. This is typical of a dog who is resting and has not entered a deep sleep. Superman This sleeping pose is easier for smaller dogs to do. This is when they lie on their stomach and stretch their legs out in front and behind. This is similar to a superman flying through the air. This position allows relaxed dogs to stretch out in a comfortable manner. Curled Up in a Ball Some dogs just prefer to sleep like this. It could also be that your dog is trying to make themselves as small as possible for safety reasons. This is a common sleeping position of dogs who are in shelters. Side Sleeping If your dog lies on their side with their legs outstretched, this means that they are comfortable in its surroundings. This position makes them vulnerable. So if they had any concerns about where they were, they would not be lying in this relaxed position. Dog sitting position meaning: Sitting and sleeping positioned explained The way in which your dog sleeps and sits is a good indicator of their state of mind and emotional well-being. A vigilant pet parent will use these as a good early warning sign for more sinister complications of their dogs health. This is particularly useful for dog breeds that are more prone to having issues with their joints. If you notice some of these signs, it would be well worth contacting your veterinarian. Dog sitting position meaning — FAQs Why does my dog sit with his legs to the side? If your dog sits with their hind legs sideways, as opposed to having its legs under its hips, it is considered puppy sitting or sloppy sitting. While this is not a problem for younger dogs because they have flexible limbs, older dogs should sit more straight up. Sitting in this sloppy manner can indicate numerous problems. What does my dog sitting position mean? The best position for your dog to sit in is when they sit squarely with a straight spine. They will have a knee on either side and their feet underneath their knees, in a symmetrical way. Related posts:. This correct position right photo allows the dog to engage all his knee, thigh and gluteal muscles properly when standing up. Improper sitting form left photo with legs splayed wide, hocks spreading out to the sides uneven left vs. What can I do? First and most important: always exclude possible physical limitations. Past injuries, possible weaknesses, chronic problems in joints or soft tissues of the hind limbs can result in compensatory changes and losing the ability to sit properly. Dogs with chronic unaddressed issues in the knee or hock joints often end up with reduced joint range of motion, and therefore lose the ability to fully flex these joints. Bad hip conditions create a vicious circle of pain and disuse of this body part, resulting in a weak core and hind limb musculature with hocks splaying out to the side while sitting. Spinal issues lumbosacral diseases, spinal injuries can also elicit painful response. Forcing the dog in correct sit when it is not desirable, or if the dog is physically not able to or ready yet , can quickly do more harm than good and requires professional help. Therefore you should always consult with an orthopedic vet and certified rehab professional to address the issue properly and help your dog regain these abilities through an appropriate individualized approach. What kind of ground is your dog sitting on? Sitting on slippery surfaces such as tiled or hardwood floors does not provide enough grip for your dog to keep the legs in proper position, let alone load the hind end to stand up. If your dog does not have a known history of past injuries or joint diseases, and is sitting sloppily on non-slip flooring, a lack of strength might be the reason! Weak core and hind limb musculature prevents the dog from maintaining a good posture. Strengthening exercises are definitely a great way to improve the overall physical condition and well being of your four-legged companion. Obese or overweight dogs also lack the needed strength to sit correctly. What about puppies? Well, young puppies might not be really able to perform a proper sit just yet, let alone work out. But don't worry, possibilities for proper sitting come with growing up when they develop enough body awareness and strength. Here are a few tips that can help your dog achieve a better sitting form: Work on smaller surfaces Sitting on a reasonably smaller surface itself usually promotes better sitting position and thus helps strengthen correct muscle groups. We can use a slightly raised platform or balance pad to start with. Use a narrow path Work with the dog on a narrow plank, just wide enough to promote good position of limbs, but narrow enough to prevent turning the feet out. Dec 23, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you ever wondered why your dog sits weird with one leg kicked out or both of his knees bent outward in a cross-legged position? Normally, a dog should sit upright with his knees flat to the side and feet neatly tucked underneath his hips. However, some dogs just flop to the floor like they are tired and end up sitting in some rather weird positions. While it may seem that your dog is sitting weird, this can be a completely normal canine behavior. In fact, strange sitting positions are quite common in puppies and are a completely normal part of the growing stage. However, while the puppy sit is normal for puppies, in adult dogs, it can be a sign that something is wrong. If you have a young puppy that sits weirdly from time to time, there is nothing you should worry about. But if your older dog flops into a lazy sit on a regular basis, you should take him to see a vet as soon as possible. In most cases, a dog that is experiencing pain or a health problem will feel more comfortable sitting in a weird position than in a normal sit. For some reason, dogs with joint and bone problems experience relief while sitting in strange positions. In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about the puppy sit and list the most common reasons behind this strange behavior. Dogs have many interesting habits and are known to do some rather strange things. You have probably noticed that your dog is exhibiting some weird behaviors such as chasing his own tail, barking at his reflections, sitting on your feet, and walking in circles before lying down. However, the thing that most owners find the strangest is the infamous lazy sit. Have you ever seen your dog sag into a sit like he is tired? Or has he ever flopped onto one hip and kicked out his other leg to the side, like he is trying to chill out? Or does your dog ever sit cross-legged with both of his knees splayed on the side and toes almost touching? All of these weird sitting positions are called puppy sit, but you might have heard some people refer to it as lazy, sloppy, or frog sit. If you have just brought a new puppy home , you have probably noticed that he is sitting in many different positions, with limbs spayed in every possible direction. While the lazy sit is quite common in puppies, it is completely normal to wonder if there is something wrong with your new pooch. All puppies go through a growth stage when they look extremely cute and bit awkward running around with limbs flying all over the place. But no matter how cute your puppy looks in this position, most new dog owners assume the worst. Lengthy potty training sessions or too much play can be tiring for a young puppy and may cause your pooch to flop down into a lazy sit