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There is evidence to support that the Dalmatian was originally birthed in either the British Isles, Europe, North Africa, or Asia which is a very broad range of locations. By the s, Dalmatians were generally associated with the region Dalmatia, located in central Europe near the Adriatic Sea, which is where this breed got its name from. The Dalmatian has always been a working dog, from shepherds, to war dogs, to retrievers, to a bird dog, and even to circus dogs! As a coach dog, Dalmatians were responsible for trotting alongside horse-drawn carriages and guarding the vehicle when left unattended. Starting back in the s when horses pulled fire engines, Dalmatians started getting associated with firefighters. The American Kennel Club began recognizing the Dalmatian in .Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. The exact origin of when this mix was intentionally bred is unknown. Dalmatians can be bred with toy, miniature, and standard poodles, although miniature and standard are far more common. The size of the poodle that the Dalmatian is bred with is a significant influence on the size of the Dalmadoodle puppy. Both Poodles and Dalmatians need rigorous grooming care. Dalmatians need to be brushed around times a week and Poodles need to be brushed just as often, if not more frequently depending on coat length and how curly it is. Mix these two coats together and you can expect to brush Dalmadoodle puppies at minimum every other day. Are Dalmadoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Dalmadoodles Shed? It depends. Dalmatians are not hypoallergenic, while poodles are. Once you breed a hypoallergenic and a non-hypoallergenic dog together there is no way to guarantee that the mixed-breed is hypoallergenic. With most doodle breeds, thanks to having one hypoallergenic parent and one non-hypoallergenic parent, you never know for sure if a puppy will be hypoallergenic and non-shedding or not. It may be safe to assume that the Dalmatian Poodle mix will shed less than a Dalmatian, but it cannot be guaranteed. On average, Dalmadoodles live from 11 to 14 years. Dalmadoodle Dog Breed Common Health Concerns: Mixed breeds often decrease the risk of genetic health concerns but, that being said, there are some common concerns to be aware of. Another less common health issue is gastric volvulus dilation. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Dalmadoodles are intelligent dogs who like to keep busy. Some Dalmadoodles have been known to be stubborn, but with a firm leader, they can learn quickly and will obey commands. They are not known for being an aggressive dog, but may bark some when meeting new people. Both Dalmatians and Poodles are energetic dogs that need owners who can keep up with them. Keeping your dog physically and mentally challenged will prevent them from engaging in destructive activities. Plan on a minimum of 90 minutes of exercise daily. This could be between walks, hikes, jogs, or a game of fetch! A big fenced in yard would be preferred for allowing a Dalmadoodle to run around in. Bonus points if you have a dog door! Both breeds are very intelligent and need mental stimulation as well as physical exertion to keep them happy and healthy. Dalmatian Poodle Mix Pictures Photo courtesy of delilah. Photo courtesy of flowerpowerdoodles on Instagram. Photo courtesy of mazziratti on Instagram. Alternative Breeds to the Dalmatian Poodle Mix. It is a designer breed with growing popularity. Dalmadoodles are typically short-coated and come in a variety of coat types and colors. They can be white, black, or brown and may have spots or patches on their coat. Dalmadoodle Training The Dalmadoodle is highly intelligent and responds well to training as a mixed-breed dog. Both the Poodle and the Dalmatian are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, so your Dalmadoodle will be a highly trainable companion. They can be stubborn and obstinate at times, so they will need plenty of patience when learning new things. Training is key for a Dalmadoodle to help them stay healthy and happy, and they love learning new tricks. Dalmadoodle Exercise Needs As with all dogs, Dalmadoodles need regular exercise. They should be able to run, play, and walk around for at least 60 minutes per day. A fenced yard is ideal for this breed. If you are thinking of adopting a Dalmadoodle, you should know their exercise needs. These dogs are high-energy , exercise every day, along with plenty of time to play outdoors. They need daily walks, trips to the dog park, and plenty of time off-leash in a safe backyard. They also need to be mentally stimulated with games or toys to keep their inquisitive minds busy. These dogs combine the loyalty and attention to detail of a purebred dalmatian with the intelligence and trainability of a poodle. The Dalmadoodle is a highly intelligent, loyal, and loving dog that will make a great addition to any family. They are very friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their human families. However, they can be protective and may bark at strangers. A Dalmadoodle puppy should be socialized as early as possible, so they can get along with other pets and people. Your vet can recommend a good dog food for your puppy , and be sure to split the recommended amount into two meals each day. High-quality dog food will give your Dalmadoodle all the nutrients it needs to grow. Make sure to feed your pet a diet formulated with balanced proteins and healthy fats. You can also consider making homemade dog food , as it can be a great way to keep your pup happy and healthy. Dalmadoodle Health Issues Like all hybrid canines, Dalmadoodles can be prone to various health problems. A good breeder will health test both their poodle and Dalmatian parents to ensure your puppy has no genetic disorders. It is a good idea to also have your puppy vaccinated and neutered before you bring him home. Dalmadoodles can also suffer from deafness, but they usually have a high chance of recovering from it. This type of deafness is usually caused by ear infections or damage to the external ear canal, but it may also be inherited. Dalmadoodle Lifespan Although Dalmadoodles are prone to the same health issues as their parent breeds, they can live up to 14 years. They have an average lifespan of 11 to 14 years. You can give them the right food and exercise to keep them healthy and increase their lifespan. This is a rough estimate and will vary depending on where you live. Here are some of the most popular Poodle mix breeds: Labradoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, known for their loyalty, friendliness, and intelligence. Goldendoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever, known for their loving personalities, trainability, and hypoallergenic coat. Cockapoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel, known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and low-shedding coat. Bernedoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adorable teddy bear-like appearance. Sheepadoodle: A cross between a Poodle and an Old English Sheepdog, known for their friendly personality, loyalty, and hypoallergenic coat. Aussiedoodle: A cross between a Poodle and an Australian Shepherd, known for their intelligence, trainability, and energetic nature. Cavapoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, known for their friendly personality, trainability, and low-shedding coat. Yorkipoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier, known for their playful and affectionate personality and hypoallergenic coat. Maltipoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Maltese, known for their gentle and affectionate nature and low-shedding coat. Schnoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hypoallergenic coat. Whoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, known for their friendly personality, trainability, and wavy coat. Boxerdoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Boxer, known for their loyalty, trainability, and high energy. Pyredoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Great Pyrenees, known for their loyal and protective nature, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. Shih-Poo: A cross between a Poodle and a Shih Tzu , known for their loving personality, trainability, and low-shedding coat. Newfypoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Newfoundland, known for their intelligence, trainability, and enthusiastic nature. These are just a few more examples of popular Poodle mix breeds, and there are many other variations of these hybrids as well. They can be affectionate, playful, and brave, but they also require a lot of time and attention from their owners. They enjoy playing and jogging, so you might want to consider taking them out for a walk a few times a day. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Lifespan Sociability Many designer breeds look like a perfect mix of their parents. These dogs tend to look like Poodles or like Dalmatians, with little in-between. So, if you have your heart set on the grown-up Dalmatian Poodle mix looking a certain way, this breed may not be for you. Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog when playing during the summer, and be sure to stop if they start to pant too heavily. Dalmadoodles Love Having a Job Both parent breeds were designed to be working animals. Poodles, on the other hand, were created to fetch fallen waterfowl. When you combine the two breeds, you get a dog who loves to be put to work. They can run and play for hours on end and not be any worse for the wear. At the very least, you should live near a big, open park — preferably an off-leash dog park. They can be inspired escape artists, and good luck hiding treats from them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It may help to divvy up the exercise between multiple family members so no one gets burned out. After all, another dog is about the only thing that can keep up with them. Poodles have a hunting background, though, so many Dalmadoodles have a strong prey drive. This could be a problem if your household includes cats or other small pets. Expect to buy a bag of food a month. That food should be high-quality too. Skip anything with wheat, corn, or animal by-products, and focus on something that provides protein and healthy fruits and vegetables. Be careful not to overfeed them, as hip dysplasia is common in the breed. However, they often tend to be more enthusiastic about praise and playtime than food, so they might not eat to the point of obesity, anyway. Expect to give them at least an hour of vigorous activity every day, but preferably more. Do be careful during the summer months, though. While they enjoy just about any physical activity, they do best when their minds are as stimulated as their bodies. A post shared by SV mazzi. Introduce them to strangers, new situations, and other animals as safely and often as you can. However, we recommend doing at least one or two group classes, as they allow you to both train and socialize your Dalmadoodle at the same time. As far as training methodologies are concerned, these dogs do best with plenty of positive reinforcement. Any attempts to punish them will likely only render them skittish, and they may even start to rebel. This will determine how often you need to groom them. You do need to clean out their ears regularly to avoid infection, though. However, while Dalmadoodles are certainly healthier than Dalmatians, they still have quite a few health problems — more than the average designer breed, in fact. Here are a few things to be concerned about as you raise your Dalmadoodle: Minor Conditions. When it comes to your Dalmadoodle cross, prepare for any number of coat varieties. Remember, because he is a crossbreed, the way your Dalmadoodle looks is going to be left up to chance. Dalmadoodle Curls Dalmadoodles will usually have wavy coats rather than tight curls like Poodles. Dalmadoodles have one from each parent NC which creates a wavy coat. And Dalmadoodles can pass either of these genes to their puppies. Dalmadoodle Grooming and Shedding Grooming your Dalmatian cross Poodle could vary, depending on the type of coat he inherits from his parents. While the Dalmatian has a shorter coat, he requires weekly brushing to reduce shedding and to keep his hair shiny and healthy. Are Dalmadoodles hypoallergenic? The Poodle requires much more upkeep and needs to be brushed several times a week to keep his thick, curly hair from matting. And while there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, the Poodle does not shed often and produces much less dander than other breeds, reducing the chance of allergies. However, the Dalmatian is quite the shedder, so whether or not your Dalmadoodle will shed will be left up to genetics. Your Dalmadoodle will also need his ears cleaned regularly to avoid ear infection, and his nails trimmed to keep them from cracking or splitting. Dalmatian crossbreeds and poodle crossbreeds are known to be pretty intelligent, so you can expect your Dalmadoodle to be smart as well. Keep in mind that your Dalmadoodle could inherit any number of the temperamental traits listed above, and for this reason, we always recommend early socialization and obedience training. Dalmatian Personality The Dalmatian is a stately purebred with lots of confidence. This dog is famous for its looks as well as its brains. They are very loyal to their family and does well with dogs and children they are is raised with. However, they can be standoffish with strangers and, due to a guarding background, have a tendency to become territorial and protective, although not known to be an aggressive breed. Poodle Personality The Poodle is also best known for high intelligence, wowing their family with an incredible ability to learn tricks. This is a breed who loves showing off and is a natural entertainer. They do very well in family settings and enjoys other dogs. However, they do have a hunting background, so families who own smaller pets should not leave their Poodle in a room with them unsupervised. Dalmadoodle Exercise and Training Needs The Dalmatian x Poodle is going to be an active crossbreed, considering he comes from two very active purebred parents. We recommend giving your Poodle and Dalmatian mix at least an hour or two of exercise per day. This could include a long walk, a nice romp in the yard and a game of fetch. Luckily, the Poodle x Dalmatian is intelligent, and