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Pugs require attention, but should also have a space of their own in which they feel comfortable when you are not home or are otherwise occupied. Provide your pug with an area of its own including a bed and blankets, some toys, and easy access to food and fresh water. This way, even if you cannot pay attention to your pug for a moment, they do not feel alone. Remember that pugs are sensitive to very hot temperatures and rapid temperature changes. Avoid setting up their space in areas with continued direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. Pugs are prone to nervousness and anxiety. You can help them calm down by being consistent in your daily routine. This means scheduling feeding times, walks, play times, and quiet times as close to the same time every day as possible. Because of this, it is important to schedule a vet check as soon as you bring your new pug home. It is important for your pug to be seen by a veterinarian regularly so that it can get preventative veterinary care. A bi-annual check up will ensure that your dog stays up to date on immunizations, preventative medications, and that any emerging health problems can be dealt with quickly. Younger pugs may need to see the vet more often until they are spayed or neutered and have completed their first course of shots. Your vet will help you work out a preventative care schedule for things like annual shots, heartworm treatments, parasite elimination, vaccinations, microchipping, and teeth cleanings, all of which are important parts of keeping your pug healthy. This is especially important if you have children in the house. Teach your children how to recognize when your dog is anxious or fearful, so that they know when to back off. Some Final Words Generally, they are an easy dog breed to take care of. But Pugs need special attention in areas that other dog breeds do not have to worry about. Part of that care is to make sure they eat a proper diet. What makes this special is that Pugs have big appetites and can easily get overweight. You have to watch their food intake to make sure they do not get too fat. Then while they do not need a lot of exercise, they still need exercise. You will have to make some room in your schedule to make sure your Pug is exercised every day. Also, you have to watch out for eye and ear issues as well as their breathing problem. Special attention is needed to make sure your Pug gets the right kind of care. That care will help them live long and happy lives making sure they are with your family for many years. However, that alone time should not be for hours on end. Pugs like socialization and they love being with their families, so they do not like it when they are the forgotten member of the family. They are bred to be companions to humans and that is what the Pug lives for. But, schedules and daily lives are what they are. This means that you will have to start training your Pug when they are puppies. This training will help them adjust to being alone and make it easier for those times you are gone for a few hours. The amount of hours your Pug can be alone depends on a few factors. Those factors include: Age of your Pug Temperament Anxiety levels The general rule of thumb is to make sure your Pug is not alone for more than 4 hours at a time. But this is a subjective estimate and some Pugs can be alone for 6 to 10 hours if properly trained. If your Pug is a puppy, then try to make sure that you keep their alone time shorter than one hour. That will be the upper limit for your puppy to be alone. Need to know How to Train a Pug? Click here to find out how. There are specific things you can do and are needed if your Pug is going to be healthy and live a long time. Here are some tips to guide you: Make sure they get proper ear, eye, and skin care. You will need to clean their wrinkles, as well as their ears and eyes. Make sure they have healthy food and lots of fresh water in their bowls. Use a harness, not a collar. This is due to their brachycephalic category. Any dog accessory you use on your Pug should not hinder their breathing. Use a slow feeder- Pugs do tend to bloat when they eat and drink too fast. Measure their food out so they do not harm themselves when they eat or drink. Make sure to clean out their food and water bowls regularly. Their saliva and food particles that drip into either one can keep them from eating or drinking. Then your Pug gets dehydrated, etc. You also have to watch out for mold and bacteria in the food bowls. Pugs are vulnerable to the changing seasons. Their care will depend on how hot or cold it is outside. Some Final Words Taking care of a Pug is a little more involved than with other dog breeds. But these dogs are worth every minute of the special care they get. Take some time to learn more about how to care for your Pug so that he or she will be happy living with you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Caring for your Pug Pugs can be highly entertaining dogs due to their big personalities and clownish nature. They generally do well in family environments where they have lots of company all of the time as they love to spend time with everybody. Pugs and barking As with any dog, your Pug is likely to make noise in one form or another. How much your dog barks will be down to them as an individual. Training and socialisation When it comes to training Pugs, although they are a clever breed they can also be very strong willed. Training needs to be ongoing and firm but fair. You can start positive, reward-based training from day one, whether you get your Pug old or young. Exercise Pugs can be prone to gaining weight that can make breathing problems worse, so it is important to keep them active and avoid any weight gain. Your Pug will need up to an hour of exercise a day. This should include shorter walks, with extra playtime and lots of brain-stimulating activities. Several shorter walks throughout the day can help to stop them from becoming too tired or overheated, which is a great way to keep them active throughout the day. Keep a close eye on your Pug as they can tire easily due to their difficulties getting enough oxygen. As soon as you start to notice them struggling to breathe, stop and make sure they get enough of a rest. You will also need to avoid exercising them in the heat as this can cause even more problems since they can be at higher risk of heatstroke. Grooming Even though their coats are short, Pugs can still shed loads. Luckily, they tend to love being groomed as it means a lot of attention all on them. Pay close attention to the folds in their skin, as these are the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections if left damp. You can teach your Pug from an early age to love tooth brushing and nail clipping so you can keep those pearly whites and paws in great condition. Pugs and children Pugs adore company and really love people of all ages. They often get on well with children, especially if the Pug loves to play. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Always supervise children and vulnerable people with your Pug and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. Pugs and other pets Pugs are known for getting along well with other pets and dogs. Introductions still need to be done carefully, though, just in case. Good, kind training will also help them become well-rounded dogs that keep calm in new situations. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards for breeding. See our advice on what you need to know about flat faced pets and how to choose a healthier pedigree pet. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, some centres will 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 six 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 have already neutered the dogs they rehome where appropriate. 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 if your dog outgrows them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catching 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. A group of Pugs is called a grumble! Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to Ancient China where they were bred for Emperors. Pugs were bred to be companions, which is why they love people so much. Getting a Pug Do plenty of research before you get a Pug. Although they are loveable and friendly, they are sadly likely to get a lot of health issues more so than many other breeds. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Pug. Breed-specific rescues specialising in Pugs are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any existing health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will have been well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if a Pug is the right pet for you? Overview When you have a dog from the age of a young pup, this gives you a wonderful opportunity. It offers you a chance to bond with your dog from the very beginning. This also gives you an advantage because you will be able to train and teach your pup what they need to know before they learn any bad behavior from elsewhere. This section will discuss how to care for a Pug puppy, starting at 8 weeks old and up until he or she is an adult, at the age of 1 year. Transition to a New Home Things will run much smoother if you plan ahead and have most, if not all, of your puppy care items already in your home. Here are the most important items to have: A crate — One with an adjustable size is best to fit the needs of a growing Pug puppy. Crating is a good night time method to use until a pup is housebroken. Gates or a playpen — Choosing an area to gate off or using a canine playpen are good options for when you must leave your Pug puppy home alone or for when you cannot be right at his side. This keeps the pup in a controlled space which helps in regard to bathroom needs and keeping a puppy in one area when he or she has strong chewing urges. Puppy food — This should be obtained before the puppy is brought home. Owners will not always agree with the food that a puppy has been being fed, however any change should be done gradually. Have the food that the Pug has been used to eating on hand, as well as your new choice. Details regarding making this change can be found here: Feeding a Pug. You'll also want them to be sized appropriately and at floor level. Honey — Puppies are prone to the condition of hypoglycemia, which is a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Stress, among other things, can bring this on and while going to a new home is a happy event, it can also be stressful for a little pup that is leaving all that he knew and no longer has the companionship and friendship of his litter-mates. Treatment can be provided at home as plans are being made to bring the puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinarian. A small dab of honey is rubbed onto the gums and then the puppy should receive professional treatment, sometimes an IV to restore sugar levels back to normal. Leash, collar and harness — Pugs are prone to conditions that involve breathing problems. The body structure of this breed confines breathing passages into a small space and Pugs can have smaller than normal nasal passages and openings stenotic nares. For this reason, using a harness can help a Pug breathe easier when on leash. A short 6 foot leash works best for both potty training and heeling. Read more : Choosing the Best Collar and Harness for a Pug Grooming supplies — The thick coat of a Pug sheds heavily and brushing it well and offering baths on a regular basis can help control shedding. Starting dental care at a young age can help a puppy become used to this grooming element and set up a foundation for a life time of good dental hygiene practices. Keeping the wrinkles, eyes and ears clean are important part of caring for a Pug puppy. Read more: Shedding - Expect your Pug to shed a lot and be prepared by having the right tools. Dental care - Taking care of your Pug's teeth should be high on your priority list. Ears - Expected shapes and proper care. Wrinkles - Keeping the wrinkles dry and clean. Sleeping supplies - Some owners prefer to have their puppy sleep in the bed with them and while this is not always a bad thing, an owner should think about how that will play out as the pup matures into a much larger adult dog. Having a pup get used to his own canine bed from the beginning, set up in a quiet corner of a room, may work out best. Do keep in mind that Pugs crave human companionship and do not like to feel isolated. Setting up the bed in a quiet corner of a well-used room allows a Pug to have a nice area to retreat to for rest and sleep while allowing him to be close to his human family. It will be normal for a little one to sleep anywhere from 16 to 18 hours a day.This included both night time sleep and naps that will be taken throughout the day. Chew Toys — Teething will begin around the age of 3 or 4 months old and can last up until a Pug puppy is 8 months old. Having a good supply of toys on hand for a puppy to chew on is important. Puppy Proofing Before bringing a puppy home and on a regular basis at least weekly owners are encouraged to go over all floors to remove any small objects that could be accidentally swallowed. All items that could be chewed on such as pocket books and shoes should be placed up high until the Pug has matured. Whining It is normal for very young puppies to cry when first brought to a new home, this usually only lasts for a week or so as the pup becomes used to his new family and environment. This can also be a sign of needing to go to the bathroom, so following house training guidelines, be sure to take your Pug puppy outside on a regular basis. Vaccinations for the Pug Puppy An important part of caring for your puppy will be to make sure he or she is up-to-date for all needed vaccinations. An 8-week-old should already have received his shots, as well as a de-worming. Veterinarians will have varying schedules, however this is a general guideline: 5 weeks Parvovirus: For puppies at high risk of exposure to parvo, some veterinarians recommend vaccinating at 5 weeks. Dogs at high risk are those that live in areas where wild life raccoon, skunk, deer, etc. The inclusion of either canine adenovirus-1 or adenovirus-2 in a vaccine will protect against both adenovirus cough and hepatitis; adenovirus-2 is highly preferred. You will want to talk to your veterinarian about this. Reactions to Vaccines Immunizations are intended to stimulate the immune system to then protect a dog against a specific infectious disease. It is very important to have your Pug receive all needed vaccinations. Your Pug may react to immunizations in ways that range from soreness at the site of injection to mild fever to allergic reactions. The allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Mild- Mild reactions include fever, sluggishness, and loss of appetite. Mild reactions usually resolve without any treatment needed. This is called Urticaria. This happens when there is a reaction of the skin and shows as hives or bumps. It is usually extremely itchy. Urticaria may progress to anaphylaxis, which is considered life-threatening. However, Urticaria is the most common reaction in dogs if a reaction is to happen. Severe - The most severe reaction is anaphylaxis. This is a very fast, sudden, severe allergic response that causes breathing difficulties, collapse and possible death. This is very rare. Urticaria the moderate and most common reaction, if one is to occur happens soon after vaccination, often even before the puppy is brought home. It can happen in the car while you are driving back to your house. Your veterinarian will recommend immediate return to the hospital for treatment. Urticaria is usually treated successfully with injectable corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone. Antihistamines do little to help with acute allergic reactions but may be given by injection to help prevent recurrence of symptoms after steroids wear off. Mild vaccination reactions usually require no treatment. However, if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. Growth Rate A Pug puppy grows quickly and this can happen gradually or with spurts and stops. Many Pug puppies have a growth spurt near the 3 to 5 month mark. As the pup nears the 1 year mark, growth will slow down. Once a Pug reaches his or her full height, there may still be some growth in the width of the Pug, as the chest widens and fills out. How a Pug ages and his growth is rapid, yet can be staggered during the first year. Getting Your Puppy Comfortable One of the most important parts of bringing a puppy home is allowing him or her to become used to their new surroundings. Allow your pup to roam around and check out his new environment. Be sure to keep a puppy's water in one designed spot so that the pup can know that it can always be found. The drinking and feeding area should be in a quite corner of a room, without much foot traffic or noise, since small puppies can feel vulnerable while eating. The absolute longest that a 2 month old pup can hold their needs is 2 hours. The bladder and bowel muscles are not yet fully developed. As they grow older, this time will increase as they have more control over their body. Usually it will increase by 1 hour for each month that goes by. Therefore, a 3 month old can hold on for about 3 hours, a 4 month old for about 4 hours and so on.With 8 hours being the maximum time for any age. Informational Note: When your 2 month old needs to go outside at least every 2 hours, be sure to not get stuck into that habit.It is important to slowly increase the time intervals. Your 3 month old can wait about 3 hours, but only if you allow the pup to use his bowel and bladder muscles to work and grow stronger. If an owner always brought their Pug outside every 2 hours, the dog would never learn to hold their needs for a longer period of time. Keep reading about the best way to house train a Pug puppy. All puppy vaccinations should be given before you take him or her out to the park, to pet supply stores or any other area in which there may have been or could be other animals. Many new owners already have another dog in the household. As your puppy grows older and is receiving the needed vaccinations, you can slowly begin introducing your new puppy to other dogs and allow normal socialization to begin. The Necessities of Care To have a healthy and happy puppy that will grow into a happy and healthy adult dog, make sure to always provide the essentials: A proper diet. You will need to decide if you want to offer manufacture food, home cooked food or a combination of both. Pugs are very sensitive to their human's emotions. A hug goes a long way! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. But, owning a Pug does come with some challenges. Since Pugs are prone to carrying excess weight, this brings in the care elements of both eating a healthy diet and following an appropriate exercise schedule; though this can be tricky, since Pugs must be exercised with care in regard to both duration and intensity. Pugs have thick coats of fur with heavy shedding, lots of wrinkles that need to stay clean, and are generally prone to skin sensitivities. This all requires proper grooming and upkeep. Aside from this, is the general care that applies to every dog. While many owners do this as part of the excitement and preparation of bringing a new pup into the household, this is something that should be done on a regular basis throughout your Pug's life. This can lead to accidentally swallowing things, toxic poisoning, or choking. Proofing the house involves removing small items from the floor, placing cords out of reach or wrapping them in cord protectors, finding new places for shoes and other objects that may be chewed, and placing child-proof locks on any lower cabinets that a Pug may be able to access. The Pug is prone to skin yeast infections, eye issues, and is a heavy shedder, so this a breed that requires lots of grooming. It is best to stick to a schedule in regard to these care tasks. Baths - Bathe you Pug once every 3 weeks, even if your puppy or dog does not appear to be dirty. This will help prevent bad odors , keep skin properly moisturized, and loosen dead hairs from the coat. Young pups can be given a bath in the kitchen sink and older adults can be placed in the bathtub. Because the Pug has sensitive skin, use a shampoo that has a pH between 6. A terrific shampoo to use on Pugs is Earthbath Shampoo which has plant-based cleansers and no additives. The Oatmeal and Aloe formula is ideal for just about Pug since it works to keep skin in great shape. Don't forget about a wash-out conditioner. Hair cuticles open during the shampooing process and a conditioner smooths them down. Eye maintenance - Pug's eyes are large and slightly bulging which means they are prone to picking up debris that can irritate the eyes or scratch the cornea. Small food particles are a top culprit. Keep the eye area clean by wiping it at least once a day and as often as after each meal. For this, you can use the same type of wipe that you have for your Pug's wrinkles see next tip. Wrinkle maintenance - Pugs have lots of deep wrinkles on their head and face making these areas prone to skin infection, so attention must be given to keep these folds clean and dry. Wipe the wrinkles at least once a day, and up to 3 times a day by opening each fold and wiping it with a grooming wipe. If you are looking for a good grooming wipe, Earthbath All-Natural Grooming Wipes are excellent for cleaning wrinkles, wiping the eye area, and to spot-clean a Pug in between baths. Brushing - Pugs are heavy shedders, a lot of the dead hairs will stay lodged in the coat and some will fall to the floor. So, even if you do not notice much shedding, it's important to brush your Pug on a regular basis. Young puppies can be brushed once a week, but adult Pugs should be brushed at least every other day and as often as once per day. Use a tool that will reach down through this breed's thick coat and pull out all the loose and dead fur. While you may be envisioning using a brush, a grooming glove like the Delomo Pet Grooming Glove works very well on a Pug's dense coat. This has over grooming tips that latch onto dead hairs and debris. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed that is very prone to breathing issues. Using a collar when on leash, which places pressure on the trachea, is near guaranteed to exacerbate this. So, part of caring for a Pug involves using accessories that do not impede breathing. For this reason, a harness should be used any time a Pug is on a leash. Harnesses displace tension over the shoulders, back, and chest, leaving the neck free. This is a step-in design just the front legs are placed through the holes, so nothing has to slip over the head , there is an easy-close adjustable Velcro flap on the back, and it is made with air-mesh to keep a Pug cool and comfortable. What you choose to feed your Pug will have both short and long-term consequences, affecting everything from weight maintenance to allergies to intestinal health. Pugs do best with a dry kibble as opposed to a wet canned food; a dry formula tends to keep stools firm and is better for the teeth. Puppies should be fed 3 times a day and this can transition over to twice per day at the 9-month mark. Several dry snacks should be given in between meals and moist treats can be given to reward good behavior such as house training and obeying commands. This breed generally has a very hearty appetite and this, along with their intolerance for extended exercise, makes it easy to gain excess weight. Pugs also tend to have sensitive stomachs and are prone to skin reactions from food additives. Therefore, aim to provide all-natural foods that have no chemical preservatives, no artificial flavoring or dyes, and no by-products, high grain counts, generic meats or oils, corn, soy, or other cheap fillers. If you are not sure what rating your Pug's current dog food has, a good place to check this is Dog Food Advisor which rates the quality of hundreds of brands. And, if you are looking for a good kibble, one recommended brand is Wellness Complete for Small Breeds. For snacks and training treats, Wellness offers several good choices in their line, and if you have an adult Pug and you are working on helping them keep off excess pounds, a good low-calorie option is Fruitables Skinny Minis Dog Treats. Pugs need to drink 1. The tap water in many regions of the US, the UK, Canada and other countries is either outright unsafe or improperly monitored. A number of studies have found drugs in tap water including contraceptive medications, Prozac, Naproxen, Ibuprofen and even illegal drugs; these contain fine particles that are not caught by municipal filtration systems. Other toxins include Chromium-6 a known carcinogen , fluoride which is toxic to canines , chlorite which can cause central nervous problems and HCB which can cause can cause liver disease and skin lesions. And, heavy metals are also an issue. So, for this care tip you can offer bottled spring water, a filtering device that connects your kitchen tap, or a more portable device like the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher. Pugs are prone to bloat, a dangerous and potentially fatal twisting of the stomach. Raised bowls are a contributing factor, as well as eating or drinking too fast or too close to a bout of exercise. For this reason, place food and water in floor-level bowls. If your Pug tends to gulp down his food or water quickly, use a slow-feeder bowl. After eating a meal, do not take your Pug out for exercise for at least one hour. Another element to consider is that stainless-steel bowls are recommended since plastic bowls can cause allergic reactions to either the material itself or to dyes and tend to more easily harbor bacteria, fits the requirements of both height and material. When saliva and tiny food particles mix into water, this creates a slimy film in the dish, which can lead to a dog avoiding it. With food bowls, caked on food can lead to a buildup of bacteria and even mold. Make it a habit to wash both of your Pug's dishes with hot water and soap every day. Since dogs can be very protective of their bowls, a good time to do this is in the evening, after dinner or once your Pug has gone to sleep. Despite their reputation for being lazy, Pugs can have a good amount of energy. And, you'll want to meet this by keeping your Pug moving along, for several reasons: Exercise plays an important role in a Pug's physical health; it's good for the heart and lungs, regulates metabolism, helps maintain proper muscle composition, boosts the immune system, and can keep certain diseases at bay including canine diabetes and even some forms of cancer. Exercise also plays a vital role in a dog's mental health; it allows a dog to release any restlessness that bottles up and allows for desensitization and socialization to all outside elements. At the same time, too much exertion in either duration or intensity can lead to breathing difficulties or overheating for this brachycephalic breed. So, the goal for this care element is to exercise your Pug on a regular basis while keeping in mind your dog's limitations. Pugs do best with at least two walks per day. Each session should last a minimum of 20 minutes, but can extend to 45 minutes or even longer if your Pug is game. Breaks should be taken at the halfway mark of a short walk, every 15 to 20 minutes for a longer walk, or any time that a Pug is breathing noticeably heavier than normal. Bring your Pug into the shade and offer fresh water, ensuring that breathing is back to normal before starting up again. Light to moderate cardio sessions can also be added in, with a rousing game of fetch being the easiest to play and one that most dogs love. Pugs are sensitive to seasonal changes in temperature and some care elements will need to be adjusted. Summer - Hot humid weather makes summertime care a bit tricky with Pugs. Breathing issues are more pronounced and it's more difficult to keep a Pug active. It can help to take your little guy or gal for walks in the early morning and then later in the evening, avoiding the hottest parts of the day. You can help your Pug stay cool by offering lots of water and refreshing treats like frozen blueberries or raspberries. Stay aware of hot walking surfaces which can cause burns to a dog's paws. Take routes in the shade when possible and use a paw wax to offer a layer of protection. Another helpful care tip is to give your Pug a cooling mat to rest on. The Green Pet Shop Self-Cooling Pet Pad works by drawing excess heat away from the body, is self-activating you don't have to plug it in , and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Winter - Plunging temperatures and slippery weather conditions can make wintertime care a bit challenging as well. Fortunately, Pugs have thick coats which help them stay warm in the winter, but never-the-less, many don't like to go out when it's snowy and cold. And, even with dense fur, dogs that are outside for too long, particularly when it's below freezing, are vulnerable to developing hypothermia. So, continue to take your Pug out for their regular exercise sessions, but limit this on days with heavy winter precipitation or below-freezing temperatures. Another aspect to keep in mind is that arid winter air can lead to issues with dry skin. Be sure you are using a hydrating shampoo see care tip 2: Baths and apply a paw wax every two weeks to offer better traction and keep the paw pads in good shape. The Pug is prone to certain issues related to the joints, bones, and ligaments including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes. In addition to this, all dogs age 8-years and up suffer from some level of osteoarthritis and this is more common with breeds that have the aforementioned issues. For this reason, supplying your Pug with a quality bed to rest and sleep on that provides good cushioning and proper support for the body is vital. This should be an appropriately sized orthopedic memory foam bed with at least a 2-inch base. Either a flat mattress or a bolster bed will work and sometimes dogs do have a preference. Because Pugs tend to snore and may have other sleep-related breathing issues, like sleep apnea, being able to place their head on a bolstered cushion which helps extend the neck can be helpful. This also has a non-slip backing and the cover is machine-washable. There are lots of effective toys that can help your Pug in a number of ways and it's always better to have just a few that do their job than a ton that are ignored. Teething puppies need teething toys that help them scratch their itchy gums and soothe the discomfort of erupting teeth. Pugs of all ages that enjoy chewing should be given durable chew toys that they find pleasant to use, as opposed to looking to non-toy items in the house. Pugs that are home alone and suffer from separation anxiety can be helped with interactive toys that respond to them and a companion toy that helps ease feelings of isolation. Toys breeds and brachycephalic breeds are both prone to tooth decay, so that means that if you have a Pug you need to pay particular attention to keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy. A build up of plaque, which eats away at tooth enamel and can travel under the gum line, can lead to terribly painful infections, tooth loss and more. Taking care of your Pug's teeth includes brushing the teeth with a quality canine toothbrush and effective canine toothpaste, or using a spray if your Pug is intolerant to brushings, and offering daily dental treats like GREENIES Dental Chews. Note that this applies to puppies as well, since decay on milk teeth can affect adult teeth that are waiting to emerge. Pugs should have their teeth examined by the veterinarian at least once a year during their wellness checks. An x-ray may be taken to look for any decay and if there is plaque or tartar present, this may require a 'full dental' which involves scraping the teeth clean. This is done with a dog under light sedation. Trauma is one of the leading causes of death for all puppies, the Pug breed included, and is a top concern for Pugs of all ages. Many instances of severe injury and death can be prevented by following some simple care tips: If your Pug has trouble navigating stairs most applicable to puppies and seniors , block these off with a gate. When outside, never allow your Pug to be off leash. Never allow your Pug to be in the yard unsupervised. If you have a puppy, do not allow anyone to handle him unless they have been shown proper handling techniques, which includes using both hands, one under the rump and one supporting the chest. Have young children stay on floor level to play with your Pug. Always be aware of where you are walking, especially at night, so that your puppy or dog is not accidentally stepped on or tripped over. If your Pug will be a passenger in your car, use a safe canine car seat or a canine belt restraint. These yearly for dogs age 1 and up or twice-per-year typically starting at age 8 visits are crucial for good health, prevention, and the best possible prognosis, should any issues be detected. The vet will perform a full physical examination to check for issues seen with canines in general and health issues specific to the Pug breed. Vitals will be taken temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate and your Pug will be weighed. The head will be checked eyes, ears, nose, mouth. The coat and the skin will be examined to look for any signs of concern. Proper posture will be assessed, knees and hips will be examined, and reflexes will be checked. A stool sample will be tested for possible parasites and a blood test will be run to evaluate overall health, flag any infections, and check organ function and electrolyte and protein levels. Senior dogs may have more advanced testing, including x-rays. During the visit, this is your opportunity to ask any questions; a good owner is an involved owner. The American Humane Association estimates over 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the US every year. Here are some tips to prevent this: If your Pug tends to run off, consider spaying or neutering. Intact dogs can have strong urges to take off, looking for a mate. If your Pug darts for the door as soon as its open, have a rule that everyone knocks before entering to allow enough time for someone to hold onto the dog. Consider having your Pug micro-chipped; dogs with chips are returned to owners at a much higher rate than those without. Have current photos of your Pug. If your dog does become lost, create 'lost dog' posters and bring these to all animal services and shelters within a mile area dogs are sometime brought to local shelters but send further away if there is over-crowding. Did you find these care tips to be helpful? This is available in both soft-cover paperback and ebook. Pug Paw Care - The most common issues seen and helpful tips to keep the paws in excellent shape. When a Pug is Super Itchy - Top reasons that cause both acute and chronic itchiness and how to offer fast relief. Housebreaking a Pug - Pugs typically aim to please, but house training can still be a bit challenging. See exact guidelines for fast success. Tips to Keep a Pug Busy and Occupied - Does your Pug stay home alone or seem lost unless you interact with him or her? See super-helpful advice to keep your Pug entertained and happy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. He is goofy, silly, and fun. Pugs were originally bred to be lap dogs and this is evident in the affection that they show to their owners. Nothing makes a Pug happier than being a member of the family. With their large heads, big, sparkling eyes, and wrinkled faces, Pugs are able to achieve a wide variety of human-like expressions- happiness, surprise, and curiosity. So whether you have a Pug already or are wanting to adopt one, here are all the facts and tips for creating a lasting bond between you and your pup. Meet The Pug Height: inches tall at the shoulder Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years Fur type: Pugs have a double coat of short, smooth hair. But they do shed a lot, because of this they are not hypoallergenic. Color: Typically fawn or black. But coats can have different tints like apricot or silver. Personality Pugs are happy, affectionate, loyal, charming, playful, and mischievous. They can be trained to be social from a young age. They are even tempered and gentle. Many people would say that Pugs are a lot of dog in a little space. Pugs tend to be sensitive to the moods of their owners and are eager to please them. Energy Level Pugs are a small, quiet breed, and are for the most part inactive while indoors. They are great for apartment dwellers. While they are docile and peaceful dogs, they do require a daily walk or some playtime to get their wiggles out. Good With Children Because they are bigger and sturdier than most other toy breeds, Pugs are an ideal pet for children. They can withstand some rough play and love to be around people. They are sweet and loving by nature and will protect your children as well as entertain them with their goofy and charming antics. However, if your children are looking for more