more often. If there is a chance your pup is too tired from his daily activities, try to keep his training sessions shorter and more fun to prevent fatigue. However, if your puppy continues to flop into a lazy sit once he reaches maturity, then there is a chance that he is suffering from an underlying medical problem. Underlying Health Problem A lazy sit is a perfectly normal sitting position for puppies, but in adult dogs, it is usually a sign of underlying health problems. Your dog might be sitting weird to relieve pressure from his joints, back, or to avoid aggravating a sore spot on some other part of his body. If your adult dog slips into a lazy sit every once in a while, this might be a sign of a temporary issue, such as muscle soreness after a vigorous play session. However, if your adult dog is sitting like this all the time, you should have him checked out by a vet. Many potential health issues can cause your dog to have trouble sitting normally, but luckily, most are treatable. Listed below are a few health problems that might be the reason why your dog has trouble sitting normally: Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a painful skeletal disease that is often seen in large and giant breeds such as Great Danes , but it can also occur in smaller breeds. In dogs with this condition, the ball and the socket of the hip joint do not fit properly and they rub and grind against each other whenever the dog moves. The grinding causes wear and tear to the joint, which causes a lot of pain and discomfort to the dog. Dogs with hip dysplasia usually have trouble walking, getting up, jumping, and sitting normally. Most dogs with hip dysplasia start sitting in weird positions to relieve soreness and pain caused by this condition. However, once diagnosed, hip dysplasia can be treated surgically or managed with pain-relieving medication. If your dog sits weird on a regular basis, you should take him to your vet for a checkup. And if it turns out that your pooch has hip dysplasia, your vet will suggest treatment options and prescribed meds that will reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Knee Problems Conditions such as luxating patella and torn cruciate ligament are extremely painful knee problems that can cause your dog to have trouble sitting. Luxating patella is often seen in small breed dogs and happens when a kneecap moves from its normal location. If your dog is sitting on the side and is also limping on a rear leg, he might have a torn cruciate ligament. This condition is usually caused by trauma from an injury or a degeneration of the ligaments within the joint. A torn cruciate ligament is an extremely painful condition that usually happens when a dog is running and suddenly changes its position. If you suspect your pooch is experiencing any type of knee problems, you should take him to a vet for a checkup. Back Pain Back pain is another common health problem that might cause your dog to sit with his legs splayed to the sides. Dogs who are developing intervertebral disk disease or herniated disk may have trouble sitting normally. In these cases, a sloppy sit might be more convenient for your dog and help alleviate soreness and back pain. If your dog is suffering from any one of these two conditions, he might also show symptoms of hind leg paralysis, lameness, loss of coordination, and pain. To prevent further damage to the spine, you should take your dog to the vet as soon as you notice any symptoms of back pain. Impacted anal glands can become abscessed and very painful if not diagnosed and treated in time. While sitting weirdly is one of the signs that your pooch has inflamed anal glands , he might also scoot, bite or lick his rear end, and have constipation. Luckily, impacted glands are very easy to treat with antibiotics. Once the inflammation subsides and your dog starts to feel better, he will no longer have to use a lazy sit to relieve pain and will start to sit completely normally. If you have caught your dog sitting on the sofa with his legs extended out front like a human, chances are that he is copying you. If your dog sits like this often and you notice any signs of back pain, stiffness, or trouble getting up, schedule an appointment with your vet. A who dog just flops into a sit with his legs splayed sideways rather than beneath his hips or appears to go almost cross-legged is sitting in a puppy sit. However, adult dogs should be more stable and a puppy sit can indicate many different problems. In most cases, a dog will use a sloppy sit as a way to alleviate soreness and joint pain. Hip dysplasia, knee problems, back pain, and inflamed anal glands are a few health problems that can cause a dog to sit in weird positions. If your dog sits strangely and also has trouble walking, you should schedule an appointment with your vet. The most common signs of hip dysplasia in dogs include decreased activity, pain, stiffness, lameness in hind legs, and decreased range of motion. Additionally, you will notice that your dog has trouble rising and is reluctant to run, jump, and climb the stairs or sofa. Some dogs with hip dysplasia also develop a swaying gait and have noticeably enlarged shoulder muscles compared to the rear end of the body. In some cases, you might hear grating in the hip joint while your dog is walking. Some dogs sit like humans just because every time they do it, their owners find it funny and unintentionally encourage this behavior. Dogs know how to copy human behaviors, and if your pooch thinks you like the way he is sitting, he will start sitting this way more often. However, some dogs might sit like people just because this position is more comfortable and alleviates back pain and soreness. If your dog is sitting like a human and has difficulty walking, you should take him to your vet for a check-up. Dogs that have hip dysplasia will sit on the side with the affected leg extended to the side, instead of sitting square with both legs tucked under hips. Additionally, dogs with bad hips might also have trouble sitting normally and they usually just flop to the floor like they are very tired. Observing the way a dog sits during an examination is one of the ways a vet can determine if he has hip dysplasia. Conclusion If you have noticed that your dog sits weird, he is most likely flopping down into a puppy sit with his legs splayed to the side. Also known as lazy and sloppy sit, the puppy sit is completely normal for puppies, but can be a sign of health problems in adult dogs. This weird sitting position helps dogs relieve pain and feel more comfortable if they are suffering from: Hip dysplasia Knee problems Back pain If your dog is slipping into a lazy sit only once in a while, he might be trying to relieve temporary muscle soreness or pain. However, if he sits weirdly all the time and has difficulty walking, you should take him to a vet for a check-up. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Does my Dog sit weird? What you can do to help Written by Tori Acres on .Share Seeing or teaching a dog to sit is common practice. However, by analysing their sitting posture, we can discover hidden problems or gain clues about their physical health. The Dog Sit We all know it; we've seen it many times and possibly worked on getting our pet to do it on our command—the dog sit. It's probably one of the first behaviours that dogs learn when they are puppies, and it often seems to be one of the easiest to master. It looks like this: a dog's bottom lowers to the ground, the hind limbs are bent and neatly tucked under the hips, the front legs stretched straight, and the head stands tall. Easy and simple. Or is it? Many owners will mention that sometimes or often their dog sits weird—one leg sticking out, the spine looks arched, or both knees bent outward in an odd manner. Although these abnormal postures may be due to something benign such as fatigue after exercise or a developing body. More often than not, though, this might be one of the signs of a much bigger problem rather than simply an unusual choice of pose. Does My Dog Sit Weirdly? To answer this question, let's first learn to distinguish between good and bad dog sitting. What's a Good Dog Sitting Position? The dog has straight forelimbs when sitting properly, with elbows pointing backward and the shoulders down. The hind limbs are neatly tucked alongside the body, with the knees and toes facing forward. The head and neck are relaxed, looking forward. An inability to adopt this posture can often happen during the puppy stage and in young dogs up to two years old whose skeletal and muscular structure is still developing. If we notice unusual sitting in adult dogs, it should attract our attention and prompt us to observe the frequency of such behaviour. Poor sit posture in the dog world has several names: lazy sit, sloppy sit, frog sit, or puppy sit. Precisely because of the latter, it is clear that puppies often demonstrate this behaviour. Puppies are very flexible since their boney structures are still developing, and their connective tissues are often more pliable than older dogs. Thus, movement patterns in younger dogs including sitting can look uncoordinated. What does a sloppy sit look like? When viewed from the front, it may seem that the dog has thrown its hind legs to the side and is sitting on one hip only; from behind, it may look as if the spine is crooked to the side. The hind legs can be bent outwards at the knees like a frog. However, due to the unnatural position of the spine, the shoulders may appear to stand high, and the forelimbs may not be aligned or pointed forward. If your puppy adopts this sitting position only occasionally, it may be due to fatigue after exercise or a slight asymmetry during their developmental phase. However, if this positional dysfunction persists or is accompanied by other signs of movement dysfunction, then they should have a thorough physical assessment. Puppies or adult dogs that frequently sit weirdly or suddenly start sitting weirdly may have an underlying medical issue that requires intervention. There are various reasons why an adult dog might not have a perfect posture while sitting. Some are minor issues, easily treated by your canine manual therapist and precisely targeted exercises. While others may be the first sign of an underlying problem that dogs often try to cover up. Therefore, sloppy sitting in adult dogs should always be carefully observed to determine if a physical problem would require veterinary assistance. Conformation Sometimes the conformation of dogs is such that textbook-propper sitting makes them uncomfortable. Different types of dogs have different builds, and some prefer unique sitting positions precisely because of their conformation. Long backs An example of conformation affecting the dog's ability to sit can often be seen in dogs with long backs, such as the popular sausage dogs or dachshunds. This hunting breed is recognisable precisely by its elongated shape. Their long spine requires strong core muscles and a good range of motion through the hip, stifle and tarsal joints for them to successfully adopt the proper sitting form. Otherwise, they can be inclined to sit on their hip, with their feet off to one side. Helping long-back dogs to maintain good posture throughout their lives is important in reducing the risk of long-term health consequences. Dwarfism Chondrodysplasia, also known as canine dwarfism, is a recessive genetic defect found in some purebred dog breeds. This condition occurs due to abnormal growth of cartilage, which affects the development of joints and the speed of their growth, resulting in irregular growth of limbs and the appearance of dwarfism. Probably the most famous dogs with this disorder are corgis, they physically are unable to point their forefeet forward. However, they will benefit, from regular conditioning to help support their bodies and maintain good posture. Athletic Excellence Certain types of dogs, such as sighthounds, are built for speedrunning and often have difficulty sitting correctly due to their long spines and strong muscular hindquarters. More specifically, these dogs have difficulty sitting in general as they often find it too uncomfortable to lower themselves into a sitting position, so most prefer the sphinx position or simply lying down. Surfaces If your dog is only showing signs of sitting weirdly in a particular place, consider that it could be down to the surface. Some dogs are picky about where they lower their bums, so a less-than-ideal surface might prompt them to avoid sitting directly on it—either because they've decided it's too wet, too hot, too cold, or perhaps too itchy. Surfaces should always have enough grip that the dog can safely move into and out of the sit position without their feet slipping. Fatigue If your adult dog occasionally slips into a sloppy sit, it's not immediately a cause for concern. Sitting in the correct position requires core strength, which can be too much effort for a dog when it's tired after a long play session or exercise. Such issues are usually not too serious and resolve on their own. Long training sessions for puppies, too, can result in this kind of behaviour. So keep in mind that they need to strengthen their muscles through conditioning exercises to withstand the challenges of sitting up straight after the training. Dysfunctions With all the above in mind, it is not an immediately alarming situation if you catch your adult dog in a strange sitting position on rare occasions. However, if your dog is over two years old and sloppy sits very often, it would be a good idea to have it examined by a vet or therapist so that potential health problems that cause it can be detected in time. Judy C. Coates, a researcher and author of Evaluation and Rehabilitation Options for Orthopedic Disorders of the Pelvic Limb, highlights that, when observing the dog in the sitting posture, a therapist considers square sit as normal. Therefore, abnormal sitting posture is often a sign of an injury or pain. Some of the potential medical conditions that could cause weird sit are listed below. Hip Dysplasia Canine hip dysplasia appears more regularly in some breeds, with larger breeds often afflicted by this condition. Although, it is also not unusual for it to occur in small dogs. Hip dysplasia is caused by the ball and the hip joint socket not fitting correctly, so they rub and grind against each other when the dog moves. This causes pain because your dog may have difficulty walking, flexing their hip to climb stairs, or sitting correctly. This condition is genetic, and the only thing you can do to reduce its occurrence is to get your dog from a reputable breeder who screens for hip dysplasia. Once diagnosed, hip dysplasia can be treated surgically, or the pain can be controlled with medication—something your vet will advise you best about. Manual therapy is an