training should be simple. Dalmadoodle Lifespan The Dalmadoodle lifespan could vary depending on what he inherits from his parent breeds. While the Dalmatian has a life span of 11 to 13 years, he is prone to certain health issues, including deafness, skin allergies, urinary stones, obesity, epilepsy, thyroid disease and eye issues. The Poodle has a lifespan of 12 to .You may want to consider early health screening for your Dalmadoodle, as it could help you to prevent or prepare for certain inheritable health issues. Mixing Breeds There is an ongoing debate regarding the health of purebreds and crossbreeds. It is a well-known fact that purebreds suffer from many generational health defects as a result of generations of overbreeding. Those who support crossbreeding are hopeful that the practice could be a solution to these genetic health issues. The debate is ongoing and so are the studies. The Ideal Home for a Poodle and Dalmatian mix The Dalmatian Poodle mix is going to do best in homes with a large fenced-in yard where he can run and play, and in a home with an owner who is able to keep his intelligent mind active. This is a crossbreed who needs lots of stimulation both physically and mentally. If you are able to provide early socialization, the proper training and plenty of activity, then the Dalmadoodle may be the perfect dog for you. One good thing about getting a Dalamatian and Poodle mix puppy from a breeder is that you are able to ask questions about temperament and health issues with previous litters. Also, keep in mind that most repeatable breeders will be able to provide health certificates proving their litters have been health screened. No matter which source you go through to get your Dalmadoodle puppy, remember to go through a reliable and responsible source. Dalmatian x Poodle puppies are beautiful and great fun, and if you go to the right breeder and raise them well you will have a great companion for many years to come. References and Further Reading:. When looking to buy one, it is always better to buy or adopt a puppy than an adult so you can train it to suit your lifestyle and family. The Dalmapoo is available in two sizes; the Standard and Mini Dalmadoodle. The Mini Dalmadoodle is a convenient size for families with less space and small children. As the name indicates, a Dalmadoodle is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Dalmatian. Dalmadoodles are extremely social and smart dogs that need human companionship, attention, and tons of training. Let us study a bit about the parent dog breeds so we can understand the origins of the Dalmadoodle in depth: Dalmatian The Dalmatian is an athletic dog breed with a spotted coat and mysterious origins; no one knows exactly when they originated. Irrespective of their beginnings, one thing is for sure — the Dalmatian breed is incredibly old and can be traced back to the 16th Century. Dalmatians gained a great deal of popularity thanks to the movie Dalmatians. They also became popular as Firehouse dogs since they coached horses that were used for horse-drawn fire carriages. To date, many firehouses use the Dalmatian as their mascot. Poodles Poodles originated in Germany where they were bred for the purpose of duck hunting. Their water-resistant coats made them perfect for all kinds of water-related jobs including search and rescue. Today, the Poodle is considered one of the smartest and easiest-to-train dog breeds in the world. Poodles also make wonderful pets for allergy sufferers since their coats shed minimally and are hypoallergenic. Origin of the Dalmadoodle There are several benefits of crossbreeding dogs, the major one being that the cross-bred puppies have a lower chance of exhibiting the diseases seen in the parent breed. No one knows for sure when the first Dalmadoodle came into existence, but it may have been around the s as that was when the popularity of Doodle dogs really exploded. Dalmadoodles that are created using a Standard Poodle tend to be some of the largest Doodle dogs. However, there are mini Dalmadoodles too — obtained by crossing Dalmatians with Miniature Poodles. In general, these designer dogs weigh between lb 18 to 30 kg and measure about inches 45 to 50 cm tall. Mini Dalmadoodles can be expected to grow to between 10 to 18kg and measure less than 45cm tall. They are a medium size dog that requires less space in the house and yard than Standard sized Dalmapoo. Both varieties require significant amounts of exercise and are suited to people who live an active lifestyle. The results are unique and extremely attractive. Are Dalmadoodles hypoallergenic? This can cause runny noses and watery eyes in dog owners with pet allergies. This increases your chances of getting a hypoallergenic puppy as the Dalmatian genes are diluted and there is a greater Poodle gene pool. Do Dalmadoodles need grooming? Both the Dalmatian and Poodle have sensitive skin and coats. This means that your Dalmadoodle could also inherit sensitive skin which needs regular grooming. They do not handle weather extremities well and their skin is also susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. Avoid bathing your dog too much and only use a vet-approved shampoo for sensitive skin to bathe your Dalmadoodle. No two dogs are the same, even within the same breed. However, you can always train your Doodle puppy to adhere to your household rules and expectations. In general, it is safe to say that a Dalmadoodle will inherit a mix of the Poodle and Dalmatian traits. Both parent dog breeds are highly intelligent and trainable so we can expect the same from a Dalmadoodle. As with any dog breed, whether it is purebred or a designer dog, your Dalmadoodle puppy is going to need plenty of socialisation and early training. This is especially important if you do not want your pet to jump on visitors or bark at every passing vehicle. Unfortunately, many Dalmadoodles tend to have a stubborn streak and can also be quite headstrong. These traits can pose a challenge during training. This is also why it is important to set firm boundaries from its puppyhood. Failure to do so could make it difficult to handle as an adult. Be sure to keep all interactions with your pet positive as Dalmadoodles can be overly sensitive. They also have long memories so if you happen to scold your pet for misbehaviour, it will remember it for ages! Keep your training methods positive since negative training will only make your Doodle shy or aggressive. Most Dalmadoodles are social and confident dogs. They are also people-like and people-oriented. This means that your dog will want to participate in everything you do! This also means that your Dalmadoodle will hate being left all alone at home. These dogs tend to suffer from separation anxiety, so it is important to get them used to staying alone right from a young age. Crate training is the single most effective way to reduce the likelihood and stop the common Poodle Mix breed behaviour problem of separation anxiety from developing. As such, no dog should be left home alone for over 8 hours. If you have no choice but to do so, it is best to hire a pet sitter, doggy daycare or a dog walker to come in and check in on your Doodle while also letting it out for potty. Dalmadoodles are very energetic dogs. They are best suited for active owners who have the time to take their pets out at least times a day. Without exercise and mental stimulation, these smart dogs can get extremely bored. Dalmadoodles are highly intuitive dogs that can make excellent watchdogs. They are sensible and alert and will not yap or bark too much unless necessary. If you have young children in the house, remember that Dalmadoodles can be quite exuberant and could knock down small toddlers. You must also train your kids to never poke your Dalmadoodle in the eye or pull on its tail or ears. Both the Dalmadoodle and the children should be taught to respect each other to ensure harmony. Remember that puppies need around 20 hours of sleep each day and adult dogs hours a day. Dalmadoodles usually get along with other house pets including cats. This generally makes them excellent pets for multi-dog households. Finding a reputable breeder can be a hassle since there are not too many and these dogs are still quite rare in the USA and even rarer in Australia. The price of a Doodle puppy will depend on the pedigree of the parent dogs used. If the parents are championship title owners or have very pure bloodlines, then the puppies will cost more. The price also varies based on the Dalmadoodles size. In general, smaller Doodles cost more than larger ones although larger Dalmadoodles will be more expensive to keep. That way you can only use the best ingredients and avoid low-quality ingredients often seen in commercial dog foods. If you opt for feeding commercial dog food, then only select brands containing real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid dog foods with corn, soy, wheat, and other fillers which provide no real nourishment to your pet. Most Dalmadoodles are quite healthy dogs. However, from time to time, diseases like skin allergies, heart ailments, bloat, certain cancers, progressive retinal atrophy, and joint-related problems like dysplasia can be seen in Dalmadoodles. With proper diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care, your Dalmadoodle can live between years. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information, exclusive offers and access to our community of reputable breeders. Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

Hypoallergenic: No History Hailing from England and boasting lineage from the mighty Old English Bulldog, the American Bulldog journeyed across the seas with tenacious working-class immigrants seeking a fruitful life in North America. This dog's superhero-like agility and strength proved itself to be a powerful ally for herding cattle and combating the onslaught of wild pigs that had invaded the American South. However, swept up in the chaos of World War II, the valiant American Bulldog was nearly lost to the sands of time, but fate had other plans! Today, these resilient dogs have surged back from the brink of extinction, earning recognition from the United Kennel Club in and securing their place as a beloved and enduring breed. Temperament Meet the American Bulldog, a loyal and brave companion that's guaranteed to bring joy and energy to any household! With their outgoing and friendly nature, these gentle giants adore children and are sure to become the loving guardians of those they call their own. When trained from a young age, American Bulldogs become the ultimate family pets, thriving in social settings with both people and other dogs. Keep them active and engaged to prevent any mischievous behavior, and remember, they crave your company! So fight off their separation anxiety with lots of quality time, and you'll have the perfect sidekick for all of life's adventures! Our breeders see their American Bulldog puppies and parents as vital members of their families. At Homemade Puppies, we pride ourselves on giving responsible, in-home, family breeders a platform to get their furry American Bulldog friends found. Your American Bulldog puppy is just waiting to be welcomed into their forever home. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. With his laid-back personality and a friendly, gentle demeanor, Bagel is the perfect canine companion. But that's not all this pup is bringing to the table! He has mastered all of his basic commands, proving that he is not just a pretty face with a great disposition. Bagel is also house trained and crate trained, and he walks like a true gentleman on the leash. Bagel is a dog who knows what he wants, and he is easily motivated by treats, praise, or affection. He is secretly hoping to find a furever family with some human kids to play with because he can't wait to show off how fantastic he is with children. Imagine the joy and laughter that will fill your home with Bagel around! If there are no children in the household, fear not! Bagel will gladly soak up all that extra love and attention. He is a master at basking in the affection of his humans, and he will make sure you feel like the luckiest person on earth. With Bagel by your side, every day will be filled with love, laughs, and adventure. Bagel's favorite pastimes include regular walks, going for rides in the car, hiking, playing fetch, chewing on his ball, and being petted by pretty much anybody. He loves every human he meets and he is comfortable in the presence of other dogs, but he would prefer to be the only pet in his furever family. He also dreams of living in a world without squirrels, skateboards, or scooters.

About us It all began in , when my husband brought home our first English Bulldog puppy. I didn't grow up with dogs, however my husband did and I quickly fell in love with our little Bulldog puppy, which led to where we are today. We are a small in home breeder of quality English and French Bulldog puppies. We are nestled in the small town of Millmont Pennsylvania on a 52 acre farmette, with plenty of peace and quiet to raise our dogs. We are also in compliance with AKC. .American Kennel Club. Our dogs are our beloved pets, and we strive to breed responsibly. They are family raised, well socialized and come to you happy and healthy. We are committed to the betterment of the breed by placing a priority on health, temperament, and conformation. Our priority is locating a loving and responsible home for each puppy. We will do everything we can to earn your trust and assure a pleasant adoption experience as well as offer lifetime breeder support. We make sure the puppies we offer are loved and spoiled from birth so they will be secure, happy dogs all their lives. These magnificent dogs will steal your heart with their comical antics and sweet personality. Our Puppies. Things to do with your English Bulldog Pennsylvania is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Pennsylvania that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Pennsylvania that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Pennsylvania, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Pennsylvania, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Pennsylvania, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Pennsylvania has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Pennsylvania. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Pennsylvania? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article.