of an active breed that they can play fetch with or take for long walks, a Pug would not be the best choice for your family. Good With Other Dogs If trained from a young age, Pugs can learn to be social with other animals and can even be trusted with other animals like cats and rabbits. Shedding Pugs have a short, double coat, and shed profusely. We recommend that if you live with a pug, to invest in a vacuum cleaner! Grooming Needs Regular brushing and monthly baths will help keep your Pugs coat in great condition and shedding to a minimum. A rubber curry brush will help remove and catch the shedding hair. Pugs do not naturally wear down their nails, so regular nail-trimmings are necessary. Teach your Pug to tolerate teeth cleaning. This will help prevent him from getting gingivitis. It may seem like a daunting challenge, but the more frequently you brush your Pugs teeth, the more acclimated to it they will become. One of the best things that you can do for your pug to ensure a long healthy life is to regularly clean out his face folds. The wrinkly folds on his face, although adorable, are a hot breeding spot for infection and bacteria. It is very important that after baths you dry out the folds and in-between baths you clean them out. You can use a dry cotton ball to get the junk out or a wet wipe, whichever you have handy. They do have a love for food, so using treats to your advantage might help your little guy learn quicker. Start training your puppy from the minute you bring him home, the earlier you start training, the faster he will pick it up and learn to behave well. How To Feed My Pug If you allow your pug to eat as much as he would like to, you will end up a roly-poly puppy. Pugs will eat everything and anything that you give them, so be sure to measure out their food and feed them small meals at regularly scheduled times. Pugs are usually allergic to foods like corn, soy, and wheat. Try feeding them raw food. Eating a raw, natural diet will ensure the best health of your Pug. Your Pug will love eating raw food! A high-quality diet of Raw food will ensure the best health condition for your pup. Because Pugs are prone to obesity, watch their calorie intake and weight. If you chose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Give table scraps sparingly and try to avoid giving your furry friend cooked bones or foods that are high in fat. Feeding Your Puppy Your cute little Pug should start eating a scheduled diet around 8 weeks. He should eat 4 times a day. This schedule should be followed until your furry friend reaches 3 months of age. At this time you Pug can start eating 3 times a day instead of 4. Feeding Your Adult Once your Pug reaches 1 year, he will be ready to start eating adult food. At this time you may also want to decrease his eating from 3 times a day to twice daily. This will be your best option because Pugs tend to gain weight very easily. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If you Pug happens to have a square shape, he is getting too much food. Health Concerns For Pugs To ensure you are getting a healthy Pug never buy one from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Heat stroke: Pugs suffer from heat stroke if they are outside for too long. When outside with your pug, watch for signs of overheating. They are definitely house dogs and should not be kept outside Breathing: Because of their short snout, pugs are prone to wheezing, snorting, and snoring loudly. Obesity: Be aware of how much you are giving your Pug. If your Pug is developing a square shape, he is eating too much. Pug Dog Encephalitis: This disease is not treatable nor is it testable. Most vets cannot diagnose it until after the death of the dog. It is an inflammation of the brain and meninges. It usually occurs between 6 and 7 months of age and is fatal. Will my pug bite? Pugs are strong-willed but rarely aggressive. They will only bite in moments where they feel threatened or the need to protect. When will my pug stop growing? Some Pugs will actually stop growing then, others will put on a few more pounds before they reach a year. At 1 year your pug puppy will be considered an adult, and by this time their full height is reached. They will still keep filling out in width in the chest area and a little more muscle until about 18 months. If you notice your pug gaining weight in other areas or later than 18 months he may be gaining unnecessary weight and should be checked out by the veterinarian. Can pug eyes pop out? Since Pugs have such beautiful bulgy eyes, they can accidentally go through something call proptosis, which is the popping out of the eyes. You might think this to be a very uncommon, scary thing, but in reality, it is more normal than you think. It is most common among breeds with short snouts and shallow eye sockets, like pugs. It can be a result of a trauma or it can happen completely all of a sudden. Immediately call your vet and she will give you further instruction on how to help your dog. Can pigs swim? Like most dogs, Pugs have a natural ability to swim. Does that mean that he will like the water? Not always. Make sure you introduce your pug to the water in a fun, positive way so that he will have a great first experience. This first time will really make it or break it in terms of him enjoy or disliking the pool. The barrel shape of your Pug does make it harder for him to swim than other breeds and he may get tired very quickly, but as long as you are there to supervise and help him if he starts to panic, he should be fine to swim. When will my pug go in heat? Your female pug could start her first heat as early as 4 months or as late as 15 months. The most typical time is between 4 and 6 months of age. The average heat cycle will last from 2 to 3 weeks and your pug will enter heat every 5 to 8 months. How much do pugs cost? It all depends on pedigree, the area of the country, and health tests that the breeder has done on the parents. Many people would think that the more expensive the pug, the better the quality of life it will have. While that may be a good guess, price does not always indicate how your pug will live. Buying a puppy at weeks is always a guessing game. Are pug puppies hyper? Pug puppies are known to be more energetic than their older parents. This energy usually lasts until about 1 year of age. At this time they tend to slow down and really embrace their lazy personality. Why does my pug howl? Pugs are very loyal dogs. They attach themselves to their humans and love them with all they are. They do not like to be left alone. Some Pugs have been known to howl when their humans leave. Every dog is different though, you might get a pug that howls in conversation or one that never makes any noise. Why do pug tails curl? Kind of like our tailbones. It consists of bone and cartilage. This is an anomaly in how the vertebra develops. Specifically, the bones and the tail form a twisting wedge shape. The twisting is what causes the tail to curl. So if you are looking for a dog with a ton of personality, one that will make you laugh as well as love you until his dying days, look no further. Your Pug will be your constant companion. He will love you as no has ever loved you before. Give him a lot of attention and love and you will have a forever best friend. About Jenna Barrington Hi! My name is Jenna and I am a proud pet parent of a gorgeous Golden Retriever. I grew up surrounded by animals and developed a love for anything on four legs! I spent a year working as a night puppy nurse for Doberman Pinchers, delivering puppies and taking care of all the health needs of the parents. I work now as a professional copywriter and researcher and am happy to be able to share my love for dogs by contributing to TruDog. Small Pets Taking Care of a Pug Puppy Pugs are some of the most soulful looking animals on the planet, and are very expressive. You can easily recognize a pug as these small breed dogs have a wrinkly face and a curled tail. They first came to international prominence when mobile operator Vodafone used them to endorse their brand —the ad with the pug, named Hutch in the ad, was a stupendous success with the pug soon becoming a household name. But there are certain things that you must be aware of if you also want to adopt this cute pet. Unlike adult pugs, small pug dogs are most likely to suffer from a number of health issues ranging from obesity, overheating and pharyngeal reflex. So, you need to be the doubly careful when dealing with these vulnerable puppies. If you are worried, you can take heart from the fact that taking care of the pups is uncomplicated and easy as they have very few demands. Before bringing home the pug puppy Ensure that you have all the grooming items in place starting from brush, cotton swabs, and petroleum jelly to puppy shampoo and dog treats. Here are some guidelines that you can refer to when taking care of the pug puppy: Training the puppy to follow your commands: There is no substitute for a well-trained dog, so train the puppy from day one. The first six months are the most crucial as during this period, he will learn the most which will mold him. Every time he responds correctly to your commands, like sit, run, jump, and come, give him some treats and words of encouragement. But there is one caveat: keep the sessions short as being such a young dog, his power of concentration is limited. To start with, minute sessions would be ok. Also, when taking him for a walk, better use a harness which will provide protection to his windpipe. Potty training: This is a very important stage of puppy training. When he is young, he has very little control over his bladder, so you need to take him out for potty breaks more frequently than you would do to an adult. He may demand potty breaks every hours at this stage, but as he grows older and his control over the bladder imp roves, the frequency will gradually become normal. However, under no circumstances, you should overlook his tendency to soil corners of the home thinking that it is an isolated incident, because it is not. Deal with such incidents with a firm no, or else he will become a big nuisance and a lazy dog. Grooming routine: The pug has a double coat which keeps shedding continuously, so daily grooming is essential. Brush the pug at least twice every week and vacuum him extensively. In what is unusual, pug dogs are very fond of water, unlike other dogs. You can easily find soaps and other bath related items that are designed for puppies in the local outlet, use them. Try oatmeal based shampoos which not only keeps his skin soft, but protects his sensitive skin. Pugs have narrow ear canals, so chances of getting an ear infection if water gets into its ear are higher in pugs. What you can do is use soft tissues or a cotton ball to wipe the ear clean and dry. If your pug is shaking his head violently, then it may indicate an ear infection —and if there is an infection, get in touch with the vet immediately. Cleaning of Pug Wrinkles Pug wrinkles are called folds, which serve as a great place to accumulate all sorts of unwanted stuff like water, mucous, dirt, tear, food etc. Cleaning of pug wrinkles is an easy task and getting the Pug used to it at an early age is a good idea. Some owners use an Ear Bud or Q-Tip for this purpose, but we would not recommend this as the slightest struggle from your Pug could cause an eye injury. Instead, you can use baby wipes or medicated wipes. You can fill a cup with lukewarm water and dip the baby wipes or cotton swab in it. After that, run the moist tip of baby wipes through the wrinkles so that all dirt and grime particle come out. At the end, you should use a cotton swab to smear petroleum jelly inside the wrinkles to keep the internal skin protected. Tackling overheating issues: Pugs are adversely affected by warm conditions and may get dehydrated. So, ensure that the living condition of the pup is cool- special care needs to be taken during the summers when the pugs feel great discomfort. Regularly check the room temperature where the pug is kept, and if you feel that the room is too hot, you have to either move it to a cool room or else you have to provide him with lots of water. In extreme conditions, there are cold compresses that you can put on his belly till it cools down. Exercise: Pugs are actually overweight for their size, so unless they exercise a lot heath issues are a given. Take him for a daily walk and play different games with it which will help it maintain its health. Be careful not to take him out on a bright sunny day, as it can dehydrate him. Feeding the puppy: There are special diets that are designed for pugs. But you may be unsure which brand to select for your puppy as there are so many different brands in the market. The best thing to do in such a situation is to take the advice of a vet. Pugs would eat almost anything and in the process put on a lot of weight. So, make it a point not to overfeed it. Also, if your dog prefers a particular food and you want to wean it away from that food, do it gradually. Normally, puppies in the age group 3 to 6 months should be fed at least three times a day. And from 6 months to 1 year, change it to two times. To make the feeding process easier for the pet, try using bowls that has an elevated shape off the ground. For more guidance, please refer to this article : Puppy feeding tips for new dog owners Dealing with obesity: Overeating will not only make the pug overweight, but may pave the way for ailments like leg pain, eye disorders, and lung problems. About Rahul From Delhi, Rahul is an animal lover at heart. He is a writer and most of his writing revolves around making people aware of animal issues like health, training and grooming.

He has a great disposition and loves his exercise. He is very active which is why he is nice and calm around us. He loves to play with his spring pole and has been a pleasure to train. Krajewski DA KillDozer aka Dozer relaxing—he walks great on a leash, sit, lay, roll over, and stay at 12 weeks old. He is the first dog I have ever had, and I am definitely impressed with his progress. I am waiting till he gets a little older, but I think he has a great temperament, and hopefully he will be able to become a therapy dog. I think that would not only be fun for him, but would also paint a very positive picture of this breed and the things they can accomplish. He has a very laid-back personality. Very friendly with other dogs. Loves people, loves the water. Just started obedience training. Before any formal training he easily learned the basics sit, stay, lie down ,shake, etc. Although he is very large, he is a very good inside dog. In the six months that I have had him, he only has had one accident in the house. He is CKC registered. He was also crate trained in a matter of days. He is exercised daily. Extremely loyal to me and loving with anyone he meets. His mostly brindle markings I have been told and researched to be on the rare side. She thinks she is a lap dog. I've never been a big "dog person" until we got her. I never imagined myself loving a dog as much as I love her; I look at her as if she was my own child.Everyone tells me she is the best-looking dog they have ever seen, and I agree! This is what he thinks he was put on this earth to do. His registered name is "The Game's Tankus Maximus. He weighs pounds and lives with a female mixed breed that is 45 pounds lighter than he is. She is the alpha dog. I guess he just doesn't know he is bigger than she is. He was 18 months old when this picture was taken. I took this picture of him when we took him out on the Puget Sound on a boat. We didn't expect him to get so excited about the water; he leaned very far over the edge of the boat, so to be safe we put a flotation device on him since he is not a very strong swimmer. He is a very sweet and well-behaved dog, although he can get overly excited in some situations. He has a lot of energy. Hanah the white American Bulldog at 5 years old weighing pounds. Look no further! Our stock photo collection features a wide range of images that are perfect for any project, from print ads to web design. Our collection includes a variety of American bulldog images, including photos of puppies, adult dogs, and even show dogs. We also have images of bulldogs in different poses and settings, such as running, playing, and sleeping. Our photos are high resolution and can be downloaded in both small and large sizes, making them perfect for both web and print projects. 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Get Started with Our American Bulldog Images Today Our collection of American bulldog images is perfect for anyone looking for high-quality photos of these adorable dogs. Whether you're a designer looking for the perfect image for your latest project, or a breeder looking to showcase your puppies, we have something for everyone. So why wait? Browse our collection today and find the perfect image for your project! The American Bulldog is a strong and muscular breed of dog that has a long history as a working dog. They are loyal, protective, and have a strong sense of family. They are also known for their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. American Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs, with males typically weighing between 75 and pounds, and females between 60 and pounds. They have a short, dense coat that is typically white, brown, or brindle in color. American Bulldogs are known for their courage, athleticism, and strength. They make excellent guard dogs, and are often used as protection dogs. They are also very loyal and devoted to their owners, and make great family pets. They are intelligent and eager to please, and respond well to training. American Bulldogs are active and energetic dogs, and need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They do best with an owner who is willing to provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation. They are also very social, and do well in a home with other animals and children. American Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and skin allergies. They should be fed a high-quality diet and given regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they stay healthy. Overall, the American Bulldog is a strong and loyal breed that is great for families and individuals looking for a loyal and protective companion. They are intelligent, active, and devoted to their owners, and make great guard dogs. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation, and do best in a home with other animals and children. With proper care and attention, they can be a loving and devoted companion for many years to come.