excellent adjunctive therapy for hip dysplasia, as it helps to maintain the range of motion in the joints and releases tension in soft tissue from muscle compensation. Pain A dog sitting in a position with its knees protruding outwards on each side can be a good indicator of pain. For example, a sloppy sit might be more convenient for your dog in this condition as it might help reduce tension in the already sore muscles. Pain can present through other symptoms, too, such as lameness, unwillingness, or even aggression. If you think your dog is in pain, a quick thermal imaging scan can help identify areas of concern. From there, you can make a plan to treat your dog or seek a diagnosis and medical care from your veterinarian. Injuries If you notice that your dog is limping on its hind leg, that is, if it has problems with shifting its weight on one side, there may have been an injury that prevents your dog from sitting correctly. Injuries can be either internal or external and may affect bone, muscle, ligaments, tendons, nerves, or even the superficial layers of the skin. A qualified professional must assess injuries that prevent your dog from sitting. Inflamed Anal Glands Inflammation of the anal glands is an uncomfortable condition that can cause your dog to refuse to sit correctly, and they may prefer to lean to one side. You can learn more about inflamed anal glands in the previous article. What is certain is that if there is inflammation in your dog's anal glands, the dog will avoid putting pressure on this painful area at all costs and may show it through a sloppy sit. Handler Impact Sometimes a poor sitting posture results from the owner or trainers' biomechanics. When teaching a dog to sit, placement of the treat is essential in training good posture. Everyone wants their dog to learn quickly and to be motivated and engaged during training, but this requires the right approach. Improving the guide mechanics is one of the key things to work on. It doesn't need more training time but, rather, enhanced handler mechanics. Mechanics include your handling position, movement, leash , timing, cues, and delivery of reinforcements prepare treats in advance. The handler's body language must be neutral when teaching a new behaviour, and it is necessary to reward reinforce only the behaviour we want from the dog. If we give confusing commands to the dog, be that verbal or through the position of our body, this may force the dog into a poor sitting pose. Regular reinforcement of poor posture will likely increase the frequency with which the dog adopts the dysfunctional pose. How to Correct Your Dog's Sit Now that we have talked about several possible reasons that cause dogs to sit weirdly, it's time to approach your dog individually and observe if this is a common behaviour or if it only occasionally shows a sloppy sit. For example, is your dog a puppy that doesn't yet know how to sit correctly? Do you notice any other symptoms that might indicate painful conditions? Perhaps changing the surface you usually train on will show that this was the reason for the sloppy sit all along. Also, could you consider from which side you observe the dog and in which position you are concerning the dog when you notice a weird sit? To help your dog strengthen its physical condition, in addition to regular exercises, you can provide your dog with quality supplements. Antinol is a dietary supplement that reduces inflammation and promotes joint function and health, which will facilitate holding the proper posture. Where physical dysfunction is the reason for the incorrect sitting, you should contact a professional that can help your dogs, such as a veterinarian or a canine therapist, depending on the severity and type of condition. Dogs lacking in muscular strength or condition, without other concerns, can be booked in for an online consult with a canine fitness trainer. These professionals can help you improve your dog's sitting biomechanics. Is puppy sitting a bad thing? No we are talking about the way your little pooch pie sits! Is there anything more adorable than a puppy? Sure, they may eat your shoes and stain your carpet yellow — but they are still cute. Even the way they sit captivates you and your friends. However, puppy sitting also known as sloppy sitting or the lazy sit can indicate a problem for dogs after one- two years of age. Why is this? Find out below. Normal sitting vs puppy sitting Dogs after the first two years should sit up straight with their body directly over their hips. This is considered normal sitting. If a dog is sitting with their hind legs sideways, rather than under the hips, it is considered puppy sitting or sloppy sitting. However, older dogs should be more stable and sitting this way can indicate numerous problems. What problems might be related? There are numerous potential conditions that may be related to abnormal sitting posture. They are: Hip problems — This includes potential items such as hip dysplasia, hip arthritis, or anything else that causes an inflammatory response in the joint. Knee pain — This could be the result of something as serious as a torn cruciate ligament or something more chronic in nature as a luxating patella. Back pain — Back pain may be the result of altered biomechanics, which would affect the joints involved in sitting. Problems with the anal glands and other inflammatory issues related to the hind end may also contribute. If the issue is biomechanical, such as hip, knee, or back issues than a good treatment option includes animal chiropractic. The goal of chiropractic care is to restore normal alignment to abnormal joints using very gentle, specific corrections known as adjustments. These adjustments will help restore normal motion and help your pet sit comfortably. There are other potential causes though, and it may be worth a visit to your primary care vet. Nutrition Developing puppies need a healthy diet for their joints to develop appropriately, no different than a human. There are many options including popular kibble brands such as Fromm , Zignature , Orijen , and more. If you prefer a dehydrated raw food for your pup, Sojos is a fairly popular brand. No matter what you feed, you want to avoid ingredients such as by-products in the ingredient panel. When it comes to supplements, it may be worth considering a puppy multivitamin. The glucosamine and other similar ingredients should help growing joints and may be useful in breeds predisposed to dysplasia, etc. So, is puppy sitting a bad thing? The answer to that is no — if your dog is still a puppy. However, abnormal sitting can indicate multiple other issues such as hip, knee, or back problems. There are options, however. Animal chiropractic via a certified veterinarian or chiropractor will help the biomechanical problems. A routine visit to your primary care vet can help rule out other issues. Looking for advice for products that may help your puppy as they age, visit our favorite products page or visit a reputable website like Chewy!