Coat like velvet and a smile that wins your heart. His temperament is a perfect match for our two young boys and he was housebroken within a week. I am so grateful to Toni for bringing such an amazing dog into our world. Google High quality dogs and breeder. We got the best and cutest puppy ever. I have used several of the best breeders throughout the U. Tank is a male that I got through Still Creek Labradors one year ago. Tank is boxy and beautiful. He is so, so smart, sweet and a total joy. He was easy to train as he has such a laid-back, want-to-please attitude. He will be certified this month as my service dog. He is simply the sweetest, most handsome boy and a true pleasure. I would definitely get another dog from Still Creek because they are also wonderful people. Google Lynette Crum If your looking for a professional breeder and some perfect English Labs look no further. Her house is beautiful and well maintained as are her dogs. Toni actually wants people to send her updates on the pups which is rare. She is very down to earth and good hearted. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for this exceptional breed. Since the first moment I met Toni I knew she would hold a very special place in my life. She made the entire experience one I will never forget. We purchased our sweet Charley girl from her in ! Toni and I have stayed I contact over the last couple of years and am excited to say we are going through the process again!!! Toni has such a huge loving heart and loves her dogs unconditionally. I would highly recommend Still Creek Labradors in choosing your life long companion. Google Reviews AKC Registered English Labrador Retrievers Still Creek Labradors are strategically bred from generations of excellent AKC Champion pedigrees prioritizing confirmation, rigorous health testing, and the amazing temperament that sets Labradors apart as the 1 dog breed over 30 years now!! Located in the heart of East Tennessee, we work and produce the highest quality English lines of black, yellow, and chocolate coated Labradors. We strategically breed with the best stud dogs in the world. And, we are committed to placing our puppies according to the needs and lifestyle of each companion. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us. For nearly 50 years we have produced English Labradors in the true style of the all-around dog they were meant to be. Our ultimate goal has been a beautiful dog conforming to breed standards with soundness of temperament and body. Our Labradors retain the hunting ability that has made them the supreme hunting retriever. This intelligent, well-tempered dog is a perfect family companion and service dog. We are pleased to not only have many of our On The Bluff Labradors in pet, show and hunting homes, but also used as guide dogs for the disabled and specialist for airscent detection. Our breeding program strives for perfection in every litter. We use the highest quality stud dogs with a background of multiple Grand Champions. We combine their linage with the outstanding genetics of our females. The result are not just cute, adorable puppies, but dogs that can be well trained, healthy companions for a lifetime. We have never lost sight of our initial goal to produce the perfect Labrador- in mind and body. Feel free to email us for additional information or to get on a waiting list for one of our puppies. Staffed by professional trainers- each puppy receives several weeks and hundreds of hours of individual lessons- Obedience Training, House Living Training, Group Socialization, and Outside Etiquette. We believe our unique training methods and individualized programs sets us apart from any other breeder. Here you will find many adorable pictures of our current puppies.

Call Today! We breed from only the best quality bloodlines in the world adhering to the strict German SV standard. Our dogs are health tested hips, elbows, back and DM and are titled from both showline and working lines, raised in the house and already started before they go home! What else separates us from other Michigan German Shepherd Breeders? Von Buchmann German Shepherds, aka Michigan German Shepherds, is not a kennel but we are a home where our handful of dogs, bred to the strict German standard, stay inside with us and are a part of our family. They are family members to us. We stay small so every dog can get the attention and time they deserve, and our puppies can be raised in a family situation. Our puppies are not only born in the house, but they stay in the house. Our German Shepherd puppies go from our whelping box right to crate training and house breaking introduction. We get several comments from families they are very easy to finish housetraining. Phoenix von Buchmann IGP3 ang a normal hips and elbows dm clear, queen of the house and grandma to all of our showline babies Preserving the breed is at the utmost importance to us so our dogs are bred to uphold German SV standards. We breed to the German SV standard to ensure we have the most stable and healthy dogs for your family. I, Peggy Buchman, grew up with German Shepherd dogs and have loved them my entire life. My daughter started training German Shepherd Puppies and dogs in IGP, service work, and pet training and it has brought back all of my favorite memories of them. What a wonderful experience this has been, breeding and raising German Shepherd puppies. Watching the development of them as they grow with their new families, feedback has been amazing. Many families have come back for a second and third German Shepherd Puppy. We have dogs in sport homes, service homes, and mostly family companion homes where comes our most important focus, temperament! Since we raise our own dogs and keep from our own stock we have a great understanding what is behind your puppy and his or her pedigree. Raising and training our own dogs to the German standard takes a lot of commitment, time, expense, and is never easy. Please scroll down and slide left to scroll through our many Testimonials. We are hands on in all aspects of our German Shepherds. Training and Handling our own dogs for Titling, Showing and Breed Surveys Even down time is exciting with our acreage to take leisurely runs, even going on family travels Up North "I take pride in the German Shepherds I am producing here at von Buchmann German Shepherds" - Peggy Contact Us Today Real Testimonials Mia is such a little love at about 40 pounds now with beautiful markings! She has been easy to train since she is so food motivated. She has a great personality and temperament. We just love her so much and thank you for a great bloodline!! Susan S. He is an amazingly sweet, loving, playful and handsome little guy. Donnie D. Hank is doing great! His color is fantastic and his listening skills are superb!!! He very much enjoys our outings and meeting new people still!! And does very well with it! Simon E. My puppy, which I name Kimber has been nothing short of amazing. She is a very beautiful GSD, healthy, and very willing to learn new things. I have actually train Kimber to be a diabetic alert service dog for myself, which she picked up very well and is happy to work. Peggy was more than willing to help evaluate which puppy of the litter would have the best attitude for my life being around several young children. We interviewed other breeders but you could immediately tell that Peggy truly cared about her dogs and took care to ensure we would get a puppy that was a good fit for us. She answered all of our questions and continued to do so long after the actual adoption. Our dog has been a wonderful addition to our family and our next German Shepherd will be from Von Buchmann! High quality German Shepherds and a breeder who cares, you really can ask for more. Denise B. We purchased our first puppy from Von Buchmann German Shepherds in .Since then, we have been back to get two more puppies. Peggy is a very knowledgeable breeder and her dogs are beautiful and well trained with great temperaments. We are very pleased with Von Buchmann German Shepherds. April R. Besides his physical beauty, he has a protective yet loving temperament, listens and responds to all commands, was well socialized and mannered, and only barks when alerting me to perceived danger. You will not be disappointed. Susan H. We bought our first German Shepherd from this breeder and have been over the moon impressed with how this pup fits perfectly in to our family. Peggy did a great job of recommending the perfect puppy based on drive and temperament for our family with three young boys. Our pup is currently 11mo old and such a joy. Ever the professional, Peggy answered all of my possibly annoying first time dog owner questions with care and grace. She has been a resource for us months after our purchase and I would not hesitate to contact her with questions in the future. I highly recommend this breeder without reservation. Kelli S. Their temperament, physique, coats and general health are outstanding. Jodi H. I give Von Buchmann German Shepherds a 5 star! I have a beautiful 18 month girl from Phoenix. Peggy Buchmann matched the perfect pup with what our family wanted in a Shepherd. Our pup was used to a household environment, family life, and well socialized for her age when we got her. The follow up with Peggy has been amazing. She is quick to answer questions and offer support and suggestions. Peggy takes her breeding seriously and strives for great temperment, good health, and beauty with her pups. Tammy S. Very knowledgeable, caring and responsible breeder that is always responsive to concerns or questions! Our second male from her is now 7mos and is incredible! Mark M. We have had our beautiful Luca with us for nearly 10 years. We will not hesitate to look to Von Buchmann for our next family member. Thank you for such excellence. Kristen R. For the complete list please see our breeders info page page. However, the price may be higher depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the dog. It is important to do your research to find a reputable breeder who cares about the welfare of their puppies. When you purchase a German Shepherd puppy, you are making a commitment to care for the dog for its entire lifetime. These dogs can live for up to 14 years, so it is important to be prepared for the financial responsibility that comes with owning a pet. If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion, a German Shepherd may be the perfect breed of dog for you. Reputable breeders will screen potential buyers and will only sell their puppies to responsible homes. This can give you valuable insight into the temperament, intelligence, and health of the pup. The breeder should also be willing to offer a guarantee on the health of the puppy. Puppies should be well socialized and should have received their shots and been dewormed. Finding a reputable German Shepherd breeder in Michigan can be challenging, but it is worth it to find a healthy and well-socialized pup. What is The German Shepherd Personality? The German Shepherd personality can vary from dog to dog. However, they are often loyal and intelligent. They can be trained to perform a variety of tasks and are known for their protective nature. These dogs make excellent companions and can be a valuable member of the family. Ask to see the location where the puppies are kept, and ask to visit with them. This is very important. Before purchasing a German Shepherd in Michigan, you should visit the breeder in person. This can give you valuable insight into whether or not they are responsible. It is important to ensure that the dogs are well cared for and that the puppies are healthy. You should also be able to get a feel for whether or not the breeder is trustworthy. The personality traits associated with any dog are in their genetics and in their upbringing which means that if one parent has characteristics that you would like to avoid i. This also means that you should try to meet all of the parents. If there is a temperament problem with a dog, it is always possible for it to be passed on even if the breeder does not believe so. Ask the breeder for references from previous buyers and contact them. Find out if the puppies were healthy if they were well socialized, and if the breeder was helpful and knowledgeable. References will also tell you whether or not the breeder is willing to work with potential buyers and answer questions. Of course, there are caveats — it is possible for a breeder to give false references — but this is rare. How to Find A Reputable German Shepherd Breeder in Michigan: Ask for Photos If a breeder has several litters available at different times, ask if you can see pictures of their dogs while they are still young or even puppies. If they refuse, consider this a red flag and avoid them. The best German Shepherd breeders will want to share this part of their lives with potential clients; after all, these are the dogs that will be part of When looking for a German Shepherd puppy, it is important to visit your Michigan German Shepherd breeder in person. This will allow you to see how the puppies are being raised and ensure that they are healthy Ask Your Michigan German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If the breeder is reputable, they will have no problem with you contacting some of their past customers. Ask them about the quality of the puppies, whether or not they were healthy and if the breeder was helpful. References are one of the best ways to determine if a breeder is reputable; unfortunately, not all breeders have good references. Meeting past customers will tell you even more about whether or not your German Shepherd breeder in Michigan is reputable. This way your puppy can get on a preventive program from day one. You should also ask if they use Heartguard and Frontline Plus for fleas and worms. A good breeder will not hesitate to provide you with this information. The best thing about being proactive is that it prevents problems down the road. Even more important than just vaccines is having had all shots current before going home. Some of these diseases are deadly, so ask your breeder to show you the Pedigree for current health testing. How can you avoid getting caught up in such an unfortunate situation? They appear frightened and shy away from human touch. If you do encounter an unethical breeder, please contact the proper authorities. Some unethical dog breeders will no doubt try to sell you a puppy with serious health problems. Also, ask if your new puppy has received his first vaccinations and if so, what brand of vaccine was used. The best way to find a reputable and honest breeder is by word-of-mouth or through referrals from friends, family members, your veterinarian or other dog breeders. You can also check the web pages of national breed clubs for a list of inspected and approved German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Michigan. House-training can be a long process and you will probably need to invest in some training aids, which you can find at your local pet store or online retailer. Training aids such as dog piddle pads, potty bells and indoor grass mats can help speed up the house training process. Potty training takes patience, consistency and lots of love. Here are some basic potty training tips: 1 Take your puppy outside to his bathroom area after eating or waking up from a nap. Make sure you watch him until he has finished the business then praise him for doing it correctly. Try not to play with your dog during this time because it can distract them from their job. Instead, gently place your pup on the newspaper so that he can see what he has done, then praise and encourage him while taking them outside to finish their business. Your puppy or dog will still be able to smell the scent of his own urine and it might entice him to go potty inside again. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Discount to law enforcement and active military. Cher Car Kennels has a long standing relationship with law enforcement and military service personnel. Although appreciative of a high drive Police Service or Military Working Dog, these individuals require a different type of canine companion in their own home, and many choose a herding breed to safeguard their loved ones. These dogs must be vigilant in their duties, but also calm and gentle with family members… playing with the kids or snuggling with the cat. Lowell Road, St. Johns Michigan All rights reserved. Click here for detailed copyright notice. We use cookies to enable essential functionality on our website, and analyze website traffic. By clicking Accept you consent to our use of cookies. Read about how we use cookies. Cookie settings Accept Your Cookie Settings We use cookies to enable essential functionality on our website, and analyze website traffic. Cookie Categories Essential On These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our websites. You cannot refuse these cookies without impacting how our websites function. You can block or delete them by changing your browser settings, as described under the heading "Managing cookies" in the Privacy and Cookies Policy. Analytics Off These cookies collect information that is used in aggregate form to help us understand how our websites are being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are. Save settings. Our German Shepherd Kennels are located in Southwest Michigan and we offer to ship nationwide, and delivery services. We created this German Shepherd Kennel for the serious German Shepherd enthusiast who is committed to maintaining these world-class pedigrees, and working heritage set forth over a century ago carried on through the Verein Fur Deutche Schaeferhunde Club. Our commitment is only matched by our love for the breed and its extraordinary capabilities. In Germany, Purebred German Shepherd Breeders would be required to show their dogs at the German Sieger Shows to obtain breeding titles, which would continue to improve the breed. VA4 Taifun vom St. DM stands for Degenerative Myelopathy. There has only been a few stud dogs in the history of the breed that have ever produced a vise world sieger and Uran is one of them. Kolenda Kennels is a German Shepherd Breeder that is a personalized kennel and dedicated to improving the breed, located at th Ave Dorr, Michigan , located in Grand Rapids Michigan area. When buying a puppy it is a good ideal to visit the kennel. You should be able to interact with their dogs, especially the mom and dad of the puppy you are considering. This is the only way to check the temperament of their breeding dogs. By visiting the kennel you can inspect the cleanliness of the facility, and how the puppies are being taken care of. You can interact with the puppies and also, check the temperament of the puppies themselves and over all health. By visiting the kennel you will also be able to see the over all looks and structure of the breeding dogs. By doing these things this would help improve the German Shepherd Breed itself. It would make it difficult to breed and sell inferior puppies, which would help keep the breed from deteriorating. When my wife and I decided to make being German Shepherd Dog Breeders our full-time career we decided to put together a German Shepherd Kennel that is dedicated to breeding the best Imported German Shepherds. This way, we could offer this beautiful, outstanding tempered dog to the public. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Michigan? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Michigan cost? Puppy prices will depend on pedigree, breeder experience, coat color black German Shepherd puppies for sale in Michigan , type, and more. Luckily, there are tons of German Shepherd puppies available in our network, meaning finding your perfect puppy is easy. Will I be connected with local German Shepherd puppies for sale Michigan only? How can I be sure my puppy is ethically raised by German Shepherd breeders in Michigan? We know better than anyone just how tough it is to find an ethical, humane breeder—and how important it is when you want to find a happy, healthy puppy. Uptown is serious about screening and vetting our breeder business partners, and ethical breeding is one of our top priorities. Just take a look at our Breeder Pledge for more info. Uptown Puppies is not a breeder. Can I meet my dog first? Unlike puppy mills, partners in our network are proud of their pups and love to make connections with new families. Do you have German Shepherd puppies MI now? As our breeder partner network continues to grow, odds are great that your dream dog is already here waiting for you. To get started on your search, all you have to do is begin your MatchMaker process below. MatchMake is super simple, but also really powerful. Because of our tough vetting system, binding Breeder Pledge, and powerful MatchMaker process, we can help families avoid the bad breeders and skip straight to the good part—finding the ultimate pup.

Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. These tips will also help you to advance your dog so that, eventually, you can trust them to be off the leash in a safe area. Don't release your dog until they can demonstrate knowledge and obedience on the long leash and in many different settings. To begin with, walk them in the house and in the yard. Dogs learn 'contextually and by repetition'. These hints will help you to become the pack leader. Be certain that this is only reason that your dog will follow you. Make time to walk your dog Whether you walk your dog in the morning or evening will be influenced by your program. Whenever you exercise your dog, the walk should allow for 'focused time' and 'free time'. Two leashes will facilitate this. If they are under 12 months old, take some water with you. Also take a back-pack and a treat belt available on Ebay. I recommend no more than thirty minutes of walking in total for a dog under 14 months old as their growth plates are not set until this time. Be careful of overly vigorous activity, particularly if you have an older but playful dog. I don't recommend running for more than very short bursts for the same reason. Healthy hips and elbows are critical for a healthy, active and long life. Use two leashes - a long leash approx 7m and a short leash approx 1m Start your walk with the labrador pup on a short leash. The short leash will help you to direct and guide the dog. This allows you to maintain full control over your dog. Set up your walk for success. Start by getting the dog to sit or at the least be stationary and under your control. As you begin, keep your dog behind your body alignment. Be patient and encourage your dog. Do not show aggressive frustration. This will only cause confusion and fear or aggression. If your dog is not complying, stop and reset. You are the master Walking in front of your dog demonstrates that you are the master or the pack leader. You should be first out the door. The dogs should exit the compound only at your command. This is essential whether you are walking 1, 2 or more dogs. If your dog controls the pace and direction of the walk, they are the pack leader. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk. Dogs learn contextually The next two hints are important training essentials. Firstly, labradors learn contextually and their training in not immediately transferable to a new environment. Using the same disciplines and routines, train your dog the same way in different settings. This will entrench your expectations. Correct immediately Secondly, a labrador has about a five second retention of information. After five seconds the dog has lost any association between your assertiveness and their behaviour. If they disobey you, you must correct them within five seconds or not at all. If the dog is disobedient or simply does not understand, reset and start again. The long leash I'm a big fan of the long leash. A long leash will help you to correct bad behaviour at a distance. After a period of training with the short leash, remove it and connect the longer lead. Keep the leash in your hand, releasing it slowly and progressively. As they master this, you can back away while the dog is 'sitting and staying'. Reward your labrador pup with vigorous affection and a treat. After this, you should allow them to wander and sniff around. All this time you will keep your dog on the long leash and under your control. Be sure that the free time is less than their focus time. During the socialisation phase, 8 - 16 weeks, you will need both leashes as you expose your labrador pup to other dogs. As you walk your dog, you will come across small and large dogs that are aggressive. Walking on either leash will give your complete control. And it will ensure safety at all time. You new labrador pup has no innate road sense. Walk them, getting close to roads. Expose them to vehicles so that they do not panic. Reward your dog for good behaviour. Remember that dogs register tones and frequencies, not words. Use higher tones to affirm, reward and encourage. You approval is the greatest reward for a Labrador. Direct eye contact without high vocal affirmation will be interpreted as aggression. Use lower growling tones to reinforce disapproval. Try to avoid 'No' as a command. It is too general and therefore confusing to the dog. Always reward and reinforce obedience to specific commands. Use food treats to begin with, however you must gradually phase them out. Your vocal affirmation and affection should be your longer term goal. As your dog maintains the proper behaviour, reward them with treats. Reward your dog after the walk I recommend that you reward your labrador pup after the walk. Let them have a drink firstly then give them a portion of food that is less than a meal but more than a treat. It will not take long for your dog to anticipate the whole experience. When you appear with the leashes, they will become very enthusiastic. If you adhere to these eight hints and maintain the discipline of your training, you and your dog will value and enjoy the experience. Finally, remember to pick up after your dog. Don't go on a walk without your poop bags on hand! Find a vet you can have confidence in. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. And just like us, their cardiovascular system becomes more efficient the more its used. The benefits of exercising your dog are many. Exercise helps your Labrador grow more blood vessels and effectively oxygenate his body, as well as build muscle and strengthen his bones. It also helps with weight control to a certain extent. Firstly, he will tend to get bored and will be bursting with pent up energy. Your lab will expend all that energy by resorting to destructive behaviors like chewing and digging, and barking excessively. So, how much exercise does a Labrador need? Generally speaking, however, a healthy, adult Labrador needs an hour of exercise every day. If your dog is the relaxed kind, 45 minutes will do, while a really energetic dog could work out up to 1. Labradors, like all dogs, love to explore. Even a quick hike or walk around a nature trail will be great exercise. Just make sure you have the right hiking gear for your labrador. Just their normal playtime will tire him and give him enough of a workout. This is five minutes of structured exercise per month of age, until your puppy is grown. And that should be enough to keep him fit and burn off excess energy. There are plenty of games you can play with your dog which double as exercising. Tug-of-War is a great form of play and exercise. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. A couple of tips to keep it safe. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Another good idea is upgrading a rubber ball to a Frisbee. Balls tend to sink and roll away, but Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. A low impact game which is a great brain teaser for your Lab is finding the treat under the cup. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. Labradors were bred to be full of energy and want to work. They need lots of regular exercise. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. In conclusion How often should I walk a Labrador Retriever puppy? For instance, your four-month-old Lab puppy can walk or play for 20 minutes a day, twice a day. Of course, puppies love to play , so all that time may not be for walks. You can allocate half the time for walks and the other half to play with your Labrador pup. This means that you can actually walk your four-month-old Lab puppy for 10 minutes a day, twice a day. Then play with them for 20 minutes. Some puppies are still learning how to properly go on walks. So, if you are still training your Lab puppy how to behave on walks. You can focus most of the estimated exercise time on their leash training and walk training. Whatever happens during your outdoor walks, always remember to listen to your Labrador pup. If they get enough exercise but still want to play, play with them for more minutes until they get their fill. How often should I walk an adult Labrador? When your Labrador is fully grown, you can use your better judgment to know how often you should walk your Labrador. Most canines will have slightly different personalities and needs. So you can try experimenting with how often should you walk your Labrador to know what suits them. It may be good to know, though, that most adult Labs like to go on walks at least twice a day. Aside from that, many adult Labs will need at least one hour of exercise every day. You can use minutes of that time to walk them, but some Labradors will enjoy walking for 30 minutes twice a day. For instance, relaxed Labs may want only 45 minutes of exercise a day and will only want to use that time to walk. In contrast, energetic Labs may want nearly 1. Energetic Labs may also want to run, hike, or swim to burn off all their extra energy. How often should I walk a senior Labrador Retriever? Mature man walking his senior dog If your Lab is a senior, they still need to go on walks to stay healthy and prevent common Labrador health problems. However, your senior Lab will not have the same stamina and energy that they used to have. Therefore, you need to walk them very often, but for shorter periods of time. For instance, a senior Labrador can go for a short 5-minute to minute walk. However, you need to walk them times a day, depending on their health. Walking a senior Lab frequently for short periods of time will help them stay fit without pushing them past their limits. Can you walk a Labrador too much? There is no such thing as too much when it comes to walking a Labrador Retrievers. Of course, as previously mentioned, if your dog is very active, they may need longer walks at least twice a day. Signs your Labrador Retriever wants to go on more walks If you think that your Lab still has lots of energy and walks to go on more walks. Here are some signs that you can look for: Destructive behavior e. Actually, there is no one answer to these questions. The response will depend on the activities that you and your Lab do during those walks and how active your Labrador is in general. For example, if you have your Labrador Retriever do plenty of games or retrieving play during your walks. Other ways to give your Labrador exercise What many people fail to realize is that there are a lot of different ways in which Labrador Retrievers can exercise. You do not need to use all of your exercise time for walks. Especially since Labs will also want other ways to burn off their excess energy. Some other ways you can give your Lab exercise include the following: Going on hikes Swimming , although your Labrador must be at least months old and be trained how to swim first Playing fetch Going on runs Tug of war Keep in mind that you have to be gentle in your pulls and to let your Lab win to avoid aggressive behavior. Labs that exhibit aggressive behavior should not play tug of war. When should I not walk my Labrador Retriever? Unless your vet has approved having you take your Labrador for long walks. You should not walk Labs in the following scenarios: While they are still very young puppies When they feel unwell or pain While they are still recovering from an operation or injury When they are very old In conclusion How often you walk your Lab depends on their age, personality, and needs. Post navigation. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway.