Buying A Boxer Puppy? Finding Your Puppy -- Buying From the Breeder The conscientious breeder plans a breeding to reproduce the best characteristics of an outstanding sire or dam. His guide is the official AKC Standard of the breedthe written "blueprint" that helps keep the breed uniform for generations to come. You can find the breed standard, revised in , at the American Boxer Club website: www. The more common disappointments for pet purchasers come from commercial sources--especially pet shops that often buy puppies from the infamous "puppy mills" that take little notice of the quality or health they are producing. The pet store or dog broker will sell you a puppy with a breeder's name attached to the paperwork--but this puppy may easily have been born in a puppy mill. The reputable breeder, on the other hand, will not only be able to demonstrate the pedigree and registration papers, but will also show you either the sire or dam themselves, or pictures of the parent who may be owned elsewhere. Though the mere presence of "papers" does not guarantee good health, conformation, or temperament, you will most often find these attributes in the puppy who has been raised with loving care in the home or kennel of a conscientious hobby breeder. The serious breeder often strives to produce a potential "champion. Sometimes the distribution of white markings alone may make the difference between the so-called "pet" and show-potential puppy. The pet puppy will have benefited from the same proven bloodlines, nutrition, and medical care as its "champion" littermate. His breeder will have health tested the parents and done the best he can to insure good temperament, soundness, and longevity. Here is your best buy. Boxer magazines publish ads from breeders. The American Boxer Club web site www. Usually any time after weeks. Many states have regulations regarding minimum age. However, your individual circumstances must be considered. Do you have the time to spend with a very young puppy? Will someone be home to housebreak him? Would an exuberant 6-month old puppy overwhelm a tiny child? Or would he be better matched with a 6-year-old youngster? Remember too that the puppy under 3 months needs lots of time to rest. Don't forget that adult dogs, already trained, also make ideal pets. While much can be told at six to eight weeks about the puppy's eventual looks, if you are seeking a show prospect you might be better off waiting until the pup is six to eight months of age. At that time, be prepared to pay a higher price for all the additional time and effort that the breeder has spent raising the show potential Boxer. Male or Female? This choice is a matter of personal preference. Both males and females make admirable pets. Breeding is a serious committment of time, energy, and money, and not to be taken lightly. If breeding is not anticipated, it may be appropriate to spay or neuter your dog. This procedure is best done as your Boxer approaches adolescence. Please be aware that these surgeries should be discussed with your veterinarian as to safety of anesthesia and any long term effects other than sterilization. Spayed and neutered animals are not eligible to compete in the conformation ring but may be shown in performance events. Check this list! Tails should have been docked within a few days of birth. Optional removal of front dewclaws fifth toes is done at the same time. The Boxer has no rear dewclaws. Ear cropping is customary and appropriate but not required--it is a matter of personal preference. Uncropped ears are permitted under the breed standard. If cropped, this procedure is done under general anesthesia, usually between six and nine weeks of age. If the puppy is taken before cropping, the breeder usually makes arrangements. The breeder also advises regarding aftercare and taping if ears are not already standing. Sometimes this is a lengthy process. In the male, both testicles should be descended into the scrotum. They should be in place by two to three months of age. A dog with undescended testicles may still make a fine pet, though he would be ineligible to compete in the conformation show ring. Consult your veterinarian for advice. Avoid the unusually quiet, inactive puppy, or the one that might shy away from you. This might mean a fault in temperament or even ill health. Papers the Seller Should Furnish: a. A three or four generation pedigree signed by the seller. There should be no extra charge for this. The pedigree preferably gives the color of the sire and dam, and the AKC registration numbers of each. The registration from the AKC, which is an official document identifying your puppy's individual registration number, sex, birth date, sire and dam, and name of the breeder s. There are two ways to register puppies for the first time: 1 Limited Registration If the puppy is not to be bred, and is being purchased only as a companion pet, the breeder may check off the Limited Registration option. This does register the puppy with the AKC. However, it does not allow any registration of offspring from the mature dog. The breeder and only the breeder can cancel the limited registration should the puppy at maturity be considered of breeding quality. Records the Breeder Should Furnish: a. Date and type of vaccines given. Depending on the type of vaccination program started, your veterinarian will advise you on following through. Vaccination protocols are evolving even among the medical professionals. Date and agent used for worming, if done. Do not worm your puppy without consulting your veterinarian. Avoid store-bought preparations which can be dangerous. Diet your puppy has been receiving. It is well to maintain the regimen begun by the breeder, especially while the puppy is adjusting to his new home. If changes are to be made. When he is an adult it will be wise to maintain your Boxer on two smaller meals a day. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Sometimes called a Goldenpoo or Goldenoodle, the Miniature Goldendoodle is created by crossing a miniature or toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever. The result is a mild, friendly, family dog that looks like a teddy bear come to life. Their energy level matches the Poodle genes while their gentleness and willingness to please is reflective of the Golden Retriever. They are devoted friends who crave cuddles and will follow you around just to be near you. They are smart dogs with a silly streak. They are loving and loyal and gentle enough to make good playmates for kids. Their intelligence makes them easy to train. This breed has a happy disposition and a friendly, affectionate nature. They crave close contact at all times, and they can develop separation anxiety if you leave them alone too long. They typically get along well with other dogs and other pets. They are eager, excitable, and enthusiastic about outings of all kinds. Their heads are rounded and their ears are floppy and wide-set. Their eyes are large and expressive and noses are typically black. Their muzzles are short to medium with a scissor bite. They have long and fluffy or feathered tails. Mini Goldendoodles have wavy to curly hair and they do not have an undercoat, making them a great choice for people with allergies. While they are considered hypoallergenic, some allergy-sufferers may still experience symptoms. They can be: Black. Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article. They are intelligent dogs that learn quickly and enjoy being obedience trained. They also get along well with other dogs and children, making them ideal family pets. These pups are active dogs that need plenty of exercise, but they are also content to lounge around the house with their families. Overall, Toy Goldendoodles make wonderful companion animals for people of all ages. Toy Goldendoodle Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Toy Goldendoodles for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Toy Goldendoodle puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Toy Goldendoodle puppies are at a somewhat elevated risk for developing the following conditions: Hip Dysplasia Elbow Dysplasia Von Willebrand Disease Some of the most common health concerns for Toy Goldendoodles include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and von Willebrand disease. Hip dysplasia is a condition that can cause pain and lameness in the hips and legs. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. Von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder that can be potentially life-threatening. Finding a Toy Goldendoodle puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat must be brushed at least once a week, and more if the dog is shedding. The coat should be shampooed every few weeks, using a mild dog shampoo. The coat should also be trimmed every few months, to keep it from getting too long. Meet Toy Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale. Gaining popularity in the early s these beautiful mini doodle dogs would spread out over three generations. A first-generation Mini golden doodle puppy is known as an F1 Mini Goldendoodle. This is the puppy of a purebred Golden Retriever crossed with a Miniature Poodle. A second-generation puppy is known as an F1B Mini Goldendoodle. This is the puppy of an F1 cross bred with a Miniature Poodle. A third generation is known as F2 Goldendoodle mini. This is where a puppy has two Mini Goldendoodle parents. Most widely known for their affectionate, friendly, gentle, and intelligent traits, Goldendoodle puppies are often used in a variety of mental and physical activities including agility, hunting, narcotics detection, obedience, retrieving, and search and rescue. Appearance and Grooming The colors of a Miniature Goldendoodle puppy coat can vary from black, copper, white, and cream to gray, golden, apricot and red apricot, golden, red, white, and yellow. Its coat also varies a lot in look and texture. Some pups have fur that is shaggy like a Golden Retriever, others have curls like a Poodle, and some are perfect hybrids. Ideally, you should brush your puppies up to three times every week to keep their hair smooth and tangle-free. Bathing can be done every 4 to 6 weeks, whereas ear and teeth cleaning should be done at least every few days. Get more tips on grooming from our Grooming your Dog at Home Guide. As one of their parents the Golden Retriever is an occasional shedding dog and the other the Poodle is a non-shedding dog, their hypoallergenic qualities very much depend on who they take after more. A puppy that is a half and half mix of its parents will likely be a semi-hypoallergenic, low-shedding dog. Goldendoodles currently come in 4 size varieties: Standard, Mini, Toy, and Teacup. Standard adult size is typically an average of 40 to 50 pounds with a height of 17 to 20 inches. There are also larger Goldendoodles that can weigh up to 90 pounds and reach a height of 24 inches full grown Full-grown Mini Goldendoodle puppies can weigh up to 40 pounds and reach a maximum height of 22 inches Petite or Toy Goldendoodles typically weigh 10 to 20 pounds and grow between 10 and 16 inches at the shoulder Teacup Mini Goldendoodle puppies generally grow to inches and can weigh as little as 7 pounds Miniature Goldendoodle Size - There are a few key factors that should be considered in order to determine the Mini Goldendoodle size adult size. The typical weight for an adult F1b Mini Goldendoodle is between 20 and 30 pounds. This puppy has two Mini Goldendoodle parents. A teacup full grown usually weighs around 15 pounds. Temperament Our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale are joyful companions that are loyal, brave, and obedient. Most of all, they enjoy human company, cuddles, and fun games. Their temperament depends on heredity, training, and socialization. Mini Goldendoodle's general characteristics are curiosity, playfulness, gentleness, and patience. They will bark and alert their owner when visitors or intruders appear. They also have protective behavior and act fearlessly towards aggressors in order to protect their families. Out of all mini doodle breeds, these puppies are among the most suitable for families with kids due to their playful, energetic, and affectionate temperament. Goldendoodles are very good with children. They are also a very energetic breed that can keep up with active owners and teenagers that enjoy going on hikes, bike runs, or any type of outdoor adventure. Complete breed description of the Mini Goldendoodle Exercise Needs Being smaller dogs, our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale do not require nearly as much exercise. A recommended tominute walk, twice a day, and some added play time will be sure to help them burn some energy. In addition to games of fetch and chase, these lovable pups also love to swim so it is beneficial to allow them to go for a few swims during summertime as well as a form of exercise. Mini Goldendoodle Puppy Training and Socialization The influence of the parent breeds results in a dog that loves to learn and is eager to please its owner. They are known for forming a strong bond with their owner during the training phase, which may lead to separation anxiety, so in addition to taking them for walks to encourage socialization make sure to leave your puppy at home alone for little bits of time in the beginning to eliminate their fear. Consistent, fun, and short training sessions will make this breed easy to train. Our Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale are sociable and get along well with other pets and humans, but they still need early socialization to prevent aggressive behavior. It is recommended to expose them to different environments, places, people, and experiences to help them become well-rounded adult dogs. They are easy to train as they are eager to learn and to please their owner. The trainer should use reinforcement methods such as praise and rewards for motivation. Mini Goldendoodle puppies are also known to form strong attachments to their owners. Goldendoodle Mini for Sale Premier Pups is partnered with the most reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders in the nation to offer you the best variety of Mini Goldendoodle puppies for sale. Our Goldendoodle mini puppies are vet-checked, healthy, and ready to love you unconditionally for many years to come. At full growth the average height of a Female Minature Goldendoodle is between inches with an average weight of lbs. For Male Miniature Goldendoodles their average height is between inches with an average weight of lbs. What types of coats do Miniature Goldendoodles have? They can have a straight, wavy or even a curly coat. You can best tell what type of coat your puppy will have when they reach about 6 weeks of age. What colors do Miniature Goldendoodles come in? These pups can come in solid colors or with patterns. The most common colors include: cream, fawn, brown, isabella, grey, red and black. What is the difference between F1, F1B, and F2? F1 is a breeding of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. The standard doodle would be with a standard size poodle and the mini would be with a mini size poodle. F1B is a breeding of an F1 Goldendoodle with a Poodle. F2 results from breeding F1 golden parents. Their friendly nature, strong intuition and unmatched intelligence, allows them to excel in areas of service and therapy. Are Miniature Goldendoodles considered a breed? Are Miniature Goldendoodles hypoallergenic? Miniature Golden doodles are a cross breed and therefore their coats can vary. Some do not shed at all and some have light shedding that occurs. Generally speaking, they are a great choice for allergy sufferers. Should I be concerned with any common health problems? Because this Miniature Golden doodle is considered a hybrid the only genetic diseases they can be prone to would be those shared by both the Golden Retriever and the Standard Poodle, both of which have no major concerns. As with any dog as they begin to age you can expect common concerns. How long do Mini Goldendoodles live? The average life expectancy is 10 to 15 years. Are Miniature Goldendoodles good with kids? Aside from their loving and sweet temperament, Miniature Groodles make great pets for families with kids or just friends visiting with children. These dogs are very energetic and love to run and play with kids. Does my Miniature Goldendoodle need to be groomed regularly? Ideally Miniature Golden doodles with a longer hair length need professional grooming every weeks. If you like to keep your Mini with a shorter clip, they will need professional grooming every weeks. What is best for me- a male or female? Though, the males are still active they have a tendency to be more laid back. How much exercise does a Mini Goldendoodle need? Miniature Golden doodles energy levels are average. In addition to a daily walk they will need about a half to an hour of play each day to stay fit and trim. Are they sociable? Yes, very much so. Miniature Golden Doodles are highly sociable dogs who form long-lasting bonds with their humans. What is the temperament of a Miniature Goldendoodle? Golden doodles are loyal, gentle and affectionate. They have the obedience of the golden retriever and the intelligence of the Poodle. They are sociable animals who love to be around the company of people. Do Mini Goldendoodles shed? Depending on their breed generation and who they take after more, these dogs can be low to moderate shedders. When do Mini Goldendoodles stop growing? The Mini Goldendoodle can reach its adult size as early as 8 months. Some may continue growing until they reach 12 months of age. What is a Mini Goldendoodle? A Mini Goldendoodle is a hybrid breed that is achieved by crossing a poodle and a golden retriever. How much do Mini Goldendoodles weigh? These dogs typically weigh between 18 and 35 pounds when fully grown. Do Mini Goldendoodles bark a lot? Although they are not considered a very vocal breed, Mini Golden doodles can be talkative when they have something to say. They are known to alert to visitors and can be vocal at times. What is an f1b Mini Goldendoodle? Are Mini Goldendoodles good apartment dogs? Mini Golden doodles make fantastic apartment dogs as they are very friendly, sociable, and well-behaved indoors. Their size is ideal for apartment living, as is their temperament. Are Mini Goldendoodles easy to train? As a mix between two of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world, Mini Golden doodle puppies are incredibly smart and easy to train. They are fast learners that pick up on commands quickly. You are mixing a relaxed large breed dog with a poodle. A majority of the Mini Goldendoodle puppies will have moderate energy but some can have higher energy level. Mini Goldendoodle Reviews.