If this is the reason, there is no need to worry! A slight decrease in water consumption due to reduced activity is no cause for alarm. However, consult a vet if your dog persistently refuses to drink. Dogs should never go more than a day without water. Learn more 2. And thanks to their acute sense of smell, dogs know how to distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar sources of water. However if the smell of the water is not recognized as familiar, your dog may simply refuse to drink it. Planning a trip somewhere new? Bladder infection or urinary tract infection can also cause a decrease in thirst. Aging An older dog may also avoid drinking water. It could simply be that getting to the water requires too much effort, or that the sense of thirst may be diminishing along with its appetite. Older dogs get less exercise and therefore may not be as thirsty as younger dogs. However, older dogs need to maintain adequate hydration levels, so if drinking seems to be an issue, switching to a moist food might help. As always, consult a vet before changing dog foods. If they experience fright or pain, they typically associate those negative feelings with the circumstances in which they first experienced them. If your dog has had a bad experience while drinking from the water bowl, for example someone accidentally stepped on his tail or paw, he may associated those negative accidents with the action of drinking. To remove the fear of drinking, you can try to use a new water bowl or you can try to put his water bowl in a different place. At puppy age, many animals produce the lactase enzyme, responsible for decomposing the lactose. After the breastfeeding period, many dogs lose this particular enzyme and are not able to metabolize lactose anymore. Symptoms of lactose intolerance:. Dark yellow urine How to Check for Dehydration at Home A well-hydrated dog is generally active with shiny bright eyes. Methods to estimate for dehydration at home include checking the gums, evaluating skin elasticity, and monitoring urine frequency and color. The normal texture should be silky, shiny, and feel moist. Dehydrated dogs will have dull colored, sticky, and dry gums. Normal turgor results in the skin quickly falling back into place. The skin of dehydrated pets will lose this elasticity and fall back into place more slowly. Urine in a normal, hydrated dog should be pale yellow in color. Dehydrated dogs with normal kidney function will have concentrated dark yellow urine and will urinate less frequently. Practice these hydration tests on a healthy dog, so that you can better see the difference in a case of dehydration. Remember: these are rough tests. For example: Are bowel movements normal or is there diarrhea? Is your dog urinating normally? Are they licking their lips or drooling, which could suggest nausea? Is there any vomiting? Is your dog coughing? Have you noticed any trouble breathing or labored respiration? Does your dog appear to be in pain? Is your dog limping? Hunched posture? Reluctant to move? Can you see any wounds on your dog? Does your dog have the same behavior and activity level? Are they playing or greeting you at the door like normal? Or are they lethargic and less active? Any abnormality is cause for concern. This can be compounded if your dog is very young or old, pregnant, nursing, or has medical problems such as diabetes or kidney disease. Learn more about causes for dehydration here. Fill the bowl daily with fresh, clean water. Soiled bowls. Bowls with dirt, molds, insects, or soap residue can discourage a dog from drinking. Wash and rinse the water bowl thoroughly with weekly cleaning in the dishwasher. Bowl types. Some dogs have bowl inclinations. Try a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic to see if your dog has a preference. More bowls. Adding additional water bowls around the house or outdoors can encourage dogs to drink. Having more bowls can ensure there is water for every pet. Optimize accessibility. Bowls should be easily accessible to dogs with arthritis or other mobility issues. Dogs should not have to go upstairs or downstairs to get water. You can also periodically take the water bowl to your dog to encourage them to drink. Pet fountains. Some dogs enjoy fountains and will drink more when available. If you use a fountain and your dog loves it, make sure you keep it clean. Some dogs will stop using the fountain if the water becomes moldy. For an unknown reason, some dogs will lick water from your fingers. Offer water to your dog by allowing them to lick water from your hand or your finger. Canned food. Canned dog food has a much higher water content than dry dog food and can be a very good source of water. You can also add extra water, giving the canned food a gravy consistency. Flavor the water or food. Offer your dog broth, flavored water, or add moisture to dry food. Warm water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth can be added to canned or dry food. It works well to add the water or broth about 30 minutes before trying to feed. Mix Pedialyte with water in a ratio and offer small amounts at a time. Adding an ice cube to the water bowl can encourage some dogs to drink. You can also freeze broth into cubes or inside toys and offer them outside on a hot day. Water quality. Consider the quality of your water. Did something change? Some homes are on public water, while others may be sourced from a well or spring. Trying a different water source, such as bottled or filtered water, can encourage dogs to drink. If traveling, consider taking a gallon jug of your home water and their familiar bowl with you. Syringe water. As a last resort, you can use a syringe to give your dog water. Fill a syringe without the needle with water, place the syringe between the teeth and cheek, and slowly offer a small amount. If they swallow well and accept it, wait 5 minutes, and offer more. If your dog coughs or gags, stop. How much you offer will depend on the size of your dog. Try offering a dog less than 10 pounds about 5 ml 1 teaspoon , a medium size dog 40 pounds 15 to 20 ml 1 tablespoon , and a large breed dog 30 to 60 ml 2 to 4 tablespoons per dose. If your dog swallows the water and does not vomit, repeat in 1 hour. Gradually increase the quantity and frequency. In general, if your dog is so sick that you need to give fluid by syringe, they would benefit from the advice and treatment of a veterinarian. You can generally purchase a syringe from your vet, at most pet stores, or at your local farm supply store. Treat pain. Dogs in pain, such as dogs with arthritis, may not want to get up and walk to the water bowl. Treat their pain with medications as provided by your veterinarian. While it is important to get your dog to drink, it is equally important to not allow your dog to drink too much. When To See the Vet Ultimately if your dog is not drinking, the risk of dehydration exists. It is best to see your veterinarian to help identify the underlying cause and provide treatment if needed. They can supplement fluids through an IV or by subcutaneous fluid administration. How To Prevent Dehydration in Dogs Tips to prevent dehydration in dogs include: Ensure your dog always has fresh, clean water. Never leave your dog for more than 12 hours. Water can be spilled or knocked over. Ensure your dog always has shade when outside. Provide opportunities to exercise during cooler times of day, such as morning or evening. Keep trash covered to ensure your dog does not ingest items that will cause gastrointestinal distress leading to fluid loss. There are many reasons that a dog may not be drinking water. Any disease or problem that causes nausea or impacts metabolic function can cause this problem. Learn more about the many possible causes of dehydration in dogs. What should I do if my dog is not drinking water? If your dog is not drinking water, look