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For more information, go to www. Target does not represent or warrant that this information is accurate or complete. On occasion, manufacturers may modify their items and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented. If you have a specific question about this item, you may consult the item's label, contact the manufacturer directly or call Target Guest Services at .Description Throw the perfect pug birthday theme party with this all-in-one dinnerware set that includes paper plates, light blue plastic silverware, cups, and dinner napkins. The decorative tableware set features cute pug puppies wearing party hats that will instantly elevate your dining and dessert tables while creating a cohesive theme throughout your event. Do not Microwave. Report incorrect product info. Estimated ship dimensions: .This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup. See the return policy for complete information. Ask a question. They are perfect for birthday parties and baby showers. These statement Dalmatian puppy napkins will make your party table look delightful. They're perfect for a party for dog lovers, or a birthday celebration for your furry friend.The cute design is guaranteed to.Their droopy ears, and sweet faces, will definitely delight your guests. As well as drinks, they are perfect to.Kids and adults who love puppies will simply adore this garland featuring furry friends with embellished tails and pompom hats, bones and honeycomb balls. Drape it on.They're perfect to create a canine centerpiece for a dog lover's party. It's ideal for kids who love kittens, or why not throw a party.Your beautifully decorated treats will look fantastic as a party centerpiece, or placed on.These little plates are ideal for tasty treats for humans or felines, should you wish to throw your cat.These little napkins are ideal as table decorations — whether you're throwing a kid's birthday party or a party.These cute cups are ideal for tasty drinks and as party decorations — whether you're throwing a kid's birthday.Made using naturally renewable bamboo in a soft pink hue, it can be used again and again for endless celebrations. Made using naturally renewable bamboo in a soft cream hue, it can be used again and again for endless celebrations. Our beautifully crafted wooden sets of knives, forks, and spoons will hit the spot! Made from pale birch wood with pretty.Made from pale birch wood with stylish blue handles. A really easy, low-effort way.They are molded into an.This big set includes colors to suit every party theme, and they're the perfect.Each pack contains sixteen dipped candles in eight beautiful shades of coral, peach, pink, dusty pink, blue, pale.They are twisted for a statement look too. The shiny pink color is perfect for a princess party, baby shower or a romantic.The candles feature different color combinations, which will complement any party theme you choose.This party set is ideal for kids who love furry felines. It includes a gorgeous garland, an easy, instant way to add cuteness to your.The beautiful pastel colors will also look amazing on any special celebratory cake. They are super tall to give a statement effect. They're perfect for birthdays or whenever you want.Some things never lose their appeal, no matter how many birthdays pass you by, so why not add a little extra touch of luxury.The suitcase is beautifully crafted from stitched, laminated card with.This set is perfect for a dog lover's birthday party. It features a gorgeous garland with embellished tails, pompom hats, bones and honeycomb balls.
All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. I think it's going well, but this is our first time, and I was hoping you wise and welcoming dog people could help me with a couple of concerns. We use all her food to train her, and higher value treats for recall, hide and seek, and the only thing she's hesitant about so far--water. She settles well in her crate and naps about every two hours. If we try to settle her out with us, we end up with the thrashing-biting- zoomies. When we tell her "kennel", I feel like she's relieved, and she enters and sleeps we do close the door and cover with a towel. Am I interpreting her right? Can we keep crating her for naps for now working on preventing zoomies? Or will that mean she doesn't learn to relax with the family? She can't play in our yard anymore because she is attempting to eat her weight in soil. She will also chew up sticks, acorns, grass etc. We stop her, but is this normal and will she outgrow it? If she starts doing it outside our yard, I don't know what we'll do because she has to romp outside somewhere! My final question for now is the water thing. It's been 95 degrees here, she's black lab, and I'm totally mystified that she doesn't enjoy water. I've looked it up and tried a lot of things plastic wading pool in the backyard, and going in with her. We allow her to make all her own choices but do encourage and throw a treat party when she enters. Still, she'll only go up to her "knees" in the bay gentle sloping entrance, no waves, sandy bottom. Should we keep trying once a day, or back off? Other positive things we could try? I'm concerned that if she doesn't swim and love it before 16 weeks, the window of new experience will close and she'll never like water. Not a problem if her eventual family doesn't live near it or like it, but she might go to a child or parent with children who does want to take her to the water. Thanks so much for reading and for any thoughts you want to share! Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Print If you have a week-old Lab puppy, you probably have your hands full. They are growing quickly, both in size and knowledge, but they are also still a bit like toddlers, always getting into something. Here is the training for your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post seven of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we worked on this week while training of Bubba. Working on control As Bubba matures, we need to work on more control. Bubba must learn to control herself in different situations. We continue to work on these control situations, but we are now adding more opportunities to exhibit control. This is challenging for a puppy her age, she wants to bolt out of the crate, but she must exhibit control and wait for the release command. Obedience training your week-old puppy We continue to work on obedience training using a chain collar and heeling stick. Bubba is learning to walk at our side, but it is far from perfect. She is also sitting on command, with occasional reminders from the heeling stick. I continue to work on strengthening her SIT. I can currently walk away from Bubba steps, and she will remain seated, but she makes lots of mistakes. I move my body while I stand a couple feet from her, and command SIT at the same time. It is very hard for puppies to understand that they must remain seated and still when someone else is moving. But it will all come. It just takes a lot of repetition and enforcement. I will slowly extend the distance between Bubba and myself. A stronger SIT will also take some maturity. As Bubba gets older the obedience will get easier for her to understand and to complete the necessary commands. But I will also make the training more difficult by adding distractions. It is not easy, and I did resort to treat training as I bid time to teach with the electronic collar. The treat training has helped a lot but has also resulted in some bad behaviors. Bubba is now jumping on me more because she anticipates a treat from my pocket. I have been firm and consistent in correcting the jumping, but it is most definitely a result of the treat training. In addition, Bubba thinks she should get a treat for doing things she has been doing for weeks without a treat. I will continue with the treats for the HERE command for the next few weeks, and then I will start weaning her off them. Introducing your Labrador puppy to hunting elements Bubba is almost done her introduction to hunting elements except for gunfire. Gunfire must be done slowly, with the noise getting incrementally closer to Bubba over time. We have already started this introduction, but it will be several months or more before we move the gunfire right next to her. Introducing your puppy decoys in water Swimming is something Bubba loves to do, so this week we added water marks with decoys in the water. We give her the time to check out the decoys with no correction and when she finally picks up the bumper, we praise her with a Good Dog. A few marks through decoys will be enough to teach Bubba that the decoys are not the thing she should be retrieving. I will continue this training for Bubba for the next couple weeks and then will stop since she will be teething, and I do not want to cause her any pain while doing this training. Increased distance for assistant marks Assistant marks are vital for teaching Bubba to mark watch where the bird fell so she can run to the correct area. We make sure she gets marks every day, but we limit the number of marks she gets to three. The reason we do this is because with young pups you want to build their retrieving desire. Desire is built not by giving your puppy unlimited retrieves. It is built by limiting the number of retrieves the puppy gets at any one time. My husband likes to compare it to a Thanksgiving dinner. If you sit down and eat a huge plate full of food, you are not going to be hungry a few hours later. But if you only get a little piece of turkey for your meal and then are told that is all there is, you will be very hungry the next time you are offered food. If you have a dog struggling with desire, you want to limit the retrieves. Sometimes to only one per day, or one every other day. Bubba is not struggling with desire at all, so we stick to three retrieves per day. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy Your puppy is probably advancing well in training at this point. You should see some marked improvement in her obedience and behavior. Set some reasonable boundaries and enforce them. Work on obedience on a regular basis, even if only for 5 minutes a day. If you do, you will see your dog grow in leaps and bounds. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your week-old Labrador puppy? Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.
There are so many breeds to choose from; how do you know which one is right for you and your family? Boxers are a medium-sized dog that were originally bred to be guard dogs. Nowadays though, they make ideal family pets as long as you can keep up with all that energy! Generally, boxers have three main colors; white, fawn or brindle. Brindle coloring is a combination of two colors that express themselves as a pattern in the fur. Usually one of the colors is beige or brown and the pattern can be long stripes along the back or shorter, more disturbed stripes. Brindle Boxers are one of the most popular coloring there are, however, the colors and patterns of brindle Boxers can vary dramatically. There is, however, a rarer reverse brindle coloring with a dark background and lighter markings. It is sometimes referred to as an inverted brindle boxer. Sealed Brindle Boxer Now this is the rarest coloring for a Boxer out of them all. They appear black because their black stripes are sealed shut so you can see hardly any fawn at all. Some people try to sell these Boxers as having a black coat but that is not true. It is impossible for Boxers to have a true black coat; those that appear black are actually brindle with very thick, close set black stripes. Flashy Brindle Boxer Boxers often have a white underbelly and white feet. Sometimes the markings go up the neck and onto the face too. This is known as flash. However, white Boxers are not. Brindle Boxers are not rare, they are one of the three standard coloring for the Boxer breed. Certain types of markings and coloring are more rare than others though, like the sealed brindle. Brindle Boxers are prone to certain health problems Like all purebred dogs, there are some health conditions that Boxers are more prone to. To help reduce the risk of your puppy developing these conditions you should always buy from an AKC compliant breeder. They have to adhere to much higher standards than most and will undergo the necessary tests of the parent dogs to help reduce the chances of medical issues in the future. AKC registered breeders will usually cost more than private breeders but they come with more peace of mind about the genetics and the treatment of the parent dogs. Also, there are some pet insurance companies that focus on providing the best insurance for a specific breed, meaning they can cater to the likely health problems of that breed of dog. Alternatively, you could look at the American Boxer Club website. They have a specific page all about breeder referrals. There are even some organizations that specifically re-home Boxers! Wherever you go looking, make sure you have a list of questions you want to ask the breeder about how the dogs have been cared for, tests they may have had etc. If you need a hand coming up with all the appropriate questions you should check out this resource. How do you know if a Boxer is the right dog breed for your lifestyle and situation? Well, there are some common characteristics that most Boxers share which can help you get an idea of what they might be like. However, you have options when it comes to colors. As a matter of fact, Boxers come in three distinctive and stunning colors. No matter the color, they will be gorgeous dogs. In addition, Boxers are bred with 5 different types of coat markings. With that said, the three possible colors of the Boxer include: Fawn Brindle White Furthermore, these dogs can come with distinct markings on their coats. On the contrary, white, brindle and fawn markings are not. Many Boxers you encounter will come with the base colors of fawn or brindle. Fawn Boxer A fawn colored Boxer is perhaps the most popular of the three available Boxer colors. This color is the iconic look of the Boxer. The color fawn is not exclusive to Boxers. Purebreds such as the Beagle or Chihuahua also come in fawn, among many other breeds. Even mixed dog breeds like the Chiweenie or Gerberian Shepsky have this color as well. In a nutshell, fawn is a lighter brown color — almost like a milk chocolate color. However, even this hue of brown can vary depending on the dog. But if it gets a little too dark, it may be encroaching on the brindle color for Boxers. Fawn Boxer Markings Most fawn Boxers will have a sleek brown coat with a black mask and white markings. This Boxer color is attractive and well known among the dog community. Brindle Boxer The brindle colored Boxer is the second most popular color choice for this dog breed and perhaps my favorite color. Still, we categorize it as a general color for simplicity. But what makes it unique is the black colored striping. The stripes can vary in degree of black, either lighter or darker. Also, the stripes can be either thin or thick. There are cases where the stripes are so dark and thick that the Boxer looks like a solid black dog. On the other hand, brindle Boxers with extremely light stripes can look like a fawn Boxer. Brindle Boxer Markings Like with the fawn Boxer, brindle Boxers typically have a black mask with white markings. The black mask refers to the muzzle of the dog. In addition, white markings include areas of the chest, paws, ankles and face. Other instances of markings include brindle Boxers with only the black mask and no white markings. Though not as popular, they are fairly common with brindles. Both of these marking combinations, along with the brindle color, are considered standard and officially recognized. However in the past, white Boxers were widely popular and were officially recognized as a standard color. These colors will continue to be bred as people consider them unique and appealing. Keep in mind, these dogs are not rare and breeders demanding a premium for a white Boxer should be avoided. The white color gene is recessive, so as long as both the mother and father Boxer has this gene, you will get a white Boxer. White Boxer Markings The markings on a white Boxer are much more unpredictable than with a fawn or brindle Boxer. Some white Boxers will be solid white with no markings. Others will have only brindle markings. However, the most common marking is fawn — often a darker shade than usual. As for the placement of these markings, it can also vary as well. It really depends on the dog and parentage in this case. The biggest health condition seen in white Boxers is deafness. This is a rather large percentage for such an important sense associated with canines. The deafness is caused by the lack of pigmented skin in the inner ears of the dog. This leads to atrophy of their nerve endings in the crucial period just weeks after birth. But even if you have a deaf white Boxer, they are still great dogs that are highly trainable. Additionally, a white Boxer will be no different than any other Boxer — even if they are deaf. Some people believe that lacking the ability to hear can make a dog more aggressive. However, there has been no substantial proof that this is the case. Each Boxer has its own personality and temperament, and they have the same chance of developing an aggressive temperament as any other Boxer. This myth is simply not true. Posts you may like:. What Is a Brindle Boxer? The brindle Boxer is a Boxer dog that sports a tiger-striped coat pattern. Its coat has a light-colored base coupled with distinctive stripes of a darker color. The unique appearance of brindle Boxers is primarily associated with a particular recessive gene. Brindling is not unique to the Boxer breed. In fact, there are dozens of other dog breeds that exhibit this eye-catching coloration. Some