Columbia is a treasure trove of rich history, vibrant culture, and a warm, pet-friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place to forge a beautiful bond with these intelligent and affectionate dogs. Labradoodles effortlessly blend into Columbia's diverse and welcoming culture, thanks to their hypoallergenic coats and friendly nature. Whether you're exploring the city's storied past by visiting historical sites or leisurely strolling through its lush parks and gardens, having a Labradoodle by your side elevates every moment, infusing it with an extra dose of joy and companionship. Columbia's dedication to being pet-friendly is one of the many reasons why owning an Australian Labradoodle puppy here is such a delight. From expansive dog parks and scenic walking trails to inviting outdoor patios and special events tailored for furry companions, the city wholeheartedly embraces the presence of dogs in its community. Together with your Labradoodle, you can embark on invigorating walks along riverside trails, explore local attractions that warmly welcome pets, and even join in on exciting dog-centric gatherings held throughout the year. Labradoodles are renowned for their playful and sociable nature , making them the perfect companions for individuals and families in Columbia. These lovable dogs thrive on human interaction and boast exceptional compatibility with children, making them an excellent choice for families in search of a devoted and gentle furry friend. Whether you're playing an exhilarating game of catch in one of Columbia's charming parks or enjoying cozy evenings at home with your Australian Labradoodle by your side, their presence brings boundless joy and laughter into your life. Moreover, Labradoodles are highly intelligent and easily trainable, which opens up a world of possibilities for shared activities. Columbia, with its focus on education and community engagement, offers numerous opportunities for Labradoodles and their owners to partake in obedience training, agility courses, and even rewarding therapy work. Together, you can embark on a journey of growth and well-being, strengthening your bond and creating lasting memories. The city's rich history, pet-friendly amenities, and vibrant community beautifully complement the affectionate and friendly nature of these remarkable dogs. If you're contemplating adding a Labradoodle to your family, Columbia provides an ideal environment to offer a loving home and embark on a lifelong adventure filled with unforgettable moments alongside your beloved four-legged companion. With its warm climate and abundant green spaces, Columbia offers a plethora of dog-friendly parks where our four-legged companions can frolic, socialize, and bask in the great outdoors. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor passing through, these parks are a must-visit for every dog lover. Finlay Park : Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, Finlay Park is a beloved destination for both humans and canines. This sprawling green oasis features lush grassy areas, shade trees, and a picturesque lake. Dogs are welcome to explore the park while on a leash and can even enjoy a refreshing dip in the designated dog-friendly section of the lake. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a game of fetch, all while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Sesquicentennial State Park : Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Sesquicentennial State Park, a serene nature retreat just minutes from downtown Columbia. This expansive park boasts scenic trails, tranquil lakes, and ample open spaces for dogs to roam and explore. With designated dog-friendly areas and a spacious off-leash dog park, your furry friend can burn off some energy while making new four-legged pals. Don't forget to bring water and waste bags to ensure a responsible and enjoyable visit. The park features miles of scenic trails that wind through woodlands, meadows, and riverfront vistas. Dogs on leashes are welcome to accompany their owners on the trails, providing an excellent opportunity for exercise and bonding in nature. Additionally, Saluda Shoals Park hosts special events such as "Yappy Hour" where dogs can socialize and participate in fun activities. Granby Park : Situated on the banks of the Congaree River, Granby Park is a hidden gem that provides a tranquil escape from the city. This riverfront park offers stunning views, paved trails, and plenty of green spaces for dogs to explore. Dogs are welcome to join their owners on leashes and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a fantastic spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic while immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of the river. Harbison State Forest : For the more adventurous canines and their owners, Harbison State Forest is a nature lover's paradise. This expansive forest offers miles of trails that wind through a diverse ecosystem, including wetlands, forests, and scenic overlooks. Dogs are welcome on leashes and can accompany their owners as they hike, jog, or simply take in the natural beauty around them. It's essential to be mindful of wildlife and other park visitors while exploring this pristine wilderness. Remember, responsible pet ownership is crucial when visiting dog-friendly parks. Always keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas, clean up after them, and be considerate of other park-goers. By following these guidelines, we can ensure that Columbia's dog-friendly parks remain enjoyable for everyone. So, grab your leash, pack some water and treats, and embark on a memorable adventure with your furry companion at one of Columbia's dog-friendly parks. Whether you're seeking relaxation, exercise, or socialization, these parks provide the perfect setting for creating cherished memories with your beloved canine friend. Look no further! Our free litter notification email is the perfect way to stay up-to-date on our latest and greatest litters of adorable labradoodle puppies! Follow Along on Social Media! Popular Links. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Columbia South Carolina and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Columbia, SC? We have answers. What are Labradoodle puppies for sale near Columbia like? A Labradoodle is a hybrid, or designer, breed of dog, created by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle. They are a family friendly, outgoing, and social dog, know as much for their intelligence as for their hypoallergenic low-shedding coat. Labradoodles are eager to please their owners, making them ideal pets for those with active lifestyles. They are very versatile and can excel at various activities such as obedience, agility, and therapy work. As a result, they have become a popular choice as companion pets or service dogs. With Labradoodle puppies for sale in Columbia, what is their coat like? The Labradoodle is a hybrid of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle, making its coat quite unique. With both the lab and poodle having long, thick, wavy coats, the Labradoodle coat also tends to be long, thick, and wavy. Depending on which type of poodle the labradoodle was bred with, the coat may be even curlier than average. Generally, Labradoodles are low-to-no-shedding and some have hypoallergenic coats. The amount of grooming the dog will require will vary. What's the best dog food for Columbia Labradoodle puppies for sale? The best dog food for Labradoodles is one that is specifically designed for this breed of dog. Labradoodles have special dietary needs due to their unique characteristics, so it is important to find a dog food that contains the right combination of healthy fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and other nutrients that can meet those needs. A good Labradoodle food should have plenty of high-quality proteins and fats, along with complex carbohydrates to help keep your pup healthy and full of energy. Ideally, these ingredients should be derived from natural sources without too many artificial preservatives or additives. What are some essentials I should buy before getting Labradoodle puppies in Columbia? Before bringing home a Labradoodle, you'll want to make sure that you have all of the essential items to ensure your pup has a happy and healthy home. Start by procuring a cozy and comfortable bed with blankets and toys. You should also get a good quality food and water bowl set that will be resistant to chewing. For a daily walk, make sure to have a sturdy collar, leash, and harness available. You will need supplies to clean up messes such as dog waste bags and stain remover. Not to mention a good selection of treats for rewards and training. What sizes do Labradoodles for sale in Columbia come in? Labradoodles come in a variety of sizes and can range from a tiny Toy size to a medium Miniature size, or even a Standard size. Toy labradoodles reach an average weight of pounds, with a height of inches. Miniature labradoodles range in weight from pounds, with an average height of inches. Standard labradoodles typically have a weight of pounds, with an average height of approximately inches. Are Labradoodle puppies near Columbia active dogs? Labradoodles are an active dog breed, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation. This is a great breed for active owners who love to spend time in nature, as they love to go running and playing in the park. They are highly intelligent dogs that would excel in agility or herding activities as well. Labradoodles are also great family companions due to their outgoing and friendly personalities. They are eager to please and get along famously with children and other animals. Do Labradoodles in Columbia get along with kids? Labradoodles are a popular breed among families with kids due to their generally friendly demeanor. These pups are a cross between Labradors and Poodles, both of which are known for being affectionate and gentle. In the right environment, with the proper socialization, an affectionate Labradoodle can be a loyal, loving, and patient companion for boys and girls of all ages. Although they can sometimes be too active for younger kids, generally they have the ability to bond deeply with both adults and children, and provide hours of entertainment and fun. Is training Columbia Labradoodles for sale easy? Training a Labradoodle can be a rewarding experience, but it isn't necessarily easy. You will need to commit time and patience to molding this breed into the perfect companion you desire. The Labradoodle is an intelligent, alert dog with a sociable temperament, so the foundation of initial training, such as housebreaking, basic obedience, and teaching 'come' and 'drop it' commands should be relatively straightforward. However, more advanced tasks may require a lot of reinforcement and practice.