for other clinical problems. Are they vomiting or having diarrhea? The best thing to do is to call your veterinarian. How do I get my dog to drink water? If your dog is not drinking, the best thing you can do is encourage water intake. You can do this by flavoring the water, offering fresh water in a different bowl, or offering some canned food. How long can a dog go without drinking water? A dog can live a few days without water. How long depends on how quickly they are losing fluid or not taking in fluids. For example, if a dog is not drinking as well as having vomiting and diarrhea, they are both losing fluids and not taking fluids, which can cause faster and more severe dehydration. Give them a little time. If they go into a shaded or cool environment and have access to water, most dogs will drink when they are thirsty. There have been reports of bloat in dogs that drink too much after exercising. Drinking too much can be as big of a problem as drinking too little, and can ultimately lead to water intoxication. Is this a problem? There are some dogs that love to drink from puddles. Rainwater has a different smell and taste compared to chlorinated tap water, making it more appealing to dogs. While this is not a problem for most dogs, there is a risk of the puddles being contaminated with bacteria, molds, and even automotive products like gasoline. How much water should I let my dog drink? The general rule of thumb is that dogs should drink about 20 to 40 ml of water per pound of body weight per day. Their water consumption will vary depending on if they eat canned food, which contains water. You can measure their water consumption daily to see if it is more or less than those listed above. If your dog is ill, please call your veterinarian as soon as possible. Additional Articles:. Behavioral - other pets, location or type of bowl Anxiety Mouth or throat pain Pain while standing or walking Cooler weather and less activity may mean your dog needs less water. Also keep in mind that canned and fresh dog food have much higher water content than dry food and may satisfy much of your dog's daily water need. Plus, while it can seem gross, many dogs prefer to drink from something other than the bowl, whether for taste or behavior reasons or even just convenience, and it can be a difficult habit to break. So even though you might be thirsty when you get home from the lake, if your dog was swimming with you, they easily could have swallowed plenty of water for the day. While some dogs like pond- or pool- flavored water, others are particular about their water source and may choose not to drink from a bowl that they think is dirty or has an odd taste. For example, many dogs will avoid water with additives such as dental health supplements. Or, a new water filter in the home might require adjustment for your dog to drink from. Other dogs refuse to drink water because the water bowl is in a place that is difficult to access or is scary such as the laundry room when the washing machine is running. Occasionally, one pet in the house will guard the bowl so that other pets can't drink. If that's the situation adding more water bowls throughout your home will manage the issue while you call your veterinarian to discuss your other pet's behavior problem. Behavior concerns can also be the cause of a dog who isn't drinking. An anxious dog may be unwilling to drink during storms or in unfamiliar places. The medical reasons that a dog will not drink water but will eat food are limited. The first is pain somewhere. Joint or muscle pain can make those extra trips to the water bowl difficult, so a dog only drinks when he is already at the food bowl to eat. Pain in the mouth or throat is also likely to cause an unwillingness to eat or drink. In addition, some puppies can be born with a congenital disability, making it difficult for them to drink water even though they can eat normally. Thankfully, this condition is rare. If your dog won't drink water and won't eat, it is much more likely to be a medical issue, and a veterinarian should see your dog. Signs of Dehydration in Dogs Unless there is an underlying health problem, like kidney disease, dogs with access to clean, fresh water are unlikely to let themselves become dehydrated. However, dehydration in dogs is a serious health concern, and so pet parents need to know the signs. These include: dry or sticky mouth and gums thick saliva reduced energy increased skin tenting To test if your dog is dehydrated, try skin tenting. Gently pull up on the skin between your dog's shoulder blades and see how long it takes to return to normal. A hydrated dog's skin will immediately slide back into place, whereas a dehydrated dog's skin will remain raised tented. One important caveat: Different dog breeds have various skin types, so a skin tenting test is only useful if you know your dog's typical skin elasticity. Dehydration can lead to many health problems, including digestive issues, constipation, impaired kidney function, and generally, a dog who doesn't feel well. Dehydration is different than heat sickness heat stroke or heat exhaustion. The most common signs of heatstroke are: Excessive panting. According to research , water has the ability to provide the lungs with moisture, enable oxygen and nutrients in the bloodstream to travel to the cells, help maintain normal blood pressure , provide protection and lubrication for the joints and internal organs, help in discharging waste, and support the nervous system. Because of this, it is necessary for dogs to drink the appropriate amount of water to keep them healthy. So if your dog is 9 pounds around 4 kg , for instance, they should drink 9 ounces around ml of fluid daily. For example, dogs who are very active as well as those who live in warm tropical climates would need more fluids since they expel more fluid as well. Usually, puppies also consume more fluids than adult dogs. Meanwhile, a dog that is being fed wet food may drink less than dogs that eat dry kibble. This is because the moisture content of wet food is a lot higher than kibble. Below are some of the common ones. They may not be as active or they may not eat or drink the way that they normally do. It may be dirty or may contain iron. If so, provide them with pure and clean drinking water. They may be associating it with a negative experience. For example, there may be cases when you adopt a dog from a shelter and they may refuse to drink water from a bowl similar to the one at the shelter. This is because they associate it with a negative experience they had at the shelter. There are a variety of reasons why a dog may have negative feelings. It could also be that they are just picky and are not comfortable with the particular bowl or where it is located. If you feel that this is the case, try to get a new bowl that is different from the previous one. You may also try to put it in a different location. Old age Dogs may also start drinking less water as they grow older. It may take more effort for them to stand up to go to where their water bowl is located or it may be that their hunger and thirst receptors are beginning to decline. Due to their age, it might be worth considering the switch to wet food to make sure that they get enough moisture apart from drinking from their water bowls. Among the major ones are urinary tract infections and bladder infections. Kidney disease and diabetes may also cause water intake problems. If