of them are the French Bulldog, Basenji, and Greyhound. In Boxers, brindling comes in a handful of assortments. A brindle Boxer can be classified based on the shade and color of its coat. Light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, mahogany brindle, and red brindle are some classifications. Moreover, brindle Boxers can also be classified based on the intensity of the brindling pattern on its coat. For this, there are three main classifications: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and mahogany brindle. Furthermore, there are also the so-called flashy brindle Boxers. These are brindle Boxers with white markings covering at least a third of their bodies. Brindle Boxer dogs are medium-sized pooches with a squared-off build. These dogs have tight-fitting fur, relatively slender limbs, and a slightly sloping topline. On some occasions, a Boxer may also resemble a Bullmastiff. The brindle Boxer comes in a wide variety of coat colors and coat marking combinations. Needless to say, these dogs are pretty diverse in terms of their overall appearance. One thing that brindle Boxers have in common is their full-grown size range. On average, adult brindle Boxers weigh .More often than not, slight weight and height difference is noticeable among male and female Boxers. Males are typically a few pounds heavier and a few inches taller than their female counterparts. In total, there are eight different types of brindle Boxers. These types are mainly based on the different possible Boxer colors that can exhibit brindle markings. Light Brindle Boxer Dog From the name itself, the light brindle Boxer dog is the lightest shade amongst the brindle Boxers. Its coat color is close to tan, just a few shades lighter. Light brindles have dark stripes, which may or may not be accompanied by white patches on the chest area. Often, these dogs are almost indistinguishable from the fawn brindle Boxer. In fact, an untrained eye will find a hard time telling them apart! Fawn Brindle Boxer Dog Speaking of the fawn brindle Boxer, the bossy-looking dog from the image above is a fawn brindle. Its color is closer to the yellowish-tan color fawns are known for. Fun fact: the highest chance of breeding a fawn brindle Boxer is when a non-brindle fawn is mixed with any brindle Boxer. Its coat color is often described as deep, rich, and bold. A mahogany brindle Boxer has nearly the same coat appearance as the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. If a brindle Boxer has at least one-third of its coat covered with white patches, it is automatically considered a flashy brindle Boxer. In fact, there is no such thing as a purebred black Boxer. This color is a very dark shade of brown. Are Brindle Boxers Rare? In general, brindle Boxers are not considered rare. However, some variants of the brindle Boxers may be harder to find than others. For example, seal brindle Boxers are considered the rarest due to their unique genetics and difficulty to breed. Unsurprisingly, seal brindle Boxers often come with the highest price tag among all the Boxer dogs. These pooches typically sell for a few hundred dollars more compared to other brindles. Seal brindle Boxers are dogs with a nearly black-colored coat with dark striped markings. On a different note, it is a common belief in the pet community that white Boxers are the rarest, but this is far from the truth. Similarly, reverse brindle Boxers are also often mistaken as a rare color of the Boxer. While these pups are incredibly eye-catching, they are actually pretty standard. As for the rest of the brindle Boxers and other Boxer colors, in general, they are all relatively mainstream. This means it is pretty easy to find the Boxer color you are eyeing for! Like all dogs, brindle Boxers inherit their coat color from their parents. Genetically, a Boxer can only be either fawn or brindle. The color variations and flash markings in brindle Boxers are due to pigmentation cells. Statistically speaking, there is a significantly greater chance that a Boxer is born with a brindle coat rather than a fawn coat. The reason behind this is that a brindle coat is more dominant than a fawn coat. To review, a dog carries two sets of color genes. For Boxers, these are combinations of recessive fawn bb , non-dominant brindle Bb , and dominant brindle BB. Meanwhile, combining a non-dominant brindle Bb with a dominant brindle BB will result in brindle puppies. As you can see, breeding brindle puppies is relatively straightforward. While this is an overly simplified summary, this is basically what breeders do to breed brindle Boxers. In fact, all the color variants of the brindle Boxers are accepted by the AKC. The truth is, if you have a flashy brindle Boxer, you may be out of luck. In the latter part of the AKC Boxer breed standards, it is stated explicitly that Boxers with white markings covering at least one-third of the body shall be disqualified. That said, semi-flashy brindle Boxers should still be able to register with no problems. If you have doubts or questions regarding the breed standards, you may reach out to the AKC through their dog registration page. The perks of having your Boxer AKC-registered include eligibility in pet shows, agility contests, and more. Brindle Boxers are loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable. While these pooches may seem timid at first, they can get real boisterous at times! The brindle Boxer, much like the rest of the Boxer family, needs about one to two hours of exercise a day. This dog is perfect for you if you love exercising outdoors. Jogging, playing fetch, hiking, and swimming are activities brindle Boxers enjoy. However, it is worth noting that Boxers are intolerant of extreme temperatures. That said, be sure to work out with your dog outdoors only when the weather is good! If you have kids and plan to add a brindle Boxer to your family, you can do so with relative ease. Boxer dogs can get along with kids and pets as long as they are raised alongside them. However, it is crucial to train your Boxer to see your kids as a figure of authority. It will help if you do this early on while your Boxer is still a puppy. Another thing to take note of about brindle Boxers is that they drool a lot. This may or may not be an issue to you, but it is worth mentioning! On average, the Boxer is a pretty healthy dog breed. This lifespan applies to all Boxer colors, including the brindle Boxer. However, not all Boxers are born equal. Unfortunately, some Boxers are born with life-altering health issues or congenital conditions that drastically reduce their life expectancy. Aside from congenital issues, there are also other conditions to watch out for. Below are some of the common health issues of brindle Boxer dogs: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a physical condition characterized by the misalignment of the ball-and-socket joint. This condition causes excruciating pain, deteriorating posture, or inactivity. Hip dysplasia is often genetic, and many breeders strive to eliminate this condition from their litter. Kidney Disease: Boxers are one of the dogs that are predisposed to chronic kidney disease. In fact, many studies suggest that kidney disease is inheritable in the Boxer breed. A Boxer with kidney disease will show signs of vomiting, sudden weight loss, increased urination, and increased thirst. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is the medical term used to describe an improperly working thyroid gland. A Boxer suffering from hypothyroidism will experience a slow-down in bodily functions. This condition manifests in the form of weight loss, slow heart rate, and high blood cholesterol. Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition in dogs characterized by an irregular heartbeat. This health issue is most evident in Boxers that are around two years of age. Cardiomyopathy needs urgent medical attention as it can lead to heart failure or even sudden death. This disease targets the nervous system of a dog and interferes with muscular control. Often, a Boxer dog with DM will find difficulty moving its rear quarters. Among the list of health issues in brindle Boxers, those mentioned above are the most common. As a Boxer parent, you must recognize the symptoms of these health issues early on. While some of these are curable, others are fatal. It is also essential to watch out for canine diabetes , canine obesity , and bloat. These are life-altering conditions all dogs are at risk of, including brindle Boxers. Brindle Boxers are around the same price as other Boxer colors, such as white and fawn Boxers. However, one particular variant of the brindle Boxer is always priced higher than the average. This odd one out is the so-called seal brindle Boxer. This color variant is the darkest possible color of Boxer dogs. For the longest time, black Boxers have been one of the biggest fantasies of Boxer fanatics. These dogs are also the most controversial color of the Boxer. Some breeders take advantage of this controversy and perceived rarity to sell black brindle Boxers for more. Snagging the 14th spot, the Boxer is just one place below the adorable Yorkshire Terrier. Needless to say, these dogs are basically celebrities! But where can you buy one? However, you should always be careful in picking a breeder. It is recommended to only buy or adopt from reputable sources. To make it a bit easier for you, we have listed the best places to find brindle Boxer puppies! Boxers raised by this breeder get to enjoy their massive two-acre property! Be sure to check out brindle Boxers from this breeder! This breeder specializes in raising and selling European and American Boxer dogs. This rescue indeed has tons of brindle Boxers you can check out. This rescue has a couple of brindle Boxers from time to time. If you are interested in adopting from them, feel free to check out their adoption process on their website. This rescue has helped approximately 10, purebred Boxers and Boxer mixes ever since. If you live in Arizona, this rescue is the one to check out! Adopt-a-Pet — Adopt-a-Pet is a pet adoption platform with one of the largest databases of adoptable pets. On their website, you can narrow down your search using their advanced filters. You can look for specific brindle Boxer dogs based on location, gender, size, and more. Firstly, you can check out our round-up of best Boxer breeders and best Boxer rescues for adoption. Moreover, you may also opt to outsource from other Boxer owners. You can do this by joining Facebook groups and Reddit communities that share a common interest in Boxer dogs. Other pet enthusiasts in the group will surely lend a hand! Boxers are short-coated dogs with a single layer of fur. While it might be tempting to think that they are hypoallergenic, they are not. In fact, these pooches are still considered medium-to-high shedders. One interesting thing about the Boxer breed is that it is known for grooming itself. You will often find this dog cleaning itself many times throughout the day. But since they still shed, these pups are not recommended for pet owners with sensitive allergies. On most occasions, fawn Boxers are also called tan Boxers. Interestingly, Boxers come in a wide variety of patterns and markings. This includes black masks, white markings, and brindling. Boxer dogs make excellent companions. These pooches are loyal, lovable, intelligent, trainable, and pretty famous, too! However, if you want a slightly more eye-catching pet, you may want to take a look at the brindle Boxers. Brindle Boxers come in plenty of color variations. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. There are some Boxers that appear to be black. However, a solid black coat is not indicative of the breed. So, how can this be? Read more about what markings and patterns can cause a black-like coat. Fawn- What exactly is the color fawn in regard to dogs? This sample is a typical fawn. However, as you will see, fawn is a range of hues. To the right below on mobile is a medium fawn is the standard hue when referring to this terminology. With nice white flash markings on the chest and with black on the muzzle, this Boxer meets color breed standard very well. Brindle - What is brindle? Brindle is not technically a color, it is a pattern. The base is fawn and there is striping. The stripes may be light or dark, and density of the striping can range from thin to thick. Some brindles will look almost fawn and some will appear so dark that they look black. This Boxer shows the standard brindle striping. With white on his chest, paws and ankles and black on the muzzle, this Boxer also meets breed standards perfectly. This is a red fawn Boxer. As you can see, this fawn is darker and deeper than that the common tan fawn; producing a slight shading of red. What a gorgeous coat. This Boxer is a dark brindle. As you can see, with dark brindle the black is over powering the fawn color. The black striping in this pattern is heavy; which would be called a reverse or even a seal. Which simply means that the dog is not officially a solid fawn; he is a mix of colors. Seal - The Boxer dog you see here on the left is Vesta; this color is often referred to as seal. This is a super tight brindle. Siennna, right, is a fawn. Photo courtesy of Nancy Dark Brindle Boxer. Turkish, at 7 years old, photo courtesy of Renata Boxer Dog Flash The white markings on this breed are called "flash". If a Boxer has a moderate amount, one often refers to this as semi-flashy. Those with prominent white on a good portion of the coat are called flashy. No Markings? Not all Boxers have white markings. These are known as plain Boxers, but the term is misleading, as it refers to the genes at work. Read more: Boxers without White Markings Brindle Explanation Brindle one of the colors of this breed is actually a pattern. Stripes running through the coat partial or full is brindling. These are often black hairs, but may be any color that is a darker shade than the hairs that run under it. Depending on the exact color of these brindling pattern stripes, one may refer to a Boxer using one of the following terms listed in order from a very light brindle to a heavy dark striping : Light super light. They make it so darn easy to fall in love with! Boxers are affectionate, a little goofy, and always ready to play. They pretty much agree on all the major points. Remember that these organizations set the bar for competition for confirmation to the essence of the breed. Each one has a group of criteria by which they are judged. It includes things like general appearance, body shape, coat, and color. Think of it as kind of a buzz cut for dogs. Going over your pup with a hound glove or curry brush regularly will help keep it in check. His fur should be shiny and feel smooth. The Boxer is fussy about their appearance and will keep themselves clean. The 3 Boxer Colors: Boxers come in three colors, although these can be mixed and matched into different combinations. Those 3 colors are: 1. The density of the black can vary from barely noticeable to almost dark brown. Genetics handles the pattern and thickness of the striping. The darker colors pop against the light. They set a limit of up to one-third of it. They are not desirable on the back or flanks. The Boxer, after all, has a long to maintain. They may have the black muzzle with the color extending up toward their eyes. The shade can range anywhere from buff to chestnut brown. The rest of the official standard reads similarly to the part describing Brindle Boxers. A dog that is all Fawn is acceptable in the show ring. Markings of the Fawn Boxer Likewise, there are the same restrictions on the proportion of white on the Fawn Boxer. The goal is to keep that definitive look that the breed has. We have to agree. This hue has been with the breed for hundreds of years. For a while, it was accepted as part of the standard. The personality of the pup is also a part of these criteria. In Germany, Boxers followed their earlier history as a guard dog. The decision was merely a cosmetic one. Some people equate it with albino, which technically is not valid. A White Boxer usually has brown eyes and a black nose. If it were an albino, it would lack the pigmentation for those colors. Instead, his nose and pads would be pink. As an aside, albinoism is a disqualification in the show ring. White Boxers often have other black markings on them. However, is the white color a problem? Many breeds have a predisposition to one or more congenital health issues. Reputable breeders will pre-screen parent dogs and their litters for the ones most common in that line. They also provide recommendations for testing. Dogs that test positive for specific conditions are not bred to reduce the incidence in the population. Unfortunately, the white color of the Boxer carries some of these problems. To be clear, some of them are not exclusive to this breed. The issues with the White Boxer and others of this ilk result from the lack of pigment. Besides detracting from his appearance, it can make the dog more likely to go blind. It can also cause deafness. The pooch may also get sunburned more quickly, which can increase his risk of cancer. All of these things seem like compelling reasons not to breed White Boxers. There is a happy ending to the story. However, they still discourage breeding them. While the risk for genetic issues exists, any color of dog can make a delightful pet. Owning a Boxer—or any pup—is a serious responsibility. The lovable disposition of the breed makes it an easy thing to do. Final Thoughts The Boxer is a handsome dog, no matter if they are fawn, brindle, or white. They are happy and friendly pooches that will make excellent pets and faithful companions for you and your children. They are always a bit of a character, which makes owning one a fun experience with new adventures every day. Featured Image Credit: Pikist.