How to help prevent reverse sneezing Why do brachycephalic dogs make noises? Pugs are a purebred dog, meaning they are bred to conform to certain common physical traits. Unfortunately, this often happens at the expense of their health. For a Pug, having a squashed nose, flat face and shortened palate gave them the peculiarly adorable appearance they have today. It also gave them a much greater propensity toward respiratory problems. The shortness of the Pug's palate and the restricted airways of their nose and throat means a Pug will have difficulty breathing. A symptom of this problem which many Pug guardians will notice is that they make certain noises when they breathe. The sounds the dog makes will depend on their activity. Pugs are not known for their deep barking. They may do this when they miss their guardian or want attention. When they are playing or running, they will often make a grunting noise which sounds quite congested, as if they have a cold. This is because they are trying to breathe in more air, but their restricted airways contract and cause them to make noises. So, when our Pug is making a honking noise, what might this mean? Why is my Pug making a honking noise? It is a condition which most Pugs will suffer from time to time, some more than others. The phenomenon sounds like the dog is suffocating and can be quite worrying for the dog's guardian. It is normal to see the dog extend their neck and arch their back. The reason it is called a reverse sneeze is quite literal. With a normal sneeze, the dog would expel air forward, often accompanied by a noise due to congestion. For a reverse sneeze, air is being drawn in with a congested sound. Congested or compromised airways are what lead to the honking noise. As the air comes in, the dog struggles to breathe in sufficient air and makes a honking noise, similar to if someone were hyperventilating. However, the Pug is not hyperventilating and it is important to remember this is a fairly normal occurrence. These episodes can last about a minute and come and go throughout the dog's life. The Pug and other brachycephalic dogs have shortened palates and restricted airways which makes breathing difficult overall. However, we reverse sneeze will usually be triggered by some sort of irritation to the palate, making them feel as if they are drowning. If your dog has just had a bath, eaten something sticky or has exercised, it is possible irritation can lead to a reverse sneeze. We should be aware, but not too worried when the Pug is making a honking noise. Reverse sneezing in Pugs activation There are some individuals with a greater propensity towards reverse sneezing and some situations which can induce an episode. For example, if your dog suffers from allergies , reverse sneezing is likely to be more frequent. There are irritants such as dust, pollen, cleaning products, food or perfumes, which can lead to an allergic reaction. While any allergic reaction can be dangerous, this is especially so with brachycephalic dogs. As we stated above, exercise and irritants can induce a reverse sneezing episode in Pugs. Even eating and drinking their normal food can instigate a reaction. In general, you will not need to take your Pug to the veterinarian during a reverse sneeze. However, if the attacks are frequent, they appear to be in distress or there are complications such as passing out, you will need to take them for a checkup. When the dog has allergies, these reactions need to be carefully monitored. How to help prevent reverse sneezing As we have explained, reverse sneezing is relatively common and benign. However, it can be uncomfortable and if it is possible to reduce the possibility of an episode, it will be better for their general well-being. Here's how you can help a Pug with reverse sneezing: Avoid using a leash on a collar for dogs. We may need them to have a collar to identify them, but this should not be too tight. However, if we walk them and attach a leash directly to the collar it puts too much pressure on their throat. Especially at a time when they are exercising, this can promote the occurrence of reverse sneezing. It is much better to use a harness which goes over their chest and reduces pressure on the throat. At the time of an attack, the best thing you can do is to help them calm down. Talk to them in a calming voice and give them a gentle back rub. You can even gently massage their throat to help the constriction feeling ease. This will help them swallow and relieve the feeling of irritation. Try to ensure the dog drinks plenty of water. Dehydration can make the sensation feel worse. If they can drink during a reverse sneeze, this may be helpful. This article on the best food for Pugs is also a good way to maintain the general well-being of your dog. Unfortunately, there is not much else you can do when a Pug is reverse sneezing. This is a condition which happens from birth. Although you can help them to ease the issue, it is not something we will be able to eliminate completely. Fortunately, reverse sneezing does not pose a serious or immediate threat to your Pug's well-being. This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain. In addition to their fun characters and unwavering allegiance to their human companions, pugs have become so loveable and are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world because of their squashed noses, protruding eyes and wrinkled, flat faces. However, their shot noses and flat faces is a recipe for the serious breathing issues that they tend to suffer from. Many people who have interacted with pugs at their homes or in the park often ask; is it normal for pugs to breathe heavily? Heavy breathing in pugs is relatively common within the breed. They often have difficulty in breathing in certain situations given that their breathing passages are shorter and compact. However, pugs tend to have some serious breathing issues that should never be ignored. There are a lot of questions that dog lovers often ponder about before buying and bringing a pug into their homes. Despite being a lovely dog breed, their breathing problem can be a major concern. All you need to know is how to manage the situation. Do all Pugs Breathe Heavily? Therefore, all pugs will breathe heavily and make various noises including; gulping to catch their breath, have reverse sneezing, snoring and even passing gas. As a pug owner, these types of noise become a normal part of living with your lovely pug. In other words, you should expect pugs of all ages to make loud breathing sounds, albeit to a given extent. Why do Pugs Have Breathing Problems? Our canine friends have a respiratory system made up of the nares the nostrils , the sinuses, the nasal cavity and the pharynx, which is a membrane-lined cavity connecting both the mouth and the nose to the esophagus. As you can imagine, any defect in any of these components will leave your dog struggling to breathe properly. Again, all dogs have the following three main types of skull and muzzle shapes: Mesocephalic — These types of skull and muzzle are almost equal in length and are considered medium-sized heads. This is because they offer enough space for the nasal cavities and all other components of the outer respiratory system. These types of dogs include the Golden Retriever and the Beagle. Dolichocephalic — These are thin and rounded skulls with a relatively long snout. Just like in mesocephalic skulls, this type of skull allows for adequate room for nasal cavities and can sufficiently accommodate other components of the upper respiratory system. Brachycephalic — These types of skulls are short, compact and contracted. The distance between the forehead and the muzzle is virtually non-existent and is quite short. In essence, the upper respiratory system is compressed to fit into this inadequate frame. Evidently, such skulls are abnormal and can lead to various breathing issues. Some of the dog breeds in this category include the Bulldog, the French bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier and our little friend, the pug. According to studies, dogs with muzzles measuring less than half their head length or dogs with thicker necks have increased chances of suffering from BOAS, and pugs definitely fall under this category. Symptoms of BOAS Some of the signs of this condition can range from minor snoring to severe breathing problems. Again, animals suffering from this condition can struggle during exercises, are prone to overheating and can even collapse due to lack of sufficient air! This is because they tend to have nose problems and windpipe issues given that the entire respiratory system is lumped together. Other additional symptoms of this condition include rapid breathing, snoring, frequent panting and even difficulty in gagging and swallowing. In addition to the BOAS condition, pugs are known to suffer from other respiratory problems including: Pug Reverse Sneezing — Ever noticed that your pug sneezes so much? Many pugs have extremely long palate tissues that block their airways. This then leads to excessive sneezes, wheezes, and gasps. Pugs have stuffy noses, which tend to hold up moisture at all times. You should however not panic when you notice that your pug is on a seemingly endless sneezing spree. In such a situation, you can correct the elongated soft palate through surgery. You can consider talking to your vet on the corrective procedure to this issue so as to prevent it from becoming severe or leading to other respiratory problems. Given their conditions, pugs are highly sensitive and can negatively react to various situations. Struggling to grasp enough Air — Your pug can also struggle to grasp enough oxygen and may struggle to breathe properly. This can cause rapid breathing and respiratory distress. Their shorter and narrower breathing passages make them susceptible to extreme temperatures such as heat. If the situation worsens, and the breathing attack is severer than normal, you should immediately take your pug to the vet and have her checked out. Stenotic Snares — This is a general birth flaw found in dog breeds with squashed noses such as the pugs. This occurs in dogs with excessively soft nasal tissues. When they breathe, the nostrils tend to collapse, leaving them to breathe through their mouths. Collapsing Trachea — Pugs are known to suffer from collapsing or narrowed tracheas. As a result, they can suffer from chronic honking, which may lead to difficulty in breathing especially during exercise. Here are some of the perfect solutions: Use a Dehumidifier — Using a dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air. This can help you avoid poor air quality, which may affect your lovely pug. Minimize Allergies — Pugs are a highly sensitive breed and may be affected by various issues such as smoke. For this reason, you should understand the types of allergens that your pug may be sensitive to and ensure that they are completely removed. You should, therefore, keep them in air-conditioned rooms and in pleasant temperatures. You should also avoid walking your pug in sunlight or in extreme temperatures. The ideal way to deal with this issue is to stop exercising and take enough rest. In essence, do not over exercise your pug as this can activate breathing problems. Carry some water — You can keep your Pugs cooler and hydrated during walks by giving them enough water. Instead, opt for a suitable harness that can offer better weight distribution and reduce the force on both the neck and throat areas. You should choose a suitable time that can help work off the calories without straining your lovely pug. However, the breathing problem is not as bad as it has been made to be. May 17, They're all good dogs. But those good looks come with a cost. The compact architecture of their skull results in deformation, which make their nostrils or soft palate too small, obstructing airflow and leaving the pups gasping for breath. Researchers long thought that the main cause was their shortened faces. But genes found in another breed suggest that the shortness of breath might be in their DNA, according to a new study published in the journal PLOS Genetics. Ed Cara at Gizmodo reports that veterinarians began to notice that another small breed of dog, the Norwich terrier, was increasingly coming down with similar respiratory symptoms, a disease called upper airway obstructive syndrome. Unlike flat-faced pugs and bulldogs, however, the Norwich—bred for chasing rodents—has a nice, proportional skull. That got study author Jeffrey Schoenebeck, a veterinary scientist at the University of Edinburgh, wondering if the breathing problems in all the small dogs were genetic. The team assessed Norwich terriers for signs of the airway syndrome and also examined their genomes. Dogs with two copies of the mutation showed signs of fluid retention and swelling around the lungs. They had worse breathing scores than dogs with just one copy of the mutation or the normal gene. As a result, the younger generation of terriers is less like to develop the disease than older dogs. The problem in flat-faced breeds may not be quite as simple to deal with. Wonky skull shape still makes the risk of developing BOAS higher, and the gene mutation adds to that risk. The team needs to do a similar study with bulldogs to figure out how much of their breathing problems come from their genes and how much comes from their cute little smushed-up skulls. Smushed-up faces are what make certain dog breeds, like French and English bulldogs and pugs, so ugly-cute. The compact architecture of their skull results in deformation, that make the nostrils or soft palate too small, obstructing airflow and leaving the pups gasping for breath. Researcher long thought that the main cause was their shortened faces. But genes found in another breed suggest that the shortness of breath might be in their DNA. Ed Cara at Gizmodo reports that veterinarians began to notice that another small breed of dog, the Norwich Terrier, was increasingly coming down with similar respiratory symptoms, a disease called Upper Airway Syndrome. Unlike flat-faced pugs and bulldogs, however, the Norwich, bred for chasing rodents, has a nice, proportional skull. That got Jeffrey Schoenebeck of the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburghand and lead author of the study in the journal PLOS Genetics wondering if the breathing problems in all the small dogs were genetic. The team assessed Norwich Terriers for signs of the airway syndrome and also examined their genomes. Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday. Recommended Videos. It may or may not be normal for a Pug to: Pant Burp Have loud breathing Panting and loud breathing sounds are expected- to an extent- from Pugs of all ages - puppies to seniors. Because of how a Pug dog's head and snout is shaped, it is normal for this breed to have to catch their breath every now and then. With this said, heat stress or over-exercise can cause heavier than normal panting noises that require an immediate break from activity, a drink of water and possibly other treatment if the Pug cannot calm down. Since this dog breed overheats very quickly, panting will occur as soon as the dog begins to feel too hot; so this can often happen on hot or humid days or if your Pug ends up walking or running around longer than planned. If a Pug is making noises that appear to be stressed breathing, an owner should bring their dog into a cool environment and allow their Pug to rest. If this is happening, the dog is in distress; most likely from a blockage of some type. An elognated palate can be partially blocking the air way, causing loud breathing sounds. Stenotic Nares narrow or closed nostrils can also cause a Pug to struggle with normal breathing. Both of these issues are common health problems with the breed and often resolved with a surgical procedure. If a Pug dog burps, this may be triggered by the food that he is eating or the rate at which he is eating it. While you may not be able to eliminate all of the burping, making even small changes to his diet can help often the removal of a particular vegetable works. Additionally, obtaining a slow-eat bowl or portion pacer to add to an existing bowl allows for slower consumption of food which means less air is being gulped down. If the burping is excessive, this may point to an acid reflex problem and your vet should be made aware of just how often your Pug is indeed burping. You may also be interested in: Pug Dog Breathing Problems - Being a brachycephalic flat faced breed, there expected to be some level of breathing issues with Pugs. Learn what is normal and what is not. Pug Sleeping Habits - How much sleep is normal according to age, ways to help your Pug get a good night's sleep and more. Pugs and Gas Problems - If your Pug is letting one rip quite often, there are some things you can do to cut down on flatulence. 