Of that number, a large amount is returned simply because the owners couldn't care for them. This is especially common for puppies that don't receive proper training. You might think that German Shepherds are exempt from these numbers. They're so obedient. They're trained to be police dogs; they're in the military; they're even trained to herd animals on farms. They take a lot of training to get there, though, especially German Shepherd puppies. While adopting a German Shepherd puppy is possibly one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever think of, it's definitely something to think about before taking the plunge. Luckily, we're here to help you learn all you need to know about taking care of puppies and even what you need to know beforehand. Read on to learn all you need to know about taking care of and raising German Shepherd puppies. Also don't forget to check out our custom german shepherd gifts as well! Ensure You'd Like to Adopt a German Shepherd The very first thing you need to consider is whether or not a German Shepherd puppy is going to match your lifestyle. They're a physically demanding breed that requires a lot of regular exercise and stimulation. If they don't get this, you can expect behavioral problems like chewing on and getting into things they shouldn't a common thing for any breed. They're a particularly aloof breed, but they make excellent and watchful family pets. German Shepherds may take time to warm up to strangers and even children, but with proper training and boundary establishment, they're very well-behaved dogs. The two other large things to consider before you decide; how much their care costs and just how big they can get. While some females can be as small as 51 pounds, some males can weigh up to 90 pounds. Typically, females are smaller than males, but German Shepherds are by no means a small breed. Their average height is anywhere from 22 to 26 inches. If you need a size comparison, the average height of a Pomeranian is around 10 inches tall. The other thing to consider is how much they're going to cost not only to adopt but also to care for. Since German Shepherds are typically a large breed, they're going to cost more to feed, transport, and care for on a day-to-day basis. Tips for Picking a Puppy Once you've figured out whether you can handle the financial responsibility of a German Shepherd puppy , it's time to pick out the puppy themselves. Here are a few things to consider, whether you're adopting from a breeder or a shelter. Look for Signs of Abuse and Neglect Abuse or neglect is likely to be more common in shelter puppies, but it's definitely a possibility if you're adopting from a breeder. Some signs of abuse can include: Food aggression or refusing to leave food when called Separation anxiety Antisocial behavior Submission Submission can be a tricky thing to spot at times, but it isn't impossible to detect. Sometimes in it's a dog's nature to be naturally submissive, and it's an important trait to have if they're going to be around established packs. Here are a few signs of abnormal submission that can point to emotional abuse, though: Cowering in fear or hiding when approached Rolling over or walking away with tail tucked between legs when approached Laying down or cowering while urinating These puppies aren't impossible to rehabilitate, but they're going to require patience. Scolding or becoming angry with an abused puppy will only make the problem worse, so it's smart to consider whether or not it's something you can handle. If you're not adopting from a shelter, it's important to ensure the breeder you're looking to work with is a reputable one. Adopting these breeders is an especially important thing you can do to ensure you're getting a healthy and well-cared-for puppy. Look Out for Their Demeanor But also be aware that, while they're still a puppy, you do potentially have some effect on their personality as they grow older. While there are definitely things you might not be able to change how much they enjoy affection, whether or not they like playing for hours or a few minutes , but there are still a lot of things you can affect. The things you can affect usually have to do with their overall temperament. With proper training and boundary-setting, aggressive puppies can be taught to socialize. The same goes for shy or insecure puppies. Curious and hyperactive puppies are already set up for success on the socialization front, but you'll have to show them proper interactions with other dogs and even humans. Training Milestones Once you've decided on a puppy, it's time to start training. These are important guidelines to take into consideration and also important to ensure you can achieve. While this article is going to focus on GSD puppies specifically, they're also milestones to take into consideration no matter what breed of puppy you decide upon. Socialization Socialization is important for any breed because it ensures that you can take your dog out in public safely. It is especially important, however, for German Shepherd puppies from the age of weeks old. As we talked about earlier, this breed is naturally protective of its owners. That's why it's important to establish from an early age which strangers are friendly and what situations are not a threat. The more variety you can provide with your puppy's interactions, the better. This means typical interactions, like going for a walk or visiting the dog park, but also rarer ones. Some examples might be a blind person's white cane that helps them navigate or meeting a person in a wheelchair. While these interactions aren't exactly uncommon to see, if your puppy is unfamiliar with them as they grow older, they might see them as a threat the first time they come across them. The most important thing to remember when it comes to proper socialization, however, is that your puppy will pick up on your cues. This means that confidence is key when it comes to training. If you're nervous the entire time you're attempting to socialize your dog, they're going to notice and become hesitant as well. Ensuring that you're safely exposing your puppy to new sounds, smells, and sights will give you both the confidence needed to live and work together. Crate Training Crate training is a great way to help your puppy avoid developing social anxiety. Like socialization, confidence and safety are crucial to this particular method of training. Your puppy's crate isn't a punishment. In fact, it's usually seen as a safe space for them to go when they want some alone time. To start crate training, begin by placing them in their crate for feeding times and when you sleep at night. It might be difficult when you first start, but it's important to stay consistent, as this shows your puppy that their crate is a place they're safe in. It's also great to leave them in their crate when you leave the house. How long you're gone is going to depend on their age the older they get, the longer they can wait to use the bathroom , but it's still a good way to ensure they're safe when left alone. House Training Crate training is also a great way to supplement house training — especially for GSDs. House training is usually simple for this breed, especially accompanied by supervision, patience, and consistency on the owner's part. When you first bring your puppy home, it's important to take them out at least once an hour, though this number will go down as they get older. Reward them when they use the restroom outside, and don't punish them if they have an accident inside. When you use harsh reinforcement, like shoving their nose in their urine, they're not necessarily going to understand what's going on. Instead, if they have an accident and you catch them in the act, simply pick them up and take them outside. This shows them where they're supposed to go, reinforcing the boundary rather than training from a place of fear. Chewing The same goes for chewing on or getting into items they're not supposed to. Yelling, hitting, or scaring your puppy is not an effective way to train them. Instead — when they're getting into things they shouldn't — remove the item from their possession or move them to a different location while firmly saying "no. In this case, toys are expected to be chewed on. Setting clear boundaries and expectations from day one is not only going to make training your puppy easier, but it's going to make it easier for them to trust you. Obedience Training Starting at three months, obedience training should take place for your puppy. This includes basic commands, impulse control, and teaching them which behaviors are inappropriate for them to exhibit. For impulse control, that means teaching them to stay when food is set in front of them. Inappropriate behaviors will depend on the owner, but this usually means things like excessive barking, digging, chasing especially cats and cars , or even jumping and begging. Establishing trust is important for your dog because the key to obedience training is having their focus be on you. You're the one giving the cue, so they have to be able to trust that you're guiding them appropriately. Having your puppy sit before getting food, being greeted by house guests, playing with a toy, or opening the door to go for a walk is a great place to start. In these situations, the more you can have the puppy's attention on you instead of the impulse, the more effective their training will be. That means lots of positive reinforcement with lots of treats! After 1 Year For many breeds, one year old is considered the "end" of puppyhood, but for a lot of german shepherds , that doesn't come until the age of two to three years old. It's important to continuously reinforce training methods like impulse control, obedience skills, and even possibly advancing to other, more specific, training skills like agility, herding, and even protection work. GSDs are capable of performing all these duties and even excel at them. When you give your puppy something a job to focus on at certain points throughout the day, you give them something to look forward to — dogs of any breed thrive on this. No matter what decision you make, a puppy will make a wonderful addition to any family they're added to — German Shepherd puppies are no exception to this. Overall, the breed is a very loving, loyal, and protective breed. They're going to have a natural affinity for you from the start. If you give them the proper love, affection, and training, you're definitely going to reap the rewards of the decision you made to adopt. Once you decide to adopt, your puppy is going to need a few supplies of its own. Check out our custom german shepherd gifts to show off your love for your puppy no matter where you both choose to venture. So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog 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. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high 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 six 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. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds 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. German Shepherds just kind of happened to me. Shepherds are a bit suspicious of strangers. Also, be prepared for your shepherd to pick someone to be her person in your family. In my family, Pyrrha unequivocally picked me. Beware the land sharks! It comes from somewhere deep in their herding heritage, I suppose, but these are very bitey puppies! For this reason, a GSD can be a trying breed with young children, who often become unwitting targets for playful biting. If not addressed, this shyness can transform into fear-based aggression. These dogs are busybodies, and they want to know where you are and what you are doing at ALL times — in the event that your actions could compromise the security of the house and the family. German Shepherds have a double coat, which equals twice as much fur all of your floor, your sofa, your clothes, etc. German Shepherds like to play rough Shepherds have a tendency to rough-house with both people and other dogs. Dog owners with other breeds have told me that it took them a while to realize that our shepherds were playing with their dogs — and not trying to kill them. In my experience, even in play, shepherds like to go for the throat and get into some heavy-duty wrestling. If it hurts your feelings that some people are automatically scared of your dog, a German Shepherd may not be right for you. If you have a German Shepherd, let this motivate you to make your dog a great breed ambassador and help change negative stereotypes. Other dogs were more barky, especially at strangers walking past our fence or at other dogs. Pyrrha is an uncharacteristically quiet German Shepherd; but our little Eden loves barking, barking just for the fun of it! Be aware of this issue, and be prepared to start training your dog when and how to be quiet. Consider a large number of health issues German shepherds are famous for their litany of health issues. On a range from more benign allergies to life-threatening osteosarcoma, hemangioma , shepherds seem to have them all. The breed even has predispositions to diseases that seem to occur exclusively within the purebred line e. Find a good vet preferably one with shepherd experience , and start taking measures to keep your shepherd trim and healthy. German Shepherds are large, active, athletic, and highly intelligent dogs. What this means is that if they get bored, you are going to seriously regret bringing this fuzzy monster into your house. Try obedience classes, agility, flyball, Schutzhund, herding , nose work, etc. Shepherds can excel at many canine sports and activities! German Shepherd Purebred Puppy If you want a purebred puppy, do your research about the difference between working-line and show-line German Shepherds. This can be a touchy subject for some, but in general, I feel that the bottom line is this: Working-line dogs are sounder and healthier because they are bred to do a job. Start researching how to determine what kind of GSD suits you and your family. Our foster German Shepherd Puppy Trina. The only downside of rescuing a purebred is that you have no health guarantees and no knowledge of their parents or often of their backgrounds. German Shepherd as a companion Pyrrha, for example, appears to be an American-line shepherd bred for companionship by a backyard breeder. Eden, on the other hand , is a German-line shepherd whose parents were imports titled in Schutzhund. They also showed dogs, so she has a more sloped topline than Pyrrha and slightly more exaggerated hocks. German shepherds still rank no. Consider it! Source: Wikimedia Commons. ALL puppies require hard work, devotion, and lots and lots of patience. But the joy they bring?

Articles Most of us have come across different breeds of dogs, such as the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. However, many people may have no idea about the American Bulldog , let alone the Johnson type of American Bulldog. The Johnson American Bulldog originated from the Old English Bulldog , which was brought to North America by working-class immigrants who wished to see their working dogs help on the farm. Instead of growing concerned about maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers ensured that the dogs were bred with the best working features for all-around farm work. With lots of endearing qualities, the Johnson American Bulldog breed is a joy to have as a companion. For this reason, this article is aimed at enlightening you on all you should know about the American Bulldogs. The males can grow as tall as 22 to 27 inches with a big, strong physical presence. Likewise, the females can grow as tall as 20 to 25 inches. For a complete profile, there are several questions we will answer about these interesting furry friends: Do Johnson American Bulldogs Have Wrinkles? As a breed, Bulldogs are recognized for their wrinkles, and Johnson American Bulldogs are no different. There can be wrinkles all over their body. Yet, wrinkles are most obvious around their head and abdomen when they are seated. Why does this breed have wrinkles? Historically, these dogs were bred to fight. The wrinkles and loose skin ensured protection and kept the flow of blood from their eyes during fights. This breed has a big head and strong jaws. Besides this, their ears may be cropped. However, uncropped ears may droop forward, fold backward, or prick up. Their ears are typically medium in size and sit high on the head. The eyes of Johnson American Bulldogs may be almond-shaped or round and are dark brown. The muzzle is extremely wide and short, giving the face a flattened appearance. Their hindquarters are narrow and slightly lifted with sculpted haunches. Coat Colors And Patterns The Johnson American Bulldog comes in a variety of coat colors, including white and black, white and brindle, solid white, white and brown, white and tan, black, lilac, blue, and chocolate. Image from Instagram: thatbulldogloki The Johnson American Bulldog is considered a healthy dog breed that can live as long as 10 to 16 years. These dogs tend to be robust, physically fit, and active, which enables them to live long and be healthy. However, they are prone to certain health problems. Kidney And Thyroid Disorder This could result in fatigue, weakness, decreased mental sharpness, excretion problems, and more. Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear When this happens, each time this canine buddy puts weight on the injured leg, the femur slides close to the back of the tibia, causing immense pain. Entropion This is an ocular disorder that makes the eyelids of a dog roll backward. This causes the hair around the eyes to touch the cornea, leading to irritation. Cherry Eye This occurs when the gland of the nictitans prolapse. When it is not painful, a dog will rub on it as though it were itchy. Apart from this, there are other health-related problems that these furry buddies suffer from. Some of these include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, obesity, overheating, and allergies. Susceptibility to these conditions does not imply sickness. For this reason, you should understand your furry companion and watch out for any warning signs that may be developing. Johnson American Bulldogs are often loved for their courageous, resolute, and loyal nature. So, giving them loyal and proper care is only fair. Here are a few tips that can help them to remain happy and healthy: Exercise Generally, Classic Bulldogs are medium-sized canines. As a result, they can live comfortably in a house — even ones with little room. Yet, to keep their bones and heart-healthy, they require exercise outside the house regularly for about 60 to 90 minutes per day. Even though they do not expend as much energy as other dogs of similar size, playing with them and keeping them active is a good way to help them stay sharp and healthy. High-Quality Diet To better care for your canine buddies, it is important to expose them to a healthy diet. There are several versions of dog food out there that are rich in minerals, proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins. Also, multivitamins are healthy for your dog and often complement its diet. Besides these practices, feeding them Pet Plate enables you to personalize their meals. Note that you must not overfeed them irrespective of how healthy the food is. Giving them two to three cups in a day is good. This will prevent the issue of being overweight. Bulldogs are short, and for this reason, obesity can cause gait and knee issues. They should be fed two or three times daily. Dental Water Additives The use of dental additives such as mouthwash can help your dogs by freshening their mouth and breath. This will also prevent the growth of bacteria, minimize tartar buildup, and reduce the risk of gum diseases. Getting the right additive will encourage healthy living for your doggie. American Bulldogs have a strong love for children and are confident and loyal to people. They are often considered good lapdogs. Classic American Bulldogs are good and easy to be around. They are not considered to be dangerous. This is due to their non-aggressive nature. They are known to slobber and drool. With a strong history as versatile guard dogs, they are good outdoor and indoor dogs. They are great companions. Classic American Bulldogs are moderately easy to train. While their training can be extensive, it does not have to be a chore or burden, but rather offers you both so much fun. Besides being brave and strong-willed, they do best when they are well-trained from a young age. With owners that are not daunted to establish themselves as strong leaders, Bulldogs develop protective instincts. After all, this is a breed that is widely recognized for acts of heroism towards its owners. Yet, they could be reserved toward strangers. Daily exercise sessions could do some good for such well-trained dogs. Classic American Bulldogs are recognized as an active breed of dog. Consequently, calming down might not occur completely for a while until they reach a specific age. Typically, they start calming down once they are about four years old. You must know that this is a process. Do Johnson American Bulldogs Shed? Hence, they are not hypoallergenic. There are several tips we share with you to better groom and nurture these amazing canines. Some of these are presented below: Brushing We advise you to brush your Bulldog at least twice a week. This prevents the buildup of dead hair. The best brushes available for your doggie are rubber grooming gloves. Ensure that you wipe the coat to remove any form of dirt and dampen the hair before you brush. Furthermore, you can use a Furminator Undercoat Tool. This is a de-shedding brush for dogs, which ensures the removal of loose hair and tackles dog shedding. This tool can be used once or twice a week. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Check Price on Amazon Bathing To protect your dog from getting stinky or unhygienic, bathing your Bulldogs every four weeks is a good idea. However, when bathing your dogs, use shampoos developed for dogs. It removes wet dog smells and can be used with any treatment. There are several dog shampoos out there. Getting a good one will promote proper hygiene. Before bathing, give the dog an appropriate brushing. This can be done either in a plastic pool or a bathtub. After the bath, dry the dog with a towel and brush through to ensure cleanliness. This is not surprising since Bulldogs are generally one of the costliest breeds of dogs around. These dogs are expensive because they are a popular breed and higher demand prompts price increases. Do Johnson American Bulldogs Swim? No, Johnson American Bulldogs are not good swimmers. This is due to the shape of their body. They are brachycephalic, a condition that affects short-nosed dogs and causes respiratory problems, preventing them from being able to swim. Also, exhaustion and high humidity ensure that they do not stay in water for long. A Bulldog stud is a male that retains some special qualities for breeding. These dogs must be intact and capable of producing offspring. A stud fee is an amount typically paid by the female Bulldog owner to the owner of the male dog to breed with the stud. You've reached an American Bulldog website. John D. Johnson American Bulldogs, Summerville, GA The Johnson American Bulldog is a breed of dog unlike any other; their sheer strength and courage coupled with their undying loyalty and devotion make them the ultimate breed of dog for the general public and serious canine enthusiast alike. The modern American Bulldog is believed to have descended from the colossus breeds of ancient history similar to other mastiff breeds. The American Bulldogs earliest history is virtually unknown and little if any recorded records exist. The first documented history relating to the American Bulldog was during the late 19th century. These dogs were by no means pets, but rather utility dogs bred and raised for specific duties. These duties included baiting unruly cattle and swine along with guarding property against thievery. These tasks required a dog that feared no man or beast alive, but was still loyal and obedient to their master and keeper. These traits still exist with the Johnson American Bulldog. Since the early "butcher dogs" the American Bulldog had nearly gone extinct and until recently experienced an evolutionary rebirth. This rebirth is due in large part to two dedicated individuals; John D. Johnson and Mildred L. These bulldogs had grown scare in the Northwest region of Georgia, and John desired a dog with the same stamina and grit to protect his farm and livestock. Initially it was a small operation, but through the hard work of John and Mildred it grew into a life long commitment. He was also the first breeder to have his dogs officially registered. John and Mildred have literally supplied the world with their Georgia bred bulldogs. It was their female lines of Collettes, Sugar Dolls and Sugar Tuffies that when bred produced the big boned pups that mature into the lbs. The kennel has recently been trademarked and is now known as Johnson Kennels llc. A new partnership has also been established. This new partnership between two established dog breeders, Mr. John Johnson and Mr. Scott Weaver. All traditional bloodlines exist and new lines are being established. It contains heating and air conditioning for the dogs comfort. There is a separate whelping and nursery room for new litters and weaned pups. And a licensed vet makes regular on site visits. .We at Johnson Kennels llc. We continue to strive for only the best. Our focus is to produce a powerful, yet balanced American Bulldog with a very muscular body representing the standards created by John D. The Real American Bulldog is very stocky, athletic and imposing. For those interested in acquiring a truly magnificent animal for either companionship or protection. Visit our contact information page. These canines are generally white with patches of another color; however, Johnsons have also started appearing in other solid colors and brindle. Here are some shades these majestic pooches come in: Blue Johnson American Bulldog Blue is a faded variation of black occurring due to the presence of a rare mutation. Blue is actually an uncommon coat color for the Johnson Bulldog. Solid blacks are rare, and the black color usually appears on a white coat. In fact, white Johnson American Bulldogs are considered the breed standard. White Johnson American Bulldogs may be pure white or carry patches of another color. This color usually occurs due to crossbreeding the Johnson American Bulldog with another pooch with the brindle gene. Although crossbred canines cost less, they still make lovely pets. Johnson American Bulldog temperament The American Johnson Bulldog temperament can be described as patient, courageous, and protective, making them excellent watchdogs and family pets. They are quick to protect their family and home from any perceived threats. Due to the checkered history of certain bully-type breeds and their association with sports, many people are quick to label the Johnson American Bulldog aggressive. However, these canines are gentle, patient, and caring family pets that would never attack a person or another animal unprovoked. Do American Bulldog Johnson type make great family pets? The Johnson American Bulldogs are loyal, protective, and loving towards their family. Their high pain tolerance makes them excellent companions for children. However, be sure to supervise young children around this breed, as this giant pooch may accidentally hurt them. He can still get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from an early age. American Johnson Bulldog training The Johnson American Bulldog is an intelligent breed that is easy to train for an experienced owner. They respond well to firm, consistent training, and positive reinforcement. If the training process is not started early, the Johnson standard American Bulldog may become stubborn and uncooperative. Here are some types of training that are essential for Johnson American Bulldogs: Socializing: Socializing your Johnson American Bulldog is one of the most important things you can do for him. Without socialization, he may become aggressive towards other animals and people. Start socializing your pup as early as possible by taking him to puppy classes, dog parks, and playdates with other pups. Obedience training: All pups should know basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Obedience training will not only make your puppy more well-behaved but also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Leash training: All pups should be leash trained so that they can go on walks and hikes with their humans. Start leash training your Johnson American Bulldog as early as possible with a rope dog leash that is heavy-duty and durable. The best way to leash train your pup is to start with short walks around the house or backyard. Gradually increase the length of the walks as your pup gets more comfortable with being on a leash. Johnson American Bulldog living conditions A young Johnson line American Bulldog is a large high-energy pup who needs a spacious backyard with plenty of room to run and play. If you live in an apartment, this might not be the breed for you. Many Johnson American Bulldog owners allow their canine companions to roam freely in their backyard. However, we are aware that some towns or counties have zoning laws that prohibit physical fences. If this is the case with you, you can alternatively use a wireless dog fence to keep your pups safe. This way, they can still roam freely in your backyard and enjoy some sun and fresh air while staying safe and sound. But before you install a wireless dog fence, you may find it helpful to put in place an electronic dog door , especially if you let your K9 friends leave or come back into the house on their own. Many doggy owners love the automatic doggy door because it saves them so much time and headache from opening or closing the door every time their pooch needs to head outside or come back in. So if you work from home or at the office, you may find the electronic dog door to be a lifesaver, both for you and your furry friends. When it comes to bathing your Johnson American Bulldog, once every four weeks should do the trick. It is a good idea to bathe your Johnson American Bulldog after he or she played in mud, or puddle, or had a long hike. When you do bathe your pooch, make sure to use a dog shampoo that not only cleanses but also moisturizes the skin and coat. We specialize in Bully-type, also sometimes referred to as Johnson American Bulldogs. However on occasion we do produce fantastic standard- and hybrid-type American Bulldogs. We breed for functional and balanced temperament allowing for the American Bulldog to be a family member and a companion while having the drive and intelligence to perform desired functions. At Grand Future, we typically produce large American Bulldogs. Males range in lbs and females range in lbs. We have always bred to a significantly stricter breed standard than the current American Bulldog breed standards under U. Dogs with the following characteristics are not shown at conformation shows nor bred in our kennel: 1. Full black mask — this genetic trait is usually a result of another breed having been infused into the gene pool. Usually a dog with a kinked tail itself is not at risk of health complications as a result of the kinked tail. Teeth — dogs missing more than 3 teeth. Dogs lacking full pigmentation are more susceptible to various health problems. Lack of pigment is also responsible for deafness in dogs. We have never produced a deaf dog. Interested in a puppy? We have many repeat buyers — over 30 families have purchased 2,3,4, and even 5 dogs. Our dogs generally love children and have balanced temperament. Having produced over dogs in 7 generations, we have history and data that allows us to make some conclusions that we believe are significant. The very common problem of hip dysplasia that afflicts this breed is nearly non-existent in our kennel. Our dogs tend to have normal locomotion — good movement due to anatomically sound physical structure. Our dogs have never torn ligaments such as the Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL , which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never prematurely died from heart problems, which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never been diagnosed with tracheal hypoplasia — a hereditary genetic defect common in bulldog breeds that leads to potential deadly obstruction of the airway. Our dogs tend to live long. Our foundation dog lived to the age of 15 years and 10 months old. Our dogs have never been afflicted with cancer at a young age. The earliest instance of cancer has been encountered at 8 years of age by one dog. The remainder of cases have been documented at over 10 years of age. The biggest tragedy for an owner is in having to care for a sick dog as a result of poor breeding, and be absolutely helpless as that dog passes in their arms. Exorbitant medical bills end up being paid to prolong the time together even by just a little with the beloved family member. As with any animal breeding program, our kennel is not immune from problems. This drives us to continually improve. We maintain contact and help our owners in any way we can; even at 4AM or during a vacation since we have owners all over the world in various timezones. Our breeding expertise enables us to deliver healthy, beautiful, strong, and intelligent American Bulldog puppies. We provide a contractual health guarantee against the following genetic health problems — hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL ruptures, cataracts, entropion, ectropion, heart, kidneys, thyroid, ichthyosis, cryptorchidism, epilepsy, and any neurological disorders including NCL. Our conversation with a prospective owner always involves questions to understand the kind of dog the person would like — the more details the better. If so inclined, the prospective owner can request guidance in picking the puppy based on personality and activity level, temperament, phenotype, and more. We evaluate our puppies at 6 weeks of age on a variety of parameters. We provide lifetime unlimited advice and guidance by phone to owners concerning all subjects relating to dog ownership. You can be sure you will have the information you need to succeed even if this is going to be your first American Bulldog puppy. Because we stand by the quality of our work, we want our owners to participate in our breeding program and we are happy to provide the necessary guidance. Our dogs are also ideal candidates for service animal work. Training a service dog requires a significant investment of time and money, making the genetic health and temperament of the dog even more critical. A service dog needs to be healthy, hassle-free, intelligent and receptive to training, have stable temperament to handle any type of environment, and of course lead a long life disease-free. All of these selective requirements for service dog candidates make Grand Future American Bulldogs an ideal fit. Join us in our mission of producing the best American Bulldogs possible! Professional worry-free shipping worldwide Of course our preference is for you to come visit our home, get acquainted with us, and pick up your new American Bulldog puppy in person. However, we understand that it is not feasible for everyone. Even if you do not live anywhere near Nevada, do not be concerned — we are highly experienced at shipping our American Bulldog puppies worldwide, as even just the list of our Grand Champions and Champions spanning 9 nations attests. We can prepare all necessary export documentation. Search this website.

Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle 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! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near East Aurora New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

Subscribe What is a Parti Labradoodle? There are classic, solid colors like chocolate or red as well as more exotic patterns like phantom or merle that you may not have heard of before. One of the more unique patterns is the parti Labradoodle. So, what is a parti Labradoodle? A parti Labradoodle is a popular, multi-color coat pattern. While no specific pattern is necessary for the secondary color s , symmetrical markings on the head are highly desirable. Apollo is a black and white parti colored Labradoodle. Through extensive genetic testing, responsible breeders are able to predict with relative accuracy the potential coat colors of a litter of puppies. The parti color pattern is a recessive trait carried by the Poodle but not the Labrador Retriever. In order to have true parti Labradoodle puppies, both parents need to carry this gene. For more information on the differences between generations of Labradoodles, check out this article where we simplify this complicated topic! Are Parti Labradoodles Rare? Parti Labradoodles are not as common as other solid and bi-color Labradoodles due to the recessive gene that produces this pattern. Some of the most common Labradoodle colors include chocolate, white, black, red, or a combination of these. The most rare options include sable, merle, phantom, and tuxedo. One thing to be aware of is sometimes breeders mix in other breeds of dogs to achieve rare color patterns. Huxley is one example of a brown and white parti F1B Labradoodle. Photo courtesy of huxleysadventures on Instagram. Do Parti Labradoodles Fade? For example, a black and white parti Labradoodle may fade to a more subtle blue color. A red and white parti Labradoodle may fade to an apricot and white, tan and white, or cream and white color. Milo is one example of a blue merle parti Labradoodle puppy. Photo courtesy of milopartidoodle on Instagram. Whether your puppy falls on the high or low end of that range depends on what size they are, their generation, and the location of the breeder among other factors. The higher price of parti Labradoodles is because fewer are available from rescues and breeders tend to charge more for rare and intricate color patterns. Roux has nine siblings but was the only parti in her litter. Where to Find Parti Colored Labradoodle Puppies for Sale While there are many great rescues and shelters that have Labradoodles, specific color patterns like parti will be very hard to come across. As you search for a Labradoodle puppy, especially a higher-priced one such as the parti color, be wary of scams and unethical breeders. Zoey is one example of a chocolate parti F1B Labradoodle. To help, we have an entire article dedicated to how to avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders that you can click here to read. A few of the major things you want to look for in a breeder: Performs genetic testing and health checks on the parents. Has years of experience breeding Labradoodles. Small, family operation. Always look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers and beware of scammers on social media looking to take your deposit and disappear. Ranger is one example of the cream and white parti color pattern. Photo courtesy of thedebaughdoods on Instagram. However, given that parti Labradoodles are often backcrossed to the Poodle, their coat tends to be very curly. Unlike straight coat Labradoodles , dogs with curly hair are very susceptible to tangles and matting. To avoid this happening to your dog make sure to brush them frequently—at least every other day. Getting your dog a short Labradoodle haircut can also help make your life easier. Finally, choosing the right slicker brush can make a world of difference! Photo courtesy of samsoninsf on Instagram. More About Labradoodles…. Jaysie and Mr. Big puppies! Our beautifully, adorable Poppins Jemima Puddleduck a. Big a. They are very proud of their brood and really want to share! Now we just need to brainstorm on their Irish names. There are five girls and three boys. Both parents are 34 pounds and we expect these sweet peas to mature somewhere in the 28 to 36 pound range. Jaysie comes from a long line of Poppins moms and we are very proud of their sweet, loving temperaments. And not to be outdone, Mr. Big is also known for giving us some fabulous puppies. Just check out Poppins Poetry Man that I posted yesterday. Big is very proud to have you know that Poet is one of his children. We do still have availability in this litter. They will be ready to go home mid May. Please let us know if you are interested in what will surely be some wonderful little souls. Roxie and Decker puppies! We have been excitedly waiting for this cross between Roxie and Decker and they are everything we could have hoped to receive. We have one