Best Dog Foods for Pugs Choosing the right dog food for a Pug is essential as this will ensure that it gets proper nutrition. However, this can be challenging and time-consuming, considering that there is a lot to choose from. Whether you choose to feed your Pug commercial, homemade food, or raw food, make sure that they are of good quality and recommended by a trusted veterinarian. Proper nutrition is one of the factors that affect their lifespan. Below is a list of the best dog food choices for your Pug: Dry Food: One of the best options for Pugs is dry dog food as it is widely available, cheap, and has a long shelf life. These are packed with all the nutrients essential for your Pug. Wet Food: Wet dog food is another good option for Pugs. Its flavor and texture make it more appealing to Pugs than dry food. Wet food contains fewer grains, making it healthier and easier to digest. However, wet canned food has a shorter shelf life and should be consumed immediately after opening. Wet foods are also more expensive than dry foods. Homemade Food: Your Pug may benefit from cooked food consisting of chicken, eggs, fish, rice, and vegetables. The process is time-consuming, but it is less expensive and more convenient in the long run, especially if you plan on giving them a grain-free diet. Raw Food: Raw food diet for most Pugs results in better digestion, healthy skin, and a stronger immune system in Pugs. Mixing any of the aforementioned food choices is also good. Hence, you may want to try dog food alternatives to fit your budget. With their sensitive little stomachs, some foods can be poisonous, cause allergic reactions, and can even be lethal. Below is a list of food that you should completely avoid feeding to your Pug: Alcohol: Any amount of alcohol is hazardous for Pugs. Pugs do not have the enzyme to metabolize alcohol. Ingestion can cause hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , breathing problems, and central nervous system CNS impairment. Avocado: Avocado contains persin , a fungicidal toxin that has been linked to the death of many animals, including Pugs. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart damage in large quantities. As a result, even small amounts of chocolate can cause poisoning. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins contain tartaric acid , which causes vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and kidney failure among Pugs. Unfortunately, even one whole grape can cause irreversible damage and death in small breeds like Pugs. Macadamia nuts and walnuts: While the exact reason why they are poisonous is unknown, it is best to avoid giving them to your Pugs entirely. In Pugs, macadamia and walnuts can cause diarrhea, weakness, breathing problems, and pancreatitis. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which damages the oxygen-carrying substances in red blood cells. Ingestion of these vegetables can eventually lead to hemolytic anemia. Xylitol: In Pugs, xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. It is frequently found in gums, candies, syrups, and toothpaste. Pugs should avoid the foods listed above at all costs. Food with high sugar content: If your Pug consumes too much sugar, it is more likely to develop health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay. Food with high sugar content can also give Pugs an upset stomach. Salty food: Just like sugar, too much salt can cause health problems in Pugs. If left unchecked, it has the potential to poison your Pug. Excessive salt consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and kidney failure. Milk and dairy products: Because the majority of Pugs are lactose intolerant , dairy products can make them sick. They will have digestive problems because they are unable to break down lactose. This causes gastrointestinal blockage and death if left unattended. If you think your Pug has accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods, bring your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic for appropriate treatment. Transitioning to a new brand or type of food may be beneficial to their well-being and development. For most dogs, transitioning to new dog food can be difficult. Fortunately, Pugs are not born picky eaters, so changing their diet will be easier. The ideal transition for Pugs should be gradual changes spread over three weeks. Do this until they are comfortable with the new food. Below is a more detailed breakdown of how to transition your Pug to a new food: Days. Aug 25, Share An important part of taking good care of your Pug puppy is making sure that they are properly fed and that they get all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and if your Pug is like most, they seem to like anything that they are fed. Luckily, there are many commercial foods available on the market. There is also the raw doggy food diet that seems to keep getting more popular as time goes on. But what kind of dog food is right for your Pug? How much should you be feeding them? What will the dog not eat? Are there special considerations for a senior Pug? The answers to these questions and more can be found in our Pug feeding guide below. What you do decide to feed your pooch should be based on the quality of the food, no matter the type, and your personal feeding preferences. Here is what can be on the table for your Pug. Image credit: PxHere Commercial Dry Food Kibble Commonly referred to as kibble, commercial dry dog food is the most common and widely available option on the market. Manufacturers of this type of food work hard to balance the ingredients and create a completely balanced nutritional profile for dogs like your Pug. In fact, some brands, like Royal Canin, offer puppy and adult foods made just for Pugs. Whether you choose a dry dog food made just for Pugs or one made for dogs in general, it should include real meat or animal meal as one of the first ingredients on the list. The upside to commercial dry dog food is that it is affordable and easy to administer. It is also typically easy to store for the long term without worrying about it spoiling. The downside is that it tends to be dehydrating, so water should be available to your Pug throughout the day. Commercial Wet Food Commercially made wet dog food tends to be more nutrient-dense than dry food because it contains fresher ingredients and usually has fewer grains, if any at all. Most wet foods have real whole meat or seafood and broth as the first ingredients. Sometimes, veggies are thrown in for good measure, but many are meat-centric to meet the high protein needs of your growing Pug. Wet food is not as easy to store as dry food is, because it must be refrigerated after being opened. However, Pugs tend to enjoy the flavor and texture of wet food more than dry. Wet food is also a little more expensive than dry food, especially when trying to feed Pugs that are full-grown and in their prime. Raw Food A raw food diet is said to result in better digestion, a healthier coat and immune system , optimal dental health, and less susceptibility to allergies among other things. A raw food diet typically consists of quality meat, a source of calcium such as bones , animal organs, and a lower fat count than most commercial foods offer. Feeding your Pug a raw food diet will take commitment and a strong understanding of the nutrition that they need. This type of diet can be expensive and can require storage space in the fridge and freezer. It is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian to put together a complete meal plan to follow if you choose to go this route. It is a freeze-dried raw food supplement that is delicious and nutritious. The process requires about a day of cooking in the kitchen, but the time that you spend in your kitchen should yield enough food for your pooch to eat all week long. You will just have to store the leftovers in the fridge each day until the entire batch has been offered and consumed. Homemade dog food usually consists of whole meat like chicken, eggs, fish oil or flaxseed, brown or white rice, possibly vegetables like carrots and peas , and maybe even supplements of some kind. It depends on what kind of recipe you decide to follow. Any recipe that you consider feeding your dog should be approved by your veterinarian first. But you can quickly tell whether your pooch is being underfed or overfed by checking out their physique every day. If your dog is underfed for too long, you could notice signs like lethargy and an unwillingness to interact with family members. If your dog is overfed, they may succumb to problems like diabetes. If you find that your dog is getting underweight, start feeding them up to an extra cup of food each day. Reduce the amount by up to a cup if your dog is getting pudgy and out of shape. To help avoid under and overfeeding your dog, follow the feeding directions on the packaging of any commercial food you buy for them. If you decide to go the raw or homemade food route, your veterinarian can provide you with a feeding guide. You are free to use this image, but please give credit back to Hepper. Extra immune support is also typically present in puppy food. Once Pugs become adults, they are not as active as when they were pups, and they are not growing at exponential rates, if at all. Therefore, they need food with less protein than what puppies get. Pugs can typically switch to adult dog food between the ages of 9 and 12 months because much of their growth will be complete at this time. The tricky part is the actual process of switching your pooch from puppy to adult dog food. If not done slowly and intentionally, switching to a new food can cause digestion issues for your dog that could create messes around the house. Lethargy and nausea may follow. Finally, offer only adult food. There are many reasons why your Pug might seem like they do not have an appetite. The first thing to consider is whether you are overfeeding them. If your pooch does not want to eat their last meal of the day, they could simply be full and satisfied. However, other issues could lead to a pup not eating such as: Dental Problems. If your Pug has a toothache or some other kind of dental problem, they may not be comfortable eating. Check for red gums, bleeding, and tenderness throughout the mouth. If something unusual is detected, consult your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Recent Vaccinations. Vaccines can cause side effects, including a lack of appetite. So, if your Pug does not seem to want to eat for a day or two after getting vaccinated, this is normal. Uncomfortable Surroundings. If your pooch goes on an adventure with you and is expected to eat their meal in a situation that is not familiar to them, they may pass on the meal altogether in favor of waiting until they get to what they feel is a safe space to eat. Even if your dog seems fine in every other way, a lack of wanting to eat could mean an illness of some kind is brewing. If you cannot find any other reason for a lack of appetite, you should see your vet as soon as possible. Adult Pugs will generally eat about a cup of dry commercial dog food each day or the equivalent, although certain differences might scale this amount up or down as time goes on. Here are the most important factors to consider. Active vs. Sedentary More active dogs will require more food than those that tend to be sedentary. If your pooch takes multiple walks every day, spends a great deal of time playing with kids throughout the day, or enjoys outdoor time with family members each afternoon, chances are that your dog will need a little more food than the average pooch. If your pooch takes only one short walk each day and spends most of their time lounging around the house, chances are that they should be fed as sedentary dogs. Spayed vs. Neutered Sometimes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered eat more than the average pooch. This is because they tend to be more active and excitable, which results in the need for more calories to support their energy needs. Pregnancy Pregnant Pugs need up to twice the amount of food that an adult dog would need. Instead of feeding your pregnant dog puppy or adult food, consider a food designed for all life stages that indicates its suitability for pregnancy. This type of food offers more protein and fat than adult food to support the extra growth they go through, but not as much as puppy food, which could make them overweight after the birth. What Foods Are Bad for Pugs? Image By: Momentmal, Pixabay There are a few foods that you should never feed your Pug to ensure their good health and to avoid serious problems like poisoning and even death. Here are a few food items that should be avoided at all costs: Alcohol. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? 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. Introduction Importance of choosing the right food for Pug puppies Feeding your Pug puppies the right food can significantly impact their health, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients and energy to support their growth and development and helps to prevent common health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and food allergies. Factors to consider when selecting the best food for pug puppies When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, there are several factors to consider, including their age, activity level, and specific nutritional needs. Reading the ingredient list and checking the nutritional content can help you to make an informed decision about the best food for your Pug puppy. Wet Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of wet food Wet food is an excellent option for Pug puppies as it is highly palatable and provides additional moisture, which is important for their growing bodies. Wet food also contains higher levels of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for supporting the growth and development of your Pug puppy. Best-reviewed wet food options Royal Canin Pug Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is specifically formulated for Pug puppies, with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Dry Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of dry food Dry food is another great option for Pug puppies as it helps to clean their teeth and promote good oral health. Dry food is also a good source of essential nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of your Pug puppy. It contains a balanced protein, fats, and carbohydrates ratio to meet its unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food — This dry food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Homemade Meals and Snacks for Pug Puppies Benefits of homemade food Homemade meals and snacks are an excellent option for Pug puppies as they allow you to control the ingredients and ensure that your pup gets a healthy and balanced diet. Simple homemade meal and snack recipes for pug puppies Puppy-Friendly Meatloaf: Mix ground turkey or chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans for a tasty and nutritious homemade meal for your Pug puppy. Bake in the oven until fully cooked, and serve in small portions. Homemade Puppy Treats: Mix rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and a beaten egg for a simple and healthy snack for your Pug puppy. Roll out the dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and bake in the oven until crispy. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and avoid using spices and seasonings that can harm dogs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness. A: Wet food can provide a higher moisture content, which can benefit Pug puppies as they need to stay hydrated. Wet food also has a more appealing taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters. Q: What ingredients should I look for in dry food for Pug puppies? A: Look for dry food that contains high-quality proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy homemade meals and snacks? Q: How often should I feed my Pug puppy? A: Pug puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day until they reach six months of age. Then, they can be fed two times a day. The food they need will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Q: What is the best food for Pug puppies with sensitive stomachs? A: Wet food with simple ingredients, like boiled chicken and rice, or dry food specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs can be helpful for Pug puppies with digestive issues. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy adult dog food? A: No, adult dog food does not provide the appropriate nutrients for Pug puppies as they are still growing and developing. Puppy-specific food is formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Gradual changes over a few days to a week are recommended to avoid discomfort. Conclusion Recap of the best food options When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, several options exist. Dry food is also a good option as it helps to clean teeth and is easy to store. Final thoughts The most important thing is to choose a food specifically formulated for Pug puppies with high-quality ingredients to meet their unique nutritional needs. Choosing the best food for your Pug puppy will give them the foundation for a happy and healthy life. From pet nutrition books to online articles, a wealth of information is available on this topic. These resources will give you a deeper understanding of the nutritional needs of your Pug puppy and help you make informed decisions about the best food options for their growth and development. This feeding routine should be followed from 8 weeks to 6 months old. But how much food should that be exactly in each feeding session. How many cups of food should I feed my Pug puppy and adults? Before you check out this Pug feeding chart below, you may just want a quick reference to how many cups of food you need to feed a Pug. The common guidelines say you should feed a Pug puppy of 8 to 20 weeks different cup sizes depending on their weight and age. You can see the cup amounts in the chart here: Puppy feeding amounts This Pug puppy feeding chart explains just how many cups of food you should give them and the regularity. It will be 3 times a day, then twice a day as they get older. As your Pug ages, the number of cups of food you need to him or her will change, as will the regularity. Take a look at the guidance in the graphic below. Adult feeding amounts This is feeding chart for adult Pugs explaining how many cups and how often in the day the feeding times should be. The Pug feeding charts you see above have been scanned from the Royal Canin brand of dog food. This is a very trusted brand, and you will find it being sold in vets all over the world. It contains all the nutrients your Pug puppy will need and is great for starting out with and into adult ages. Almost every time, this happens by the age of 3 weeks; and puppies should not leave their mother until at least 8 weeks of age. They will be like eating machines at this age because they have so much energy to burn. You could also try to sit your Pug down on some scales, but good luck with trying to make them sit still. Instead you can weigh yourself if you have accurate scales, and then get someone to pass you your Pug puppy to see what the difference is. The age of your Pug You might find it hard to get your Pug used to commercial dry food at first. The commercial puppy food should be high enough in calories and nutrients to make up for what they used to get from their mother. In terms of adjusting for their ages, Pug puppies of 8 to 12 weeks old can have one and half cups of food each day, split into 3 servings. By the ages of 6 to 9 months, Pug puppies will be in a regular eating routine where they drop to two meals a day — and this is how it will stay as adults. The dangers of over-feeding Some Pug owners might decide to go to 4 meals a day, but still with the same amount of food. This is because tinier Pugs might find the half a cup 3 times daily, too much of a large meal. Overfeeding is something to keep a strict eye on. If you feed your Pug puppy too much, he could get gastric dilatation-volvulus see definition on ACVS. This is the medical term for a twisted gut and can actually be fatal. Feeding more senior Pugs As Pugs get older, they will start to get less active. With reduced levels of energy comes the need for a lower calorie intake. But only if they are reducing their exercise due to age. With an older Pug you might start to see them putting on weight. If you do see weight gain, start to pull back on the portion sizes. Sometimes your vet may even recommend you go to a higher frequency of daily meals albeit smaller portions , almost like they are puppies again. With senior dogs this can help with weaker stomachs. Overweight or underweight? The average Pug puppy will weigh between 2 and 4 pounds at 8 weeks. These are healthy weight ranges. If you do have a Pug puppy who is clearly underweight, start to add a little bit more food to each of the daily meals until they come back into the health weight range. With overweight Pugs you do the exact opposite but mix more exercise into their daily routines as well. Handy Hint: If your Pug is losing or gaining weight and how much food they eat makes no difference, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Health problems related to Pug feeding Not all dogs are the same, and all the guidance on this page is very generic towards how much you should feed a Pug. The bottom line is that your vet will be able to properly tell you how much your Pug should eat due to their age and weight. Raw food vs. I understand why people feed their dog raw food though; they say commercial food has too many additives plus preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and proteins. Consult with your vet for a professional opinion. Pugs that eat their food far too quickly You should also monitor how quickly your Pug is eating. Puppies are used to having to compete for food, and even when they are home alone with you, they will still have an instinct to wolf their food down. This can cause indigestion and vomiting, so there are a few things you can do to slow their intake down. Use a muffin tin evenly spread the portions throughout the tin. The best dry dog foods should have a high percentage of meats and fish in. Omega-3s are healthy fats, so those will also be a good sign if listed. All of the notes and guidance are based on my own personal experience of raising puppies, with exception to the feeding schedule which is from the Canin dog food brand. However, the Canin Pug feeding charts you see, are exactly how I have fed my puppies and adult dogs. Once your dog reaches adulthood, the best times to feed your Pug will be breakfast and dinner times. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Pug will stay at healthy as our dogs have! You might also like… If you have found this useful and are new to Pug ownership, you might find these other handy guides useful during the puppy phase:. Kibble, cans and specialty foods Proper Nutrition Since puppies need energy to grow big and strong, their food is higher in calories and packed with more nutrients. This includes more fat, protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So always choose a food that is labelled for puppies. Since a Pug is a small toy breed , they will grow very quickly and reach adulthood much faster than larger breeds. Toy dog breeds actually need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their higher metabolic rates. The structure of their flat muzzle and facial folds , while appealing to look at, unfortunately causes a number of serious health problems. This causes soft tissue to block the airways, making breathing very difficult. Their jaws and teeth can also cause them problems. Remember, slimmer is better. How Often To Feed Your Pug Puppy I always recommend feeding puppies small meals at scheduled times several hours apart, and then decreasing the frequency as they get older. For puppies under six months go with something like 7am, 12noon, 3pm then 6pm. As they grow you can reduce this routine to three or even two times a day, but there is no harm continuing with multiple feedings as long as you dividing their daily rations evenly. Kibble vs Canned Food Dried puppy kibble is affordable, easy to store and transport, and readily available. Serving is as simple as opening the package and pouring it into the bowl. Canned or wet food will sometimes offer more meat protein and fewer carbohydrates than kibble does, but you will usually pay more as well. Wet food is also associated with an increase in periodontal diseases , which is not ideal for a dog already prone to these issues. Specialty Pug Puppy Foods The introduction of breed-specific formulas to the market has made it even more confusing. However, there are some Pug puppy formulations that address some of their health issues that might be worth considering. Some kibble is designed in a shape and texture that makes it easier for short-nosed puppies to pick up and chew easily. While food portion quantity matters less for other dogs who know how much to eat, pugs can be endless eaters. Unless you give specific amounts, chances are your pug will grow obese very soon. Care should be taken to stick to recommended portions of meal suggested and not exceed even if your dog is urging for more feed. If you have got an adopted one whose age is below 45 days and has no living mother, you can feed the puppy milk replacers like Beaphar lactol, choostix petasure or royal canin babydog milk. Cow milk cerelac is not recommended. Not only human cerelac causes loose motion, it may result in stunted growth as well. After 45 days age, you can go for starter dry food of any brand like drools starter, royal canin mini starter, farmina puppy starter or a brand you like. Starter dry food can be fed to both mother and puppy till 3 months age. If starter kibble is too hard for your puppy to chew, you can add water in it, blend in a grinder and make a mixture that can be fed by feeding bottle. You can feed a pug puppy up to g of feed combined at this age. Home-made food can be fed as well. If you are feeding cooked meat, remove bones. Pug puppy months :This is the ideal growing stage of the puppy. Your puppy will gain the maximum in mass, length and height at this age span. You can feed junior dry food at this age of your choice brand or home-made food like chicken rice or curd rice. Feed the puppy not more than 3 times a day even if puppy acts like he. Make sure food is rich in protein quantity. Water should be kept available at all times while feeding dry food. Puppy weight needs to be monitored every month. Go safely for any kibble your puppy likes, brand should depend on budget. Some good choices are royal canin pug adult, farmina chicken pomegranate mini adult, orijen original, acana small breed adult etc. Pugs live longer years than most dogs like labs. A healthy diet at adult age is important to maintain immune functions and prolong life-span to the maximum extent. Feed no more than g a day divided into two meals. Quantity should be monitored closely depending on body weight. If fed home-made food, amount should be almost same a dry food, a home-made meal like chicken-veggie can be as nutritious as dry food if not more. A pug can also start eating the left-over food of other dogs if you have multiple dogs in the household, which should be avoided. Most reputable brands have different calorie concentration in their diet. So, recommended portions can differ to some extent across brands, you can also look at feeding instructions on packaging of food product for required amount or take advice from a practicing veterinarian. Whenever you are eating, pugs may act like they are hungrier now than ever and want some. Keep them away from human feed at all times. Also, keep yourself and those around your pug informed about things which can be poisonous and unhealthy for most dogs like chocolate or citrus fruits like orange and never feed your pug these. Help, my pug is fat and wants to eat all the time? You are not alone. Most pugs become obese even if owner tried to restrict food quantity. If your pug is fat, you need to go for less fat rich and more protein rich food. Stop giving starch-rich food like human biscuits. Keep your pug as active as possible. While pugs are not suitable for rigorous exercise, regular walking or mild sprinting can increase muscle mass and reduce obesity. Example: if you are feeding chicken rice, remove the rice and give only chicken. If you are feeding a regular dry food like Royal canin pug adult, opt for veterinary obesity food like royal canin satiety, drools vet pro obesity or acana light and fit. Protein-rich diet will help make your pug feel fuller with small quantities of feed. It is recommended to consult a practicing veterinarian in case your puppy is growing excessively obese for a better customized diet. Are you following any other diet for your pug and getting exceptional results? Do let us know in the comments below. This entry was posted in Pet Blog. Bookmark the permalink. But he cries alot for the same. Loyal Petzone says: You can give him dry food mixed with curd. I am sure he likes the curd, not the chappati. Moderate amount of unflavored curd can be mixed with dry kibble any time. Rishika Agrawal says: Have some mercy on the baby. .Feed less. .Ankit says: Hii. .My puppy is 3 months old…. .What should i give to her? Nayandharaa says: You can try curd rice, my dog ate it, I mived some crushed pedigree I. There and it ate it all up Deepa Rawat says: Hi, I have a Indian puppy, of around 45 days, can i give him milk in water with glucose biscuits, and if he is doing loose stool, can i give him mashed banana Loyal Petzone says:. But the sad part of the story is that just like any other dog, pugs get obese very quickly. As they say, you become what you eat. Since the pug is a tiny dog, even one extra pound will affect its appearance. For this reason, it becomes important to keep a check on what your pug is eating. The present article talks about the feeding guidelines of this adorable dog: How much is too much? It is very important to feed your dog the correct amount of food to ensure that the pug is getting enough calories for proper growth. Any deviation from the right amount will led to health problems in a pug. Age, activity, metabolism and build of a dog are the major factors on which the amount of food which should be given to a dog depends. Also, the type of food you are giving to a dog is another important factor. If you are feeding home cooked food to one pug and commercial dog food to another dog with same age, build and activity level, it is not necessary that both of them will consume the same amount. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy pug should be given 1 ounce of food per one pound of body weight. For adult pugs, the amount is halved. What about calories? A pug puppy which is in his growth phase requires more calories than adult and senior pugs. On an average, a puppy requires 50 calories per pound of their body weight while an adult pug requires 40 calories per pound of their body weight. Senior pugs need fewer calories because of slow metabolism and less activity level. Free feeding is not recommended to the pug. The following table illustrates the right feeding regime and meal frequency for pugs: Age Amount of food given at one time No. Email No living thing can survive without food. Pugs, with their hyperactive nature, would want to eat constantly. It is always ravenous and thirsty, and seemingly wanting to have something on its mouth. This small ball of cuddles and sweetness is quite prone to weight issues which may deliver debilitating health conditions. To take extreme care of its health, it is important to have a pug food chart handy. Source : mysweetdogs. Second to that is protein lean poultry and pork, and fish and then, complex carbohydrates pearled barley, sweet potatoes, oats, brown rice, corn, and millet and fats, the unsaturated kind, filled with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. For lean meat like fish or poultry, another 25 percent should come handy. Remaining calorie count must be divided into healthy complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. This is part of the reason why some conscientious pug owners tend to prepare their own pug food. A quick check on commercial ones will either give you either too high in fat or too low in other nutrients needed to keep your pet healthy. Some households usually make a balance of commercial ones with home-prepared pug food. Others also use organic olive oil and other healthy oils to fully saturate a healthy diet for their pugs. But just how much does a pug need for its daily sustenance? As a first time pug owner, it is important to exercise caution during feeding. Whether you get a small puppy or a fully grown one, proper observations must be carefully done. Keep in mind that pug food charts usually provided on the label of commercial grade dog foods are often manipulated. Try filling its bowl with appropriate amount of pug food See below and check how much it consumes in one sitting. Do this in the morning and then, at dusk while giving pug biscuits or small bits of fresh fruits in between. Keep tabs of its progress or regression in terms of weight in a week or two. Add or subtract the amount of food given when your pug either loses or gains weight.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Welcome to Quivira Goldens Contact us to place a deposit on our upcoming litter The rolling plains of Kansas are where we call home, and we are excited to be able to bring some of the best and brightest of the Golden Retriever breed to our families. We are certain you will fall in love with our Goldens just as we have done. Our health tested parents are a perfect blend of American bloodlines as well as some imported lines from our sires. We have been working at developing a unique blend of healthy, intelligent easy to train Golden Retrievers for nearly 20 years and can't wait to talk with you about our upcoming litters. Many of our Goldens are training or functioning as service dogs or emotional support dogs with veterans, law enforcement and in schools and nursing homes. The easiest way to join the Quivira Golden Family is to complete a puppy reservation form and place a deposit. We encourage all families to call or email prior to completing the form. Puppy spots are held based on the order deposits are received. Now taking deposits for our January litter. Ready to go to new homesin March sometime. Call Soon to reserve your pup. Our never kenneled, well loved puppies make the perfect family dog! We are located in the Kansas City area however our puppies are adopted all over the United States. Five benefits have been observed in canines that were exposed to the Bio Sensor stimulation exercises. The benefits noted were: Improved cardio vascular performance heart rate Stronger heart beats More tolerance to stress Greater resistance to disease At three weeks old we start potty training our pups. We first designate a place in their whelping pen for them to do their business and as they are able to walk farther we gradually move their spot farther away. They are using a dog door to "go" outside between weeks old. Also at three weeks old we start beginning Manners training. That involves learning to sit and be patient before getting to go eat puppy food. The pups are also starting to spend time in an open crate and will graduate to closed crate time as they get older. Sometimes we keep our favorite pups longer to use for our breeding program or to offer a higher level of training for our clients. These pups depending on their age, know sit, stay can hold a stay while I go outside out of sight for at least 2 minutes come and sit at my feet, down, leave it, and on your bed. They are crate trained and also good on a leash. If you are interested in one of our pups in training give us a call. We have one 8 month old male available. Join our wait list Champion blood lines from a trusted breeder There are many options when looking for a Golden Retriever puppy. At Simply Golden Puppies We believe that Golden Retriever puppies and their mommas deserve a lot of love and attention. If you have ever had a Golden, you know that they are happiest when they are with their people. For this reason we keep our breeding program small. Our goldens are pets first. They are never kept in a kennel and spend a lot of time by our sides. We believe that if our momma's are happy the babies are happy too. The litters of Greta and Kate mark our sixth generation of puppies. We know very well how our puppies turn out. Our puppies have championship blood lines from 6 separate countries. That makes their gene pool phenomenal! You can expect a beautiful, healthy, very smart dog with therapy soft fur and blocky heads. They are devoted and loyal with fun personalities! While environmental factors play a big part in the health of your golden retriever you can be sure that we have done our best to ensure your puppy gets the best possible start in life. All of our personal adult goldens have lived past 12 years old with several living to be 16 years old. Our Puppies are vet checked healthy and vaccinated before going to their new homes and are sold as family companions with limited pet AKC registration. Why a Golden Retriever is the Perfect First Dog A golden retriever puppy is an excellent choice for those who are looking to get their first dog. The golden retriever is even-tempered, intelligent and affectionate. Golden retrievers are playful, yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. If you are consistent you can teach them very precise things like staying off of the carpet unless they are invited on it, waiting at an open door until they are invited in, not to bark unless there is something important to bark about.Because they are so smart, they can also learn to "work " the system so praise and being consistent is key. Goldens are eager to please and like to work which explains why they respond so well to Positive reinforcement training and are such popular service dogs. Many of our puppies have gone on to be service and therapy dogs. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are loyal — Golden retrievers are extremely loyal dogs. They were born to please you which makes them the best companion dog and another reason that they can be wonderful therapy or emotional support dogs. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are great with kids — Golden retrievers are great with children! They seem to instinctually know how to interact with them. One of our last customers had a one year old who tripped and fell in the grass. Our 12 week old puppy went carefully up to him, bent his head down to his face as if to ask if he was all right. It melted all of our hearts! Long ago my Daughter learned how to walk by pulling up on our first Golden Retriever. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are funny - They have the best personalities! They are loving, loyal, goofy, playful, gentle, and bring so much joy to our golden families! They are bird dogs at heart, so they love a good game of fetch or a swim. If exercise is provided daily, golden retriever puppies can adapt to any type of home, even if it is a city apartment. History: In , the golden retriever was the second most popular AKC breed. This ranking is no surprise, because the dog has many qualities that make for a perfect family pet. The golden retriever's roots are in the fields and waterways of Great Britain. The golden retriever was bred to be a bird dog, particularly for hunting water fowl, and the breed resulted from crossing a number of other breeds thought to include spaniels, setters, and the Newfoundland but not the Newfoundland we know today , and perhaps even a bloodhound. The combination created a hardy, strong swimming dog that could withstand cold water, track wounded game and deal with crippled birds. Today, golden retrievers are not only good bird dogs and family pets; they also are popular as service dogs for the blind and disabled, and as search and rescue dogs and contraband detection dogs. Few dogs can claim this breed's versatility.
But, more than just a service, Puppies Golden Doodle is a community of dog lovers whose mission is to make lives better by placing healthy puppies into happy homes. We love the breed and pride ourselves on continually breeding sound and secure companions. Goldendoodles for Adoption Remember, dogs are mans best friend We love the breed and pride ourselves with continually breeding sound and secure companions and lovely dogs. I select compatible bloodlines, and do not simply breed with the flavor of Show winners. The easiest way to adopt a Goldendoodle would be through a rescue that specializes in Goldendoodles. A great place to start would be by starting a breed search on PuppiesGoldenDoodle. The search will show you all the available Goldendoodles in your area. Goldendoodle information Friendly Mini Goldendoodles love both humans and other animals. Small Size Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller size and weight which makes them better suited for apartments and small homes. Trainable With their friendly temperament and intelligence, Mini Goldendoodles are one of the easier breeds to train. They respond well to training that is done consistently and properly, and they soon become accustomed to house rules and expectations. Affectionate Even though they are friendly to strangers, Mini Goldendoodles still have a special bond with their owners. They quickly become attached to people they spend a lot of time with, and they never tire of being with their owners and family. Sociable Mini Goldendoodles love spending time with humans, and they play well with the family and children. No matter what the family is doing, Mini Goldendoodles want to be a part of the action! Grooming Even though they favor the coat of a Poodle, Mini Goldendoodles still require regular care and grooming. Should you be alarmed? Well it really depends. The care and conditions of our dogs are paramount to us. We take pride in raising healthy, happy, quality bred puppies. This is why we offer a lifetime health guarantee. Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption.
We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. As a dedicated Labrador parent, one of your primary responsibilities is ensuring your pup remains healthy and achieves all growth milestones based on his age. However, some of the most overwhelming factors to crack through are size and weight. So, is your Lab puppy too small for his age? Your Lab puppy might be too small if it weighs less than 12 lbs 5. Lab puppies generally weigh about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. If your puppy weighs a lot less than that, he may be too small for his age. If you're worried that your pup might be too small for his age, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll outline Lab puppies' size and weight facts to help you understand where your young canine friend stands. Keep reading! In this article How Much a Lab Puppy Should Weigh This is one of the most common concerns and one of the most challenging to address directly. This is because a puppy's weight and size may differ based on his gender, genetic composition, or underlying conditions. However, there's a trick that may help you determine your pup's weight range. In most cases, average puppies add about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. And just like the weight, Lab puppies have different sizes. You may notice a huge size variance in a litter of Lab puppies. Some may appear too big or too small for their age. Below are 3 factors that can affect a Lab puppy's size and weight. Genetic May Affect Size A canine's size is partially genetic. Therefore, a Lab puppy born of small parents may inherit the genes and appear smaller for his age. However, this isn't always the case because some small-parents puppies sometimes grow into huge dogs. So, it's possible to note a considerable size variance on puppies from the same litter. Diet Greatly Influences Weight A puppy's diet also has a lot to do with his size and weight. Poorly fed puppies may fail to grow properly. Thus they may be low in weight and small in size. When feeding puppies, it isn't always about the amount of food the pup consumes but rather the nutritional value. So, to be on the safe side, it's advisable to consult your vet on the right foods for your pup based on his age. Health Problems Can Inhibit Growth Puppies that have been ill or have underlying conditions may portray slow growth. Their size and weight may be small compared to healthy pups within the same age limit. However, you shouldn't worry about this because such puppies often catch up later after recovery. Note that this chart only gives a weight limit, and it doesn't mean your puppy should weigh precisely that. It's only meant to help you protect your pup's weight and easily point out when he's seriously under or overweight. Labrador Retriever Puppy Growth Chart and Development with Pictures Large breed dogs, like Labs, gain weight and grow rather rapidly in their first year. They also develop certain skills at approximately the same time. Lab puppies at this age are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born without teeth, vision, or hearing. The mother Lab will also stimulate them to eliminate and eat their waste to keep her nesting area clean. Most Lab puppies will have their eyes opened at 2 weeks of age, and their ears will begin to open around this time too. This period can be called the awakening of senses, as they are growing to be more conscious and inquisitive. Try to spend some time with each puppy daily, so they get used to being handled. They should not be removed from their litter for more than 10 minutes at a time as this could cause them to miss out on important life lessons. Mama dogs will teach her pups some discipline and dogs that are taken from their mom before this age often suffers from behavioral issues. You should handle them often and can begin basic training. Treat your puppy gently, with no harsh discipline. Your 8-week-old Lab puppy will be able to start sleeping through the night and have better control over its bowel movements. Potty training can be introduced at this age, but you should avoid bringing them to crowded places. Most puppies get their first vaccination before heading to their new homes. You should keep your new puppy away from other dogs until they complete their vaccinations to prevent them from contracting infectious diseases like distemper or parvovirus. Lab puppies eating their dog food At 2 months, Lab puppies should be fed 4 small meals a day. Knowing how much to feed them is key. Your Lab puppy will begin to test you in order to figure out what their position is in the family. Labrador Retriever puppies at 3 months might ignore commands they are familiar with. Some dogs might start nipping. To combat this, direct them to chew appropriate toys instead. Be patient with them and keep reinforcing positive behavior because they will grow out of it soon enough. They are still establishing their role in the pack and might assert their dominance over little children or pets. You can start incorporating other activities like obedience or agility to divert their attention and help them understand their role in the family better. Some dogs will go through another fearful stage at this age. You can help them through it by desensitizing them and being kind and understanding. They are still puppies at this age, after all. They should not be forced to face their fears in hopes they will get used to it. Appropriate exposure with lots of praise, attention, and treats will do the trick. They will have grown into the dog they are meant to be and will have a consistent personality. They should also have settled into a routine and know their place in the family. Following a UK study, Labs grow into their adult weight by their 1-year-old birthday. Mentally, Labradors will stay a puppy till they are 2 or 3 years old, but some never really do grow up. When Do Labs Stop Growing? Lab puppies generally gain 2 lbs 1 kg a week from birth until they are 6 months old. After that, their weight gain tapers off slowly. Most people think that dogs mature at the same age, but small dogs like a Terrier or a Pomeranian might reach adulthood at 9 months of age whereas a Great Dane might fully mature at 3 years of age. It has been noted that they reach their full height at 1 year of age, and their adult weight at 2 years of age. How to weigh a Labrador dog? Weighing your dog is a good way to keep track of its growth. A less strenuous and stressful way to weigh your dog would be to buy a weighing scale for dogs and weigh them regularly. You can incorporate this into your dog training and reward them every time they stay still on a scale. There are reasonably priced pet scales on Amazon but if you do not have a budget for a dog weighing machine, you can get your dog weighed at the vet. This is because muscle weighs more than fat. A chubby-looking Labrador might have the same weight as a lean and strong Lab. Testing Physical Appearance There is a system called BCS or Body Condition Scoring that allows owners and health providers to assess whether their dog is at a healthy weight from a glance. There are 9 levels, with the 1st level representing extreme emaciation, level 5 being optimally fit, and level 9 being life-threateningly obese. However, if they are outside of that spectrum, you might want to consider seeing a specialist as your dog might have some underlying health issues. It can also cause lots of health problems such as joint problems, respiratory or heart diseases, and even cancer. The bad news is that Labradors are prone to obesity due to their genetics. A large portion of the Labrador population has a malfunctioning POMC gene that stops them from being full. Even without the condition, Labs are notoriously greedy! Look at Midnight eating in her dreams: Hyperthyroidism and Insulinoma are disorders that can cause unexplainable weight gain. How to help your Labrador achieve a healthy weight? If they are suffering from certain disorders, you will need to treat them first. If they are simply being fed too much, remove any excess calories from their diet by cutting down treats including table scraps! You can also encourage them to move more through exercise, play, or work. Being too thin is also unhealthy, especially if your puppy is still growing. Weight loss or not being able to gain weight can be caused by worms, illness, or a lack of calories. Active dogs will need to be fed more than those that lead sedentary lifestyles. What you can do is increase their intake and monitor their growth rate. Another commonly asked question is when to fix their male or female Labradors. The general consensus is that you should fix your dog around 6 months, but there are new studies to suggest that early neutering might create more problems for your dog. Another specialized study suggests pet owners to neuter or spay after 37 weeks. This prevents excessive growth that can aggravate hip or joint problems. Will my Lab still grow after being neutered? Depending on when your dog is neutered. If it is neutered after sexual maturity, it will most likely have already reached its adult size and will not grow any taller. However, most neutered pets gain weight much more easily due to a decrease in sex hormones. This will cause their metabolic rate to slow down so you should adjust their diet accordingly. Differences between variations of Labrador Retrievers English Labs are show dogs that are bred to be more heavyset. Therefore, they can be slightly on the heavy side. As for American or working dogs, they are generally more athletic and lighter. Gender also plays a role in their weight, with females nearing the lighter end of the spectrum and males being on the heavier side. Chocolate Labs and White Labs are usually bred for the show ring. It is entirely possible to have an English Fox Red and vice versa for all other colors. Leading a healthy lifestyle will keep your pup healthy. Further reading: Additional puppy growth chart guides. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. Labrador puppy weight. It can be hard to know what the right weight is for your specific pup. An American Lab is likely to weigh less than an English Lab in general, but not always! How much do Labs weigh in general? Male Labradors weigh between 60lbs and 80lbs, while females weigh in at between 55lbs and 75lbs. But many healthy Labradors fall outside these averages. As you can see, there is quite a range! Labrador Puppy Weight Lots of our readers want to know how much should my Labrador weigh at this age or that age. Labrador puppies are growing fast, and their weight is constantly changing. We used the data from our forum to create the Lab weight chart below. If you want a rough idea of how much your pup should weigh at different stages of their young life, just compare them to this chart and see how they match up. But remember, average Labrador weight is not totally straight forward… Average Labrador Weight Labradors come in a wide variety of sizes. So average Labrador Retriever weight figures can be misleading. As a very rough guide an adult female Labrador might weigh between 55 and 70lbs. An adult male Lab will weigh 65 — 80lbs. Female Lab weight will on average be lower than male Lab weight, but as you can see there is a considerable cross over. But Labradors also come in a couple of different types, and his type will have an impact upon his ideal Labrador weight. English Labs bred from show lines are likely to be at the upper end of the scale. You can expect English Lab weight to be around 60 — 70 lbs for a female and 70 — 80 lbs for a male. Some of our chunkier, show bred Labs can be a good twenty pounds or more heavier than their field bred cousins, without necessarily being overweight. Whereas the American Lab who is field bred is likely to be at the lower end of average. Volume for volume, muscle weighs more. So it is worth bearing in mind, that a very fit dog will have more muscle and may weigh more than an unfit dog of similar dimensions. Black Lab Weight In theory there should be no difference in weight between Labradors of different colors. Black Labrador weight for an English black Lab will probably be at the higher end of the range, for an American black Lab it will likely be lower. Black Labs are frequently found in both these categories, but some Lab colors differ. For example the chocolates. Chocolate Lab Weight Chocolate Labs are more likely to be show bred than field bred. English Labs weigh more than American Labs in general, and may therefore be at the higher end of average when it comes to weight. This is because yellow Labs are commonly found in both categories. White Labs are more likely to be English Labs, and will therefore probably be at the heavier end of the scale. Fox red Labs are normally American Labs, and will