you see other symptoms along with reduced water intake such as a lack of appetite and lethargy, or if they are behaving differently, it is essential to consult with your vet as soon as possible to determine what could be going wrong. Check your dog if there are foreign objects that may be stuck or if there may be a wound. In some cases, you may be able to remove it right away, but in other cases might need the help of a vet. They may also happen to have teeth damage , causing their teeth to be sensitive. Some examples of oral issues include: periodontal disease, tooth root abscess, its loss, or fracture. Anxiety Changes in their environment such as when a close member of the family goes away for several days, when there is a death in the family, or when a couple has separated may also take a toll on our canine companions. When they become affected, they may experience separation anxiety , which may affect their desire to drink or eat. Signs of Dehydration in Dogs When dogs lose more water than their intake, it results in them becoming dehydrated. Note that there are some dogs that have a higher risk than others such as: a dog with diabetes since they produce more urine and a dog who is vomiting and unable to retain the fluids in their body. Their condition makes them lose more water and if they do not drink, they have a greater risk of experiencing severe dehydration. On the other hand, dogs usually try to cool themselves on a hot day by panting as their saliva evaporates. Because of the water loss, they need to drink more to replace the water that they lose. Among the signs that your dog may be dehydrated are: Dry mouth If your dog is dehydrated, they would have tacky or dry gums when you press your finger on it. Skin tenting Gently pinch the skin at the back of their shoulders or neck. Lethargy This shows that your dog may not be feeling well. Sunken eyes This may be a sign of severe dehydration so immediate care should be sought. When it comes to how to get a dog to drink water, you can try the following: Add water to their food for added moisture. Make sure that their water is fresh and safe. Try giving them ice to play and snack on. Try using a new bowl or placing it in a different location that your dog might prefer better. It is important not to let your dog go severely dehydrated as this may lead to complications. By being able to monitor your dog well, you may be able to detect problems early on. Emergency Fund In cases of severe dehydration or prolonged refusal to drink water, your dog will need to get immediate treatment at their vet. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and how it has affected your dog, unexpected veterinary expenses may be expensive. Not to mention, it may cause you to worry about not knowing what to do while thinking of the bills that have to be paid at the same time. Luckily, there are pet and pet-owner-friendly services such as the Pet Emergency Fund by Petcube. Dogs and cats are also covered regardless of age, breed, and medical history. The service also provides fast coverage payment same day as the emergency. FAQ My dog is not drinking water but is eating. Is that okay? You may also add water to their food to increase their fluid intake. My dog is not drinking water but is peeing. What could it mean? This may be a sign of health conditions such as urinary tract infections or diabetes. Do consult with your vet to determine what is causing them not to drink water even if they are peeing. If an old dog is not drinking but eating, is it a cause for concern? When it comes to senior dogs, it is more important to address changes in their routine as soon as you notice them since they are more vulnerable to sicknesses. There may be a variety of reasons why your old dog is not drinking but eating, ranging from minor to serious causes. Speak with your vet as soon as possible to determine what is causing it and to address any health issues early on. Was this article helpful? Pettable Academy is designed to bring out the best in your pet Access Guided Dog Training Today There are a number of possible reasons why a dog might refuse water, including illness, aging, an upsetting experience, or a change in surroundings or water source. There are also a number of tactics and tricks that can be employed to persuade a dog to drink again. If, however, the cause cannot be established, or the dog cannot be persuaded to drink, the animal should be taken to a veterinarian without delay, as dehydration is a serious condition. Dogs, like humans, need to drink water every day and are at risk from dehydration if they do not do so. They are actually at greater risk than humans because they release heat from their bodies much more slowly. Things to Check Perhaps the first thing to check if a dog is not drinking water is that the animal is not suffering from an obstruction in the mouth that makes it painful or difficult to drink — sometimes it can be something as simple as a small stick or burr. If the dog is recovering from surgery or an injury, it is not uncommon for it to be reluctant to drink for a while. Switching from dry to wet food may result in a pet drinking less water, as it is getting more moisture from its food. Illness could also be a cause, and if the animal shows any other signs of ailment, such as unusual lethargy, or seems to be in pain, it should be taken to a veterinarian. If none of these seem to apply, the reason could be psychological, rather than physical. Unfamiliar Places and Smells Many dogs will avoid drinking water in strange places because the water smells different from what they are used to at home. These animals have an extremely acute sense of smell, and just a small difference in the composition of the local water may be very noticeable to them. Although dogs may seem unfussy about water quality — they will often drink out of ponds and puddles, for example — they may be very suspicious of anything that smells unfamiliar. It might be a good idea to try giving the dog bottled water instead of tap water. Anxiety Anxiety and some pain might occur when dogs are dealing styes. As we mentioned above the area around the eye can get irritated either ue to bacterial infection or debris that has gotten very close to the eyelid and caused irritation. Some dogs are quite adaptable and will settle into new accommodation very quickly. Others, however, may be nervous or very set in their ways, and will initially be unhappy in their new surroundings. Usually, if this is the case, the pet will settle down and start drinking again after a day or two. A change in circumstances at home can also cause this problem. Such changes might include the pet having to spend more time on its own due to a change in working patterns, or someone leaving the home permanently. Often, an animal that is lonely or upset will refuse to eat or drink. Again, it may settle down after a day or two, when it has become used to the new routine. If you notice your pet is anxious or not comfortable it could help to give them something that helps calm them down. It could simply be that getting to the water requires too much effort, or the dog's sense of thirst may be diminishing along with its appetite. Older dogs especially need to maintain adequate hydration levels, so if drinking seems to be an issue, switching to a moist food might help. This not only provides extra water, it may be easier for an aging animal to eat. It is, however, best to consult