boxer puppies for sale buffalo ny

Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. They love spending time with their owners and letting their playful and fun characters shine through. They are eager to please and very loyal dogs. Originally Boxers were bred to be working dogs, which is why they have such high exercise needs and energy to spare! Common health problems in Boxers Boxers are intelligent dogs who are very loyal to their families. Sadly, like many other purebred dogs, they are prone to certain conditions. If you are thinking of buying a Boxer puppy , make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by certain conditions. Some of the conditions Boxers may develop include: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS — this can cause severe breathing problems in some Boxers with shorter faces. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Eye problems — such as corneal ulcers due to the shape of their skulls and prominence of the eyes. Heart problems — such as cardiomyopathy or aortic stenosis. Before breeding, parents should be screened. Skin problems - such as warts, skin tags, skin allergies and soreness in skin folds around the face skin fold dermatitis. Certain cancers. If you want to minimise the risk of your dog getting problems, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog. Caring for your boxer Boxers are fun and active dogs who can be high maintenance due to their exercise needs. If you love getting out and about walking, they could be a good breed for you! A large secure garden is a must if you have a Boxer so they have plenty of space to blow off steam. Boxers can be very boisterous so do better with an experienced and patient! Boxers and barking Your Boxer is likely to make noise and how much they do make will be down to their training and personality. Boxers are naturally very good guard dogs and so are more likely to bark to make their owners aware of any comings and goings around the home. Training and socialisation Boxers are clever dogs but can be boisterous, so positive, reward-based training from a young age is really important. Boxers mature a lot slower than other breeds, so having a large amount of puppy energy in such a big dog can be challenging for some owners. You need to handle your Boxer with a firm but fair attitude and make sure you are patient and consistent. They can be boisterous so make sure you train them not to jump up at people from a young age. Boxers love human company so can develop separation anxiety if left alone. If they are alone or bored, they like to chew which means your furniture and belongings will be at risk! Exercise Boxers are very high energy, active dogs who love playing and being involved in everything going on. They keep their puppy attitude longer than most dogs so you might find your Boxer rarely has a calm moment at home! Your Boxer will need a minimum of two hours exercise every day. This should be split into a few walks with plenty of opportunities for sniffing around and exploring. You should also give your Boxer plenty of time to exercise off lead somewhere secure so they can have a good run around. On top of this, your Boxer will also need regular, short training sessions. They will also need lots of playtime and free time in the garden to do what they want. Grooming Boxers are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have short fur which only needs a weekly brush to keep it in good condition. As with any dog, you should expect your Boxer to shed throughout the year, more so in spring and autumn. A regular hoover should be enough to keep on top of it. Due to the excess skin around their faces, Boxers are at risk of developing a condition called skin fold dermatitis. Boxers and children Generally speaking, Boxers are good around children of all ages given the right training. An adult only home or one with teenagers is better for a Boxer. Always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults. Puppy socialisation classes are a great way to get your pup used to new dogs. Early socialisation will help your dog get along well other dogs as an adult. They may get along OK with a cat they have grown up with, but you should always supervise your Boxer with smaller pets. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Boxer should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine. Remember to leave a gap between eating and exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Get ready with the ear plugs, because Boxers are known for loud snoring! Boxers originated in Germany in the s so are considered a fairly new breed. Getting a Boxer Do plenty of research before getting a Boxer. These playful and lively dogs keep their puppy ways well into their adult years so need an understanding owner with plenty of time and patience! Boxers can be really loving in the right household and will love spending time with you. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Boxer. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Boxers are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict.

Boston Boxer Highlights Boston Boxers are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Boston Terrier or Boxer parents. The main colors of Boston Boxers are black, brown, fawn, blue, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors, like in a pied or brindle pattern. Boston Boxers are known to be a good choice for families with children. Always supervise playtime. The Boston Boxer is a highly energetic mixed breed. If left alone for too long or without any sort of stimulation, this energy can manifest in unwanted destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. When it comes to other pets, Boston Boxers can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Boston Boxer History The Boston Boxer mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boston Terriers and Boxers in the late s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to keep the friendly and energetic spirit of the Boxer but in a smaller, Boston Terrier size. They continued to create Boston Boxers as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Boston Boxer got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide the Boston Boxer is the dog for you. Be sure to check your local shelters, look up Boston Boxer or Miniature Boxer rescues, or check with breed-specific Boxer or Boston Terrier rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Boston Boxer Size Since the Boston Boxer is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Boston Terrier and Boxer parents, you can expect your Boston Boxer to be on the small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 22 to 55 pounds and range in height from 15 to 23 inches from the shoulder. However, many can be larger or smaller than average. The Mini Boxer can be somewhat hesitant around strangers, which is why it is very important to socialize your Boston Boxer as early as possible to make sure they are people-friendly. These dogs are prone to attaching to one particular family member, and they can become somewhat protective of them. Even with their protective tendencies, most Boston Boxer enthusiasts say their dogs are complete goofballs. The Boston Boxer is also a highly energetic mixed breed, so they are best-suited with people who can keep up with the pace. Some of the more common health problems Boston Boxer suffer from include: heart murmurs. Lifespan Sociability Boston Boxer dogs are very popular, resulting in many breeders. We recommend searching for as many as possible to find the perfect puppy before you make your decision. Always ask a breeder to show you the facilities before making any payment. In many cases, you can find a breeder that is willing to sell you a puppy at a reduced cost, but we must caution against prices that are too good to be true, as unscrupulous breeders often create these puppies in unsafe environments known as puppy mills. The best way to fight puppy mills is not to buy their puppies. You can always ask your local shelter if they have a Boxer mix that resembles the Boston Boxer. They are athletic and can run fast and jump quite high and will maintain a fast pace for extended play sessions before tiring. They quickly become attached and protective of their owners and are wary of strangers who might cause them to become aggressive and bark. However, they generally get along with other household pets and small yard animals like bunnies and squirrels. Boston Boxers are sensitive to their environment and prefer a set, predictable schedule, and they can be stubborn if you change things up too quickly. They are very intelligent and easy to train, as long as they think they are in charge. They love the company and will remain at your side most of the day. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very friendly, energetic, and playful. They get along well with pets including, cats and other dogs. They like to play with children and will provide each other with unlimited amounts of entertainment. Boston Boxers are intelligent enough to follow orders and behave and will even learn tricks and guard the house while you are away. They will require at least one family member to take them out for long walks, though, and these are high maintenance in the exercise department, requiring at least one hour of running and jumping each day. If you live in the city, it can be challenging to find enough room, and you will likely require access to a park or trail. They are even more friendly if you socialize them early and get them used to other animals, but even so, this breed rarely gets aggressive toward another animal. This food should be high-quality without any harmful chemicals or preservatives. High-quality dog food will contain meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits, according to the American Kennel Club. You can expect to take your Boston Boxer for a long walk every day, and on some days, you may need a second walk. You can expect to walk at least eight miles a week spread out over about an hour a day, every day, for the next several years when purchasing a Boston Boxer. In most cases, you will only require patience and a bunch of treats to have your Boston Boxer impressing your friends. To train your pet, simply stand in front of them with a treat ready. Boston Boxers are smart and will know you have it. When they figure it out and sit, give them a treat. Stand them back up and repeat. After several tries, your Boston Boxer will catch on and quickly sit on command. Using the above system, you can teach your dog plenty of tricks, like shaking hands, fetch, rollover, and plenty of others. You can even teach them more complex tricks like retrieving the newspaper with a little practice. They only require occasional brushing and trimming of their nails. But there are a few problems associated with them that you should know about before you make a purchase. Minor Conditions. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. These fun-loving dogs are great family dogs, but they are also highly loyal and supremely protective of their families, making them ideal guard dogs too — the job for which the breed was developed. With all these desirable characteristics, the Boxer has been a part of many designer breeds that are arguably just as adorable. In this article, we take a look at 20 of these designer breeds in all their glory! The 20 Popular Boxer Mixes 1. They are medium-sized dogs that need a great deal of exercise to stay happy and healthy, and they are not suitable for apartment living. That said, these dogs have the stubborn and independent nature of their Beagle parent too, and this can make training difficult for novice owners. They are strong, stocky animals that are highly athletic, making them ideal working dogs. They bond strongly with their owners and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods. Both parent breeds can be a challenge for novice owners to train, but with patience and dedication, the Box Heeler is a dependable and loyal pooch indeed. As such, little is known about the breed, although they are likely to be highly intelligent and exceedingly affectionate. Of course, both parent breeds have a stubborn streak that is likely to show itself in the Boxachi too. A Boxador! This Labrador cross is one of the most popular Boxer hybrids for many reasons. They are great family dogs, highly intelligent, and easy to train and have low grooming requirements: a near-perfect designer breed, in our opinion. These dogs are known to be a fair bit of a challenge to train because they can be stubborn at times, but their high intelligence and eager-to-please nature make up for it. They are great family dogs because they are generally docile and even-tempered and gentle with children. They typically have the medium-length, thick coat of their Chow parents but are far more muscular, stocky, and powerful, making for an intimidating dog indeed. They are easily trainable dogs, making them ideal for novice owners and families with young children. Boxerdoodle Boxer x Poodle A post shared by Andrea Dawn andreadawnworth This Poodle hybrid breed may inherit the short coat of the Boxer or the fluffy coat of the Poodle or be somewhere in between, but they are an adorable pooch either way! They are energetic pooches that will require a fair amount of daily exercise to keep them happy, but they are as loyal, lovable, and intelligent as they come. The Boxita is an extremely athletic pooch with a ton of energy, and they are known to be somewhat stubborn and challenging to train, making them a breed suited toward more experienced owners. They are known for being great family dogs, though, and are highly loyal and devoted animals. Boxmas Boxer x Mastiff A post shared by Jill Pelerine jmpelerine The Mastiff is a large, powerful dog and when combined with a Boxer , can make for an intimidating breed indeed. They are generally gentle giants, though, with a ton of devotion and affection to give. They are great family dogs, and their intimidating stature makes them excellent guard dogs. They are known for developing powerful bonds with their owners and are loyal animals. This Dalmatian hybrid is a playful, energetic pooch that needs a great deal of exercise and interaction to stay happy and healthy. They are larger than Boxers and may inherit the exuberant qualities of their Dalmatian heritage, a trait that can be problematic around small children. They are the ideal companion for active owners, though, with an almost inexhaustible reserve of energy. They are great family dogs, with a gentle and affectionate nature and staunch devotion to their owners. With their Husky heritage, these dogs can be independently minded and stubborn at times, making them difficult to train and not ideal for novice owners. They have high exercise demands and are not suited to apartment living. But if you have a large space at home and plenty of time to dedicate to regular exercise, they are a wonderful breed to own. They are playful, sweet dogs in general, but with the Rottweiler heritage, they need a firm and consistent hand in training. They are immensely powerful, with an intimidating appearance, but they are sweet and gentle-natured dogs at heart. Due to their power and strength, these dogs need early socialization and disciplined training and are not recommended for novice owners. Combining two loyal and devoted breeds, these dogs are highly affectionate and loving with their family and somewhat wary of strangers, making them great family protectors. They need plenty of socialization and a firm, consistent hand in training. Bulloxer Boxer x American Bulldog Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock The Boxer and American Bulldog are similar breeds, both with strong, sturdy frames and loyal, devoted temperaments, so the combination would naturally be a great match. They are generally sweet, friendly dogs despite their imposing appearance, and they make great family dogs that are gentle and loving with children. German Boxer Boxer x German Shepherd A post shared by BorisSV borisstarboardveracruz A somewhat unlikely mixed breed, this German Shepherd hybrid inherits the best traits of their parent breeds, making for a loving and playful yet loyal and devoted pooch. They are intelligent dogs that are highly trainable and ideal for novice dog owners, they make great family pooches, and they are as protective and loyal as they come. They are intelligent, devoted, playful, and gentle and bond strongly with their owners. They often inherit the long coat of their Retriever parents and are as adorable as they are friendly. Final Thoughts With the Boxer being such a friendly and loyal breed, any hybrid is likely to inherit these sought-after traits, and most are wonderful family dogs indeed. Some hybrids can be a challenge to train and may need far more exercise than is typical for Boxers. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.