often be thinner in build and therefore lighter in weight. The way to effectively judge whether your Lab is at an ideal weight is not through the scales. It is by feel and appearance. You should not be able to see ribs, but if you press firmly along his sides you should just be able to feel your fingers bumping along them. But in most cases it really is not necessary to weigh your puppy every day, or even every week! Any more than you would weigh your three year old child on a daily or even weekly basis. There are however, some exceptions. Very thin puppies Occasionally we have people post up about puppies that are desperately underweight and clearly failing to thrive. Most of these comments come from people that have purchased puppies that are not ready to leave their mothers, and should not have been sold by the breeder. Some of these puppies are as young as three weeks old. If you have inadvertently been sucked into this horrible trade in underage puppies, do contact a vet for help with feeding your puppy, as a matter of urgency. If you are concerned that your puppy might be seriously underweight, again, your vet is the first port of call. As a very rough guide, many Labrador puppies will weigh around a kilo for every week of their lives. So you would expect a ten week puppy to weigh something in the region of ten kilos or around twenty-two pounds. A twenty percent variation around this would be fairly normal. If your puppy falls outside this variation he may still be perfectly healthy, but if you are inexperienced, a check with the vet is a good way to put your mind at rest. Should I Weigh My Dog? You may need to weigh your dog if he needs medical treatment. Determining the appropriate dose of some drugs requires that we know the exact weight of the patient. But in this case your veterinarian will probably do it for you at their check-ups and assessments. The main reasons to weigh a dog are loss or gain. Trying to put weight on a very thin puppy? You may want to check your progress with regular weigh-ins for a while to make sure they are sufficiently gaining weight. Trying to help your adult Labrador weight decrease? Checking their weight each week will help you to know that you are succeeding, along with visual checks. How to weigh a dog If you need to weigh a puppy, and he is small enough to hold in your arms, you can do this at home. Just weigh yourself on the bathroom scales without him, then weigh yourself again whilst holding the dog, and subtract the first weight from the second. This is accurate enough for most purposes. Larger dogs will need to be weighed on purpose built scales. Most vet surgeries have one in the waiting room, and some pet stores have them too. Really tiny dogs can be weighed accurately on a good sized set of kitchen scales. For once, this is a situation where appearances really do count. Try to get into the habit of looking at your dog objectively and of avoiding comparing with other dogs, many of whom will be overweight. You may find that some other dog owners will tell you your nice slim Labrador is actually too thin. This happens a lot, largely because people are simply getting used to so many dogs being overweight, including some of those receiving the highest accolades in our show rings. Again, if you are worried, check with your vet, but the chances are if someone is telling you this that actually your dog is healthy, and it is really their dog who is overweight. The Lab puppy weight chart shows you the average weight for male and female Labs every month from 2 months old, up until 12 months if you have a puppy Lab, check out our New Puppy Checklist to learn more about what to bring home for your first 24 hours and beyond. Doing so helps you and your veterinarian keep your puppy healthy. Are There Different Sizes of Labradors? Among the retriever breeds, the Labrador is one of the largest, where an adult male can top the scales at 80 pounds. Labrador Retrievers may differ in size due to individual variation and outside influences, such as the amount or type of food they eat, the amount or frequency of exercise they get, or underlying health conditions that may affect appetite or growth. But overall, a retriever should ideally hit a 5 out of 9 on the body condition score, regardless of the actual weight number on a scale. A healthy size Labrador has an evident abdominal tuck and observable waist, viewed from both the side and top of the dog. The AKC considers Lab puppies to be in adulthood when they reach 12 to 18 months of age, though there are outliers — those who grow faster or slower, reaching maturity either before 1 year old or not until 2 years old. Like other large dog breeds, Labs go through multiple stages of puppyhood until they reach adulthood. The average height for Labrador puppies is largely unknown due to insufficient data, but the average adult Labrador Retriever gets to be about inches tall at the shoulder. These numbers are contingent on the puppy receiving top-notch care, good nutrition, and appropriate levels of exercise. Different factors, such as health, breeding practices, and nutrition, may alter these estimated numbers. The below Labrador weight calculator can help you determine approximately how big your Labrador will be. But there are dogs who will fall outside of these parameters. The Waltham Petcare Science Institute offers puppy growth charts for veterinarians to use with their clients. You can also learn more about the ideal size and weight at different ages for different breeds with our Goldendoodle growth chart , a Golden Retriever size chart , Great Dane growth chart , or Chihuahua size chart. For that advice, consult your veterinarian. However, their weight can vary quite a bit. Male and female Labrador Retrievers vary slightly in size. According to the official breed standards of the AKC , males weigh about pounds, while females weigh pounds. Almost all dogs fall within this guideline, though there may be a few rarer dogs just on the outside of the weight guidelines. Because of how carefully bred these dogs often are, this is extremely rare, though. Male Labrador Retrievers stand between .Females stand at .As you can see, males Labrador Retrievers can be a bit larger than females, though they may not necessarily be. This is particularly true for American Labs. In other countries, the weight and height minimum for males is often higher than it is in America. What does a 4-month Labrador Retriever weigh? From their birth to about six months, Labrador Retriever puppies grow very rapidly. Right after birth, they often gain about two pounds a week or more. This rapid weight continues as the puppy ages. By four months, most Labrador Retrievers weigh about 25 pounds. Smaller dogs will often stay smaller at this point, while larger dogs often stay bigger. How big is a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever? Labrador Retrievers should continue to gain at least two pounds a week until they reach six months old. Most of them will gain even more than this, putting the average weight of a 6-month-old Lab at 50 pounds. That is double what they weighed at four months. However, six months does mark the end of this rapid period of growth. The average Labrador will typically start growing slower at this point, though they will still grow for quite a while. When is a Labrador Retriever fully grown? Most Labrador Retrievers reach their full height at around six to 12 months. Typically, they grow very quickly in the first six months of their life, but this growth slows down considerably after the sixth month. After that, they may still continue to gain a little bit of height, but their full adult height has basically been reached. Many dogs are often lanky during this period for this reason. However, once they reach their full height, the calories can be put towards muscle gain and fat storage. Too many calories can make the dog grow too quickly, which can cause hip dysplasia and other problems. Your dog will have plenty of time to bulk up. Because all Retrievers such as also Flat-Coated and Golden Retrievers are very food-motivated, you need to be careful to not overfeed your dog. Is a Labrador a medium or large dog? Technically, a Labrador Retriever can fall into either the medium or large category. They straddle the line as a breed. Individual dogs will either fall at the upper end of the medium category or rest just inside the large category. For this reason, they are often described as medium-to-large-sized dogs. What is a healthy weight for a Labrador? This depends on the dog. The health range for a Labrador is pounds if they are a male and pounds if they are a female. That is a large range. A dog that is naturally 55 pounds would be terribly overweight at 80 pounds. They will be able to accurately weigh your dog and determine if they are a healthy weight or not. Why is my Labrador so skinny? Many Labradors will appear skinny as puppies. It takes them until about the age of two to bulk up to their adult weight. They will bulk up naturally as they age. Gaining weight too fast can put unnecessary strain on their joints, which can cause health problems further down the road. It may seem that your Lab practically stops growing after about six months. However, they do have growth spurts after this, and they are all focused on muscle and fat gain. This especially applies if your Labrador is a senior dog that has stopped eating. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.
Email: puppiesforpleasure1 yahoo. With over 25 years of experience, they are dedicated to breeding healthy and well-socialized puppies. They focus on quality and not quantity, making sure to only breed one or two litters per year. All pups come with a health guarantee and are raised in a loving environment. All of their pugs are AKC registered and have been raised in a loving home environment. They offer a lifetime warranty on all of their puppies and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed. Since the 16th century, pugs have been bred as companion animals. Pugs also possess many personality traits that set them apart from other toy dogs, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Maltese, and Chihuahuas. Further research into this breed will reveal qualities of loyalty, intelligence, and a curious nature that have endeared the Pug to many humans. A lot of dog breeds are known for being friendly and easygoing, but Pugs are probably one of the most laid-back animals around. They love attention and will happily tag along on adventures with you. Due to their origins in royalty, they are very well-behaved and intelligent. When raised with children, Pugs can be an excellent choice for a family companion. Some common allergies and breathing problems that pugs face include hair loss, skin problems, extreme sneezing, and susceptibility to allergies. Additionally, pugs often have to go through a series of shots in order to combat the health risks posed to them by their environment. The temperament of a pug is happy and gentle. They are great with children and other pets but do require regular grooming. They should be dewormed regularly and bathed every month. For grooming requirements, they need to be brushed regularly to keep their coat healthy and free from mats. In addition, they need to be bathed often and their facial wrinkles cleaned and dried every day. Things to Look for in a Reliable Pug Breeders When raising a Pug puppy, you must be careful about the breeders you choose. Although there are plenty of reputable pug breeders out there, not all of them can be trusted. What you should look for in a good pug breeder? This is the first question that comes to mind when you think about getting a pug. A good breeder will always try to match his puppies with the family and pet home they will be living in. Here are some key things to look for. Pug Breeders who have a good reputation and are members of a reputable breed club Pug Breeder who health test their dogs and puppies for genetic diseases Breeders who raise their puppies in a clean, healthy environment Breeders who provide a written health guarantee Breeders who offer lifelong support and advice Breeders who have a waiting list Pug rescue groups are another great source of obtaining your new family member. However, you should only consider a rescue option if none of the breeders on this list is available to provide purebred Pug puppies for sale. Remember, this is an average. Most breeders have a standard price list for their puppies which they adhere to as closely as possible. Prices do always vary depending on the breeder and there are certainly exceptions. Generally the very top, and sometimes even champions bred puppies will fetch a little more than industry pricing standards. Health Insurance for my Puppy? There are a lot of places that people can go to get health insurance for their puppy. It can be a bit difficult to make sure your puppy has the health insurance they need. The best thing you can do is make sure that you have the schedule of vaccinations required for your puppy and schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Conclusion Pugs are some of the most popular dogs that can be family pets. However, finding them for sale in Indiana might prove to be a bit challenging at times. You can find pug breeders all over Indiana and southern Illinois. With a few simple questions and visits to each location, you may find your new four-legged best friend before you know it. We urge you to contact all those Pug Breeders in Indiana who are listed with us and let them know that you found their information on Pug Dog Breeds. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, You have to be familiar with the whole process of buying and selling pugs to be able to identify the good ones. Avoid getting pug puppies from random listings of Pug Puppies Indiana you find online. You have to exert time and effort to filter out sellers with questionable websites and manner of transacting. They list breeders whose contact details are verified and buyers can easily access them Another good source of information is dog shows. Interact with the trainers and the people around the show. Ask around for dog breeders who might have a pug for sale in Indiana. Pugs that are part of these shows commonly have approved pedigree charts. Reach out to dog rescue centers and shelters that are local to you. If you are open to adoption, instead of getting pug puppies for sale, they can connect with you when a rescued pug is up for adoption. Traits of a Reliable Pug Breeder Indiana has been the subject of headlines about puppy mills in the past. These puppy mills do not practice the ethical standards of making sure that the parent dogs are treated poorly unless they produce a puppy. Stay away from puppy mills at all costs. The puppies produced in these environments have poor health and lack social skills. The puppies are not vet checked and definitely not screened for genetic disorders. The pugs raised in puppy mills suffer from respiratory issues, allergies, and digestive problems. When talking to a breeder, look for the traits we have listed below for the common traits found among reputable pug breeders. Volunteers Information Upfront A reputable pug breeder will not hesitate to share pertinent information about the puppy and the parents of the puppy being sold. These breeders understand the importance of knowing whether the pug puppies are vet checked, family raised, has received first shots, or if they are American Kennel Club AKC registered. An honest breeder will make sure that the sale listings they post are true. They will not be bothered by questions confirming the details on their listings. In fact, if the buyer will not request it, they will insist on taking the buyer to the parents of the litters. An honest breeder will declare the total cost and will not charge you hidden fees. They will lay out the policies clearly before closing the transaction. If you sense that the breeder you are talking to is withholding information or is not totally open, the best option is not to go through with the transaction. Offers Health Guarantee To help committed prospective owners make their decision, a good breeder will offer a health guarantee for the puppies. This means that they are confident that the pups they will release do not have health issues. The breeder should be able to discuss the option of spaying or neutering the puppies bought from them. If spaying or neutering is not an option, they will be interested to partner with you for breeding programs in the future. Compete Papers on the Day of the Transaction A legitimate breeder will have no problems producing registration papers and pedigree certificates of the parents of the puppy. This enables them to dispel any doubts from the buyer regarding the breed of the puppies. Remember that good pug breeder provide a loving home to their dogs. They treat them as part of their families and will take responsibility for the puppies even after releasing them to you. How much can a pug puppy for sale cost? Take note that this is just the initial cost of acquiring a pug puppy. You will invest in the things the puppy needs to live a comfortable and healthy life. Take into account the dog food, vitamins, treats, toys, and health care costs. The puppy needs a regular vet check as well as grooming requirements. How to get health insurance for a pug puppy? Newly registered pugs with the AKC get 30 days of health insurance coverage. This is also applicable to newly transferred ownership of dogs. Connect with AKC as soon as you get the puppy for you to avail yourself of the free coverage. Another great option is to look for health insurance companies online. Make it a point to check all the options and see which fits best to your budget and your needs. Double-check to make sure if the pug life span is a factor considered in the policy. Since pugs and pug puppies are susceptible to a number of genetic diseases, it might be a good investment on your part to get a health insurance policy for your fur baby. Pugs for Sale in Indiana: List of Breeders Here are some of the breeders you can start reaching out to. Add our list to your search results for Pugs for Sale Indianapolis. Some of these sellers and breeders have other breeds like Boston terrier, fox terrier, cavalier king Charles, and other adult dogs that are available according to their listings. Applewood Pugs.