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. Pug Breathing Problems Why Pugs Have Breathing Problems A dog's respiratory system consists of the nares the nostrils , the nasal cavity, the sinuses, the pharynx the membrane-lined cavity which connects the nose and mouth to the esophagus which is the canal that leads to the stomach , the larynx also known as the voice box , the trachea also known as the windpipe , the bronchi the branches of the trachea that extend into the lungs , and the lungs. When there is an abnormality of any one of these components, this will affect a dog's ability to breathe properly. Pugs are very prone to respiratory-related abnormalities and this is directly linked to this breed's skull shape. There are 3 main types of skull and muzzle shapes seen with canines: Dolichocephalic image 1 - The skull is thin and rounded and the snout is relatively long. This shape allows for lots of room for the nasal cavities. There is generally adequate room for the nasal cavities and all other components of the upper respiratory system. Brachycephalic image 3 - The skull is compact and the muzzle is comparatively short. Because the upper respiratory system must fit into this compressed shape, it is common for there to be abnormalities and related breathing issues. A Pug may make lots of noises including grunting, snorting, gasping, or wheezing even when at rest. This can vary from minor to severe and may include sleep apnea short moments when breathing stops. In some cases, minor breathing issues are considered 'normal' for this breed and no action needs to be taken other than following the general care tips to help Pugs breathe as well as possible next section. However, in moderate to severe instances, these breathing-related issues point to abnormalities with upper respiratory system components and may warrant veterinary treatment details ahead. Top 10 Ways to Help a Pug Breathe Better Even when a Pug is cleared of breathing-related disorders stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, tracheal abnormalities, etc. There may be all kinds of loud noises, trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, heavy panting that interferes with meeting exercise requirements, intolerance for hot or cold weather, and other issues. Fortunately, there are quite a few things you can do to help your Pug breathe better both when active and at rest. Maintain an indoor room temperature between 68 and 75 Fahrenheit 20 and 24 C. Use an air conditioner during hot weather and take care to not turn the heat up too much in the winter. For those that do not have an AC, there are some things that can keep a room cooler to help a Pug breathe better including opening windows on opposite sides of the house to create air flow, placing fans to help air circulate throughout the rooms, and keeping blinds and curtains closed to block out sunlight that would otherwise heat up the house. Overly dry air dries out breathing passages and air with high moisture levels can interfere with breathing as well. In the winter, air is very arid due to cold air not holding moisture. When that dry air is heated in the home, the relative humidity drops significantly, compounding the problem. In many locales, it's the opposite problem in the summer, when air often holds high levels of moisture. For those that live in an area with high humidity levels, a dehumidifer like the Afloia Dehumidifier for Home may be needed. Limit exposure to very cold air. Air that is inhaled through the nasal passages is warmed before it reaches the lungs, but air that is inhaled through the mouth is not and that cold air can exacerbate breathing problems. So, if a Pug is outside in the winter and is breathing through their mouth often seen with Pugs that have stenotic nares, a very common issue with this breed , that dog may pant heavy, gasp for breath, and struggle to keep breathing under control. This is seen most often on days that are under 10 F C but can occur at higher temps in the 20's or 30's. If your Pug has more trouble in the winter, limit outdoor time just to bathroom trips and short walks to maintain exercise requirements. Take exercise precautions during hot, humid weather. It's a fine line between not pushing a Pug too far and making sure that there is enough physical activity to stay healthy. Since summer can be long and Pugs should not stay sedentary, exercise may need to be limited to early mornings and later in the evenings to avoid the hottest parts of the day, breaks should be taken in the shade, and plenty of water should be provided. If there is a heat wave, keep your Pug indoors. Never place a collar on your Pug when on leash. When a leash is connected to a collar, any and all stress or tension from that leash is placed directly against the windpipe which can severely impede breathing ability. Panting, wheezing, exercise intolerance, and many more aspects can dramatically worsen. Pugs and other brachycephalic breeds should always wear a harness instead; this distributes pressure across the back, chest, and shoulders while keeping the neck free. This is a step-in design nothing has to be fit over the head , it's made of breathable air-mesh, and it is adjustable. Limit over-excitement. When Pugs get too excited this can lead to excessive panting and can worsen clinical symptoms of stenotic nares, elongated palate, and other breathing-related disorders. Offer introductions to new people or other dogs in a gradual and casual manner and keep things low-key when offering new toys or announcing a fun activity. Keep your Pug at a healthy weight. Excess weight affects breathing by pushing on the diaphragm and chest wall, adding pressure to the tracheal area, decreasing the amount of room for the lungs, and causing the heart and lungs to work harder to move oxygen around. Since Pugs are prone to becoming overweight, it's vital to keep an eye on this. Keep your Pug on a healthy high-quality diet and maintain a regular exercise schedule. Reduce or eliminate air irritants. Eliminate what you can by making your home a non-smoking zone and avoiding aerosol products. If your Pug has allergies , working to resolve this may include limiting time outside on high-pollen days, wet-dusting and vacuuming the house often, and cleaning off the coat and paws when coming back inside. Encourage good sleeping positions. Sleep apnea, episodes of greatly reduced or paused breathing, can also be at play which can be a dangerous and sometimes fatal condition. To help a Pug breathe easier at night, the body should be in a stretched-out arc with the neck supported and extended. To facilitate this, have your Pug rest and sleep on a large round or rectangle dog bed with raised bolstered sides that serve as a pillow for the head. Since this breed is very prone to hip issues, a memory foam mattress is recommended. If your Pug likes to sleep on a flat mattress, try slipping a narrow pillow under their head. Monitor your Pug. With so many factors that can affect how well a Pug breaths there can be changes throughout the year and over time. So, continually monitor your Pug for increased breathing problems, making adjustments as needed. If there is a dramatic change in breathing issues, sudden episodes of respiratory distress, or chronic breathing problems that do not respond to the changes that you make, bring this to the attention of the veterinarian asap. Health Conditions that Affect a Pug's Ability to Breathe Well As covered earlier, the Pug's brachycephalic profile makes this breed prone to certain abnormalities associated with the upper respiratory system. Let's take a look at these. Signs of this include noisy breathing especially when inhaling , noticeable flaring of the nostrils when inhaling, snoring, and exercise intolerance. Moderate to severe cases are corrected with a relatively simple surgical procedure. Read more about Pug Dog Stenotic Nares. Elongated Soft Palate This involves the soft palate, which is located at the back of the throat, partially blocking the entrance to the trachea, making it difficult to breathe well. Tracheal Issues This includes hypoplastic trachea, an abnormality with the rings of cartilage that surrounds the windpipe and collapsed trachea which is a degeneration or weakening of the rings that leads to collapse. Signs include a distinctive honking-type cough, noisy breathing, gagging on or regurgitating food, gasping for air, and exercise intolerance. Read more about Pug Dog Tracheal Issues. Everted Laryngeal Saccules This involves the laryngeal saccules, which are located above the vocal cords, becoming everted flipping inside out and partially blocking the entrance to the trachea, making it difficult to breathe well. It is considered the first stage of laryngeal collapse, a very serious and often fatal condition, so early diagnosis and treatment is vital. Did you find this to be helpful? This comprehensive care book is a complete guide for every step of your Pug's life. See what's inside. You may also like these helpful articles: Pug Separation Anxiety - Excellent tips and step-by-step advice for helping a Pug that hates to stay home alone. Pug Grooming - A super-helpful round-up of all the grooming tasks you should be doing to keep your Pug clean and smelling nice, and to maintain healthy skin and fur. Pug Care Tips - These are the 15 things that will keep a Pug happy, safe, comfortable, and healthy. See how many are you currently doing and which ones should you start to implement today. 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. They are just fun and joy in little wrinkly packages. Like any other puppy, they are super playful and energetic. They love a good game of tug-o-war, fetch, or hide-and-seek. Occasionally, you may notice your baby Pug breathing hard. Is this something you should be concerned about? Pugs are susceptible to breathing problems because of their flat faces. When your baby Pug is breathing hard, it is most likely due from exertion, like playing or running. You only need to worry when your baby Pug is breathing hard, unrelated to exertion or play. Like their wild wolf cousins, puppies play not only to have fun but to learn how to interact with their surroundings. Playing allows puppies to learn boundaries with adult dogs, their human owners, and other important skills for becoming adult dogs. Puppies need to be with their mothers and littermates until ten weeks old because their mothers and littermates will be their best teachers, and the most important lessons they can learn are the ones they learn through play. To a new owner, the level of excitement a puppy can reach while playing may seem alarming. After an intense play session, your puppy may be exhausted and breathing hard. This is nothing to worry about! Helping your puppy to burn off some of its youthful energy is a great thing to do. No one wants their shoes chewed up! One special note about Pug puppies is that they tend to tire more easily than other breeds that have longer snouts because of their flat or brachycephalic faces. Pugs that are too hot or have been exercising too hard can have trouble breathing because of their flat faces. If your puppy seems to be struggling to take a breath after energetic play, take them immediately to the vet. There is a difference between fast breathing from play and labored breathing stemming from brachycephaly. Pug puppies should be played within cooler environments and may need more breaks than their longer-nosed brethren. Just be a little more cautious with your little Pug. Not all puppies will be infected with worms, but it is so frequent that almost all puppies are given deworming treatments with their first vet visits. If your Pug puppy has a round, taut belly, along with heavy panting, this is a good indication that they may have worms. Worms are very rarely a dangerous affliction to puppies when treated early. Only a vet can give you the medication your pup will need, so take them as soon as possible if you have any suspicion. Heatstroke Heatstroke in dogs is just as serious as the name suggests. Heavy or fast breathing is just one sign of heatstroke. Others include: Drooling. Pharynx connects the nose to mouth and esophagus Larynx or voice box Bronchi branches of trachea connecting to the lungs Lungs Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to respiratory abnormalities. In other words, there is an abnormality to one, or more, of these respiratory components that arise in many Pugs. The small skull and short muzzle of Brachycephalic dogs like pugs mean the upper respiratory system has to fit into an unsuitably small area. Breathing issues arise as a result of this. Many Pugs can live a full, healthy, and happy life despite these issues. Minor breathing issues are generally considered to be normal for Pugs. Just keep caring for your pug according to best-practices. If you think your Pug is having more difficulty breathing than usual, you might want to visit your local veterinarian. They will be able to give you the best treatment advice. Signs to look out for that indicate moderate to severe respiratory distress in your Pug could include: 1. Increased panting If your Pug shows difficulty breathing, especially when exercising, this could be cause for concern. It is relatively normal for Pugs to display some panting after spells of intense exercise. Especially in very hot, humid, or cold weather. If your Pug is panting heavily, more than usual, or showing difficulty catching his or her breath, let them rest and contact your vet. Loud breathing Excessively noisy breathing is also a sign of breathing issues. If your Pug is constantly grunting, wheezing, snorting, or gasping for air, this is cause for concern. Especially if they are making these excessive noises when at rest. Excessive snoring Pugs snore. Though minor snoring is not a problem, severe snoring could be a sign of sleep apnea. This is far more serious as it means your Pug is experiencing short durations without breathing. This is the major component resulting in their breathing difficulties. Pugs are not in discomfort all of the time and some of these contributing factors can be mitigated with proper care. Since Pugs are likely to experience some respiratory-related problems in their lifetime, owners should secure a good pet insurance plan. This will give you the peace of mind that veterinary help is always available, without any sky-high, or unexpected costs. They are overweight Pugs have a voracious appetite. But they are also genetically prone to obesity. As a Pug owner, you absolutely must not give in to those pleading eyes all the time. It might be tempting, but treating your Pug too often could be doing them more harm than good. If your