However, these dogs are so adorable as puppies that many people often adopt them without giving it the proper amount of thought. The food costs are exorbitant, though, and you should expect a whopper of a vet bill every now and then. They can also be prone to behavioral issues if not properly trained and socialized. Just keep in mind that your home will get smaller after you bring one into it. You better know how to swim, because these dogs drool. When you combine two breeds that are already known for having overactive salivary glands, you get a mix that can flood your entire house. It may sound adorable and it often is. They have no idea how big they are. However, they generally weigh well over pounds. Also, they have no idea where their feet are at any time, and they will definitely step on you. They love being the center of attention. They constantly crave affection — and at their size, they have no problems getting it. They make up for it by being incredibly sweet, though. Masti-Bulls are fun-loving and affectionate, but they can quickly get serious if they perceive a threat. They will not hesitate to protect their families, making them great guard dogs and equally good babysitters. Despite their agreeable nature, they have sad-looking faces, especially their solemn eyes. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, that protectiveness can sometimes be an issue, especially if your kids have friends over who like to roughhouse. Also, these dogs have no idea how big they are. If they get rambunctious, they can easily step on or bowl over a small child. You need to teach them to be aware of their surroundings; you also need to teach your kid how to act around the dog. They have formidable barks that broadcast just how big they are; there are few criminals brave enough to risk entering a house with one of these monsters inside. However, both parent breeds were originally bred as fighting animals, and there may be residual violence left in their DNA. Also, be careful about resource guarding with these dogs. They may get along great with other animals — until somebody gets too close to the food bowl, a favorite toy, or even you. Avoid anything with animal by-products. Portion control is important with larger breeds, as many of them will eat until they run out of food. A brisk walk, lasting minutes, is often all they need. They love to play, and they can spend hours pulling you around the house with a rope toy. Be careful not to overdo any exercise regimen you put them on. That means avoiding activities like agility training or anything that involves running and jumping especially on hard surfaces. Swimming is great for them, though. Introduce them to new people and places, and build up their confidence. You need to pay special attention to their ears too. Other than that, their grooming needs are fairly basic. Brush their teeth every day , bathe them every few months, and trim their nails as needed. Unfortunately, the breed is prone to a variety of health issues, both large and small. Minor Conditions. However, breeders have transitioned the two breeds into working dogs. Bulloxers are gentle and affectionate hybrid dogs known for their loyalty to their owner and family. However, they reach maturity at a slow pace and may behave like untrained puppies for years. The Bulloxers, which are also called the American Boxerbulls, can live for about nine to twelve years or even longer. Bulloxers are large and muscular dogs. Their coats come in three colors, which are brindle, fawn, and white. So you need to have a vacuum cleaner handy and brush it for a few days a week. Keep it on a daily exercise routine that can satisfy its cravings for a physical challenge. The combination of two strong-headed breeds can make for a hybrid dog that is hard to handle. However, the Husky Bulldog responds well to positive reinforcement. The American Bullsky may be prone to hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and cardiac diseases. It is also unadvisable to let the Bullsky live in a hot environment. The Corgi American Bulldog mix is a sweet companion for families, based on the temperament of the two parent breeds. The Corgi mixed with American Bulldog will have a high energy level, which means that owners need to take them on long walks or hikes until they tire out. The American Bulldog and Corgi are both moderate shedders, which should tell you about the amount of shedding an American Bullcorg will have. It may go from standard, which leans to the Bulldog side, or the toy size, which is from the Poodle gene. The American Boodle may have short to medium length coat with a wavy texture. Because of its Poodle genes, the hybrid dog may require constant grooming and brushing. American Bulldoodle need training and socialization as a puppy. They often get attached to their owners and may feel separation anxiety when left alone for a long period of time. Find an American Boodle breeder who subjected their dogs to testing for genetic disorders. Bulldog Shepherd puppies are hard to find because only the Dog Registry of America recognizes this hybrid-dog. You will need a brush that can comb through thick and long hair for its weekly grooming. When untrained, the dog loves to play biting games, which might feel unsafe for owners and their families. The American Bulldog Beagle sheds heavily, but its short coat makes it easy for owners to groom. Despite constant problems with ear infections, the Beabull is a hybrid breed with a healthy immune system and can live up to ten to thirteen years. The American Bugle weighs about thirty to sixty pounds and reaches the height of approximately twelve to sixteen inches. If left alone and not given enough training, they can be lazy. Forty-five minutes of exercise will keep the hybrid dog very happy. The American Bulldog and Bull Mastiff mix also go by the name of American Bandogge Mastiff, which includes any bulldog and mastiff combination. The American Mastiff may develop genetic health issues common to American Pit Bull Terriers and any Mastiff-type breeds, and it will help to research the common illnesses those types of breeds can catch. The American Badogge Mastiff has a British canine temperament, which makes it a good companion for children, often being a self-appointed babysitter. Labradogs, or American Bulladors, have low maintenance coats that require brushing once every week. If the dog is leaning to the Labrador side, more grooming is needed. Coat colors vary from black, brown, white, yellow, red, or tan. American Bulldog and Labrador mix, who also goes by the name American Labrabull, can suffer from the brachycephalic syndrome, which will give your dog breathing troubles, gagging, or collapse. American Bulladors are eager to please and ready to learn, which makes it quite easy to train them at an early age. The American Bulldog and Chihuahua mix, which also goes by the name of American Bullhuahua, is prone to dental issues. It is essential to keep its diet to grain-free kibble that can sustain its nutritional requirement. The American Bulleenie boasts a thin coat that will need weekly brushing and bathing. While its thin jacket is short and soft, it can shed occasionally. The American Bulleenie is a highly sociable dog. It loves spending time with its owners. It remains cautious around strangers because of its Chihuahua genes. It engages in hunting activities, police watches, and military work. Its height ranges from twenty-seven to thirty-five inches, while its weight strolls around to pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Great Dane requires daily brushing to reduce dead hairs. It needs high-maintenance grooming from its nails, ears, and teeth. Due to its size, the American Dane requires constant training to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, its low energy level limits its exercise to two to three walks per day. The American Chow Bulldog cannot handle extreme weather because of its dense coat. The Chow American Bulldog mix is fierce and protective of its family. However, its low energy level makes it hard to train. The American Chow Bulldog require fifteen to thirty minutes of daily exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are not a lot of information about the history of the Border Collie Bulldog mix, but there is a lot of data available regarding its parents to help potential owners learn more about the American Collie. The American Bulldog crossed with Border Collie can prove to be a handful regarding grooming because of their constant shedding. The average size of an American Bull-Aussie is around nineteen to twenty-five inches and can weigh up to 70 to pounds. The Australian Shepherd mixed with American Bulldog breed is relatively new, which makes information scarce. The Dachshund Bulldog has a lifespan of eight to seventeen years if properly trained and treated. The Bulldog Dachsund mix makes for an interesting combination of the usually laid-back American Bulldog and the stubborn Dachshund. This is a rare and undocumented breed. Because of its excess skin, the Mini-Bulldog is also prone to fainting due to heat. Unlike most dogs, the Mini-Bulldog does not require too much exercise. Playing with it will suffice. The Mini-Bulldog is an excellent pet for all ages. The children will enjoy its playful nature while the elderly will find its quiet companionship comfortable. The American Bullpug also does not crave much attention compared to other breeds. It may be helpful to check the histories of both parents to get more knowledge about the American Bernard. Both Saint Bernard and the American Bulldog are examples of alpha dogs. Owners must establish themselves as the pack leader to make the exercises easy. When Saint Bernard is crossed with the American Bulldog, the size of the hybrid dog will adopt the size of the large breed. The American Bernard is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which makes fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements a diet to maintain its health. The Cane Corso American Bulldog mix is a rare hybrid dog, which means its history is still unavailable. Both parent breeds have a history of being protective family pets. If Cane Corso mixed with American Bulldog puppies can get proper training, they can make for beautiful guard dogs for your home and your children. The Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix is about twelve to twenty inches in height and an approximate of forty to sixty-five pounds. The American Bulldog crossed with Shar Pei you want to get must come from a reputable breeder who will offer a guarantee that the puppy is healthy. Both parents have a rich history, which makes it easier for owners to research if they want the Shar-Pei American Bulldog mix. The American Bulldog Akita mix can live up to nine to eleven years. Bullkitas are known to be assertive yet sensitive animals that are attuned to their environment, which makes for an excellent trait for watchdogs. The Blue Heeler Bulldog mix is a vigilant and hardworking hybrid dog which require lots of exercises. It also needs to socialize with other dogs at an early age to avoid being shy and fearful. The Blue Heeler mixed with American Bulldog can live from eight to fifteen years. The American Heeler can develop health issues that are common from both parent breeds. Owners must buy puppies from a breeder who knows the history of both parents. The Olde Bulldog is a large dog that has low to moderate amount of shedding. It needs brushing at least twice a week to keep its coat healthy and free from dirt. It is vital for the Olde Bulldog to get constant amounts of exercise at a young age. Otherwise, it tends to become lazy and may enjoy long periods of naps. But the height and weight of the hybrid dog often come from the Golden Retriever. Both parent breeds have loving and faithful personalities, which make it very easy to train and to adapt to prominent families with children. There are limited publications about the American Bulldog Great Pyrenees mix. The Great Pyrenees mixed with American Bulldog make for a promising dog with large and muscular features. Both parents are known for their powerful protector instincts. The American Bulldog and Great Pyrenees mix is perfect for search-and-rescue teams or police watches. Despite its powerful stature, the American Bernese is a tender and friendly dog that devotes their life to their human pack. It does not like getting scolded and does not respond well to physical harm. Training an American Bernese requires patience and understanding. The Moutain Bulldog needs about four to five cups of high-quality dog food a day to keep up with its active lifestyle and high energy level. Teaching an American Bullypit requires the proper knowledge of raising the energetic breeds of both parents to make sure that the behavior emerging from the training is appropriate. It may become too oppressive and might need to be away from children and other pets. The popularity of Pitbull Bulldog mix in the s was because of their aggression and how they treat other dogs in crowded animal shelters, making it a controversial crossbreed. The eyes, ears, and teeth of a Bullpit require constant checking for infections. However, it is a low maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. Pet dog classified ads, local breeder networks, and online dog forums are ways to help an owner find American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies. The French Bulldog and American Bulldog both have a complicated past. The French were driven out of England by the Industrial Revolution, while the American Bulldog was used for violent sports like bull-baiting. American Bulldog and French Bulldog puppies enjoy playtime with other dogs at the park. At an early age, they can run a speed similar to a human in a bicycle to fit their exercise needs. The Catahoula Bulldog is attentive to details. It is a perfect family pet and can get along with kids and other animals when appropriately trained. The Catahoula crossed with American Bulldog have tight skin with short, glossy coats. The Catahoula Bulldog is prone to suffering from dry nose, which can be irritable for your dog and may indicate more serious health issues. It is considered a toy dog because of its miniature size. The Bulldog Shih Tzu requires daily exercise that needs running like a game of fetch. The hybrid dog is known to over-eat, which makes it essential to exercise with the Bulldog Shih Tzu on a regular basis. The Shih Tzu Bulldog has medium hair that is easy to maintain. Brush its coat three times a week to keep it shiny and free of tangles. The Shih Tzu crossed with American Bulldog is a short-nosed dog, which makes it prone to breathing difficulties. The Doberman Bulldog weighs at an average of forty to ninety pounds. It can grow to about fourteen to twenty-eight inches, making it a gigantic dog. There is not a lot of information available for the Doberman crossed with American Bulldog, but both parent breeds have outstanding canine histories. The Doberman and the American Bulldog are active dogs, which means their offspring might need a lot of exercises to maintain its health. Unfortunately, the American Newfoundland is an obscure breed with little-documented information. Owners can look into the parent breeds to learn more about it. The Newfoundland is a capable and hardworking dog that can work on land and water. It is a great swimmer. American Bulldog Newfoundland puppies are hard to find but owners must talk to a reputable breeder and a veterinarian before crossing the two different parent breeds. Obesity is a health risk so make sure you stay away from worst dry dog food as the pooch can easily gain weight from eating it. Nutrient boosters like Nutra Thrive dog food supplement make sure your American Bulldog mix gets all the vitamins and minerals they need. Kibble that offers the right protein-to-fat ratio is always the way to go and best dry dog food promises to give your pooch the right amount of both. Caring for puppies means paying extra attention to their diet. Check out this list of best puppy food brands if you adopted an American Bulldog cross pup only recently. Feeding older dogs is a whole other story—older ladies and gentlemen require a different amount of nutrients so choosing among best senior dry dog food will help them keep their bones and muscles resilient and lean for longer. American Bulldog mixes come in a variety of sizes. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Coat colors include fawn, fawn and white, brindle and white, white. The ability of this task is necessary to the old days of the true "Band dog. This breed will be completely submissive with proper training and a handler who has a natural authority over the dog. Proper human to canine communication is necessary. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 28 inches 61 - 71 cm Females 23 — 27 inches 58 — 68 cm Weight: Males 90 — pounds 41 — 45 kg Females 80 - 90 pounds kg. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Exercise A brisk walk twice a day will suffice to keep your ABM in good physical and mental condition. 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. Nails will need trimming once a month. Teeth may require a cleaning periodically and should be done by the veterinarian. Flea and tick preventative is recommended as well as heartworm preventative. We recommend that you consult with a qualified veterinarian before cleaning or treating your dog with any products. Origin A cross between an Alaunt type German Mastiff, 'Sassin, who shows ribs while free standing at lbs. Various Bull and Mastiff breeds were imported into North America from various countries. The first major imports were brought by Spain. Such dogs have always been used in guarding farms and controlling livestock. Various breed types developed in various locations. The American Bull Mastiff represents one of these variations. These dogs may have a mean and unfriendly look, but sometimes looks are not always accurate. In reality, many are loving, gentle and very kind. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? Perfectly line bred, from imported and old school Aussie line American Bulldogs. With all results available for viewing. Along with a puppy starter pack to help puppy settle in. Living out their best years on our self sufficient hobby farm in the Mid North of Adelaide. Very friendly, loves people. Cindy Harrap American bull dog x Hand reared American bull dog x staffy, My wife and I got these pups from a neighbour as they were rejected from birth. This pup was bottle fed and is very loving and affectionate, has all basic commands learnt - sit stay, leave, come, he is crate trained for sleep time and for personal space. He is microchipped, wormed and vaccinated. Looking for his forever home. Corey Born 12th June. Vaccinated wormed and microchipped Nicole Slade American bully puppies, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and vet checked with certificates. Great cuddly family dog that doubles as a great guard dog. Mum and dad both available to view. Born .Stunning colours, temperaments and from Champion show parentage. All are ready to be picked up and become your new companion, watchdog, show winner!! Is required to secure your chosen pup. Rebecca brown American bulldog Pure-bred Scott puppies Ready for their forever homes!!!!! Welcome to view. Price negotiable, we just want them to go to loving homes. Male 1: all white. MCN: Male 2: all white with one brown spot on left eye. MCN: Male 3: mostly white with a brown spot on right eye, back and tail. MCN: Female 1: all white with a brown spot on each eye. MCN: Female 2: mostly white with left side of face brown and brown spots on right side of body. Volstra American bulldog puppies ready too go too there furever homes,imported bloodlines,high quality dogs with good structure and will show alot of muscle,dont miss out on these showstoppers Liam American bulldog puppy Purebred american bulldog puppies,imported lines from the states,some big names in the bulldog world such as 3x sixtee,3x studebaker,sharky american triple grand champion,all dogs will have good structure and good muscle,,,,pups are vaxed and microchipped ready for there furever homes,pet homes only,dont miss these pups you will be impressed! It is with deepest regret that we have no alternative other than to rehome our beautiful 6 month old American Bulldog puppy. She is very playful and thrives love. She has grown up with our other dog and is toilet trained. I have Both parents they are papered. Welcome to come and view them and puppies. Healthy and gorgeous. Born 7th may .Ready to go to new homes! Worth more than asking price grab yourself a bargain Boy 6 and Girl 2 are each Puppies ready for their new homes december 27th and have been vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and have a microchip. Have more pictures, was only able to upload 7 pics feel free to ask for more pics Contact via txt on if possible Can deliver or meet to most areas at buyers cost Located horsham, victoria Damon American bulldog x American staffy We have 10 puppies available but are only able to put up 7 pics. They will be ready on the 28th of July. We would like them only to go to good homes as there very beautiful little puppies. They are getting microchiped tomorrow and will have there first needles also and are already wormed. Pups are currently 4 weeks old Mum is a bull Arab and dad is an American bulldog Both parents have great temperaments as have always been around children. Puppies will come vet checked, 1st vaccinations done and microchipped. Their parents are my babies and I love them all. I have more pictures available I am a registered breeder for these babie and I have done the first vaccs and Microchipped them all. Any question please contact me. Crystal DiTonto Five males and one female with white and blue markings. All wormed, vet checked, microchipped, and vaccinated. They are six and a half weeks old.