a veterinarian before changing dog foods. Persuading a Dog to Drink There are a number of ways of persuading a reluctant dog to drink, some of which are surprisingly straightforward. Simply changing the position of its water bowl may sometimes work. Another solution that is often effective is mixing wet dog food with water. It is also worth making sure that the water bowl is clean; if in doubt, giving it a good scrub with baking soda and water may help. If the dog has recently had surgery or an illness, proper hydration is important to the recovery process. In any circumstances, a dog should drink regularly. If the dog cannot be made to drink, it should be checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Visit Pettable's blog for more information on pet care and other helpful resources. Dogs need to drink in order to remain healthy. Your dog can get seriously sick very quickly if they stop drinking enough water. You will want to know some of the common reasons for your dog to stop drinking so that you can be sure about when it is time to take your dog to the vet. If you are ready to learn some more about why your dog is not drinking enough water, you need to keep reading. Bladder Infection A bladder infection is one of the most common reasons that dogs stop drinking water. This can be a very painful condition, and dogs are usually also not hungry when they have a bladder infection. If your dog has been urinating in places that it should not be, or if they are urinating more often than normal, this can indicate a bladder infection. When combined with a lack of thirst and hunger, this can indicate that your dog needs to see the vet for additional workup to get rid of the infection. Old Age Older animals can show a declining interest in food and water. This can be due to a lack of appetite or disruption of the normal signals that lead to thirst. Dogs that are older often have underlying conditions that leave them not feeling very good, which can lead to nausea and pain of various kinds. This can lead to a lack of thirst as well as a lack of interest in food. There are medications that can be used to help your older dog to feel better, and your vet can also make sure that your dog does not have a more serious condition going on that is causing them to stop drinking. Ingestion of Poison or Bad Food When dogs get into something that is bad for them, they can make themselves very sick. This might be something poisonous , or it could simply be food that has gone bad. When your dog has eaten something it should not have, this can lead to nausea, which causes a lack of appetite and a lack of thirst. This is often the very first early symptom of this problem, and it will eventually be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, and other serious symptoms. Poisoning cases are often on a very short timeline, so if you think your dog might have been poisoned, you will need to get them to the vet right away. Dental Issues Dogs with sore mouths are often not interested in eating or drinking. This can lead to other significant health risks over time, and you will need to address the dental issue that your dog is suffering from right away. This might be broken teeth, abscesses , or dental disease. Bad Smelling Water If you have recently moved to a new place and the water is different than your dog is used to, they might think that it smells bad and be unwilling to drink it. If their water has been contaminated in some way, they might also be unwilling to drink it until it is cleaned. Not every dog is really picky about the smell of their water, but in some cases, even the change from well water to city water can make a dog stop drinking. You might need to use a safe flavoring agent for their water until your dog gets used to the water in your new locations. If the water is just not clean, you will need to make sure that it is cleaned up so that your dog can drink it safely again. Anxiety Some dogs are prone to being anxious and fearful, and this can lead to an unwillingness to drink or to eat. Dogs that have been sacred in some way while drinking might connect the fear with the act of drinking. Issues with fighting between animals in your home over food and water can also cause anxiety in fearful dogs. You can resolve this problem by helping your dog to be more secure in its eating and drinking location and by separating dogs who should not eat or drink together. Getting the help of a dog trainer can also make it easier to resolve this kind of issue. Your dog might need a creative solution to feel safe when drinking or eating, and professionals can offer this kind of solution in most cases. Dog trainers can be very helpful with complex behavioral issues or issues rooted in fear. Dogs cannot go too long without drinking enough water without getting sick. You will probably only have a few days to figure out why your dog is not drinking. For more information, contact EVCC by calling one of our locations. You can trust us to help you and your pet whenever you need us. Water is an essential part of life for dogs, just like it is for humans. Dogs should consume one ounce per pound of body weight every day to ensure that they are hydrated. The only sweat glands on a dog are on his paws, and those are not enough to keep him cool. The higher risk factor of dehydration comes from their inability to cool their body as quickly. Water is the key to keeping your dog cool, healthy, and happy. Change in Weather One reason that your dog may not be drinking much water is a change in weather. When fall comes around, many dogs will slow their water intake causing their parents to be alarmed. Without a high level of exertion, they may not be as interested in slopping up a gallon of water as soon as they reach their bowl. They might not be as lively and may not eat or drink as they normally would. This was one of their many survival tactics developed centuries ago. Bladder infections or urinary tract infections are two major culprits of reduced thirst. It could also be diabetes or kidney disease. Old Age As your dog gets older, he may start to drink less water. Associate the Activity with a Negative Experience There are also dogs that may associate drinking water with a negative experience. If you adopt a shelter dog, he may refuse to drink out of the same type of bowl that the shelter provided because he associates it with a negative experience. There are an abundance of reasons he could have negative feelings. If you suspect this to be the case, try buying a new bowl that looks totally different and placing it in a new location. This might clear the issue up right away. The pain of the cold water on sensitive teeth will make him avoid it. In this case, your dog is experiencing severe separation anxiety. That kind of change can really affect your canine companion and he may lose his desire to eat and drink. Your dog will need to get used to new surroundings, new smells, and new sights. It can be overwhelming for them just like it is for us and one reaction might be to ignore his water bowl. You can also give your pup ice to snack on. Try a new bowl or a new place to place the bowl to tempt him. They will be able to provide additional advice.

We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. Information Ingredients Guaranteed Analysis Royal Canin knows what makes your Bulldog puppy magnificent is in the details. With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.