The poodle's bright demeanor and people-pleasing nature make him an excellent pal for humans and peacekeeper among other pets. Standard poodles are the most athletic and agile of all the poodle types , and they take quickly to training. Poodles also have the privilege of being low odor and among the least-shedding of all coated dogs. So they're pretty much perfect, right? Not so fast. The timid poodle can border on neurotic at times, and he's easily stressed out by noise and any amount of chaos or conflict. Poodles can also be time-consuming and expensive to groom. But if you can deal with these quirks, you'll be rewarded with a loyal, lively pet who loves to make you happy. Appearance Poodles are known for their curly coat, long pointed nose, and small dark eyes. They're also famously associated with one of the most ornate dog grooming styles ever—the topiary continental clip, which leaves curly pom-poms of hair carefully shaped around the joints and chest. Those unfamiliar with poodles might be surprised to find that the flamboyant continental clip is largely seen only on show dog poodles—family pet poodles usually go with the more subtle sporting clip, which is a short and fuss-free style. You'll most often find poodles with white, black, or brown coats, but they exist in a wide range of shades from apricot to silver. Miniature poodles are between 10—15 inches, and toy poodles are under 10 inches. Standard poodles can weigh between 50—70 pounds, with female dogs tending to weigh less than the male ones. The standard is the largest and strongest of all the three poodle types. Temperament Poodles are loyal, smart, and playful. And while they're friendly pups, they will bark to alert you to any noises or visitors. The breed's response to unfamiliar faces can range from friendly and engaging to shy and reserved. These highly intelligent dogs also seem to have a sense for reading their owners' body language and expressions, making them intuitive companions. Their sensitivity doesn't stop there; they're also prone to getting pretty emotional themselves. Poodles are hypersensitive pooches who can be easily startled by touch or sound, so watch out for bouts of anxiety. These happy, high-strung animals love to romp around, bounce, run, and play nearly non-stop as puppies and young dogs. But their activity levels do change with maturity, and you can expect them to calm down a bit between 18 months and 2 years of age. Standard poodles are also generally more calm than miniature and toy poodles. Living Needs Poodles need tons of exercise and opportunity for movement, so access to a spacious fenced-in yard is ideal. If you don't have a big backyard to offer your pup, make sure you make plenty of time for walks and visits to the dog park or another pet-safe open area for them to run and play. If you're a nature-lover, a poodle is a great pick. They're naturally adventurous and love the water , so they make excellent outdoor companions. Try not to spend too much time away; this curly companion thrives on time spent with his people and poodles can develop separation anxiety issues if he doesn't get enough attention. They're gentle and polite with kids , but because of their hypersensitive nature they can be easily overwhelmed by small, loud children and will need time to decompress. Poodles are better suited for families with older or no children. Similarly, if your home is often chaotic, noisy, or conflict-prone, your peaceful poodle may develop some anxiety issues. Poodles much prefer and appreciate a calm, quiet living arrangement. Care The poodle is the original "hypoallergenic" dog breed thanks to his single-layer coat that doesn't shed much though remember that no dog is percent hypoallergenic. If you or someone in your family suffers from dog allergies, a poodle could be the pup for you! But heads up: His coat, low-shedding as it may be, requires a lot of attention. And, even if they are taking the dog to a groomer, they will still need to keep up with daily needs, including brushing. Most owners have their poodle's coat cut to one short length, in a grooming style known as the sporting clip. Poodles who are left with their manes to grow need meticulous daily brushing —once their curly coats become matted, the only solution is to shave them down and start over. Unless you're taking up the clippers and teaching yourself to groom your poodle, you'll need frequent grooming appointments. It's an expense you'll want to keep in mind when considering adding a poodle to the family. Poodles are extremely active, athletic dogs who need plenty of daily exercise and love long walks. They're up for adventure and love to stay busy, so it won't be hard to keep them moving. Most poodles love to swim, and swimming can be an excellent workout for your curly cutie. They also love playing fetch and can get some of that abundant energy out chasing after balls and sticks in the backyard. Thanks to their high intelligence and people-pleasing nature, poodles are fairly easy to train and enjoy making their humans happy. Keep training upbeat and encouraging, with lots of praise and consistency to get your eager-to-please poodle in his groove. Relative to other breeds, the poodle is easy to potty train. It also often leads to a dog who enjoys learning and wants to participate in other activities," Hunter Mayer says. Check with your veterinarian about the appropriate recommendations for dog food brands and ingredients, how much and how often to feed your dog , and other dietary concerns. Health Poodles have a lifespan of 12—15 years and are generally healthy dogs. Additionally, reputable breeders routinely test breeding stock for health issues, so if you're taking care to research the breeder you're working with when picking a purebred dog, you should know the dog's lineage and what health problems if any run in the family. Standard poodles are also prone to contracting Addison's disease , an issue with the adrenal glands, as well as a life-threatening condition called bloat , which is an accumulation of gas or fluid in the dog's stomach. Keeping regularly scheduled veterinary appointments will help you stay up-to-date on your pup's health and well being. History The name "poodle" most likely comes from the word pudelin, a German-language reference to the breed's fondness for water, according to the AKC. The breed originated in Germany as duck-hunting, water retrieval dogs. The flamboyant continental clip haircut style that most associate with the poodle has functional origins. Because the dogs were jumping into freezing water to retrieve their owners' hunt prey and too much heavy hair would weigh down the dog, owners would strategically clip the fur on their limbs to give them freedom of movement while swimming, leaving longer hair near the dog's organs and joints to protect them in the cold water. Courtesy of Presidential Pet Museum The poodle's friendly temperament and lovable looks eventually caught the attention of members of French nobility, and the breed soon became popular throughout Europe. Poodles' natural elegance and trainability also made them the stars of many European circus acts. The standard poodle was eventually bred down to the miniature and toy poodles we also know and love today. In fact, the poodle is the only breed with three size classifications. Fun Facts The poodle is the national dog of France despite the breed originating in Germany. The French call the breed caniche, which means "duck dog. Was this page helpful? Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article. See More Available Standard Poodle Puppies for Sale When our Standard Poodle puppies are born they are individually identified with a small bit of different colors of nail polish, applied to the rump for the males and between the shoulders for the females. We have found in the past 25 years this to be the safest method of identifying our babies. In the past we have tried using, yarn which could be ingested and cause a blockage in the puppy. From the day they are born and for the first three weeks, all our Standard Poodle puppies are weighed every day. This process lets us know that each puppy is healthy, because a puppy should gain weight every day at this young age. If there is any weight loss, it is a warning that something could be wrong. Every other day, we feed the four to eight week old puppies an appetizing mix of chicken broth and kibble. Any puppy slow to dive into this tempting treat is weighed and examined and watched closely for several days. The first sign of a puppy not feeling well, is a loss of appetite. Our Standard Poodle puppies are well socialized and are exposed to horses, four wheelers, golf cart rides, car rides and more. They have had their faces and tails trimmed, nails clipped and ears cleaned multiple times before they reach seven weeks. We use the Dr. It was developed by the military and featured in an article in the May issue of the AKC Gazette. We felt this was a very encompassing socialization program and soon incorporated it into our program. Our Standard Poodle puppies are accustomed to being inside in a smaller climate-controlled area at night and have access to the outside and a large grassy yard and play area all day by the use of a doggie door. All age appropriate vaccines and de-wormers are administered to our Standard Poodle puppies. When you take your Standard Poodle puppy home you will receive a sample of the food that we use. You will have lots of questions about what to do about grooming, feeding, crating and other things related to taking your Standard Poodle puppy home. You will also have our assistance available to you throughout the life of your puppy. We also offer our own personal ground delivery service. All through the years we have also had great success shipping our Standard Poodle puppies by plane to their new families. Please take the time to read the fees charged and how both the shipping and personal ground delivery process works. Below, you will first see individual Standard Poodle puppies that are ready for their forever home now. You will be able to view photos of the Standard Poodle puppies available and under each photo will be a link to the video of the Standard Poodle puppy in the photo. Next you will see the younger Standard Poodle puppies that will be ready for their forever homes in the near future. You will see a slideshow of the Dam and Sire of each litter as well as a video of the litter itself. The date of birth, available pick up and available shipping date of litter will be listed.