Pug is carrying too much bodyweight around with them every day, they will feel uncomfortable and lethargic. This is because of the excess pressure on their joints. More importantly, they might experience difficulty breathing even more than normal. Keeping track of your Pugs weight, and maintaining a balanced nutrition and exercise regime is one of the simplest and easiest ways to look after their respiratory health and overall happiness. They are too hot When Pugs get too hot their breathing suffers. You might notice an increased level of panting or snorting. Your Pug might even hand their tongue out of their mouth to try and cool down. Remember, pugs have a shortened nose. This is them attempting to take in more, much-needed air and cool themselves down. The best way to avoid this happening is to take your dog out during the cooler times of the day. A short walk in the morning and another in the evening is the way to go. Allergies Pugs sometimes develop allergic reactions to things. Common examples include pollen, different foods, allergens, and physical contact with certain fabrics. This contributes to respiratory distress in your pup. Common signs of Pug breathing problems caused by an allergic reaction include sneezing episodes, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Visit your local vet, who will prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. Bacterial buildup Another factor that contributes to breathing difficulties in Pugs is bacteria. This is harder to spot, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid bacterial overgrowth in your Pug. Remember those folds and wrinkles are a breeding ground for invisible bacteria. Try using a cotton swab to wipe around your Pugs nose and apply some petroleum jelly to dry areas. Their respiratory system This one is the biggie. Pugs have small, narrow nostrils and an abnormally long soft palate. As a result, the amount of airflow is restricted and access to the trachea obstructed. It causes noisy inhalation, flared nostrils, snoring, and exercise aversion. Unfortunately, this blocks the entrance to the trachea and inhibits breathing as a result. Because of this deformity, newborn Pugs can sometimes be seen dribbling milk from the nose. Signs in adult Pugs include: heavy panting. The pug-look is one of those aspects that draws people to the breed time and time again. This means big, alien eyes, shorter and shorter snouts and more wrinkles. In fact, many pugs struggle to give birth naturally and for this reason and many others you must always spay and neuter your pug. The challenges faced by pugs are why we strongly advocate for supporting pug-rescues over pug-breeders. So many people buy a pug puppy because they love the look, not realizing the many problems pugs can face. Pugs are perfect, not because of their cute looks, but because of their great personalities! You can trust that we maintain strict editorial integrity in our writing and assessments; however, we receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners and get approved. Read our full disclosure. Elongated soft palate: The soft-palate tissue covers or obstructs the airway. This condition may require corrective surgery and almost always results in snoring, loud breathing and frequent panting. Everted laryngeal saccules: This causes pouches in the larynx to become everted or turned, which causes major breathing obstruction. Again, this is a condition that requires surgery to correct. Eye problems: Pugs and eye problems go hand-in-hand. Ulcerations and dry eye are common issues. Consult with your vet on your pugs eyes regularly, early and often. Sometimes a simple lubricating gel can help prevent the eyes from getting dry and thus, more prone to infection. Eyelid canthoplasty can also be performed to help close the eyelid slightly, protecting the eye from injury and problems. Stenotic nares: This is another term for collapsed nostrils. If your pug is a mouth-breather, this is often the cause. While this condition is particularly common in puppies and some grow out of it , the surgery to correct it is very simple. Tracheal stenosis: This means the trachea narrows or collapses , resulting in a loud, honking cough. If the pug is young, this can be corrected with surgery. In older pugs, this is often treated with steroids, bronchodilators and a recommendation for weight loss obesity can cause undue pressure on the windpipe, making this condition more likely and severe. The Best Ways to Protect Your Pug from Brachycephalic Problems While we wish we could wrap our pug babies in protective bubble wrap or put them in a pug-sized hamster bubble, we can only do so much to keep them safe. To protect your pug as much as possible, we recommend the following: 1. Some pugs can easily slip a collar anyway a hazard of having a thick neck. Always keep your pug on a leash as well and avoid retractable leashes. You are their best protector against injury and harm. Panting or mouth breathing is much tougher for brachycephalic dogs. Keep your pug cool. They should always have plenty of access to water. On hot days your pug should be kept in air-conditioned or cool areas. Keep Your Pugs Weight in Check One of the best things you can do to help your pug breath-easy is to keep their weight in check. Even if your pug struggles with breathing, they need regular exercise and healthy snacks carrots and green beans are great options your pug will love! Also, watch the table scraps and people food--pugs should have a high protein, healthy diet. Breeding is quite dangerous for pugs and many struggle with the birthing process. Keeping your pug spayed or neutered will keep them calmer, healthier and less prone to the many problems that intact animals can face like cancer. If you choose to purchase a pug, you should only buy from an AKC registered breeder who allows you to visit and pick up your puppy. A far better option is to get your pug from a rescue. You can use a finger brush or a small, soft toothbrush made for toddlers. Always use toothpaste formulated for dogs! With regular practice your pug will let you brush his teeth without a fuss. Start slow, treat often and work up to a regular brushing practice. Take Your Pug to the Vet Regularly After reading this, you probably realize the importance of regular vet visits for your pug. Your vet can quickly identify any of the brachycephalic issues outlined above. They will help you figure out what to do if your pug is facing health concerns and they can guide you with the best practices to protect your pug. They should be on a flea and tick preventative as well as heartworm preventative and be regularly vaccinated. With breathing issues, any illness can quickly turn life-threatening. Prevention is the best course of action. Pay Attention to Your Pug Remember, you know your pug better than anyone else. Coughing is another issue that should be addressed as well. Regularly check your pugs eyes and teeth to ensure everything looks to be in tip top shape. If your pug is pawing at their eyes, squinting or frequently blinking, get them to the vet right away. Pugs truly are wonderful dogs. With that cute pug face comes a few issues, but the good far outweighs the challenges. Pugs are the best! Being aware of the issues faced by brachycephalic dogs, will help you keep your pug healthy and happy for years to come.

Duke If you are up for adventure, then Duke is the dog for you! Duke is a stunning, dark yellow Lab, about 5 years old. He always has that big smile on his face! Duke is no couch potato. Duke loves to play fetch more than anything! He would love an owner who wants to go for hikes, play a good game of ball, maybe take a trip out to the lake. He is a good boy, but would not be an appropriate match for young kids or small dogs, due to his energy level. He will need a home with a fenced yard to play and potty. Duke loves to be with people and is happy to load up in the car for a ride with you. Duke seemed to be afraid of other dogs when he first came into our program. Now he has relaxed and met some nice dogs. He has no fear of them at all anymore. All he really wants is for his person to throw that ball! Duke came to us needing quite a bit of medical care. He is now healthy, with all veterinary care complete and ready to go! Duke is housebroken and does not chew up anything that is not his. If you live in DFW and are interested in providing a loving, forever home for Duke, please complete our Adoption Application. Sage A very lucky little girl is ready for adoption!! Sage is a petite, silver Lab mix. She is about 53 lbs and 2 years old. Sage was so frightened at the local shelter and we just couldn't leave her there. Now Sage is blossoming in her foster home! Sage is a bit timid and will hold on to people that she trusts with both front feet. Once she has a chance to see that she is safe, she runs and does zoomies around the yard! Sage is more of a follower than a leader and gets pretty attached to women. We will be looking for a home with another medium to large dog for her to play with. She would probably love kids to play with. Sage is crate trained, house broken and healthy. She has been spayed, on heartworm prevention, has all of her vaccinations and is microchipped. If you live in DFW and are interested in providing a loving, forever home for Sage, please complete our Adoption Application. We are the proud parents of the smartest, sweetest, most laid back lab, Gracie. Steve Karp and family are incredible to work with and truly care for their puppies and the families who adopt from them. If I could give stars, I would! If you're searching for a lab, look no further. Kara Bunbury We cannot say enough great things about M. Steve is very hands on throughout the entire process- sending weekly updates until the pups come home and remaining in contact thereafter. Everywhere we go people ask what breeder he came from. We got many very cute updates on our soon to be little puppy. We feel honored to be apart of the Michigan Elite Labrador family! Jill Price We were looking for a pure bred lab but were very skeptical about many breeders until we found Michigan Elite Labs. We knew after our first contact with them we found the breeder we were looking for. Stan is 10 months old and we love him to pieces. If you are looking for a pure bred lab you have found the perfect breeder. We would never think of going anywhere but Michigan Elite to get a Lab. Steve is always just a phone call away if you have any questions. Steve is very knowledgeable about his Labrador Retrievers. If you want an amazing Labrador puppy check out Michigan Elite Labradors you will be glad you did! From the first contact with Steve, you are reassured with their dedication to the breed and the MEL family that you become a part of. It's said that one of the best signs of a "good product" is repeat customers. We're proud to be an example of that, with 2 MEL dogs in our home. Temperament, physical health and the characteristics of MEL dogs are perfection. The added benefit of the MEL owners group is also a great perk. We've made amazing friends through the group, which is reinforced each year at the annual reunion. I would not hesitate to recommend Michigan Elite Labradors to family and friends! We looked at all of the photos and knew we would get a beautiful pup but didnt expect all of the wonderful traits they would have. We ended up getting 2! They are beyond my wildest dreams of what a pet should be.So intuitive! When ive had issues, steve has been a phone call away with the answers. Best babies around.You wont be sorry! I believe we were part his second litter and his biggest litter with Cocco and Chopper 14 pups. Both of the parents were beautiful and on site when we went to pick out our first "Pink Collar" girl. We picked up our second "Pink Collar" girl in late .They have become best friends from the beginning. They have never fought or growled at each other and play very well together. The Karp's are very caring and knowledgeable about the Labrador breed. Any questions I have ever had Steve has always been there to guide me and teach me. His extended MEL family has been very inspiring and amusing as we all watch the pups grow into beautiful pets. Kris Thompson Michigan Elite Labradors are wonderful. We had a great experience working with the Karp family. Our little black lab has brought us so many blessings! They are the most wonderful family and breeders. They are extremely reputable and involved with every pup. Steve is always available to you. I called so many times. He is conscientious and really cares about where his puppies go. He is beyond gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen better looking labs. Elite labs are very intelligent and have excellent temperaments. Jax was potty trained right away. When I got a trainer, He learned everything immediately. She was so impressed with him and shocked how well he did. She trains Leader of the Blinds dogs so it was a huge compliment coming from her. We have people stop us everywhere to ask if he is a show dog. One of them was a breeder. Another huge bonus is the all the relationships we have made amongst the Elite family. I love all the stories and pictures. Many of us got together for a Michigan Elite Lab's Reunion. All the dogs were gorgeous fun and well behaved. Even all the parents were a blast. I could go on and on about Michigan Elite Labs, but most important is the fact I would never get a dog from anyone else! Upcoming Litter Information There are litters available now! What do I do Next? There are upcoming litters available. Please fill out the "Next Steps" form below if you are interested one of our wonderful puppies becoming a member of your family. Karen, owner of Heatherdowns Labradors will contact you IF there are pups or future pups available. How do I know what Puppy will be mine? Once you have decided on a litter, you will be placed on the website with your pick of the litter placement and deposit date. Heatherdowns Labradors may need to move a person into a litter who did not receive a pup on a previous litter who may have a deposit prior to you. At times, this 'right to reserve' may affect the pick position. What are Heatherdowns Labradors Policies? We understand that family situations and circumstances may change. Should that happen, and you are not able to take delivery of your puppy from a specific litter, your deposit may be applied to a future litter. Your Deposit is refundable within 1 year from your Deposit Date, if we have not be able to produce a pup for you based on color or gender. Your Deposit is also refundable within 1 year from your Deposit Date, if your circumstances have changed and can no longer take in a puppy. If you place a deposit with us, and in the meantime obtain a pup elsewhere, we are unable to refund your deposit. If, a deposit is determined to be refundable, an administrative fee will be deducted. Both registrations are AKC. A Limited Registration is for those families who have no intent to breed their dog in the future, and purchase their puppy as a family, hunting, or therapy companion. Limited Registrations do not allow for future litters to be registered with the AKC. Limited Registration does allow for a pup to participate and gain points in AKC events such as hunt tests, field trails, and dock events. A Conformation Event Dog Show is the only event a Limited Registered dog is unable to participate in, or gain points in that category. Litter owners Breeders generally offer Limited Registration in order to protect their breeding programs. Too many Labrador Lovers at once can be a little chaotic. We do visits on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from pm to pm by appointment only. Kvy is Polar White. Eddie is a Polar White Male. Dilute Clear. OFA Cardiac Normal.