The dog shares the non-sporting group with the Boston terrier and the bulldog, two breeds for which the French bulldog is most often mistaken. The French bulldog is not simply a miniature bulldog. The most notable characteristic is the "bat" ear, which occurs naturally and is never cropped or altered. Also unique to the breed is the skull, which is flat between the ears. The French bulldog is a compact, muscular dog with a flat, short coat. Colours common to the breed include fawn, white and varieties of brindle. The male and female dog weight is 25 to 27 kg. Personality: The French bulldog is an even-tempered house dog that thrives on attention. In fact, he demands it! This dog is ideal for a single-person household, as he may compete for your attention with other members of the family. The French bulldog does not bark a lot, only when he finds real cause for excitement. Living With: A French bulldog is able to be happy in any housing. This breed is suitable for city life, because no large yard is required. He is not meant to be a jogging companion, but he is always willing to go for a brisk walk. The French bulldog does not require a lot of food, and his short coat is easy to keep clean. Facial wrinkles should be cleaned regularly. The Frenchie snorts and snores, but somehow it's part of his appeal. He prefers to spend his time in the house, receiving all your attention. History: In the early s, Normandy lace workers from England set off to find work in France. They took with them smaller bulldogs to be kept on the farms as companions and to chase away the rats. In these northern French farming communities, the popularity of this hardy dog grew quickly. In fact, established bulldog breeders in England were happy to perpetuate this "new" breed by selling their undersized dogs to the French. The dog is widely known as a very fashionable household companion kept by upper class and royalty. In the late s and early s the French bulldog was considered a dog of high society; the breed still attracts people who appreciate the finer things in life. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. That will help them feel comfortable and friendly toward visitors human or animal that come to their home. Otherwise, they may be standoffish with strangers. But make no mistake—French Bulldogs are friendly dogs who bond deeply with their people and love to have a good time. Because of those deep bonds, they can feel neglected and anxious when their people are out of the house for too long. Speaking of their people, the French Bulldog breed is good with kids and babies, but as with any dog, they should always be supervised. They also get along with other dogs and cats, as long as you introduce them properly. The French Bulldog is primarily a companion dog. They also make good watch dogs, often barking if someone new is at the door. Sure, they need solid training ground rules, but they aim to please and their short coats are easy to brush. Grooming French Bulldogs are an easy-to-groom, short-coated breed. Clean their face folds and eyes every day. They might also need an occasional assist to keep their bums clean. Introducing the process to your French Bulldog as a puppy will make the task more manageable in the long run. Brushing will help reduce the amount of loose hair you find around the house. Another weekly task to stay on top of is cleaning their ears. Occasionally: Unless they get exceptionally dirty, Frenchies only need a bath about once every months. Get the how-to here. Overbathing removes the natural oils from their coat and skin. Between baths, you can keep them clean with a damp washcloth or cleaning wipes. Trim their nails as needed. Training One of the keys to training a French Bulldog can be summed up in two words: start early. Frenchies respond well to positive reinforcement—think treats, toys and praise. If they get frustrated during training sessions, take a break. We all need one now and then. These intelligent, sensitive pups are eager to please their humans, and are motivated by food, two attributes that will help you achieve your training goals. Typically, they do well on high-quality commercial dog food. Some Frenchies are prone to obesity, especially since exercise can be difficult due to their flat faces. Collaborate with your veterinarian to find the right combination of quality food and regular exercise. Keep an eye on the scale and adjust amounts as needed. A treat once in a while is fine and helps with training, but remember: treats equal extra calories! Have more questions about what to feed your French Bulldog? With their short legs, large bodies and flat faces, these dogs are more suited to brisk exercise rather than distance running. Opt for a game of fetch in the yard or a nice walk around the neighborhood. Be sure to keep an eye on their breathing while they exercise. As a brachycephalic flat-faced dog breed, Frenchies are prone to airway issues more on Brachycephalic syndrome in the Dog Health section below. Ideal Environment French Bulldogs can adapt to many home situations. They can handle life in a city apartment as well as life in a small-town or a rural country homestead. Two things they cannot handle well: extreme hot or cold. Frenchies prefer a moderate climate. During hot spells, bring them outside during the cooler parts of the day and consider buying a few products to help them keep cool and prevent heatstroke. In the winter, limit outside time and consider keeping your pup warm in a cute dog coat or dog sweater. With all their needs and personality quirks, does that mean you have to be an experienced dog owner to have a Frenchie? Not necessarily. French Bulldogs are a good choice for first-time pet parents, if you can commit to their training—the earlier, the better. Frenchies prefer to be with you as much as possible. If you have to be gone for long, check them into doggy day care or arrange for a neighbor or pet sitter to come play with them. Back to Top French Bulldog Health With good food and exercise and common sense on your part , the French Bulldog lifespan is about 10 to 12 years. Unfortunately, they suffer from some health issues. Be aware of these concerns, so you can help your pup live a long, happy life. Allergies: Allergies are a common condition with French Bulldogs and can be caused by various natural causes—pollen, dust, mold, food and insects, to name a few. Allergies often show up as itchiness, although a dry nose can also be an indication. Your vet can prescribe treatments depending on the cause, including a change in diet or medication. While these noises may seem harmless, the fact is their physical attributes cause them health problems. Brachycephalic breeds, including Pugs, Boxers, Pekingese and French Bulldogs, may develop difficulty breathing during exercise because their nostrils, airways and palettes are too small. You can manage symptoms by keeping your dog at a healthy weight, but severe cases might require surgery. Ear Infections: French Bulldogs are somewhat prone to ear infections their ear canals are narrow. If your dog suffers from frequent ear infections, your veterinarian can show you how to properly and safely clean the ears to help prevent future infections. Underbite: Underbites may cause dental and gum problems or even make it difficult for pups to chew. Treatment may include ball therapy where the dog is encouraged to carry a small rubber ball behind their teeth , removing teeth or braces. Skin Infections: Those charming face wrinkles can trap bits of food and moisture so gross! Bacteria can multiply there, leading to skin infections. If you see signs of infection irritated or swollen skin , visit your vet for a topical treatment. Spine and Orthopedic Issues: Your French Bulldog may also be susceptible to common issues like intervertebral disc disease IDD , hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. IDD is a disease of the spinal cord. Depending on the severity, pain meds or surgery can be used to treat the condition. Treatment can range from weight management to physical therapy to surgery. Patellar luxation is a knee issue where the knee slips out. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight is your first line of defense; severe cases might require surgery. Eye Problems: The French Bulldog dog breed is susceptible to common eye issues, including cataracts and cherry eye. Cataracts, a cloudy lens, can cause blindness, but surgery can correct it. Cherry eye is a condition when the third eyelid slips out of place and swells. Surgery is the only solution. They were developed as a smaller type of Bulldog aka English Bulldog and were popular with people in the lace-making industry in the s. Gaining notoriety for their temperament in Nottingham, a center for lace-making, they became a bit of a lace-maker mascot. After the Industrial Revolution changed the lace-making industry, many lace-makers moved to France, where their diminutive bulldogs became fashionable. By the end of the s, Americans began taking notice of the charming bat-eared dogs, and established the French Bull Dog Club of America in .American French Bulldog enthusiasts favored the bat ears, and as in France, the French Bulldog became fashionable in the United States, especially among socialites. Following World War II, their popularity decreased, but experienced a steady rise until the s and eventually surging in the s. The breed catapulted dog-apulted? Considering a French Bulldog as a pet? Be sure the breeder you buy from screens their dogs for health and temperment issues. Breeders often spay their females after two litters and then find them loving permanent homes. French Bulldogs produce dander and saliva, and these, along with normal shedding, may trigger allergies in some people. Are French Bulldogs smart? Can French Bulldogs swim? Boston Terrier vs. Frenchies have a stockier and heavier body type, leaning toward the bully breeds, while Bostons lean more towards terriers and have a lighter bone structure. Bostons are more energetic compared to Frenchies. They are agile and have a comparable temperament to Frenchies, and are similarly great with kids and other dogs. However, Bostons are generally more high-spirited than Frenchies. Read more about Boston Terriers here. What are the top French Bulldog names? For more name inspiration, check out our dog name guide. What are the most common French Bulldog mixes? Sure, there may be the occasional health concern, a bit of grooming work and that Bulldog attitude, but nothing worthwhile in life ever comes without some effort. Here are 5 more facts about Frenchies. Expert input provided by veterinarian Dr. Female Names. These charming pups love to play just as much as they love to snuggle up on their owner's lap to take a snooze. They won't get taller than 13 inches at the shoulder, making them a great option for city dwellers. It doesn't take much space to keep a Frenchie happy. This breed has an easygoing personality and they make wonderful companions for families, children, or seniors. They're easy to groom and easy to please, and they thrive on human contact. They have a small, compact body that's well proportioned and fairly muscular, with the exception of the wrinkled skin around their face and shoulders. Frenchies most often come in colors like cream, fawn, and white, but they can also have brindle patterns or black masks. They have trademark dark brown eyes and an adorable "squished up" face. Their smooth, shiny coats only require occasional brushing to stay clean, and they shed a moderate amount. A healthy full-grown French bulldog tops out at around 28 pounds, making them the miniature version of a classic bulldog which can get up to 50 pounds. According to the AKC, "two distinctive features of the French bulldog are its bat ears and half-flat, half-domed skull. They do well with companion pets, so long as they have been socialized properly. Training comes easy to this breed when there's food involved. As free thinkers and fun lovers, they'll be more eager to learn if training feels like a game. Becky Smith, president of the French Bull Dog Club of America FBDCA notes that people with "patience, a kind disposition, gentle hands, and a loving spirit are the ideal owner for this darling breed," who thrive on human interaction. Frenchies just want to give love and get lots of belly rubs in return! French bulldogs are also more prone to heat exhaustion, so a minute walk or play session in the cooler evenings will give them plenty of physical activity. They're wonderful apartment dogs , because they don't need a large yard or a lot of space to be happy. They'll require a bath about once a month , giving extra attention to their hallmark wrinkles to make sure they don't get infected. Owners also need to regularly check their bulldog's skin for lesions or scabs and see a vet right away should anything seem out of the ordinary. Like many breeds, a French bulldog needs to learn how to socialize from a young age. They can be very protective and possessive of their humans. So long as they are socialized as puppies , Frenchies get along great with new faces and other dogs or cats. If a little drool on the furniture bothers you, a Frenchie might not be the breed for you. They can also be difficult to potty train. They are intelligent, yet free spirited, so they may dig in their heels when it comes to appeasing commands. Training a Frenchie will take a little patience and a lot of treats, but they respond well to positive reinforcement and praise for good behavior. Just stick with it and your little guy will come around. Health French bulldogs have a life span of 10 to 12 years, but owners should be aware of some common health risks that the breed is known for. Frequent panting, difficulty eating, coughing, or snoring can all be warning signs of something more serious. Upon exercising, they can develop hyperthermia [heat stroke] due to the inability to breathe adequately. French bulldogs can also be prone to eye conditions, like cherry eye , or skin allergies passed down from their parents. A responsible breeder will test for these conditions. History Contrary to their name, the French bulldog's story doesn't begin in France—it originates in England. In Nottingham, lace makers kept toy-size bulldogs to chase away rats in their small working quarters. During the height of the Industrial Revolution in the s, lace workers were replaced by machines, so many were forced to relocate to France, where lace was still made by hand. The French fell in love with the smaller bulldog that came along with the workers, and after decades of crossbreeding, the breed developed their iconic bat ears and the French bulldog was born. Parisians took a great liking to the breed, and soon every artist, actor, and celebrity in the city wanted one. Americans visiting overseas loved the miniature version of the bulldog, and it wasn't long before Frenchies took off in the U. In the early days of the breed, there were two types of ears on Frenchies: the bat style popular with Americans and the rose ear commonly seen on their kin the bulldog. This ear difference was the source of great controversy amongst breed aficionados. Americans insisted that true Frenchies had to have the bat ears we know the breed for today; British and French breed lovers disagreed. A group of prominent French bulldog fans founded the French Bulldog Club of America in April to establish and document the breed standard and demanded the bat ear become the breed standard. They eventually won. Fun Facts French bulldogs can't swim … and they can't fly, either. Being in the flat-nosed family, flying on a plane can be life threatening and many airlines have banned all brachycephalic breeds. There are still ways to travel with a Frenchie; owners just need to take some extra precautions before hopping on a flight. Carrie Fisher's Frenchie Gary became a mini celebrity himself, showing up everywhere the actress went, even the red carpet. French bulldogs love to talk, and they definitely aren't afraid to speak their minds. Walter Geoffrey the Frenchie has thousands of subscribers on YouTube for his temper tantrums. Was this page helpful? Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The French Bulldog is a sturdy, compact, stocky little dog, with a large square head that has a rounded forehead. The muzzle is broad and deep with a well-defined stop. The nose is black, but may be lighter in lighter colored dogs. The upper lips hang down over the lower lips. The teeth meet in an underbite and the lower jaw is square and deep. The round, prominent eyes are set wide apart and are dark in color. The bat ears stand erect, are broad at the base narrowing in a triangular shape and rounded at the tips. The height at the withers to the ground should be approximately the same as the length from withers to the base of the tail. The tail is either straight or corkscrew. The chest is broad and deep with the front of the dog being wider than the back end, forming a pear shape. The dewclaws may be removed. The medium-fine coat is short and smooth. The skin is loose, forming wrinkles around the head and shoulders. Coat colors include brindle, brindle and white, cream, cream and white, fawn, fawn and white, fawn brindle, white, white and brindle, white and fawn, black, black and fawn, black and white, fawn and black, fawn brindle and white and gray and white. Temperament The French Bulldog is a pleasant, easy-care companion who is playful, alert and affectionate. It is enthusiastic and lively, without being yappy and loud. Curious, sweet and absolutely hilarious, it has a very comical personality and loves to clown around. It is bright and easygoing. The Frenchie gets along fairly well with strangers and other animals and enjoys being with its owner. It plays well with other dogs. Those Frenchies that are allowed to believe they are alpha may become dog aggressive. This breed needs leadership and will not thrive without it. The Frenchie cannot be owned and ignored. When it senses an owner is meek or passive toward it, it will become very stubborn and even snappish. They can be trained if the owner is calm, but firm, consistent and patient. Proper human to canine communication is essential. Do not give them affection or sweet talk them if they are displaying any type of unwanted behaviors; instead correct them sternly with an air of calm authority. French Bulldogs are clean, and most will try to avoid puddles. Most cannot swim so take caution around water. This breed does best with considerate children who know how to display proper leadership. This breed may drool and slobber ; however a good percentage of them do not. They are also a relentless hunter of mice. Do not allow this sweet little bully to develop Small Dog Syndrome. Height, Weight Height: 12 inches 30 cm There are two weight classes of French Bulldog: 19 - 22 pounds 9 - 10 kg and 22 - 28 pounds 10 - 13 kg. Over 28 pounds is a disqualification. Health Problems French Bulldogs are prone to joint diseases, spinal disorders, heart defects and eye problems. Dams often have to deliver pups by cesarean section, because pups have relatively large heads. They often have respiratory problems. They tend to wheeze and snore and have trouble in hot weather. Prone to heatstroke. An overweight Frenchie may have trouble breathing, because of a swollen abdomen. Do not overfeed this breed. Putting them under anesthesia is risky because of their breathing issues. French Bulldogs are high maintenance and potential owners need to be aware that their vet bills may be high. Take this into consideration before choosing a Frenchie puppy. Living Conditions Frenchies are good for apartment life. They can be fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. They do not do well in temperature extremes. Exercise The French Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk , where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Simply running around a large yard is not going to satisfy their migration instinct. Take care in hot weather. They love to run and play and can play for hours if you let them. Some have higher energy levels than others. Life Expectancy. The breed is small and muscular with heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face and trademark "bat" ears. Prized for its affectionate nature and balanced disposition, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white. Brief History In the latter part of the 19th century, the lace makers of Nottingham, England, began selectively breeding a smaller toy Bulldog as a lap pet. Displaced by the Industrial Revolution, many of the lace makers crossed the English Channel, taking their small bulldogs with them to France. Some of these toy or miniature bulldogs made their way to Paris, where well-to-do Americans on the Grand Tour of Europe saw them and began bringing them to the US. In , the French Bull Dog Club of America was formed, the first club in the world dedicated exclusively to the welfare of this wonderful breed. To learn more about the history of the French Bulldog, click here. Expression is alert, curious and interested. To view the complete French Bulldog Breed Standard, click here. They are not noisy and most of them are very fond of people, though there are individual differences in how well they get along with other animals. They should never be allowed to run free, and should only be allowed outdoors in a fenced yard or on a leash. French Bulldogs must never be left unattended around water, as they are poor swimmers and can easily drown due to their front-heavy structure. French bulldogs do best in moderate temperatures and should be carefully supervised in both high and low temperature ranges. Panting or shivering are both indications of excessive exposure. Indestructible dog toys are best, as those powerful bulldog jaws can destroy less durable ones; and rawhide type chews should not be used because when they soften they can become lodged in a Frenchie's throat. Regular cleaning of the ears and of the deep facial folds will prevent these sensitive areas from becoming irritated, and regular checking of the anal sacs will prevent problems with these. Your vet can advise you on how to care for the ears, skin folds, and anal sacs as well as on feeding your puppy. Health Care and Concerns Find a good veterinarian, preferably one who has other short-faced patients; and provide your Frenchie with regular checkups, routine vaccinations, tests for intestinal parasites, heartworm prevention, and flea and tick control. The short face can make their breathing less efficient than that of long-nosed breeds, so Frenchies have less tolerance of heat, exercise, and stress - all of which increase their need to breathe. Keep your French Bulldog cool in warm weather, and avoid strenuous exercise. If your dog seems to overheat or become stressed too easily, with noisy breathing and sometimes spitting up foam, consult the vet and have its airway evaluated for pinched nostrils or an elongated soft palate. Anesthesia is also more risky in short-faced dogs, so be sure your veterinarian is experienced with such breeds should your Frenchie need to be anesthetized for any reason. The spine also merits special attention. While the spine is supported by good musculature, herniation of degenerated discs can cause major problems, and most symptomatic back problems are due to disc disease rather than to abnormal vertebrae. All dogs should have a thorough musculoskeletal exam by a veterinarian, but most Frenchies can safely engage in regular moderate exercise, which is essential to help maintain healthy weight and good physical condition. Training A crate trained puppy is easier to housebreak. A dog regards its crate as its den, a safe haven and home. If you travel, the dog is safest in his crate in your vehicle and also when you stay in hotels or visit other people. If he should be ill or injured and need to be kept quiet, this is much easier if he is happy in a crate. In warm areas, cooling pads and fresh water should be placed in the crate too. You should take your French Bulldog to training classes as soon as your veterinarian feels he has proper immunity This will get him accustomed to being around other dogs and people, will teach you how to communicate your wishes to him, and will teach him such basics as walking well on a lead, sitting, staying, and coming on command. Although cute and cuddly-looking, a French Bulldog has a big personality and needs an adequate amount of training to make it a civilized companion. There are now many French Bulldogs who compete very successfully in obedience, rally, agility, and a few have even done field work tracking, coursing, herding. They can also be excellent working dogs in all kinds of Therapy Dog roles in volunteer settings such as schools, nursing homes and hospitals. Be sure that your dog conforms well to the breed standard and has a good temperament, being neither overly aggressive nor overly shy. If you are thinking of breeding your Frenchie, read our Breeding a Frenchie page. Be sure that you will be able to place all puppies in good and loving homes, and should these placements not work out, that you would be able to take back the puppies. Whatever your plans for your new Frenchie companion might be, be prepared to be enamored with them in no time! Breed Info.