solid black girl and two almost solid chocolates with just a touch of white one male and one female and the rest have just the right amount of white markings in just the right way to be considered tuxedo markings. There are four boys and five girls and they should mature between 30 to 45 pounds with most maturing between 35 to 40 pounds. These pupsters will be ready to go home on March 18th. We do have availability in this litter so please let us know if you are interested. I might have gone a little overboard with pictures but, really, who can blame me. Love these personalities!!! The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! This color can do some interesting things! It can fade into at least three distinct, official Labradoodle colors! Go figure!! I have had one of my chocolate girls turn completely Lavender on her body but not the head, then within a year, go completely back to dark chocolate. So, like a good Boy Scout, when you purchase a chocolate Labradoodle, be prepared for anything! All are lovely, but they are almost impossible to predict with any significant degree of accuracy. Once again, be prepared for anything! Chocolate Colors Now we get to the fun part; the color combinations! This is where things get interesting. Partis can come in any color, with either color nose. Some are mostly white, while some have lots of color and less white. The ones that are mostly white are called "Extreme" Partis. The variations are endless and unique, like a snowflake. The colors, such as chocolate, on a parti can change in the same ways that they would on a solid dog. Often confused with "Parti" is a dog with heavy white mismarks or a Tuxedo. White mismarks can be very small or very heavy, or anywhere in-between. The puppy is born either Black or Chocolate and immediately begins to lose the dark color, revealing anything from a cream to a red underneath! The tips of the fur may retain their dark cast, but the dog will present as somewhere on the cream-red spectrum. I have included her picture below showing her in the middle of the changing process. The genetics of color are absolutely fascinating! Her goal in life is bonding with her person Sara. This unique Parti girl was born 07 Marrch .Her coat is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding with a wonderful soft texture to it. This perfect Parti little girl was born 03 October, .Her soft coat and gorgeous eyes just cast an Irish spell on you. This fabulous Parti girl was born 17 September .Maya has a fleece Parti chocolate and white coat. She is just so personable and interactive. This wonderful Parti little girl was born 10 November .Oakley has a fleece Parti chocolate and white coat. Her coat is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding with a fabulous silky texture to it. Nina is a large medium. Nina has a fleece parti caramel and white coat bbee carries cream-white-red-apricot genes. This perfect Parti little girl was born 03 December, .He is a very special boy who will bring great things to BK;s Parti Line. Hudson has a fleece parti chocolate and white coat bbEe carries cream-white-red-apricot genes. His coat is hypo-allergenic and non-shedding with a wonderful soft texture to it. Registration: ALAA

For the most part, these health issues can be treated if caught early enough. The breeders test for most of these on the parents of the puppies. There are health tests for these health issues, you should visit your veterinarian to perform yearly tests and talk over health issues of your boxer. Cancer Boxers are at risk of various cancers. They are brain, thyroid, mammary glands, testes, heart, spleen, blood, lymph system lymphoma , and other organs. Benign skin tumors usually respond to surgical removal under local anesthesia. Malignant forms of cancer need specific treatment. Being observant to any unusual worth on your boxer goes a long way to prevention and treatment on time. The aortic valve is the valve through which blood leaves the heart, traveling to the rest of the body. When this valve is narrowed, the heart and specifically the left ventricle, which is the chamber that pumps blood through the aorta must work harder to force blood out through the valve. In many cases, affected dogs do not show any signs. AS is detected on a routine physical examination, when the veterinarian notices a heart murmur. The boxers with severe AS show the following signs lethargy, exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, and fainting. The tests used to confirm a diagnosis of AS are electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. Fainting or even sudden heart failure can occur, and some patients can develop congestive heart failure. It could show up as soon as 6 months or as late as 10 years of age. Symptoms of Cardiomyopathy are an irregular heartbeat in a routine exam, fainting, coughing, rapid breathing, accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and sudden death. A 24 hours holter recording the heart's activity for this period of time, an electrocardiography ECG , and echocardiogram ultrasound of the heart. In Boxer it appears to have a predisposition for development of CKD, suggesting that kidney disease in this breed might be heritable. DM is a neurological disease that affects the spinal column and nerves that coordinate the movement of the rear legs. Eventually boxers lose their ability to walk, incontinent and are euthanized. There is now a test that detects DM. Spondylosis Spondylosis is a degenerative spinal condition that affects older dogs, but can also happen due to an injury. Some show no symptoms a boxer knows how to hide his ills, however some of the symptoms are motion issues or inflexibility, lameness or limping. Treatment for mild symptoms may be prescribed pain medication or anti inflammatory drugs. Physical therapy and an exercise program can help also monitoring weight and a weight loss program if the boxer is overweight. Hip Dysplasia HD Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the ball and socket joint that makes up the hip. Some of the symptoms are the dog does not want to play vigorously, pain and lameness, hip dysplasia shows in ages between 4 months to a year. Dog should be tested for hip dysplasia at 2 years of age. Symptoms will show between the ages of years old, but it can be diagnosed at any age. Some of the symptoms are: sleepiness, lethargy, weakness, increased appetite, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, the coat can become dull and dry, loss of fur, itchy skin, skin sores or infections, and ear inflammation. Diabetes Diabetes is when the pancreas fails to produce insulin properly. Treatment usually requires insulin shots for life. Some of the symptoms are frequent urination, hunger, weight loss, vomiting and weakness. For more information, browse the following links:. Struggling in hot weather Collapsing Your vet will discuss weight control and the possibility of surgery to help your dog feel more comfortable with the condition. Epilepsy This common cause of seizures in boxers is often inherited from a parent and usually surfaces between six months and six years of age. Perfectly healthy canines can have one or two unexplained seizures during their lifetime. Turn off any lights and make the room quiet. Note how long the seizure lasts and film it if you can. Phone your vet — if you have coverage with one of our Purely Pets dog insurance plans, you can call the hour vet video service for quick and professional advice. Caring for your boxer dog With the knowledge of the possible health concerns your boxer may experience and the symptoms to look for, you can get your animal help when it needs it. Dog insurance plans cover your pet in case it needs urgent care, but there are complementary measures you need to take at home to make sure it enjoys the life it deserves. What does a boxer dog eat? This breed grows to a medium or large size, and they need a well-balanced, complete diet to keep them fit and healthy. So feeding them the right foods is essential to their quality of life. Discuss with your vet how much your pet should be eating. They can weigh your boxer and measure their height to determine an ideal diet. Feed your four-legged friend at a similar time each day and let their meal go down before taking them out to exercise. How to train a boxer dog This breed is clever, but they can also be boisterous and clown around during training. Use these tips to raise an obedient and well-trained pup: Implement a positive, reward-based training programme from an early age. Maintain a firm but fair attitude with plenty of reassurance for good behaviour. Be patient and consistent to get the best results. Boxers mature at a slower rate than most dog breeds, and their energetic puppy-like ways can make it challenging to control them as they get bigger. Before you bring a boxer into your home, consider whether you have what it takes to keep it controlled. What exercise does a boxer need? As you might expect, this high energy, active breed needs plenty of exercise. Boxers love playing and it can be a rare sight to see one sitting calmly. These dogs need a minimum of two hours daily exercise, which can be split into a few walks. Give them plenty of chances to get sniffing and explore their surroundings as well as some off-lead time for a decent run around. Use every opportunity you get to let them stretch their legs. This could be taking them with you when you pop to the shop or letting them out into the garden on a nice day. Do boxers need grooming? All dogs need some form of grooming to keep them clean and maintain their coat. Boxer owners will be pleased to hear this breed is fairly low maintenance, thanks to their short hair that only needs a weekly brush. Your dog will shed throughout the year, especially in autumn and spring, but the hairs are easy to clean with a hoover. Make sure your boxer has frequent baths to keep their skin folds clean and dry. The excess flaps can cause skin fold dermatitis if not looked after properly. Many owners complement their dog insurance plans with a pet health programme. While the former takes care of your animal in case of an emergency, the latter is sometimes offered by vets to spread the cost of routine treatments and grooming. What are the best accessories for a boxer dog? Is a boxer the right dog for me? The affectionate and loyal nature of this breed might make you consider bringing one into your family home. Remember, boxers are large dogs and need lots of care to keep them healthy and happy. Before you adopt or buy one of these canines, ask yourself if you have the funds and time needed to give them the life they deserve. Cost of owning a boxer Usually, the bigger the breed, the bigger your bank balance needs to be. So, just what causes such a big expenditure? Purchase costs: Unless you adopt a boxer from a rescue centre, you can expect to pay a hefty price for these lovable dogs. Be wary of cheap puppies and check you always buy from a Kennel Club Assured breeder. Set-up costs: This includes everything you need to pay for when you first get a puppy. They need vaccinations, neutering, and lots of accessories. Ongoing costs: Throughout their lifetime you need to provide food, preventative healthcare, more accessories, and vet bills. As boxers are prone to so many health conditions, dog insurance plans are a good idea to help you save on unexpected medical bills. Additional costs: You need to budget for other miscellaneous costs like training, kennels, and a dog walker if you work all day. Time needed to look after a boxer Unless you have the budget to pay for doggy day-care and walkers every day, you need plenty of free time to give your dog the care it deserves. Your boxer needs at least 2 hours of exercise a day plus training. You also need to factor in time for feeding, bathing, and playing with your fun-loving pet. Are boxers good with kids and other pets? Yes, this breed usually makes excellent family dogs that love to play with children. Boxers take pride in protecting their owners but are very rarely aggressive. They fare best with older children due to their large size and boisterous nature. These dogs also love other pets as long as you introduce them slowly. The two most common ways to get this breed are rehoming centres and breeders. There are many rescue centres across the UK that may have boxers, and others specialise in finding new homes for the breed. Dogs from these organisations are usually older, so make sure to check their history for any health or behavioural concerns you need to look out for. When you buy from a breeder, there are a few things you need to check before you bring a puppy home. Make sure they meet the high standards required to be a Kennel Club Assured breeder. The dog should also be well socialised and have up-to-date vaccinations and health checks along with screening tests. The greatest way to reward their ever-growing loyalty is with a lifetime pet insurance policy. Dog insurance plans protect your animal in times of need and could save you thousands in vet bills. At Purely Pets, we know how important dogs are to your family and that they deserve only the best during their time with you. Choose from 15 levels of lifetime cover to fit your budget and needs and manage your policy online at a time that suits you. Are you looking to protect your loyal boxer through every stage of its life? Check out the dog insurance plans at Purely Pets today. Boxer Dog Health Problems Overview All dog breeds are susceptible to certain illness and health conditions. While a Boxer may be susceptible to certain ailments, this does not mean that your dog is doomed to have all of them. We will go over the most common health concerns with this breed and also steps that you can take to keep your Boxer healthy. Acne It is not uncommon for a Boxer to have problems with acne. Most cases will appear when the dog is in the stage of puberty and may pimples may be a chronic issue during this time. If proper care is not taken, it can develop into a more serious health issue of infection. In addition, aside from the aesthetic element, scarring may occur. Read more about Boxer dog Acne. Aortic Stenosis - Heart Condition This is a canine issue that affects the dog's heart. The Boxer breed is more prone to this than some other dog breeds. Mild cases are sometimes not noticed and the dog will live a normal life. However, this is inherited and once passed down to Boxer puppies, those pups may have more severe cases. Therefore, the detection of this Boxer health issue is important. For dogs that do have a severe form of Aortic Stenosis, this can be very serious. More about Aortic Stenosis Arthritis Many of us have heard the words arthritis and osteoarthritis so many times that we begin to think of this as a normal and accepted part of getting older for our dogs. However, even young dogs can have this health issue. While it is true that as a dog ages, the chances of arthritis increases, your dog does not need to live in pain! There are many types of treatment for this and ways for you to make your dog more comfortable. A Boxer dog owner should be aware of the signs, diagnosis methods and treatments for this health issue, to help their Boxer dog live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible. And can be avoided in many cases. If the signs of canine bloat are not noticed and treatment is not given.Bloat can happen to a Boxer dog of any age. Thankfully, the chances of getting this are greatly reduced when an owner understands how to prevent it. While cancer strikes dogs of all breeds, an owner should take time to keep an eye out for early symptoms. As with humans, catching this early greatly increases the odds of survival. Boxers dogs are particularly prone to the development of mast cell tumors, lymphoma and brain tumors. White Boxers, and colored Boxers with white markings should be protected from the sun, as they are vulnerable to develop skin cancer if sunburns occur. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Cardiomyopathy Heart Condition Boxer cardiomyopathy is a very complicated Boxer health condition. Studies are still underway to understand more about this issue. Currently it is known that cardiomyopathy causes the heart of the dog to beat too quickly or unsteadily. This can happen at random intervals and hard to detect unless you know what symptoms to look for. If the uneven beats happen in too great of a sequence, the dog may weaken to the point of unconsciousness, coma or worse. And more about Boxer dog mast cell tumors and surgery Degenerative Myelopathy While this is not common, the Boxer is among the top 3 breeds to develop this. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive, incurable disease of the spinal cord. It is not painful. However, it is quite serious. It starts with weakness in the rear legs, resulting in paralysis. Then, unfortunately, progresses to the front legs. More about Canine Degenerative Myelopathy with the Boxer Dog Ear Mites This can be quite a problem for dogs, ears mites are extremely contagious and will quickly jump from dog to dog or cat to dog. When a Boxer has ear mites, this can cause quite a bit of discomfort for the dog and you will want recognize the symptoms so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. This can be caused by a wide variety of bacteria, allergies or foreign elements. There is help for all types. Learn about symptoms, treatment and prevention. Cherry Eye, Corneal Dystrophy and Uveitis are some of the most common eye health issues with this dog breed. More about Boxer Dog Eye Diseases and Problems Heartworms Sadly, many owners believe that Heartworms only strike unclean dogs or those that are not loved and taken care of. However, this is a widespread very serious canine disease. Worms from 6 to 14 inches cm long grow and burrow into a dog's heart. They multiply; up to worms can live in a dog's heart and arteries. It is vital for dog owners to understand prevention and treatment. The Boxer dog, among other dog breeds, is prone to this health condition. Passed on genetically, this type of canine disease is progressive — meaning that it will worsen as time goes by. It may cause loss of motor function, loss of coordination and in sadly, in some cases, paralysis. While more common among certain breeds, a dog of any breed may develop this. The Boxer and the Boston Terrier are both prone to this. Both dog breeds do have similar bone structure of their heads and it is also seen among some small breed dogs. With vomiting and bloating occurring, it is important to have this treated. There may be rapid weight loss due to the symptoms. The time span between eating and vomiting is what will distinguish 'regular' vomiting from this stomach disease. While a dog may vomit right after eating when having this health problem, he or she will also vomit up to 24 hour later…when there would usually be no food left in the stomach. With this Boxer dog stomach problem, the vomit will usually contain large pieces of undigested food. It is diagnosed by carefully documenting when the dog eats and when the dog vomits. Barium studies with X-rays may show the narrowed stomach outflow. In mild cases, the vomiting does not happen often and a dog can live a normal life without treatment. In severe cases, treatment must be given right away; if not, the dog can succumb to this canine disease. Surgery may be needed in some cases. Thankfully, the majority of surgeries are very successful. When puppies are born, these are passed on to them from dam to pups. For healthy Boxer dogs, this does not cause any concern and the dog will not have any health issues. A dog will often show strange symptoms such as repeated behavior as if a movie is looping over and over again , drooling, staring into space, confusion, falling down, stiff limbs or unconsciousness. Learn about the different types of canine seizures, the symptoms of each and what to do if this happens. They were bred from a German hunting dog that was crossbred with English bulldogs. Boxers are well-loved, high-energy family dogs that are sweet with children and vigilant guards of the family home. Some of the conditions that afflict Boxers have a genetic basis, and are more likely to happen to Boxers than to dogs of other breeds. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions, and when possible, avoid breeding dogs with those traits. But these conditions can still happen. Boxers are more likely to develop health problems such as heart problems, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, and ulcerative colitis than other dogs. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxers are more likely to develop a specific heart condition than other dogs. The condition, Boxer cardiomyopathy , is actually named after the breed, though other dogs can develop it. The most common sign a dog has Boxer cardiomyopathy is if it has trouble breathing. Your dog might cough or wheeze frequently. Your dog might start panting during walks or playtime. If you think your dog might have Boxer cardiomyopathy, you should avoid exercise until the dog can be examined by its veterinarian. Eventually the weakness will be more apparent, with loss of bowel and urinary control. The dog might struggle to get up because the disease also causes muscle atrophy. Boxers with degenerative myelopathy can become paralyzed by the disease. There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. But if your Boxer has the disease, there are a few things you can do to help them suffer less. Kinesiology tape has been used successfully to help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. A dog that spends lots of time lying down is at risk of bedsores. Boxers that become partially paralyzed by degenerative myelopathy are candidates for wheelchairs. Dog wheelchairs can help to slow down the progression of degenerative myelopathy by removing stress on the joints and allowing more mobility and exercise. Both stress and lack of exercise can contribute greatly to the progression of the disease. Boxers with Bloat Bloat, or gastric dilation , is another health risk that boxers are more likely to suffer from than other dogs. Bloat is a potentially fatal stomach condition that is common in large dogs with deep chests, like boxers and shepherds. Bloat is caused by unhealthy eating habits: if a Boxer eats one large meal a day, or eats too quickly, they run the risk of bloat. If you notice your dog likes to scarf its food, you can give it smaller meals throughout the day. Also, make sure your Boxer does not run around or get over-excited within an hour or two of meals. Panting can cause a dog to swallow air, further expanding the stomach and contributing to bloat. Bloat can sometimes result in Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus. In GDV, the over-filled stomach twists around, cinching the ends closed. This is a true emergency, requiring immediate surgery. Nothing can escape from the twisted stomach, and the blood supply to the stomach and spleen is compromised. In a few hours, the dog can die from loss of blood supply to the stomach as well as physiologic shock. Ulcerative Colitis in Boxers Many Boxers also develop ulcerative colitis. In fact, non-Boxer dogs rarely develop the condition, which may have a genetic basis. Ulcerative colitis is another digestive system problem; dogs with the disease develop ulcers in their intestines. Boxers with the disease will have trouble absorbing water and have diarrhea or loose stool , and might lose weight as a result. Puppies one year old or younger most often develop the disease. Your vet will treat your Boxer by prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. In some cases, your vet may recommend a change in diet. And remember—if your dog has any of these health problems, they should be treated by a veterinarian. Dogs don't have the ability to tell us how they feel. However, anyone who has ever had a furry friend knows that canine body language can be very expressive. Dogs will instinctively hide how they feel in the early stages of an illness. Because you know your dog, you may be able to pick up on some subtle changes in their personality and actions. These subtle changes usually indicate that something is wrong. The key to helping your dog recover quickly is noticing that there is a problem as soon as possible. Here are 11 warning signs that will help you answer the question, "Is my dog sick? The problem can be mild and transient or life-threatening. These signs can be caused by a diet change, getting into the trash, viral or bacterial infections, motion sickness, parvovirus in puppies, or from ingestion of a foreign object. If your dog had one episode of vomiting or diarrhea from an upset stomach and is acting normally, observe for any progression in symptoms. A bland wet food, such as that made of boiled chicken or hamburger mixed with rice, can be fed in small amounts for a day or two until symptoms are resolved. The next step, after you have established that your dog is no longer vomiting or having loose stool, is to mix in dry food. However, when symptoms occur multiple times in 24 hours, and are associated with weakness, lethargy, lack of appetite, or unproductive vomiting dry heaves , please call your veterinarian. Be mindful of the following signs: Straining to urinate Changes in urine volume an increase or decrease Blood in the urine These signs are especially important to note in senior dogs. Excessive amounts of urination may indicate an issue with the kidneys or diabetes mellitus. Bloody urine can indicate a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, blood problem, or cancer. If possible, take a sample of the urine with you. Loss of Appetite Most dogs have their own eating habits and may eat more food on some days than on others. Appetite loss is a symptom of many different problems. Some can be mild and others serious. When associated with bad breath, conditions like anorexia can indicate dental disease. You can try offering your dog some of their favorite treats or a small amount of cooked chicken or hamburger. If the problem lasts more than a day or is associated with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and weakness, the best course of action is to see your vet. Drinking too little can indicate not feeling well and drinking too much water can indicate that your pet has a fever, hormone issues, diabetes, or kidney disease. If they are drinking less, you can try adding more water bowls around the house or flavoring water with chicken broth. If they are drinking more, check to see if they are also urinating more. If the problem persists, see your vet and take a urine sample if possible. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain Sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of a health issue. This sign may take a few weeks to notice. Unexplained weight gain or loss can be caused by a variety of conditions and is always a concern. The best approach is to have your dog evaluated to find the underlying cause. Changes in Personality When dogs are in pain or don't feel well, they tend to display behavioral changes, such as decreased activity or lethargy. Some sick dogs that are normally social may start to withdraw. A kind and energetic pet may begin to show snippiness or aggression. Notice if your dog growls when you get close to a particular area of the body that may be the source of discomfort. Not all sick dogs will display negative behavior when they are ill. Some dogs may become clingy or show signs of increased neediness. Some just display changes in their routine, which is typical for dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction. Monitor your dog for additional symptoms, such as lack of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lameness, or straining to urinate. If you notice significant alterations in your dog's behavior or additional symptoms, contact a licensed veterinarian. Coughing, Wheezing, or Trouble Breathing Coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, and nasal discharge are all signs of a respiratory problem. These symptoms can range from a simple cold to canine flu , kennel cough, or heart failure. Hearing a honking noise can indicate a condition called tracheal collapse that is common in some small dog breeds. If your dog has difficulty breathing or a blue tint to the tongue and gums, consider this a medical emergency. Any sudden change in dog health can be a life-threatening emergency! This can cause extreme discomfort. Mild symptoms can be soothed with a bath, but more severe signs should be evaluated by a veterinarian. If the symptom is mild and all else is normal in their behavior, you may be able to give your dog a day of rest. If you are worried or the problem persists, see your veterinarian. Eye Changes Red eyes, runny eyes, squinting, or holding the eye closed can be signs of problems that range from a mild infection to an ulceration or glaucoma. If your dog is pawing or rubbing at the eyes, try to stop this behavior and call your vet. Rubbing at the eye can cause serious damage. An e-collar may be required in addition to medication administration as prescribed by your vet. Normal dogs have pink, moist gums. Dogs with pale gums can be anemic or suffering from shock. All the possible causes can be serious. It your dog has pale gums, is lethargic, weak, or having trouble breathing, this can be a medical emergency. Call your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency clinic for immediate medical attention. For this reason, it's important for dog owners to notice the early symptoms as soon as possible. If you want to know how to tell if your dog is sick quickly and without guessing, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog displays any of these signs. Share Your Dog's Health History Your veterinarian may ask for the following: Dog health history, including any past medical procedures Current medications Symptoms your dog is displaying. This includes when they started, how frequent they are, and any other comments about the nature of their symptoms. Pet Insurance for Your Dog's Visit to the Vet When you start to consider how much exams, tests, and treatments can cost, signing up for a dog health insurance plan starts to make a lot of sense. What's Covered? Dog insurance can help cover the cost of the examination, office visits, emergency visits, medical treatment, surgery, and even appointments to see veterinary specialists. You can go to any vet in the US or Canada without restriction. Your insurance may also include a wellness plan that covers routine exams, vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, and even dental cleanings. This can help your vet potentially diagnose the issue and provide you with recommendations. Blood work— Blood tests can consist of a complete blood count CBC , biochemical profile, thyroid levels, heartworm testing, and more. This information is important to help diagnose conditions like infections, anemia, kidney disease, hepatitis, and diabetes. X-Rays— Radiographs are an excellent way to diagnose many different problems, such as fractures, heart failure, tumors, and much more. One thing to keep in mind is that most pet insurance providers exclude pre-existing conditions, denying coverage for injuries or illnesses that occur before a policy. Pre-existing condition coverage requires a month waiting period. The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not serve as a substitute for the professional medical advice of your veterinarian. She regularly produces content for pet blogs dealing with how to care for and love your pet. They have incredible immune systems, they possess hyper-athletic physiology, and they have an incredibly high tolerance for discomfort. A boxer is a physical specimen, even by comparison with other dogs. The boxer dog breed is as athletic as dogs get while still being sweet, obedient, and playful read more fun facts about boxer dogs. However, as is the case with most purebred dogs, boxers are prone to certain health problems. Degenerative Myelopathy The first major health issue that most dog owners should be aware of is degenerative myelopathy. This debilitating condition affects the nervous system and lower spinal cord and eventually leads to partial or full paralysis of the lower limbs. These sudden unexplainable bouts of clumsiness will be few and far between to begin, but any sign of paralysis in the hind legs should serve as a warning sign. Unfortunately, there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, as it is a debilitating nerve disease with irreversible effects. Even still, rapid action and treatment is a necessity for keeping your Boxer as healthy and happy as possible. Things like canine wheelchairs, kinesiology tape, and certain kinds of prescribed medicines from the vet can help your Boxer pet lead a life that is as close to normal as possible. If you notice any regular bouts of clumsiness or temporary paralysis in the hind legs, it is imperative that you take your Boxer in to be checked for degenerative myelopathy. If you fear your Boxer may be suffering from this disease, your veterinarian will be able to help with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Boxer Cardiomyopathy Boxer Cardiomyopathy is a canine heart condition that is more prevalent in the boxer dog breed than any other breed of dog. While other dogs are just as susceptible to developing this kind of heart condition, due to their genetic makeup boxers are at high risk for this disease. Characterized by an irregular heartbeat and fainting spells, boxers affected by cardiomyopathy are often at high risk of sudden heart failure. Most boxers who suffer from Boxer Cardiomyopathy begin to show symptoms of the disease at two years of age or earlier. Complications can arise as a result of waiting, so it is always a best practice to consult your Vet as soon as you notice any health problems in your dog. Symptoms like heavy wheezing not during exercise , fainting, coughing, and an irregular heartbeat could all be indications that your Boxer is suffering from Boxer Cardiomyopathy. Take preventative action and visit your Vet for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan. Bloat is a more common name for a condition called gastric dilation, wherein the gastrointestinal system swells, preventing digestion of food and passage of stool. The most common cause of Bloat is simply overeating, which Boxers are prone to do. The result of excess food combined with excess stomach acid is rapid inflammation and Bloat. In some severe cases, Bloat can require surgery. Bloat can cause the stomach muscles to twist on themselves, which prevents blood flow to the stomach and spleen. If this goes without treatment, it could be catastrophic for your Boxer. Even in more mild cases of Bloat, uncomfortable methods of extraction are often employed. The best treatment for Bloat is to avoid it altogether, and Bloat can easily be managed by you as an owner. Simply control how much you are feeding your Boxer, and be sure to avoid overeating. Most Boxers are susceptible to massive appetites, and they require large amounts of caloric intake daily. Hip Dysplasia As a superior athletic specimen, mobility is key for your Boxer. Hip dysplasia is one of the biggest long term threats for the health and well being of the Boxer dog breed. This degenerative joint condition is a genetic malformation wherein the hip joint does not properly fit into the hip socket. The discord between joint and socket creates a painful sensation wherein your Boxer is limited in his mobility. Activities like walking become a chore, while fun activities like running and jumping become downright impossible. However, hip dysplasia becomes more of a risk the older your dog gets. If left untreated Hip dysplasia can lead to other joint conditions like lameness and arthritis. Typically, hip dysplasia is treated with a long term medication plan to control inflammation and pain. If your Boxer is severely limited in his mobility, you may be interested in looking into canine physical therapy, which can help your dog in their pursuit to learn new ways of moving. Seizures Seizures may be one of the most frightening medical episodes to watch your Boxer endure, but they are an unfortunate reality for boxer owners. The same thing that makes your Boxer a lovable bundle of renewable energy is the very cause of potential seizures, their brain. Most commonly, and especially in boxers, these types of seizures are brought on by Idiopathic Epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy refers to a single or series of epileptic episodes that have no apparent cause. These epileptic fits stem from some unknown genetic malformation of the brain, and this type of epilepsy is found in large dogs and boxers. Additionally, Boxers, especially those with heart conditions, are susceptible to seizures because of their increased energy levels. While it may be scary, seizures are treatable, both in the moment and long term. In the moment, it is important to remain calm and allow your dog to seize. Your instinct will be to restrain your dog, but this action could cause more harm than good. Once the seizing has subsided, take your dog to your Vet immediately. Seizing could be a side effect of some greater health risk, so it is always imperative that your dog is taken in for analysis after an epileptic event. There are medications and treatment plans that can help your Boxer cope with seizures and epileptic events. General Health The best way to keep your Boxer healthy and happy is with a good diet and lots of exercise. Your Boxer is full of natural energy, and his excitement to run and play will likely outlast your enthusiasm and energy levels. Nonetheless, it is imperative that you are constantly engaging with your Boxer. Boxers are one of the most demanding breeds, not just as a result of how much energy they have, but how much energy they require in return. Even in spite of some of the health problems listed above, your Boxer will still have more energy and desire to be active than many other breeds. Boxers require a calorie-rich diet of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to match their high metabolism. Around the world, people love this breed to keep as pets or as watchful guard dogs. However, the setback of this breed is the multiple arrays of diseases it is prone to in its lifetime. Some typical boxer dog health issues are known to be hereditary. The top 10 diseases most commonly found in boxer dogs are listed below. Heart Disease It is very normal for a boxer to be prone to cardiac issues. Because of their genetic makeup, Cardio Myopathy, where the heart is unable to pump the blood efficiently, may become an issue. Another health condition in boxers is aortic stenosis, which may prove to be fatal and result in sudden death. Dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart expands, usually occurs in 2- to 5-year-old boxers. Stomach Bloating Stomach bloating is a health issue in large dogs with deep chests and is common in boxers. The stomach twists inside the body which can block the blood supply to the body. Symptoms include excessive drooling, vomiting, and the dog might not eat at all. Cancer The boxer breed is prone to mast-cell cancer, which revolves around the lymph nodes, skin cancer, heart, reproductive organs, spleen, and thyroid. Monthly checkups with the vet are important to become knowledgeable about boxer dog diseases and to be able to recognize early symptoms and treatment procedures. Hip Dysplasia Boxer dogs commonly suffer from hip dysplasia in their hind limbs, where the joints get lose and reduce the bone efficiency. It is very painful, and medication is usually prescribed to ease suffering. Eye Disease Boxer dogs may suffer from the damage of the corneal tissues of the eyes, called refractory superficial ulcers which results in pain. Neurological Disease Boxers are prone to developing degenerative myelopathy, which is a neurological disease. The spinal cord and nerves of the hind legs are affected, thus making it difficult for the dog to walk. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is usually known as impaired thyroid gland function and results in low thyroid hormone level. Symptoms may include hair loss, weight gain, and infertility. Alopecia Growth hormone responsive alopecia causes hair loss in boxers due to the gland not producing enough growth hormone. The treatment is to opt for neutering the dog. Colitis Boxers tend to develop Histolytic Ulcerative Colitis, which is the inflammation of the colon. Symptoms include diarrhea with mucus and blood, which results in weight loss. Colitis can get better with medication. Boxers are prone to suffering from food allergies and their surroundings which can result in skin infections and diseases.