Dietary Issues Dietary issues are a common cause of diarrhea in German Shepherds. Some dogs enjoy rummaging through the trash, which increases their risk of consuming contaminated or moldy food. This includes old food they might find on their daily walks. German Shepherds also frequently have a wide range of common food allergies or intolerances to particular ingredients in their diets. Did you know you can get an at-home pet food intolerance test? Runny poop can be a sign of digestive issues, such as eating too much food or treats too quickly. Typically, this could be: the stuffing from a favorite toy pieces of plastic from a rubber chew anything they put in their mouths! German Shepherd puppies, particularly prone to eating inedible objects, are the best example of this. Stress and Anxiety Despite their intimidating exteriors, German Shepherds are susceptible to the effects of stress, which can show up in a number of ways, including diarrhea. You might be surprised to find their bowel patterns react to changes in your lifestyle! Medications A German Shepherd may experience diarrhea and episodes of runny poop from certain medications that irritate their stomach and intestines. Some examples of drugs that may result in diarrhea as a side effect Antibiotics: Antibiotics can disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to stomach upset and diarrhea. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs : These drugs are generally given to relieve pain, such as in the case of arthritis, but can cause stomach irritation. Chemotherapy drugs: Chemotherapy drugs that are used to treat cancer are not well-tolerated in some dogs and have side effects, such as diarrhea. Antidepressants: Some dogs on antidepressants to help with anxiety and stress issues may experience bouts of runny poop while on the medication. If your German Shepherd exhibits any unusual symptoms while taking medication, call your veterinarian right away. They may suggest switching to a different drug or adjusting the dosage. Bacterial and Viral Infections German Shepherds can develop diarrhea from two common infections: parvovirus salmonella If your dog consumes contaminated food or drinks dirty water, she could become ill with salmonella. Salmonella levels are higher in stagnant bodies of water, such as ponds and lakes. These are the same places that many German Shepherds enjoy sipping from and swimming in! In addition to being extremely contagious in dogs, another virus called parvovirus can be fatal if not treated quickly. For German Shepherd puppies, it poses a particular risk. These parasites can affect the digestive system and harm the gut lining, resulting in diarrhea, stomach aches, and inflammation. They might also obstruct the intestines, which might result in episodes of runny poop. Giardia, on the other hand, is a protozoan parasite that attaches to the gut lining and causes irritation and inflammation, which can result in diarrhea. As long as your dog is eating and drinking and otherwise seems like their normal self, then treating them at home is generally safe source. Temporarily withhold food. Withholding food for a short period of time is one of the most recommended treatments for German Shepherd diarrhea. This allows the digestive system to rest and lets the stomach recover from irritation. Many dogs will naturally be reluctant to eat when their stomachs are upset, but some will continue to eat almost anything you put in front of them. Your German Shepherd needs access to clean, fresh water to avoid dehydration while experiencing diarrhea. Give them small, bland meals. This allows their stomachs to gradually adjust to processing food once more. Your German Shepherd can be fed a bland diet for up to 3 days. After 3 days, start gradually weaning them back to their regular food. A bland diet is an easy-to-digest homemade food that helps German Shepherds with diarrhea by promoting stomach healing and easing the signs of an upset stomach. There are generally two main ingredients: boiled, skinless, boneless chicken and cooked unseasoned white rice. The main objective of feeding your German Shepherd a bland diet is to give them easily absorbed protein and carbohydrates while keeping them away from any ingredients that will worsen their diarrhea. After your German Shepherd starts passing solid feces, you can gradually reintroduce their regular food over the course of a few days by blending small amounts of their regular food with the bland diet food. Add daily probiotics to their diet. A probiotic supplement may be beneficial for some German Shepherds because it contains healthy bacteria that can balance the gut microbiota and support digestive health. Probiotics for German Shepherds PetHonesty makes this delicious probiotic for German Shepherds available as chewable, simple-to-take tablets that contain various probiotic strains. Giving probiotic supplements to your German shepherd may also have the following benefits: Improved digestion. As your dog produces more solid bowel movements, you can start reintroducing his dog food. What are the best dog foods to prevent diarrhea in German Shepherds? If your dog has diarrhea every once in a while, it is completely normal. Yet, if your German Shepherd has diarrhea several times a month, he may have sensitivities to his current dog food. You can have your dog tested at the vet to see what foods he cannot tolerate. Then, you may need to switch dog foods. There are many different types of dog foods you can try to help prevent your dog from having diarrhea. Limited Ingredient Dog Food Limited ingredient dog foods have a short list of ingredients. You can read the ingredients to find out if there is something your dog may not tolerate well. Limited-ingredient diets are great for avoiding the typical triggers for diarrhea. These dog foods still provide balanced nutrition. Actual food allergies are rare in dogs. Most people confuse sensitivities with allergies. This is usually because of an enzyme deficiency. Allergies are an intense immune response to an ingredient. Allergies cause diarrhea, but they are often coupled with other symptoms. These can include intense itching and respiratory symptoms. Hypoallergenic dog food manufacturers take animal protein and split them at the atomic level. This dog food is best for a dog who has a known allergen causing his diarrhea. These dog foods target the exact cause of stomach irritation. These diets are tested by nutritionists and veterinarians to specifically treat certain conditions. These dog foods are only available through a prescription from your vet. These dog foods are for German Shepherds with known medical conditions causing their diarrhea, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. GSDs need to re-establish healthy bacteria in their digestive tracts, especially after a bout of loose stools. Purina FortiFlora Probiotics for Dogs is one of the most commonly used products in this category. This should help your dog build up the healthy bacteria he needs to create solid stools. You can also buy dog food with probiotics in the formula. Purina Pro Plan is a good option for promoting digestive health. This brand incorporates probiotics in the formula, helping to balance gut flora on a regular basis. This dog food is good for German Shepherds who have loose stools and occasional diarrhea. Homemade recipes There are several foods you can serve your dog at home when he suffers from diarrhea. Immediately after an episode, you can give him chicken and rice, which is easy to digest. This way, you can control what ingredients your dog ingests. If you choose to feed your dog homemade meals, make sure to research carefully. Your dog needs a complete balance of nutrients to be healthy. Does wet dog food make diarrhea in German Shepherds worse? But, German Shepherds have a difficult time switching dog foods. The change in diet may upset his tummy for a few days. This should clear up once your dog gets used to the new diet. Wet dog foods are high in protein and water, which is good for a German Shepherd. Your dog needs to stay hydrated if he often has diarrhea. However, wet dog foods can also cause tooth decay. So, be sure to read the list of ingredients. How do I choose the best dog food for my German Shepherd? German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs. They are both prone to stomach upsets and picky eating, so finding the right food is essential to making sure your dog is healthy. Puppies need more nutrient-rich foods, more often to aid their quick growth. Very active German Shepherds need more calories because they are constantly burning them. Older dogs need smaller portions, fewer calories, and reduced protein. As your dog changes and grows, it is important to select dog foods that cater to its needs. Take a look at the ingredients The most common ingredients German Shepherds are sensitive to are beef, lamb, dairy, wheat, chicken, and soy. However, dogs can be sensitive to any ingredients in dog food, including preservatives. If your German Shepherd has a sensitivity to a certain ingredient, you should make sure to avoid it. The smaller the ingredient list on a label, the better. Lower-quality dog foods add many fillers and preservatives to their formulas. Determine your price range Dog food is expensive, especially for a large dog like the German Shepherd. You may be looking at the price of these specialty dog foods and wondering how you can afford them. Although many of the higher-quality dog foods are expensive, they are worth it in the long run. Quality dog food prevents stomach and other health issues. You will have fewer diarrhea messes to clean up and fewer vet bills. So, the cost will balance out. This prevents you from contracting bacteria from the feces. If the stool is on a hard surface, you can grab a paper towel and wipe it up before it dries. Then, place the soiled towels into a disposable bag. If you have hardwood or vinyl, grab a disinfectant safe for those surfaces. Then, spray the area and wipe it again with a fresh paper towel or washcloth. Finally, use a pet odor neutralizer such as this one here to remove the scent from the floor. Removing diarrhea stains from carpet If the soft stool is on the carpet, you will want to grab your gloves. Pick up as much of the feces as possible with a paper towel. Then, use a butter knife, dustpan, or scraper to free the particles from the carpet fibers. Use a damp cloth or a water bottle to rinse the carpet area until there is no longer any visible stool. Mix equal parts of the ingredients. Be cautious, they produce a chemical reaction that spews everywhere. Then, apply the paste to the carpet and rinse with water. Dietary issues or consuming rotten or toxic foods are the main causes of diarrhea in German Shepherds. The best way to help your GSD is with a temporary fast if appropriate before following a bland food diet. Bouts of diarrhea will certainly happen to most German Shepherds throughout their life, at least a handful of times. Diarrhea is a standard reaction to sudden changes in their GI health or even reactions to stress in the world around them. Each cause requires a different treatment approach, making it essential to get to the bottom of their troubles! Dietary Issues German Shepherds are extremely curious, meaning they often try to eat anything that may seem edible. Not only do they scarf up any food that crosses their path, but they can get their paws on human food as well. Dietary issues in dogs refer to eating anything outside of their normal diet. This can include getting into the trash, eating a greasy piece of bacon, or even eating something rotten found outside. When a dog eats something outside of their normal kibble, this can cause a sudden shift in the bacteria in their gut and intestines. This is made much worse by any high-fat content that could be in the food, along with any dangerous bacteria that could be present as well. Whether your vet suggests a new food or your pup no longer likes their kibble, an occasional diet is sometimes needed. A sudden change in diet can cause a shift in this balance, leading to GI irritation. A change of diet that is not done over a gradual period will likely lead to diarrhea, and even vomiting in some cases. Stress Just like you and I, our German Shepherds can experience stress and in severe cases, even depression. While they may have different triggers than humans, their struggles are just as real. Dogs can react to this stress in multiple ways, one of which being diarrhea. There are many factors that can cause a GSD to become stressed. They may react to changes in their normal routine, new people in the home, the sudden absence of someone they love, or any other change that impacts their life. This is extremely common in dogs that are boarded while their owners are away, so much so that kennel owners know to be on the lookout for any sign of diarrhea. Bacterial Infections Our German Shepherds are exposed to different types of bacteria all the time. Bacteria live in the soil they touch, the bowls they drink out of, and even some of the toys they play with. Because of this, dogs can fall victim to bacterial infections that cause an upset stomach. Most dogs with a bacterial infection will experience diarrhea, vomiting, change of appetite , abdominal pain, and more. Bacterial infections often require veterinary care, as most pups will need antibiotics to get them back on track. Intestinal Parasites Intestinal parasites are foreign invaders that cause serious GI upset in our German Shepherd friends. Shepherds with intestinal parasites may experience diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, weight loss , abdominal pain, distended abdomens, and more. The best way to prevent intestinal parasites is to have your pup dewormed from the moment you adopt them, and then offer them monthly heartworm prevention. Most heartworm prevention contains ingredients that stop worms in their tracks. Serious Illness Diarrhea can be a symptom of serious illness in German Shepherds. This combination can cause diarrhea for many dogs, especially if it is a GI illness in particular. Be sure to keep a log of all the symptoms your dog is currently experiencing, so you can help your vet make an accurate diagnosis. While any diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours should be seen by a vet, there are a few at-home options to try. Withholding Food Withholding food for hours is an option that can be practiced in certain dogs. If you know that your dog is having diarrhea due to something they ate, this can be a successful way to let their stomach calm down. Fasting should only be practiced in healthy adult dogs, and when approved by your veterinarian. You should never fast a German Shepherd puppy or senior dog, as this can lead to more complications. Switch To a Bland Diet Switching to a bland diet is one of the most successful ways to combat diarrhea in your canine companion. When a dog is experiencing an upset stomach, it can be challenging to properly digest their normal food. The most popular bland diet option is boiled chicken breast and white rice, but you can also purchase a bland diet from your veterinarian. Some vets do approve pro-pectalin for use at home, but this should always be approved before giving it to your furry friend. Your vet can also prescribe antibiotics that help with diarrhea, along with medication to firm their stool. Diarrhea is often a result of some type of irritation in the GI tract, making probiotics useful in many cases. Probiotics are packed with beneficial bacteria that helps to promote digestive health. Adding daily probiotics to a bland diet can help your pup get back on track. This is especially important for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs, as they may be easily triggered by certain changes. The general rule is to always seek help if their diarrhea does not resolve within 24 hours. However, there are a few special circumstances that require veterinary care much sooner. Final Thoughts As you can see, German Shepherds can experience diarrhea due to multiple causes. Be sure to review the information that we discussed above, and you can help your pup at the next sign of diarrhea. The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. Signs of worms in poop Your vet will treat diarrhea depending on the cause, and further investigations may be required. Never give your German Shepherd any anti-diarrhea medications e. How to Prevent Diarrhea in German Shepherds It would be impossible for your German Shepherd to never suffer from the odd case of diarrhea. But there are some things you can do. To prevent diarrhea in your German Shepherd, feed a complete and nutritious diet, and avoid table scraps and titbits that your dog is not used to. Avoid anything toxic and ensure your GSD does not get into the garbage. Ensure worming treatment and vaccinations are up to date. Follow these simple guidelines to prevent diarrhea: Make sure you know all the dangerous poisonous foods for your German Shepherd. Ensure your GSD keeps to its usual diet. Prevent guests to your home from feeding titbits, especially toxic foods that they may be unaware of, for example, grapes or chocolate. Be wary of feeding bones , as they must be raw and be of the correct type and size for your dog. Keep all toxic substances out of reach of your dog. The Pet Poison Helpline has a complete list of these. Consider a muzzle when you are out in the woods or park to prevent your dog from scavenging if they are that way inclined. Keep worming treatment up to date. Vets recommend every three months — but check for your breed. Keep vaccinations up to date. Exercise your German Shepherd regularly, especially if they suffer from stress. Refrain from exercising your dog immediately before or after a meal. I like to give my German Shepherd a good hour on either side, which also helps prevent bloat. Acute diarrhea, which is the most common type, usually lasts for one to two days and can sometimes last up to two weeks. Chronic diarrhea, on the other hand, lasts for at least four weeks. The duration of diarrhea in German Shepherds can vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, a temporary change in diet may be recommended by a veterinarian to help manage the diarrhea, but this should only be done under the guidance of a professional. Feed your dog plain, easily digestible food such as chicken and rice to get him back on his feet again. I hope you found the above prevention tips helpful, which will minimize the risk of this unpleasant and messy occurrence! Related Posts You May Like:. Your dog seems to be straining to pass feces Mucus or blood in the stool Sometimes additional symptoms may accompany diarrhea, such as vomiting, fever, abdominal bloating or pain, low energy, lack of appetite, and weakness. These are signs there may be a more serious underlying health condition. An Overview Just like their people, German Shepherd dogs can develop diarrhea at any age and stage of life. And just like in people, diarrhea in German Shepherds should never be ignored. Sometimes the reason is very temporary and passing. But for German Shepherds in particular, sometimes the reason can be an underlying digestive disorder. German Shepherds, in particular, are prone to digestive disorders ranging from a sensitive stomach to G. In fact, in research published in the Journal of Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, researchers pointed out that diarrhea was one of the most consistent health issues reported by German Shepherd owners. Clearly, there are a number of reasons why a German Shepherd might develop diarrhea. These reasons can sometimes be related to age or life stage as well as the environment, which is what we will talk about in the next section here. As a large breed dog, a GSD puppy is growing up fast and every day is different. Since German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to have issues with sensitive stomachs, each food change has the potential to cause diarrhea. As well, other major stressors can cause temporary bouts of diarrhea. Change in their environment such as rehoming. Stress crate training, kids, other pets, etc. Worms and parasites, a viral or bacterial infection. Diseases That Can Cause Diarrhea in German Shepherd Adult Dogs There are several potentially heritable genetic health conditions that can cause occasional or chronic diarrhea in adult German Shepherds. As far as canine biologists know, German Shepherds are the only dog breed to have this particular condition. The two main warning signs of pancreatic enzyme insufficiency are ongoing diarrhea and rapid weight loss. The only current treatment is to add digestive enzymes at each meal. Even so, pancreatic enzyme insufficiency is known to be life-limiting. IBD happens when the cells that line the stomach intestine begin to collect substantial amounts of inflammatory cells. These cells disrupt the normal function of both organs by preventing the food from being properly digested and absorbed by the body for use. The symptoms of IBD will depend on where the inflammatory cells congregate. If the cells choose to gather in the colon and lower intestine, chronic diarrhea is common. Often owners will report seeing mucus or blood. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss , depression, and lack of energy. Blood work, ultrasound, X-rays, and G. There is no cure and IBD can be life-limiting. The only treatment is dietary changes and medications. Unfortunately, ongoing research has yet to figure out exactly what causes IBD to get triggered. Other Causes of Diarrhea in German Shepherds When your German Shepherd is experiencing chronic diarrhea that does not seem to respond to the usual remedies, it is always time to look deeper. But sometimes diarrhea, like life, just happens and then it passes. When the episode is brief, you may not ever know exactly what caused your GSD to have diarrhea. This may range from garbage to garden mulch, lawn mushrooms to cat poop. There are four basic categories of canine diarrhea when it is not related to an underlying disease: 1. Motility issues. With motility issues, the gut pushes the food through too fast. Intestinal exudation. Ulcers in the intestinal tract can cause blood and fluid to seep in or out. Over secretion. When the intestinal tract is exposed to a pathogen parasite, bacteria, et al it will secret too much liquid to try to cleanse itself. Osmotic imbalance. When too many food molecules crowd into the intestines together, this draws in water and causes diarrhea. Parasites, worms, viruses, bacteria, and fungus can cause diarrhea. Liver and kidney disease can also trigger bouts of diarrhea. Ingestion of poisons and toxins may also give rise to diarrhea and other symptoms. Treating Diarrhea in German Shepherd Dogs As with any health issue, your German Shepherd is suffering from, the very first step is always to make sure you know what is causing diarrhea. The best approach is to schedule an appointment with your canine veterinarian to get a correct diagnosis. Then you can match the treatment to the cause. As this YouTube video by a veterinarian explains, antibiotics may be necessary when diarrhea is caused by a parasite or bacteria. Just make sure that the pumpkin product you choose is just plain pumpkin puree with no additives. Check to be sure there is no xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be fatal to dogs. Sometimes diarrhea arises and subsides quite quickly, and when this happens, just make sure your dog takes in plenty of water and gets lots of rest. What Is Diarrhea? Diarrhea refers to a condition where a dog passes soft or watery stool during bowel movement. Doggy diarrhea is not a disease itself. Rather, it is a symptom of an underlying issue. The stool will usually occur in large amounts and in greater frequency than normal. Physiologically speaking, diarrhea occurs due to fecal matter passing too quickly through the intestine while the absorption speed of electrolytes, nutrients, and water is decreased. Symptoms of Diarrhea in a German Shepherd Diarrhea can appear on its own, but it can also have other accompanying symptoms. The most common symptoms are bloody stool red or black , a low-grade fever, lethargy, flatulence, loss of appetite, and vomiting as in gastroenteritis. In cases wherein these symptoms also appear alongside diarrhea, it is best to bring your dog to the vet immediately. What Causes Diarrhea in German Shepherds? Throughout the lifetime of your German Shepherd, she will most probably experience diarrhea at least a few times. The most common causes of diarrhea in GSDs are the following: Viral infections, such as one that is caused by parvovirus or canine distemper virus , especially in young, unvaccinated dogs Stress brought about by a change in environment or traveling Abrupt change in diet or treats Poor diet Food allergies or sensitivities, such as dairy products Intestinal parasites which can come from raw meat Ingesting poisonous substances, spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects Antibiotic medication In rare cases, tumor s in the digestive tract cancer Types of Diarrhea in German Shepherds Diarrhea is a general term, but there are several different types of it. Acute and Chronic Diarrhea Depending on the underlying cause, diarrhea in your GSD can be acute short-lived or chronic happening intermittently over course of weeks or months. Sudden acute diarrhea can appear if your GSD ingests something that does not get along well with her intestines. GSDs have a higher prey drive than most breeds, making them susceptible to chasing rodents and squirrels when left to their own devices. If your dog ingests the meat of these animals, the bacteria in the meat can upset her stomach. German Shepherds and larger breeds in general are more predisposed to this chronic disease than smaller dogs, especially during middle age. Oftentimes, veterinarians prescribe medication to manage the symptoms, as this is an incurable condition. Small intestinal diarrhea is usually caused by bacterial and viral infections, parasites, food sensitivities, IBD, ingested garbage, poison, or foreign objects. In this type of diarrhea, your GSD may pass large amounts of stool about three to five times per day, without straining. Your dog may also vomit, pass gas frequently, and lose weight. On the other hand, large intestinal diarrhea also known as colitis is often caused by whipworms, colon ulcers, colon cancer, IBD, and stress. Colitis is characterized by more frequent passing of stool more than five times a day in smaller amounts, and your GSD may strain in the process. Blood in the stool may appear bright red, and mucus may also be present. Unlike small intestinal diarrhea, large intestinal diarrhea does not always cause vomiting or weight loss in dogs. In some cases, your dog may exhibit a combination of these two types of diarrhea. For instance, the problem can start in the small intestine and then proceed to the large intestine. However, always provide plenty of fresh water nearby to avoid dehydration. After the hour fast, feed your dog a bland diet. Opt for skinless, boneless boiled chicken and broth. You can mix in a few small spoonfuls of mashed pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or potatoes, but make sure that they are unseasoned and unsalted. Rice can be added, too, as long as your GSD is not sensitive to it. These foods will help to firm up the stool. Start with small meals every two hours, then gradually increase the amount of food and the time in between meals. Be very cautious when transitioning your GSD to her previous diet. The transition should be spaced out and gradually done over a few days. If this successfully resolves the diarrhea, you can get her back to her regular food. You may be tempted to give your dog some medication to help ease her discomfort and cure her diarrhea. It is important, however, to understand the risks and to follow proper instructions before you do so. Imodium Imodium is a common over the counter medication that many people give to their dogs to treat diarrhea. Imodium, known generically as Loperamide, is effective in slowing down the movement of the intestines, allowing nutrients to be absorbed more slowly. As previously mentioned, and this bears repeating, you must be very careful when administering Imodium to your GSD. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog Imodium. Imodium Loperamide is a synthetic opioid, and it is possible to overdose your dog if you are not careful. Never give Imodium to puppies, pregnant and nursing GSDs, senior GSDs, and those with other medical illnesses such as liver disease, kidney disease, and hypothyroidism. Some of the side effects of Imodium may include: Constipation.

So, whenever you visit a breeder for the first time, write down a few questions you would like to ask about the breed and the puppy. No question is too silly to ask, and there are no dumb questions! So ask as many as you can and watch how they respond. Can they answer your questions patiently? Are they able to explain things well? Are you comfortable communicating with them? Breeders who are committed to providing their puppies with loving and permanent homes will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. Goldendoodle puppy sleepy in a blue blanket. Welcome Back Policy Any good breeder would be more than happy to take back the puppy if you are unable to provide them with the care and love they need due to problems such as financial or personal. Since a good breeder cares about their dog, they will have you sign a contract obligating you to return the dog if you cannot provide them with basic needs. Having learned how to find a reputable breeder, we have curated a list of some of the best Goldendoodle Breeders in Illinois to assist you in your search. Taking pride in their years of dedicated breed work, the breeder has helped hundreds of families get a Goldendoodle they will cherish their entire lives. This also ensures that the puppy is at no risk from health issues such as hip dysplasia and other inherited disease. Additionally, the breeder ensures that the puppies are socialized from day one so that they will become accustomed to human touch. Finally, ENS and other techniques are used to increase stress tolerance by stimulating the neurological system. They also provide lifetime breeder support, expert vet care, and a 2-year genetic health guarantee to put your mind at ease. Contact Details:. Tosha-female ADOPTED Reserve now to make sure you get your little goldendoodle and then contact us or schedule a paw visit to pick out your new family member today! The Goldendoodle has proven to be an excellent family dog. They're also versatile working dogs. Goldendoodles have achieved success as guide dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, and sniffer dogs one study tested their success at sniffing out peanuts in foods for owners with nut allergies. Goldendoodles have also done well in agility. The Goldendoodle is an affectionate and gentle dog that has gained popularity since he was first developed in s. He's still a young cross compared to other designer breeds, and many of today's litters are the results of first-generation breedings between Poodles and Golden Retrievers. Goldendoodles are usually highly social and get along well with everyone. They can thrive in both city and country settings, but they're not well suited to apartment living since they do better with the space provided by a fenced yard. Goldendoodles can be very easy to train and are a good match for first-time owners. They're not known to have any aggressive traits, but they do need proper socialization to avoid any shyness or fearfulness. Goldendoodles are considered to be non - to light shedders and may be a good match for people with allergies. They do require weekly or biweekly brushing, and many owners opt to have them clipped. Although Goldendoodles are a young designer breed, that hasn't stopped people from understanding their worth. They have become popular quickly, and their star is still rising. They make excellent family dogs and provide gentle, intelligent companionship throughout their lifetimes. This designer dog became popular for being hypoallergenic and no to low shedding. Those with severe allergies can benefit from the F1b mini Goldendoodle. After a puppy is reserved its is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. Breeding healthy, good natured Goldendoodles is our priority. We raise our puppies on a culmination of Badass Breeder BAB Curriculum, Avidog, Midwoofery and Puppy Culture - a week by week guide to aid in the neurological stimulation to emotional resiliency in our puppies. Temperament assessing helps our families choose the best companion for their needs. We are also featured on Good Dog for our responsible breeding ethics with a rating of Excellent, which is the highest rating earned on Good Dog. Why Choose Cherry Lane Doodles? The benefits of our breeding program culminate into superior puppies that are resilient, confident, calm, easy to train, and will bond strongly with their families! Additionally, customer satisfaction is very important to us. Check out a few of our reviews below, or to view all of our reviews go to Cherry Lane Doodle Google Reviews! Where should I start? Click on Availability and Pricing to view our anticipated litters coming up. Once you hear back from us, and if you are an approved applicant, you can Place Your Puppy Reservation. I'd like to subscribe to be notified of upcoming litters If you are human, leave this field blank. Each new litter of Goldendoodles is unique and may inherit various features from each parent breed. That is why it is crucial to pick a reliable Golden doodle breeder with expertise in both parent breeds. As all dog owners know, every new puppy has a unique personality waiting to develop with your love and care. The standard is the largest Goldendoodle size, ranging in height and weight from 25 — 28 inches to 90 pounds. Typically, Standard Goldendoodle weighs between 50 and 65 pounds and stands between 23 and 25 inches in height. Families adore standard Goldendoodles because of their prominent playful personalities and peaceful, friendly demeanors. The Miniature or Mini Goldendoodle grows between 15 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 25 and 35 pounds when fully grown. This size Goldendoodle is the sweet spot — people who live in large homes with enclosed yards and those who live in condominiums or townhouses love this size. These little cuties weigh less than 25 pounds usually pounds and range in height from 10 to 18 inches. Our Toy Goldendoodles have the sweetest personalities and hypoallergenic qualities, making them another popular choice. Raising puppies is our job, passion, and calling. Each of our healthy puppies for sale will envelop the characteristics mentioned above but have individualized, unique qualities that we want you to look for. A good breeder in Illinois will only show you what they want you to see, but a reputable breeder will go the extra mile to ensure health, promise a warranty and be fully honest with your next Goldendoodle puppy. Our parent dogs and puppies undergo a comprehensive set of health and DNA tests to ensure you get the healthiest dog possible from health tested parents. All of our adorable Goldendoodles come with a 2-year written genetic health guarantee. As Professional Goldendoodle breeders, we do everything possible to ensure that our Goldendoodles are the happiest and healthiest. Honesty Reputable Goldendoodle breeders are open and upfront with their customers. They must answer any of your questions about their breeding program and the dogs they breed with honesty and competence. If they do their job well, they will have a good breeding reputation by following through on their promises and professionally handling issues. At Central Illinois Doodles, we are Goldendoodle breeders operating openly and transparently. Simply put, it means that your puppy comes from carefully chosen parent dogs whose lineages have been OFA DNA tested for genetic issues and common health concerns. As a result, all of our puppies come with written guarantees that they are free of health conditions and genetic disorders. Temperament is also a priority for us, and our goal is to ensure that the dogs we breed are the best match, not just for adorable puppies but well-tempered ones, too. Variety of Sizes and Colors Our Goldendoodles come in various sizes, from standard to miniature to toy, encapsulating the breed in a lovely tiny package! Every litter features a wide range of hues, from white to brown to tan and everything in between. The coat types of our Goldendoodle pups range from wavy to wavy, with loose curls to very curly. Whatever your preference, they are all extremely precious! Owners will be thrilled to see that our little puppies are already displaying indications of their intelligence as they learn and play in their new surroundings at just a few weeks old. While other breeds at the same age may be distant and unsure of their place in the family, our Goldendoodle pups bond quickly and develop devotion and loyalty at a young age. Goldendoodle breeders can ensure that their puppies inherit the best and healthiest qualities by carefully selecting parent dogs. So whether you are looking for a devoted friend, a service dog, or a therapy dog, Goldendoodle puppies are the best possible breed to consider! Check out our available puppies page to learn more about our current litters. We look forward to talking with you about our current or upcoming litters and helping you reserve your new puppy. Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? If you are looking for reduced shedding in your dog, then the Goldendoodle may be the perfect fit for you. Most Goldendoodles inherit less shedding and hypoallergenic coats, but not all Goldendoodles inherit these traits. When the puppy is around three weeks old, Goldendoodle breeders can usually tell the type of coat they will have. This allows them to find the perfect family for each pup. Do Goldendoodle Puppies Need Training? Unfortunately, at the time being, we have no specialized training packages to offer you. But we would highly recommend finding an experienced dog trainer in your local area. We have a range of prices for our Goldendoodles, depending on the type of coat, color, size, and parents. Our Goldendoodles might not be as cheap as dogs from puppy mills or backyard Goldendoodle breeders. They reflect the effort and dedication we put into presenting you with a healthy and well-tempered perfect puppy. Please review our puppy price guide on our website for more information. Doodle Breeder Near Me. Contact Ericas doodles is committed to helping our families bring a new family member into their lives. We have decided because families are struggling to stretch their dollars but still want to bring joy into their families we are reducing our prices effectively immediately. We have been professionally breeding Doodles over 20 years. We know this doodle breed inside and out. We are also state-licensed we are not a backyard breeder we stand behind our dogs. We are 45 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago. We are a family of 6 that loves the doodle breeds. My husband, myself and my 4 children are all involved in the daily care of our beautiful dogs. We have researched and selected the best quality dogs for our breeding program. Our dogs get lots of free time with our children to run free on our ten beautiful acres. Our puppies are raised in our home underfoot and get handled from the day they are born. We truly believe that our children are very instrumental in helping with the daily socializing of our babies. Socialization is the key for puppies developing into the lifelong companions that families can be proud to own. Our goal is to breed the most beautiful and healthy puppies that will bring happiness and joy in any family. Welcome to Maple Valley! Looking for that perfect little furball to add to your family? Health tested parents See more details on our parents: click here 2. Birthed inside our home All the puppies are born inside our home and live in our house until weeks old. Our doggy parents are family pets and not kenneled We are committed to never becoming a large scale breeder. Our dogs are all personal pets. We founded Maple Valley in .Both of us Micah and Rose had prior experience with raising puppies. We have a private Facebook group, click here where families that have adopted puppies from us can connect and share updates as their puppies grow. We welcome questions, concerns and feedback for the entire life of your dog. If for some reason a puppy does not work out, we ask that you allow us to help in rehoming it. Meet Micah and Rose Raber. We have been providing our customers with loving healthy puppies for nearly 10 years! Every puppy is born inside our home. They receive lots of love and attention from the very beginning. We work hard to provide an outstanding adoption experience for you. As a busy family, we do ask that you have patience with us. We look forward to helping you find your next fluffy member of the family! He is a wonderful pup with so much energy and personality! He is such a goof ball, so smart, and healthy! Thank you guys so much! We are thrilled to have him as part of our family. Thank you so much for our adorable puppy! We love having a little golden doodle! She is smart, funny and adorable! She is great with our grandchildren. She loves camping and going for boat rides. She is the perfect puppy for us! Our vet commented that she could tell Charlotte came from a good breeder and we agree. Thank you! So very loving. The most playful dog, loves to cuddle and hug and kiss. Just everything about him is the sweetest! Southpaw is truly the love of my life. His fur does really well in this cold climate and barely sheds. I absolutely love my mini bernedoodle and have sent other people your way to get theirs. Thank you very much for creating such an amazing dog. She is a mini f1 with an apricot coloring. After about three weeks she was mostly potty trained with few accidents. She is very calm and loving and she gets attention wherever she goes. She loves playing with her other dog roommate and doggie friends! The process of reserving, communicating with, and picking up Paisley from the Rabers was so smooth and I recommend Maple Valley to all who ask!! And a Toy Goldendoodle was just what Luke needed. In the short 8 months that Luke got to spend with his beloved Jasper he brought him so many smiles and memories I will forever be thankful. Jasper helped Luke get through the hardest days of his life, he made him smile, laugh and the best cuddle partner there ever was. Sadly Luke was called home to heaven on July 21, .Luke was never alone with the help of Jasper, his parents Chad, Nikki and older brother Caleb. Jasper is of course still residing with Lukes parents and brother and I am still trying to figure out a way to dognapp him!! We visit them often and sweet Jasper is always the first to greet us at the door. The first photo is the day Luke was surprised with him. I just wanted to write a few lines and give you an update on our Stella Dalisha. She will be 17 weeks in two days and 20 lbs. We are just in love with her. She is exactly what our little family needed. She fit right in with her big brother and sister Titus and Margo. Her and Titus have become the best of friends and are inseparable. We all laugh at her silliness and her little facial expressions. She walks around on her hind legs begging to be picked up and carried. She loves to go for rides in the car and any squeaky toy she can find. She has one more round of puppy shots before I get her spayed. Everyone at the veterinary office thinks she is just a delight. Thank you for raising such wonderful bernedoodles. Thank you so much for our little Stella Mae. We love her so much! From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia A Goldendoodle is a mixed-breed dog, a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Poodle hybrids have become increasingly popular and it is likely that the combination of Golden Retriever and Poodle has been duplicated by breeders in various countries at different times. History The first Goldendoodles were likely due to accidental breeding between Golden Retrievers and Poodles. The Goldendoodle is usually bred to be a family companion dog. Some are bred and selected for careers in service to humans as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs and other types of assistance dogs. Many people select a Goldendoodle because they love Golden Retrievers, but would prefer a dog that sheds less hair. Some have lost their Golden Retriever or Poodle to cancer or inherited disease, and hope that the hybrid cross will give their new pet a better chance of reducing those risks. Others may desire a dog that may not affect their allergies, although not all Goldendoodles will exhibit the low shedding coat type of the Standard Poodle. Cross-breed dogs do not exhibit standard characteristics, and while Goldendoodles may shed less than a Golden Retriever, the degree of shedding will vary from dog to dog. Grooming requirements are as varied as coat types, with the least shedding coat types requiring more regular grooming than the coat types that shed. There have been no studies to date verifying that any canine is completely hypoallergenic. Goldendoodles often are good swimmers, a characteristic of both parent breeds. Like any other cross-breed, the Goldendoodle varies from individual to individual, displaying differences in size, coat type, and color. A Goldendoodle s size is generally somewhere between that of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever parents, and the range includes standard, medium and miniature. Some standard-sized Goldendoodles have weighed over pounds. Upon reaching adulthood, a standard Goldendoodle will often weigh 45 pounds or more; a medium Goldendoodle will weigh between pounds, and a miniature Goldendoodle will weigh approximately 15 to 30 pounds. Goldendoodles have different coat types: wool, fleece, hair or a combination. The wool coat is more like a traditional poodle coat. A fleece coat can be either curly, wavy or straight, with hair more similar to that of a golden retriever. As a general rule, the more curly the Goldendoodle s coat, the less shedding there will be as the dog has more features of the poodle coat. Common colors are white, cream, apricot, gold, and red. Less common colors are black and silver. Rarer colors include brown, parti, and phantom. Goldendoodles are classified as various types depending on the breed of the Goldendoodle s parents. Temperament Similar to the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Intelligent, affable, trainable, very human oriented, yet friendly toward other dogs. Moderately high energy dogs, much like their parent breeds. The Goldendoodle is not a purebred; rather, it is a specific type of mixed-breed dog or crossbreed. Some breeders prefer to restrict breeding to first generation F1 dogs i. Other breeders maintain that a Backcross F1B Goldendoodle i. Still other breeders are attempting to take this one step further and develop the Goldendoodle as a breed via selective breeding. Learn more This well-established breeder has been operating in Central Illinois since and is now one of the biggest Goldendoodle breeders in the state. They also breed Bernedoodles. All the puppies are well-socialized and undergo extensive health tests, so you know that your puppy will come with all the health clearances you expect. Unfortunately, this breeder has a slightly higher pricing structure than many other breeders, but they do boast plenty of positive testimonials and reviews. The best puppies undergo proper health testing, and both parent dogs have rigorous health checks before they are approved as breeding animals. What Influences Goldendoodle Prices? There are a number of factors that influence the price of Goldendoodle puppies in Illinois, including: The size of the dog, when fully grown Color Generation of the puppy Coat type and likely hypoallergenic qualities The most expensive puppies tend to be those with curly coats that look like Teddy Bears since those types are usually the lightest shedders. That makes these pups extremely popular with allergy sufferers, reflecting their price. Unusual coat colors are also more expensive, especially parti, red, and merle. Regarding health testing, both parent dogs should be screened for common genetic diseases common to both breeds to reduce the chances of the puppies inheriting those problems. Size Is Important Most dog owners want a small dog, so the smaller varieties are therefore the most popular and most expensive. Unfortunately, that trend has pushed up the price of these pups. The possibility of making a quick buck has tempted backyard breeders and puppy mills to churn out multiple Mini Goldendoodles as quickly as they can. Most of the breeding dogs used by these operations are not health-checked, which has adversely affected the breed. Nothing is Guaranteed! So, you could spend a fortune on a curly-coated blue puppy only to end up with a wavy-coated white adult! Of course, every puppy is loveable and will give you just as much pleasure no matter what their color or coat type. The puppies were supposed to be bred from a purebred Poodle father and a purebred Show Cocker spaniel. The lady chose a puppy and took her home. In fact, the puppy was much larger, a totally different color, and far more demanding when it came to exercise and training than the breed she wanted. So, that could be something you want to ask about if your puppy is not an F1 generation dog. But is the advertiser genuine, or is it a backyard breeder or puppy mill? Here are a few telltale red flags to watch out for. Multiple Breeds Most genuine breeders only offer puppies of one breed. Any duplications can be a sign of a puppy mill. Remote Locations Advertisements for puppies should contain a landline telephone number, not just a mobile. Puppy mills are often hidden away in remote locations, so always make sure that the telephone number matches the area where the puppies are being kept. Copy Cats Backyard breeding operations often use the same adverts, cutting and pasting details of their puppies and even using the same text for advertising other breeds. Goldendoodle pups should be eight weeks of age before they can receive their first shots. If the advertisement tells you that the puppies are less than eight weeks of age and have been vaccinated, the seller is most likely a backyard breeder. Other Red Flags Other red flags to be aware of include: Puppies that are very cheaply priced are usually from backyard breeders or puppy mills. These businesses make their money by producing as many puppies as possible, as quickly as possible, with the idea of making the most of whatever the current trend is. Often, puppy mills expect you to meet them somewhere shady, such as at a shopping mall car park or in a gas station. Puppy farms often use photos or even videos of puppies that are not even theirs to sell as a marketing tool on their website. Furthermore, before you can be put on the waiting list, you need to be interviewed and approved by the breeder. That should indicate that your puppy will be free from any hereditary genetic health conditions that typically affect the parent breeds. Ideally, your puppy should come with vaccination paperwork, as well as proof of flea and tick prevention treatment and deworming. Always ask the breeder if you can see the mom and puppies together. You also want to check out the father so that you can assess his temperament. That report includes many puppy mills and backyard breeders that have been closed down or taken through the courts for malpractice. If you decide to try out other ethical breeders from other states and want to avoid falling into the hands of these puppy mills, you may want to pick from our list of Goldendoodle breeders from nearby places. Check these out:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We have 30 years of experiencing breeding dogs and are proud to be voted one of the Most Ethical Dog Breeders and one of the Best Dog Breeders in Illinois. We fell in love with Doodles after bringing our first Goldendoodle, Maggie, home to our kids on our family farm. She was friendly with other dogs and children, and showed us all of the other qualities that made us fall in love with the breed. Their cheerfulness, gentleness, high levels affection, combined with how trustworthy and smart they are, makes them the perfect companion, family pet, or therapy dog. They also have hypoallergenic features, which includes no or little shedding. We currently breed three different sizes of Goldendoodles, mini, medium, standard, and we personally own one of each size! We also added Bernedoodles to our pack after falling in love with Tootsie, the sweetest Bernese Mountain Dog who is a big, cuddly teddy bear. Please contact us to ask which current size we have available. Read more below to learn more about the rest of our growing Goldendoodle family! When we brought home our first Goldendoodle, Maggie, 15 years ago, we knew we wanted to share her gentleness and affection with others! Our children have been blessed with unlimited love and puppy kisses their entire lives - now, our granddaughter is enjoying helping care and love for the pups! Since starting on this journey, it's been my goal that all of my puppies receive the best care and go to the best homes. We invest a tremendous amount of time, dedication, energy, hard work and education into our our program, and of course - lots of tender, loving care is given to all pups and parents. All of our puppies are born and raised in our home and handled daily. As a small home breeding program, you will find that our Moms are always on site, as well as one Dad. This ensures all puppies get the nutrients and care they need from their Mother, and the Mother gets the care and support she needs during recovery. For this reason, we ask that you please fill out an application and we will be in contact with you with availability. We expect their new owners to provide them with the same level of care. Find out more about our puppy agreement, warranty, and pricing by clicking below.

However, there is much more to this friendly dog that would make you want to get it as soon as possible. Lifelong Companion Labradoodles have an average life span of 10 to 14 years. Best Service Dogs There is no doubt that Labradoodles make some of the best service dogs because of the temperament that they inherit from both Labrador Retriever and Poodle. They are kind, friendly, gentle, loyal, playful, active, and get along with people quickly. Not just people of all age groups, Labradoodles are also known for getting along with other dogs and animals such as cats. The minimal shedding also eliminates the need to regularly groom them, as you would need to brush them twice a week. Moreover, if you have a swimming pool at your home, that would be the best because Labradoodles love water and swimming is one of their most favorite activities. Labradoodles might be a little stubborn, but they are still much easier to train than other dog breeds. After going through the various reasons listed above, you might be wondering where you can get the best Labradoodle puppies in Dallas. To help you out, we have curated a list of the 4 best Labradoodle breeders in Dallas from where you can get yourself a furry companion. In that case, the following are the 4 best Labradoodle breeders in Dallas from where you can adopt healthy Labradoodle puppies or dogs. They strictly follow ethical standards while breeding their dogs. All of their puppies are bred and raised at home, allowing them to get along with their new family, that is, you, with ease. In addition to breeding dogs, they provide multiple services such as breeding and stud services along with a unique guardian program. By signing up to their guardian program, you can get the chance to raise one of their breeding dogs and take care of it. You can easily get accurate information on the breeding dogs of Dallas Labradoodles on their website. Dallas Labradoodles Contact Details. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Dallas Texas and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. This family owned business is committed to performing extensive health testing and temperament assessments on each female and male breeding Doodle before selecting them to produce our adorable puppies. We have a select number of litters each year, focusing individual attention to the development of each doodle puppy before it goes to its forever home. Whether you are looking to purchase your first Australian Labradoodle or your third, this will be a very exciting time for you and your family! To achieve this, we carefully select our breeding dogs based on extensive health examinations and temperament assessments. Our breeding moms and studs have been carefully examined and tested by local veterinarians here in Texas to ensure they are free of eye, hip, and elbow problems, cardiac issues, genetic diseases and coat issues. Eye testing is ongoing for the entire time the dog is actively breeding. Photo Right: Our reproductive veterinarian, Dr. Kirk Esmond Each and every breeding dog passes extensive health testing to provide the best opportunity for healthy puppies. I think we are getting ready to go to our forever homes! We specialize in medium size dogs, ranging from pounds. Needless to say, the precious puppies we raise are part of our family. Our breeding Australian Labradoodle dogs live in our home as our family pets or in Guardian Homes as a valued family member. Welcome to the world of a Legendary Labradoodle. People are talking about us. Not only do we have an adorable, healthy, hypoallergenic and non-shedding family companion, but Legendary Labradoodles goes to great lengths to assure the temperament of the puppy will thrive in your home environment. They are truly producing the best pups in temperament, coat, and health not to mention hands down the cutest faces and body shape. Learn more One of the best out there with a golden paw award from the ALAA, Lakeview Labradoodles ensures with their breeding program that you go home with the healthiest pups possible. They evaluate and require all of their dogs to go through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA testing to make sure there are no genetic defects such as hip dysplasia or other serious conditions. The size of the litter The health and temperament of the parents The experience of the breeder The price of the puppy The distance you will travel Whether you want a male or female puppy What color labradoodle you would like Do you want an F. The location of the breeder What can I expect from a breeder when looking for a puppy? A good breeder will answer all of your questions about the breed and help you decide if a Labradoodle is a right fit for your family. They will also be able to provide you with information on health clearances, temperament testing, and training. How long does it usually take to get a puppy from a breeder? Depending on the breeder, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to get a puppy. This is to ensure that everyone who wants a pup is given a fair shake at getting the one they want. What requirements are there for a future owner of a puppy from a breeder? Most breeders will require that you fill out a questionnaire or application before being considered as an owner. This is to ensure that you are prepared for the responsibility of owning a dog and that you understand the commitment required. Do most breeders health test their dogs, and can I get these records? Yes, most breeders will health test their dogs and provide you with the results. A friend of mine recently bought a puppy from a breeder who assured her that the dogs were health checked by a vet before being allowed to go to their new owners. In addition, all the parent dogs were allegedly checked for genetic conditions. All was well until the pup reached 15 weeks of age. My friend noticed that the puppy seemed to be experiencing discomfort in one of his eyes. The little guy was constantly rubbing at the eye with his paw, and it was inflamed and watery. After carrying out an examination and lots of tests, the vet concluded that the puppy had a form of genetic eye cancer and would most likely finish up losing an eye in the future. Adele contacted the breeder to explain what had happened and ask for proof that the breeder had actually had the parent dogs tested for genetic health conditions. So, I cannot overstress the importance of insisting on visually inspecting the health testing documents before you part with any cash and take a puppy home. What should I expect from a breeder when visiting their home? The dogs should be friendly and well-socialized, and the breeder should be able to answer all of your questions. If there is what looks like a kennel, make sure you see whether they are well-kept. Check out these posts to see our list of top ethical breeders:. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Dallas TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Dallas TX. Standard Labradoodles come from a mix of a Poodle and a Labrador. The trainability and intelligence of these breeds come together in the Australian Labradoodle. How much are Labradoodles for sale Dallas? You might notice that there is a variety of price points for Labradoodles--even among puppies of the same litter. Factors like gender, size, coat texture and color, breeder reputation and more are considered in the price. Whatever your budget or preferences may be, you can be sure our network has a match for you! Will you only connect me with local Labradoodle breeders Dallas? Our network of puppy businesses and breeders spans from one end of continental US to the other. If your dream puppy is from our one of our partners out-of-state, rest assured they have the means to safely transport your new Labradoodle to the airport nearest you. How do you screen Labradoodle breeders in Dallas? We take time to check if the applying business follows animal welfare laws, practices ethical breeding, and provides loving care to all dogs in their care. Check our Breeder Pledge page for more details on our process. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles Dallas? There is a lot of money in dogs, and this can be exploited by shady characters. What is a puppy mill for Labradoodle puppies Dallas? Puppy mills are run by people who care more about making a profit than they do about the animals in their care. Buying from disreputable sources helps fund their activities and perpetuate poor treatment of dogs in the years to come. Are there any Labradoodle puppies in Dallas available now? What is the MatchMaker process like for Labradoodle Dallas? Our MatchMaker service is the most convenient way to find your new best friend! She is the sweetest, most amazing dog we could have ever wished for and we are completely in LOVE! We are such proud parents! She likes to play but seems to really enjoy her naps. We are so happy how everything worked out and we were blessed with our little sweetie Lola. Will keep in touch with more pics to follow! We may want to even add a sibling to our family! He plays well with other dogs and children, is energetic enough to play fetch and will curl up with us on the couch and take a nap when it is movie time. It was a pleasure working with you guys through the process. From the initial meeting to the weekly picture updates to picking out and taking home our puppy. She is a people magnet. Everyone wants to see her and pet her because she is so gorgeous! And fluffy! We lover her curly coat! She is extremely smart…when she wants something and is definitely still in the hyper puppy stage! Her forbidden love is socks and she will do just about anything for a piece of cheese. The most important thing is that we love her so much. She brings so much joy to our family! We can love all over her…pet her…kiss her…and she wags her tail and licks us. She is a good girl! Still a hyper puppy that tries to get into everything, but a really good girl! Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat.

What forms of payment do you accept? Note that your bill will say "Luzern-PetSafe. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it within 30 days of receipt of your order for a product price refund. Return shipping fees won't be refunded. Read our full return policy. Is your checkout secure? I'm shipping to the Channel Islands, how are import duties and tax applied? Import duty and taxes may apply when ordering from our website for delivery to the Channel Islands. Orders are subject to the typical customs and VAT rates. If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Care team. More information can be found at GOV. Where do PetSafe ship from? For purchases made through other online or store retailers, please contact the retailer directly for their specific return policy. You will be refunded the price of the product including VAT, provided that the item is received back to our warehouse intact and in a resalable condition. Shipping costs won't be refunded. Contact Us and our Customer Care team will help you return your purchase. However, on rare occasions, products may be found to be faulty or defective. If you have a faulty product and it is still within its warranty period , we offer the choice of a suitable replacement if one is available or a full product refund including VAT. We regret we are unable to ship advance replacements. Contact Us and our Customer Care team will help you with your purchase. Conditions Your return is subject to the following: A return address is required to send out a replacement product. All returns must be in original factory packaging with all original packing materials. Special order items are not returnable. A new tracking number will be sent to Customer on the replacement item when it ships. All credits will be made back to the original payment method. If a package arrives damaged, it is best for Customer to refuse the package. If Customer signs for and keeps the package, Customer should note the damage when signing for it so that a claim may be filed with the carrier. Related Products. Yes, there are pee pads designed especially for cats but they are not as widely available as puppy pads. If you can only find puppy pads, these should be just as effective to use as cat-specific pads as they are both designed to do the same job. The pads are absorbent, easy to use and keep the floor protected. If your cat tends to be fussy, you may find a cat-specific pad is best as some puppy pads are scented to specifically attract dogs which may not be as appealing to your cat. Some cat pee pads are also sized to fit perfectly into a litter tray which can be helpful too. If the pee pad is compatible with a litter tray, the size or type of tray will often be stated in the product description so you can be sure the pads you choose can be used with your litter tray. Cat pee pads work in the exact same way as puppy pee pads. They are multi-layered, super absorbent and odour-controlling. They can be used in a range of situations and encourage your cat to relieve themselves on the pad while also protecting the flooring. Pee pads are a great tool for teaching your pet where they should do their business. Most pee pads are disposable and tend to last a maximum of days before needing to be changed. The pee pad can be placed wherever your cat tends to urinate and then once your cat has started using the pads you can gradually move them closer to the litter box if your goal is to train them to use the litter box. You can simply place the pee pads where they are needed and replace them when soiled. Yes, pee pads can be used under cat litter if needed. If your cat is familiar with using pee pads then placing one under their cat litter can encourage them to use the litter box. You can use pee pads to train your cat to use the litter box but the pads should first be used outside the litter box in the location your cat often pees and then should be moved to the litter box gradually. Placing a pee pad under cat litter can also be a way of preventing leaks and mess. Many cat owners also find it helpful to place a pee pad underneath the litter box to catch any urine or mess that ends up just beyond the edges of the litter box. The pad absorbs any leaks and odours making cleaning up quicker and easier. Placing a pee pad just outside the litter box, or underneath the litter box, will help to catch any accidents and manage the mess. When Your Cat Refuses To Use The Litter Box If your cat is not using the litter box at all , pee pads can be used to help make cleaning up messes easy and are great for teaching your cat to use the litter box. The pee pad helps control odour and keep the floor clean to prevent your cat from returning to the same spot time after time. Once the pad is in the litter box your cat should not have a problem using it. For Kittens One of the most common times to use pee pads is when you just bring your new kitten home. Kittens still have lots to learn and using pee pads is a perfect way to start training. The pads are scented to encourage pets to use them and cats should be rewarded with a treat and praise for using the pad. For Older or Unwell Cats Older cats and cats that are unwell may struggle to get to the litter box to do their business. Pee pads are a great solution as they are easier to use than the litter box and are gentler on their paws too. Positioning the pad in a spot your cat is already going to pee makes it more likely your cat will use the pad straight away. Pee pads are scented to attract pets to use them. Be patient. It may take a few hours for your cat to even acknowledge the pad but they will hopefully use it the next time they need to go to the toilet. If needed, you can encourage them to use the pad by placing a small amount of litter on the pad, or by using the pad to soak up a recent accident so your cat will be able to smell the urine on it. Reward your cat for using the pad. You want to positively reinforce that the use of the pee pad is preferred and that good things happen when they use it. Change the pee pad as needed. Continue to do this until your cat is using only the pads and they are not having any accidents on the floor. Your cat is now trained to use pee pads! Begin to move the pee pads towards the litter box. You can now start the transition from using the pee pads to using the litter box. Do this by slowly moving the pee pad towards the litter box. Each day move the pee pad a small amount. After a week or two, the pee pad can be placed into the litter box. Your cat should now be so used to using the pee pad that they will go into the litter box and use it when the pee pad is inside. Once your cat has got the hang of going into the litter box when they need the toilet you can slowly start to add cat litter until your cat is happy using the litter and the pee pads are no longer needed. Post navigation.

If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Chances are, regardless of where you live apartment, condo, or house , you have stairs. And, if you are a Golden Retriever owner, then it is inevitable that your dog will need to climb those stairs. So, that begs the question: can Golden Retrievers climb stairs? Adult Golden Retrievers can climb stairs with no issues if they are in good health. However, stairs may pose a problem if the dog is older or suffering from health issues that affect mobility. Climbing stairs may also be difficult and risky for young puppies, so they should be monitored to prevent falls. Stairs are fine for healthy adult Golden Retrievers Climbing stairs at some point is almost a given for a Golden Retriever. However, there are a few instances when care must be taken, which will be discussed. Additionally, we will also explore some benefits of stairs and if there is an age restriction on when a dog should climb stairs. For pet owners with Golden Retriever puppies, stairs are an understandable concern. Often their little bodies have difficulty navigating and climbing stairs. So, understandably pet owners may wonder when at what age can a Golden Retriever puppy climb stairs. Healthy Golden Retrievers puppies can safely climb stairs at 12 weeks of age. However, Golden Retrievers can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, preventing or limiting access to stairs until they are eight months of age or older can help decrease abnormal development of the joints. So, it depends. If you believe your Golden Retriever puppy will have no hip or elbow issues, then 12 weeks is the minimum safe age. However, consider that Golden Retrievers are often highly prone to hip dysplasia and have a medium risk for elbow dysplasia. Both dysplasias are inherited. The concern is that before eight months of age, the stress from stairs on the hip joints may interfere with the normal development of the sockets. Stairs can be dangerous for young puppies. If you purchased your dog from a high-level breeder, they might have assessed their breeding stock to ensure no hip and elbow issues. These dogs are often examined between four to 24 months of age and then certified as having no problems. Alternatively, if no certification is done and you trust the breeder, you can take their word that there are no issues. While hip and elbow certifications are no guarantee of an issue-free dog, it does add some degree of confidence. Our Golden Retriever did not come from parents with hip and elbow certifications. However, the breeder noted the parents had no joint issues, and we were comfortable letting Bailey on small flights of stairs two to three stairs only. However, we blocked access to any large flight of stairs, including the upstairs and basement. As a result, Bailey was almost a year old before he had access to the upstairs. I discuss some tips in the next section on how to make stairs safe, and the last tip outlines how to prevent access to stairs. Golden Retrievers are highly active and high-energy dogs. Therefore, stairs for most Golden Retrievers are of no issue and instead can be a great source of exercise. But is there any situation where climbing stairs is bad for Golden Retrievers? Stairs can be bad for Golden Retrievers if they have mobility issues or are prone to dysplasia. Golden Retrievers puppies under 12 weeks old should not be allowed on stairs due to the increased risk of falls and serious injury. However, stairs are not bad for healthy adult Golden Retrievers. So, stairs are typically acceptable for healthy Golden Retrievers at the appropriate age. Stairs become problematic when there are mobility issues such as bad knees, hips, or back. In those instances, care must be taken to prevent falls and not aggravate existing mobility issues. Due to their increased risk for hip and elbow dysplasia, it is recommended to prevent access to large flights of stairs until eight months of age or older. The other potential risk for stairs is to very young puppies less than 12 weeks old. Very young puppies do not have the size or coordination to navigate stairs. The risk of injury to their still fragile bodies is a concern. Senior Golden Retrievers with no severe mobility or health issues are okay with climbing stairs. In fact, as we will discuss in the next section, stairs can benefit Golden Retrievers, including older dogs or even ones with arthritis. Typically older dogs take the stairs slower, which is fine. Stairs are not bad for healthy adult or senior Golden Retrievers Safety Tips for Stairs However, stairs can still pose falling issues even to healthy Golden Retrievers. To ensure stairs are as safe as possible for your Golden Retriever, consider the following tips: Clean up any dirt or spills, as they have the potential for the dog to slip. Water can be incredibly slippery on hardwood floors for your dog, so make sure its paws are dry, and any water on the stairs is cleaned up. Add stair runners or carpet to hardwood stairs for extra traction. Ensure the stairs are well-lit. Dark stairs or poorly lighted stairs increase the chance of a misstep. Remove items off the stairs to prevent tripping hazards. If your dog is old or has severe mobility issues consider installing a dog ramp. If stair railings have wide openings, be careful of small puppies falling through or getting their heads stuck choking hazard. Block them off until the puppy is large enough and can no longer fit through railings. Consider installing baby gates or any blockade to prevent access to stairs for puppies when you are not around or able to supervise them. Watch for Wet Paws and Spills Hardwood can be slippery and especially when it is wet. If your dog has wet paws, hardwood becomes slippery to them. Moreover, wet feet can transfer water to stairs increasing the likelihood of a fall for all household members not just the dog. Add Traction Carpeting stairs add traction, but if that is not feasible, consider adding light-colored stair runners. They are relatively inexpensive, but they add traction and increase visibility. You could also consider adding toe grips. Well-lit stairs are safer for your Golden Retriever and you as well. Some dogs have poor eyesight, and their vision can worsen with age. So, having good visibility on stairs helps reduce missteps and potential falls. Often you can find inexpensive lighting options that are battery-operated and attach to walls, negating the need for extensive electrical wiring or hiring an electrician. Dog ramps work well for small flights of stairs such as two to three stairs only, and make it much easier for senior dogs or dogs with mobility issues to go up. Just make sure you select a dog ramp with good traction. Do not overlook stair railings. Small puppies can and have fallen through the space between stair railings. At the top of high stairs, such falls can cause severe injuries and even death. Even if the puppy is too big to fall through, it may try to stick its head through the railings. If its head gets stuck, this could become a choking hazard. Puppies can fall through or get stuck and choke in stair railings. Be careful. A temporary solution that works well is cutting strips of cardboard and attaching them across the bottom of the railing so the puppy cannot fall through. Once your dog is big enough to no longer fit, remove the cardboard. Old Amazon boxes, cereal boxes, or pretty much any old cardboard will do, and it is inexpensive. We had an issue with the railings when my curious Golden Retriever Bailey was a puppy. As the above picture shows, Bailey could squeeze through the railings, so we ran pieces of cardboard along the bottom to prevent access and falls. Block Stairs Additionally, consider gates to block stairs if there is a potential for falls when you are not home or the puppy is out of sight. The images below illustrate a gate we placed on the stairs to the basement, just off the TV room. It was too easy of an opportunity for Bailey to get to the stairs, and it was dark, so we blocked it off plus the cat sleeps down there. Our homemade gate to prevent Bailey from accessing the stairs For the staircase going upstairs, we just rolled his feeder container and a chair in front. It was enough to block him, and it cost us nothing. As a precaution, Golden Retrievers should wait to climb stairs until they are eight months of age or older. Doing so helps mitigate any potential for stairs to aggravate the normal growth of joints. Once the Golden Retriever is of an appropriate age, stairs are fine and present little issues. In fact, climbing stairs can actually provide some benefits. Some benefits of stairs include: Stairs can build strength in the legs, back muscles, shoulders, and hips. Climbing stairs can increase the range of motion, including in those dogs with arthritis. Obviously, access to hills is much better than stairs for the benefits listed. Hills provide the same resistance with less stress on joints. As well, the gradual grade of hills makes falls less likely. However, for a healthy Golden Retriever taking the stairs at home provides minor issues for an appropriate aged Golden Retriever. Additionally, stairs also help strengthen muscles and improve coordination. In turn, increasing muscle strength helps build coordination and keeps tendons strong, which helps preserve healthy joint movement. In fact, walking UP stairs can be a great way to help improve active range of motion, muscle strength, and proprioception the awareness of the position and movement of the body. Source However, CARE cautions that walking downwards on stairs is problematic due to the increased force on the front legs and the need for more control to go down slowly. If your Golden Retriever is arthritic, consider hills with gentle inclines and declines hills are less stress-inducing than stairs. At home, consider using dog ramps. CARE also suggests adding carpeting or runners on stairs and using a harness to support an arthritic dog to help it feel more secure when navigating stairs. So, while stairs can be an excellent supplement for Golden Retrievers, they should not be the primary source of exercise. Instead, take your dog for a long walk, and if there are some soft hills included, all the better. Adequate amounts of walking, even on flat surfaces, will benefit your Golden Retriever more — both for developing muscle and tendons and its heart. Swimming is also a great activity for dogs with arthritis or joint issues. Final Thoughts Generally speaking, most healthy Golden Retriever adults will have no issue with stairs. However, stairs should be avoided for ALL puppies under 12 weeks. If you have concerns about hip or elbow dysplasia or other joint problems, keep your Golden Retriever off the stairs until eight months old, at a minimum. After eight months of age, your Golden Retriever should have no issues running up and downstairs. However, make sure stairs are not overly slippery and are well-lighted and clear of obstructions. Lastly, start your puppy off on smaller staircases so they can learn in a safer and less intimidating environment. Avoid large staircases where your puppy might fear looking down such a long distance. In addition, consider that a puppy is more likely to be injured if it falls down 12 stairs versus two or three, so start them slowly. As such, we kept Bailey off these until he was a year old. Most Golden Retrievers learn to climb stairs very quickly as puppies. The key is to not allow them on large staircases that pose a greater risk of them becoming fearful or injured. Instead, start them on small staircases, and when they are old enough, you can let them climb stairs as their heart desires. And Is It Safe? Using the stairs will only worsen the conditions, leading to further pain and even more problems. Arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other hip and joint problems can cause severe pain and limit their mobility, and you will likely see your older dog or senior golden retriever begin to avoid the stairs on their own. Below are some tips to help your golden retriever use the stairs safely without developing hip and joint problems. Supervise Your Golden on The Stairs Supervising your golden retriever on the stairs is a great way to see if your dog struggles with stairs or is not using the stairs safely. Dogs are infamous for hiding their health problems. Therefore, you may not know right away if your dog is struggling with any joint or hip conditions. When your golden retriever is near stairs, pay attention to any signs of fear or reluctance to use them. Furthermore, if they are using the stairs slowly or awkwardly, then they may be in pain. If you see these signs, you should have your dog checked out at a vet for any hip and joint issues. Supervision is also a great way to ensure your golden retriever puppy is using the stairs safely. Make sure your puppy is not running up or down the stairs, skipping steps, or doing anything that will injure themselves or hurt the development of their hips. As mentioned before, golden retriever puppies should be carried up and down the stairs for the first twelve months of their life or until they become too heavy. This option may seem like a hassle, but it is the best way to avoid any injuries or hip problems while your puppy is still growing. Note: While good in theory, a month old golden retriever is going to be too heavy to carry for many people, so just carry them on the stairs as long as you reasonably can. Injuring yourself to try to protect your golden retriever is not a good trade-off. If your adult or senior golden retriever is having trouble on the stairs, you may need to carry them if possible on occasion. Do not force your dog to use the stairs in these cases, as that will only worsen their pain and condition. If this is happening, you will need to find a way to keep them off the stairs or reduce their pain. Gates are very effective for this and not too expensive. Baby gates can be installed at the foot or head of any set of steps you need to keep your dog away from and should help to reduce their time spent struggling up and down the stairs. Also, if your golden is used to sleeping, eating, etc. This option is best for adult golden retrievers that have developed arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other conditions. Furthermore, a dog ramp makes navigating the stairs easier and safer. You can install a dog ramp even if your dog is not experiencing any medical problems. Training your dog to use a dog ramp early on in life will help prevent hip and joint conditions from developing in the first place. The PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Pet Ramp from Amazon will provide a safe and secure surface to walk up without any climbing, saving your goldens hip joints. Use Stair Treads To Help Your Golden Navigate The Stairs If you have bare wood stairs in your home, your golden retriever may have problems with slipping and sliding while climbing or descending the steps. This can cause falls and injuries, in addition to fostering a lack of confidence regarding stairs on your dogs part. In this case, adding some non-slip stair treads can make a world of difference. These pre-cut Delxo Carpet Stair Treads Amazon have an adhesive backing and can be easily stuck to each step to provide traction for your golden retriever. Give Your Golden a Joint Supplement Many dog owners begin giving their golden retrievers joint supplements when they start displaying hip and joint discomfort, but a much better idea is to start giving your pup these supplements long before they experience pain. Giving your golden retriever a good joint supplement, such as Cosequin Max Strength Plus MSM from Amazon, containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin early on will be a much greater help than waiting until your golden is older and experiencing pain. Golden retriever puppies can begin using these hip and joint supplements as early as 8 weeks of age, although you will want to consult with your vet regarding your specific puppy before starting any supplements. Final Thoughts In most cases, a healthy golden retriever can use the stairs without any problems. Puppies and golden retrievers with hip and joint problems should either use a dog ramp or avoid the stairs altogether. You most likely guard him against bolting out the front door and running toward traffic in the street. But you may not have thought about the stairs in your house and how soon your puppy can safely begin to climb those stairs. Depending upon who you talk to, a puppy should not go up and down stairs from the age of 3 months to a full year. For small dogs, carrying a puppy up and down the stairs may work for several months. So, this can present a dilemma for owners of larger dogs. Fortunately, most veterinarians agree that the majority of puppies can begin climbing stairs when they are 3 months old. However, puppies should be supervised for several weeks to ensure their safety. And some dogs who are prone to hip dysplasia should use the stairs as little as possible. They should not be allowed to jump or bound up and down stairs in a way that could be hard on their joints. Climbing stairs for a young pup can be very hazardous due to injury or physical developmental risks. Most young pups are usually a little frightened of stairs and rightly so! Just think about how daunting it would be for us to run down a flight of stairs head first! Young pups are still developing muscles, bones, and cartilage until they are about a year old. However, this depends on size and breed. Larger dogs mature faster than smaller dogs. Additionally, puppies are still learning how to balance and coordinate their growing body and legs and can be a little clumsy in the beginning. So, stairs present a special challenge. Falling The most obvious danger when puppies try to navigate stairs for the first time is that they may fall. Hardwood stairs with no carpet or any type of traction can be very slippery and challenging for your pup to get a foothold. Even more dangerous are outside stairs that may be wider apart and made of stone, cement, or metal. Therefore, the risk of injury can be higher on outdoor stairs. Inclement weather such as rain, ice, or snow produces even greater challenges. If your puppy or young dog does try the stairs on his own and falls, be sure to take him to a vet immediately if you think he has been injured. Joint Damage Puppies are still developing their muscles and bones and undue stress at an early age can cause some joint damage. This can turn into osteoarthritis as they age, which can lead to an unsteady gait, pain, weakness, and limping. Be sure to see my post about how chiropractic care can help prevent some of this damage. This is why trainers discourage agility training for dogs under a year old, to give them time to fully develop strong muscle tone and bones. Any activity that includes intensive jumping or rigorous running or stair climbing is usually discouraged for puppies until they reach full maturation. When this happens it wears away the cartilage and eventually causes bone-on-bone rubbing and friction. This leads to pain, weakness, gait problems, and lameness. The hip joint is a ball and socket joint. During growth, both the ball the head of the femur, or thighbone and the socket in the pelvis acetabulum must grow at equal rates. In hip dysplasia, this uniform growth during puppyhood does not occur. Additionally, it can be caused by too little exercise that does not allow for muscle development, being overweight, and sometimes hormonal changes and neutering are thought to be possible causes. Dogs who are raised in cages at puppy mills with little to no exercise can be just as susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is true for dogs who are allowed or trained to jump and run too much before they are 3 or 4 months old. Breeds that are most susceptible to hip dysplasia include: Golden and Labrador Retrievers. Some dog breeds are too small or have hip issues which make climbing stairs difficult. But what is almost guaranteed is that puppies will struggle to climb stairs, whether in an upwards or down direction. Their size combined with a fear and unsteady balance will make stairs a potential hazard for them. When can puppies climb stairs? Puppies can usually climb stairs safely at the ages of 12 to 16 weeks. However, this is very much breed and size dependent, as some puppies will still not be big enough at the point to successfully navigate a staircase. Keep reading so you can let your puppy do stairs safely at the right age. Are puppies allowed to go up and downstairs? Puppies are allowed to go up and down stairs, but when they are too small, you should supervise behind them. I would suggest also carrying them downstairs if they cannot go down one step without jumping — that means they are too small and run the risk of tumbling. But in most cases, the age that puppies can do stairs is around 3 to 4 months. Is it bad for puppies to climb stairs? It can also be bad for certain breeds of dog to climb stairs. For example, stairs can be bad for puppies from the French Bulldog breed where the risk of hip dysplasia is higher. Young puppies will be naturally cautious of stairs during their formative months. More about puppies and stairs By and far the biggest challenge that puppies are faced in your home is how to overcome stairs. For young puppies, stairs can almost resemble mountains, continuing upwards for what seems like forever. Just one step at a time can prove a massive undertaking for a puppy, regardless of its age, and it can take many months until they begin to finally master the art of scaling them successfully. Unfortunately, it is not that unusual for older canines to never quite get the hang of climbing stairs, with many choosing to avoid traversing them later in life. For this reason, you must teach your puppy how to do this while they are still young. Without this skill, older dogs can quickly develop extreme anxiety towards climbing stairs, refusing to follow their owner upstairs, or enter properties where steps are abundant. However, there is one question that many dog owners fail to ask themselves before attempting this task, a question that when left unanswered can commonly result in many younger dogs developing long-lasting injuries. At what age can puppies climb stairs? In general, it is not advisable to introduce a puppy to stairs until they are at least 12 to 16 weeks old and fully confident on their legs meaning no clumsiness or wobbliness. That being said, it is not uncommon for younger pups to take on smaller steps from time to time, especially if they are very confident or boisterous. If you find your puppy can climb areas with small sets of steps in the home, do not immediately panic as this is completely normal behavior. Likewise, you should not chastise your pup as this could cause them to develop a negative association with the activity. If your pup is regularly climbing one or two steps, such as those found on a porch or patio, allow them to do so as this is unlikely to have any negative impacts on their health and will, instead, help them build confidence in tackling stairs for the first time. However, that being said, always deter your pooch from climbing larger sets of stairs such as those leading to a higher floor in the house , until they are of an appropriate age to minimize the chance of injury. Furthermore, this advice is especially relevant when it comes to larger breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers, which we will explore in further depth later in the article. If you own one of these breeds or a similar-sized dog, make sure to keep them well away from stairs until they are at least 16 weeks old. In fact, failure to do this could be disastrous in the long run. Additionally, you should also realize that it takes time for smaller breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, West Highland Terriers, Chihuahuas, Mini Poodles, and Jack Russel Terriers, to grow to a size in which they can easily manage steps without any trouble. This is due to their diminutive size and overall shorter legs compared to medium and larger breeds. Furthermore, owners of small dogs should be careful not to force their pups into climbing stairs when they are very young, as doing so could lead to nasty injuries as a result of a fall or tumble. Although we may not realize it, stairs can be extremely high for small breeds. Unfortunately, many large breeds of dogs are prone to hip conditions, namely Hip Dysplasia, which can plague them throughout both their puppyhood and adult lives. Dogs suffering from this mainly inherited genetic condition develop issues with the ball and socket mechanism that allows their hip joint to move smoothly. Instead, the ball and socket will constantly rub and grind, causing canines significant amounts of pain. Over time, this abnormal motion will result in deterioration in the joint, with some dogs completely losing maneuverability after a few years have passed. Although not conclusive, there is some evidence that puppies can increase their risk of developing Hip Dysplasia by climbing stairs before their limbs have properly developed and strengthened. Despite being primarily hereditary in origin, some dogs can develop this condition solely through experiencing excessive stress on their joints or by suffering injuries. Once they reach a certain age, puppies will be bounding up stairs at will. Therefore, before introducing your pup to stairs, try and ascertain whether they are at risk of developing Hip Dysplasia. If they fall into this category, then prevent them from climbing stairs until they are at least 12 months old. However, it is worth mentioning that Hip Dysplasia can appear in medium or smaller-sized canines from time to time, although this is rare. If you find yourself worried about Hip Dysplasia occurring in your puppy, discuss this with your local veterinarian. Often, they will be able to inform you whether your breed of dog is at a higher risk of developing this issue in the future. With proper care and early treatment, dogs can easily live a relatively healthy and pain-free life. Is it safe to allow your puppy to climb stairs on its own? Alongside the risk of Hip Dysplasia, young puppies who regularly climb the stairs unsupervised are naturally at a greater risk of injury. Therefore, you should make sure to keep a close eye on your pup when they are attempting to navigate stairs, even if they have successfully done so before. Despite many dog owners feeling this is excessive or unnecessary, all it takes is one nasty tumble for a puppy to seriously injure itself. To minimize the chance of this happening you should always block the stairs when leaving the home, even if you are only gone for a short time. Alternatively, if you are unable to block access you can ask a friend or family member to keep an eye on your pup. In the case of older puppies 9 months plus , it is normally okay to allow them to climb stairs on their own. At this stage, they will have developed all the functions and skills to climb stairs without any problem. That being said, be careful not to leave any objects on the steps to limit the chance of your pup tripping and falling. Likewise, you should discourage your pup from playing or running up the stairs, as this can also increase the risk of an accident. Furthermore, this behavior is not only dangerous for dogs but can also result in owners being seriously hurt as well. How do you teach a puppy to use stairs? Teaching a puppy how to climb stairs is a relatively straightforward task. For example, one popular method used by dog owners is placing treats on the stairs. To start, grab some treats and place them on the first 2 or 3 steps, slowly encouraging your pup to climb each one. After they have done this successfully, place a few more treats higher up and repeat the process, continuing this until they have completely climbed to the top of the stairs. Make sure that you reward your puppy for any steps they have cleared successfully as this will reinforce their belief that they have nothing to fear. Additionally, you should remember to remain patient as it could take multiple tries before they feel comfortable. All puppies are different, and some may take weeks before they can climb the stairs without getting stuck or feeling frightened. Similarly, try to project confidence towards your puppy, regardless of whether you are nervous on the inside. They will quickly pick up on your positive attitude and feel less fearful when attempting to climb stairs for the first time. Conclusion Although home environments are mostly a safe and comfortable place for puppies to grow up, there are often several areas that can provide a challenge for even the most adventurous of pups — along with balconies , stairs are up there with the worst of them. With puppies and stairs you need to keep a close eye on them until they are older, more agile, and big enough to climb up or down. You might also like…. Got something to ask a vet? Thank you. The rest of the article continues below. Introducing your pet to stairs is all about taking it slow and having a blast! Start by making those stairs enticing. Grab some tasty treats or their favorite toy to lure them in. Begin with just a few steps at a time, allowing their little bodies to get stronger and more confident. If your pup seems unsure or refuses to go up or down, encourage them with yummy treats to get those paws moving. Patience and positivity are crucial. Cheer them on, shower them with praise, belly rubs, and high-fives for each step conquered. Safety Tips for Golden Retrievers Puppies Using the Stairs To ensure the safety of your furry pal while climbing stairs, you need to take a few precautions. First and foremost, make the space safe. If the railings of your stairs have wide gaps, install blocks or barriers to prevent small puppies from falling through or getting their heads stuck. Additionally, consider adding carpet runners or traction pads to make the stairs less slippery. This will provide your puppy with better grip and stability while climbing up or down. Next, you gotta remove any clutter that could cause your pup to trip. When training your pet to climb stairs, try using a harness or leash to maintain control. This will prevent your pup from excitedly lunging or jumping which may lead to accidents. You should also not leave your pet unsupervised during the training process. Stay close so you can quickly intervene if the need arises. A short rest allows your puppy to get their energy back, preventing fatigue-related mishaps. Climbing up or down a flight of stairs in your home can be dangerous for your puppies. One major concern is the risk of falling and getting injured. Puppies are still learning to control their limbs and may misjudge their steps or lose their balance, leading to falls that can result in sprains, strains, or even fractures. Another important consideration is the impact on their growing joints. Excessive or premature stress on the joints, such as from climbing stairs too early or too frequently, can potentially worsen these conditions or contribute to the development of joint problems later in life. Signs and Symptoms of Joint Pain or Discomfort in Golden Retrievers One common indication that your pup is suffering from joint pain is when they fall or stumble frequently while navigating stairs or jumping onto elevated surfaces. Difficulty getting up, walking, or engaging in physical activities they used to enjoy is another possible indicator of joint pain. And last but not least, if you notice any kind of limping, stiffness, reduced activity level, and excessive licking or biting of the affected joints, these are all warning signs that a vet visit might be in order. Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Is Bengay safe for dogs? If your furry pal is experiencing joint pain, undergoing post-operative recovery, or has a known medical problem, it is advisable to restrict their access to stairs. Additionally, during the puppy stage when their joints are still developing and growing, it is generally recommended to limit stair usage. Pregnant or elderly pets may also benefit from avoiding stairs to minimize the strain on their bodies. Alternative Exercises and Activities for Golden Retrievers Who Cannot Use Stairs When stairs are not an option for your four-legged companion, there are several other activities that can get them moving. Leash walking is a great activity to provide low-impact exercise and mental stimulation for your furry friend. Exploring different routes and environments during walks is always fun and engaging. Going for a quick dip in the water is another good idea since this breed is a natural swimmer. Look for dog-friendly pools, lakes, or beaches where they can safely enjoy the water. Puzzle toys and games are a wonderful way to engage their minds and challenge them to solve problems while obtaining treats or rewards. Additionally, playing a game of fetch in a safe area can provide physical exercise and mental stimulation. Your pet also needs to exercise their brain, not just their body. These activities help keep them active and happy, even without the use of stairs. Installing a Dog Ramp for Your Golden Retriever Installing a dog ramp can be a helpful solution, especially if stairs pose a challenge for your pet. A dog ramp is basically a sloped surface that allows dogs to walk up or down at a more gradual incline. In my opinion, it offers several benefits, including being gentler on the joints, making it a suitable option for elderly dogs or those with medical conditions. Dog ramps will work great for shorter steps stairs, and up and down sofas or cars. Collapsible Dog Ramp. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:. Golden retrievers range in weight when fully grown but are considered to be in the medium to large class of dog. A common thing that many golden retriever owners will know is that large dog breeds are more likely to suffer from joint issues. In order to avoid hip dysplasia or at least lessen its effects, you can begin by feeding your golden retriever a healthy and balanced diet, as well as ensuring they get plenty of exercise including swimming, which golden retrievers love! Furthermore, making sure that your golden retriever undergoes proper physical development when it is a puppy is key to ensuring that you can help maintain the joint health of your beloved dog. Stairs can be bad for puppies joints if they attempt to climb them while they are still too young. It goes without saying, but stairs are designed with humans in mind ask a shih tzu about this. As such, a staircase is really only meant to climbed by a human, though many four-legged species manage the mechanics of it well enough. In order for a dog to climb stairs, they must exert energy into their muscles and joints that is very different from the pressure they would put on them if they were just walking or running normally. As such, a golden retriever puppy should be carried up stairs until they reach a certain age. Important Note: Most medium sized breeds can start using staircases when they are about twelve weeks old, while larger breeds should really be waiting until they are at least sixteen weeks old. Thus, for golden retrievers, it is a good idea to wait between twelve and sixteen weeks before training them to climb stairs. In order to further avoid the risk of developing or worsening hip dysplasia, ensuring that your aging golden retriever does not need to climb stairs past a certain age is essential! If your golden retriever is getting older and still climbing stairs like in apartments, you should take precautions to make certain that they will not need to do so for much longer. For example, if your house is composed of more than one floor, make sure that everything your golden retriever could need is on the first floor, including their food, water, bed, and toys. If your dog prefers to sleep with a family member on an upper floor, trying to gradually discourage this behavior to avoid them climbing the stairs as they continue to age. Using a pet gate could also be an ideal solution to discourage your golden from taking stairs that are harmful to them in their senior years. As mentioned previously, stairs were designed for humans to use, not puppies. Because of this, puppies will look on the contraption with confusion and might even develop anxiety about them. You might find yourself at a loss when it comes time to teach them how to climb the stairs, but rest assured that there are many methods that are tried and true. Once your golden retriever has reached at least twelve weeks of age, the first step in training them to climb the stairs is to ensure that they are already reasonably comfortable and obedient on a leash. When you feel that your golden retriever puppy is ready to take its first steps on a staircase, leash them and have them sit on the bottom of the staircase. Using the leash as a gentle guide, coax your puppy up the stairs alongside you. If they are well-trained on a leash, they will understand that they are meant to follow you. Positive encouragement like kind words, gentle pets, and healthy treats are really helpful throughout this process, especially if your golden retriever is particularly nervous. When your golden retriever puppy has successfully climbed their first set of stairs, make sure they know how proud you are of them. Following this, you can then begin the process of teaching them how to climb down the stairs. Sometimes, climbing down a staircase can be even more daunting for a puppy than climbing up. Keep in mind that their perception of the world around them is much different than yours, so what is just a set of stairs to your mind could appear to be a treacherous cliff to theirs. Never use harsh tones or exhibit frustration when training them to climb stairs, as this will discourage your golden retriever and might even cause anxiety. An anxious puppy could lose focus and trip over their feet, resulting in a possible stumble down the stairs and a potential joint injury.