english bulldog puppies rescue houston - Despite their ancestry, English Bulldogs are not ferocious anymore but laid back and affectionate. Bulldogs are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. They are medium-sized dogs with low-hanging, thick bodies. They are perfect for inexperienced owners due to their relaxed personality, moderate exercise needs, and easy grooming. Of course, there are some negatives to owning English Bulldogs, like health problems caused by their flat muzzle and their unusual body shape. This is the English Bulldog price range for a puppy from a small-scale but reputable breeder. Gasping at these numbers is an appropriate reaction, but there are multiple reasons why Bulldog puppies are so expensive. We will cover the high costs of breeding later, but the price of English Bulldogs also depends on market laws — the popularity of the breed drives the price up. Four British Bulldog puppies on a run While the adorable Bulldog is low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise, various health problems can make them expensive to care for. You should also avoid buying puppies from pet shops since they usually come from puppy mills. Buying a puppy directly from a reputable breeder is the best way to go. Ethical breeders provide health screenings for their puppies and answer all your questions regarding their parents, breeding, and living conditions. Bulldogs from reputable breeders cost more due to high breeding expenses. Other breeding costs include genetic testing, vet bills, and preparation expenses. On the other hand, when you adopt from a Bulldog rescue, the dog is usually spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. Age: Caring for a newborn Bulldogs takes time, money, and energy. Older puppies or adolescent Bulldogs will cost less than newborns. Gender: The price for female English Bulldogs might be slightly higher in some cases, but the difference is usually negligible. Coat Color: Coat color can seriously affect the price of the dog because some colors and patterns are pretty rare. Standard coat colors include white, fawn, red, brindle, and their combinations. Bulldogs with these colors and patterns fall within the average range price. Meanwhile, rarer colors and patterns are more expensive. The newest colors, like merle or lilac, are even more costly. These numbers are based on the essentials like supplies, food, grooming costs, medical expenses, training costs, with microchip and license included. This price range might still increase, especially if you opt for a puppy from a champion bloodline or one with rare coat color. Compared to both cousin dog breeds, purebred English Bulldogs cost more due to the extra care needed during birth. A pregnant British Bulldog must be closely monitored once it reaches its final stages of pregnancy. Female Bulldog: Which Is Better? Besides papers and registry documents, bloodline, age, and coat color are also some factors that could affect the average price of your Bulldog. Here is a detailed list of the factors that affect the price range of an English Bulldog: Age: English Bulldog puppies cost more than seniors or adult dogs because they are healthier and more active. Senior dogs often have tons of health issues that need immediate medical attention, while puppies are a joy to be with because they are at the prime of their health. Gender: Female English Bulldogs may cost you a bit more than a male because of their breeding potential. Potential owners and Bully enthusiasts also request a female pup more than males because of their better temperament. The demand pushes the price of female English Bulldogs to a higher cost. Rarer colors like tri-color , merle , and blue English Bulldogs are typically much more expensive. Bloodline: A champion English Bulldog puppy might cost three to four times as much as typical English Bulldog puppies. They are known to exhibit the best physique, temperament, and health. Plus, they are perfect for competitions. Reputable breeders often have a long history of breeding success. Their high prices are also backed by health guarantees and other safeguards. Health Screenings: Before selling their puppies, many breeders evaluate them for health problems. They sell their puppy for a higher price if it is deemed to be in excellent health. Regardless, it is still a good idea to look for an English Bulldog puppy that comes with a health guarantee. With this list, you might already have your own cost estimation for the pup you want. English Bullies that have been rescued have already been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and have complete registration documents. Before being put up for adoption, they undergo retraining and behavioral rehabilitation as well. Rescues often house more adult Bullies as puppies are more likely to be adopted immediately. To help you in purchasing, we have compiled a list of all the initial expenses for owning an English Bulldog: Food and Treats: One of the basic items you should get for your English Bulldog is high-quality dog food and a few treat packages for on-hand training. You may need to buy a few of them to see which one works best for your dog. As a fairly slobber-ish canine, you might have a hard time cleaning leftover dog food from a cheap container. Bed: To prevent your English Bulldog from abnormal physical disorders, it is best to invest in a high-quality dog bed. A crate may also be a safe haven for your dog when you are not home or when you have visitors. Leashes and Collars: Some of the first things you should get for your English Bulldog are leashes and collars. Be sure to get one that is a good fit for your dog. Metal nameplates included in these items that are less likely to corrode might cost a little extra. Toys: Chew toys that are easy to pick up and clean are ideal for English Bulldogs. Choose interactive and sturdy toys that will stimulate their high intelligence and withstand their strong jaws. Grooming Essentials: Brushing English Bulldogs a few times a week should keep them looking nice, and their shedding would be manageable. Cleaning moisture that could be trapped under their wrinkles is also a must. Nail clippers and a doggy toothbrush are good investments, too. Initial Vet Visits: English Bulldog puppies require initial vet examinations to ensure that they are healthy. Dog License: For an English Bulldog puppy, a license is a necessity. The dog microchip should have all your important contact information as the owner, increasing the chances of your Bully being returned to you as soon as possible if they get lost. Replacement costs of these types of goodies will range based on how quickly your Bulldog destroys their current supply. You can also order subscription packs from many reputable companies that give your dog new exploratory items every month. Since these dogs are at risk for many health complications, save as much as you can—erring on the side of caution. The best time for obedience lessons is between 6 months to a year, but every trainer varies in preference. Depending on the treatment, you could spend thousands of dollars in one swoop. Pet sitting is more personalized care but can rack up extra fees. If you want to save as much as possible while still giving your Bulldog the care they need, look at these money-saving tips. They mainly offer spay and neuter surgeries at reduced costs, but they can also provide basic care. You can make anything from dog toys to intricate beds. Many things you can make may not even require going to the store for materials—you can simply make them from existing items at home. Auto-Ship Dog Food If you buy your dog food from certain websites, many companies offer discounted prices if you place an automatic, recurring order. Of course, you can always save on English Bulldog costs by using low-cost services and making tons of at-home projects and toys for your pooch.
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english bulldog puppies rescue houston - The Advantages of Running with Your Golden Retriever Going for a run with your dog can provide you with several advantages. Golden Retriever and owner taking a rest after a long run! Reduce Your Stress Levels People who routinely run with their pets report reduced stress and improved mental health management. Daily exercise also reduces stress in dogs particularly if they are alone at home the whole day. Cardiovascular Fitness Exercising regularly is essential for maintaining the health of your heart and lungs. Running is an excellent cardiovascular workout for both you and your furry companion. Improved Productivity and Motivation Dogs and exercise have been shown to raise the level of joyful hormones and chemicals in our brains. When you combine the two, your feeling of purpose and motivation will rise. Keep a Healthy Weight Running with your dog will keep you both in good physical shape. Maintaining a healthy body weight requires regular exercise. Originally, Golden Retrievers were bred as working dogs. Their heritage extends back more than years when they served hunters in the Scottish Highlands to collect fallen game. When they produced the Golden Retriever, they made sure to create a strong breed with plenty of stamina. A Golden Retriever playing in the backyard. Although most modern Golden Retrievers are not expected to accomplish such difficult activities, they are biologically wired to go the distance. Their passion for fetching items and sprinting makes them excellent running partners, and their outgoing personality makes for more pleasurable runs. They work well for both short jogs and extended runs, and the duration that they can run will depend on elements like breeding history, age, fitness, and general well-being. This question, like humans, does not have a set answer. The limit of a Golden Retriever will vary depending on a variety of circumstances. Older Retrievers, for instance, cannot run as far or as long as young dogs. The Golden Retriever is running fast as he can. Likewise, an overweight dog will not run as far as an optimally weighted dog. Given that the average marathon distance is roughly 26 miles 42 kilometers , most Golden Retrievers can complete such distances with some training. Take a pause when your dog begins to lag and pant heavily. Age is a crucial aspect that determines how effectively dogs run. Golden Retriever puppies are unable to run vast distances or for lengthy periods of time. This, however, changes as your dog ages and increases its stamina. A beautiful Golden Retriever with a bandana on his neck stands outdoors. Taking your puppy for long walks can put a lot of strain on its developing bones and paws, and running at a young age might potentially lead to joint problems such as hip dysplasia. Golden Retrievers are often ready for longer runs between the ages of 12 and 18 months. When your Golden Retriever reaches adulthood, you may take him on longer walks without worry. Begin With Walking Your Golden Retriever Before you take your Golden Retriever running, check whether they are comfortable walking on a leash beside you with a slack leash. Running with an untrained dog is unpleasant, so begin by laying a solid training foundation. A Golden Retriever walks with its owner. In leash training, use a lot of food and positive reinforcement. Begin by practicing in your yard, a quiet park, or a public location with no distractions. Dogs require training to improve their attention span, and success which means more treats will help them stay focused. Make training sessions enjoyable by including spurts of play like a game of fetch. After all, retrieving is what a Golden Retriever does! It is ideal to socialize Golden Retriever puppies as early as possible to wear a collar and leash. This greatly simplifies leash training. Also, socialize with other pets, strangers, and vehicles, as these are all things they may face when running with you. When leash training your puppy, use consistency and discipline. Train them to walk on either your left or right side at all times. Train command words or phrases that are plain and simple, and use hand signals whenever you can. Adhere to a training schedule that you and your dog can complete together. Begin training at a slow speed and aim for a 2 to 3-mile run 3 to 4 times a week. The dog owner brings her Golden Retriever to the park. After two weeks of training, you should observe your dog becoming more fit. Increase the length or duration of your runs. After about a week, add another weekend run. No matter how determined you are to run, remember to take rest periods that are essential for both you and your dog. Keep gradually increasing the length of the runs, and their endurance and stamina will progressively improve, and before you know it, your dog will be training for a marathon with you! If you like a fast-paced run, your dog may need to run more quickly to keep up with your fitness requirements. Here are a few tips to help your dog keep up. A Golden Retriever takes a lot of training and a healthy diet to run so fast! With plenty of training, gradually prepare your pet for extended runs. Increase your speed and endurance training gradually. Motivate your dog by using positive reinforcement and appropriate orders. Give your dog a nutritious and healthy diet. When called upon, a balanced diet guarantees that your dog is fit for high endurance runs. If your pet is overweight, you can assist them to lose some weight. While you must use caution with your Golden Retriever when running long distances, there are several aspects to consider as your dog ages. A Golden Retriever looking a touch sad. It is critical that you understand that, while these dogs have a lot of energy and strength, your dog may not be able to just go out and run for extended distances. Begin slowly and gradually increase the distance. Because the muscles and tendons of the dog require time to develop, you should let your dog get stronger. Older dogs are more likely to have minor hip dysplasia, and running can worsen the condition and cause greater discomfort. If your dog gets tired quickly, this is a symptom that he is becoming older. Obesity is another problem that concerns Golden Retrievers, and running too long distances with your dog might be detrimental if he is overweight. Therefore, before you actually take him on lengthy runs, make sure he sheds some weight by regulating his food and exercising. Losing lb might help your Golden Retriever prepare for long-distance runs. Final Thoughts Golden Retrievers are happy-go-lucky, active dogs that will cheerfully play fetch with you. They certainly make wonderful running partners but as always, start slow and work your way up to a quicker pace and longer distances. Have fun! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Running with your Golden retriever not only improves your health, but also that of your dog. Goldens love to run and you will not find a better running partner anywhere. But before starting to run with your pup, it is essential to consider their age and physical conditioning. The rest of this article will discuss what you need to know when running with your golden retriever. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! The short answer to this question is — yes. The characteristics of the golden retriever breed make them unique and well adapted to running. They are high energy pets, bred to run and retrieve stuff from different environments like water, tall grasses, and fields. The retrieval characteristic, in particular, makes them ideal candidates for jogging and running partners. Moreover, inheritable traits such as a well-balanced body, deep chest, long and muscled legs make the golden retriever breed perfect for running. Their constant desire to please also makes them easier to handle compared to most breeds. In addition, the increased physical activity will do your golden good both in terms of their health and overall happiness. Golden retrievers were initially bred as work dogs. Their history dates back to more than years ago when they were human companions in hunting for food and searching for targets. They were used to retrieve fallen game for hunters in the Scottish Highlands. So when they bred the golden retriever, they made sure to create a sturdy breed with lots of stamina. They needed a dog that could travel through a mountainous landscape littered with ponds, streams, and lakes—a physically demanding task. The result was a dog that could easily run long distances, hike, and swim for the better part of the day. Golden retrievers are more than happy to swim and run around in fields all day hunting for birds. While most family golden retrievers are not required to perform such hard tasks, they are still genetically tailored to go the distance. Their love for retrieving things and running makes them ideal running partners. Their warm and social personalities also make for more enjoyable runs. They are equally good on short jogs as they are on longer runs. Now you might be wondering, how fast can your golden retriever run? However, the running speed is an individual characteristic that can vary from one dog to another. Rest assured, with plenty of regular training, your golden retriever could run a marathon with you. Considering your ordinary marathon is about 26 miles 42 kilometers , most golden retrievers can cover such distances with a bit of training. When your dog starts lagging and panting excessively, take a break. Age is a significant factor that influences how well dogs run. Golden retriever puppies, for example, cannot run long distances and for extended periods. That, however, changes as your dog gets older and gains more stamina. Taking your puppy for extended runs can significantly stress their developing bones and paws. Running at an early age may also cause joint disorders such as hip dysplasia. Golden retrievers are generally ready for longer runs when they are about months old. When your golden retriever reaches maturity, you can take your pooch for runs without cause for concern. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy for Runs Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! While it might not be possible to take your golden retriever pup for long runs, you can begin training it for future runs. Some of the valuable lessons that your puppy should get include: Exposure to Distractions and Noises While on runs, your golden retriever is likely to encounter numerous distractions and loud noises. Such experiences can alarm your pet, lead to nervousness, and cause erratic behavior changes. It is good to expose your pup to various noises before reaching a running age to avoid such erratic behavior. Socialization It is essential to regularly take your puppy outdoors to familiarize themselves with the outside world. That way, nothing will surprise your golden retriever when you finally begin going for runs. Recall Commands When you are out with your dog, it is essential to let it off the leash. But to safely do so, you need to recall your dog from time to time when they get distracted. Training your dog at an early age and establishing recall commands can be crucial when you begin going for jogs. Brain Training for Dogs is a great way to meet these requirements and get your puppy ready to run with you. This works great with adult dogs too! If you are new to running with a golden retriever, you probably might be wondering how best to synchronize your running speeds. If you prefer a fast-paced run, you might want your dog to run faster to keep up with your exercise needs. To do that you need to do the following: Prepare your pet for long runs gradually with plenty of training. Gradually increase speed and endurance training. Use encouragement and right commands to encourage your pooch. Provide a healthy and nutritious diet for your dog. A healthy diet ensures that your dog is fit for high endurance runs when called upon. If your pet is suffering from obesity, help them cut down their weight. Give your dog a treat for every single success. Treats help encourage your dog to do better. Like all living beings, old age significantly affects how well we can perform physical activity. Would you recommend a marathon to a year-old person without considering their overall health? Probably not. The same applies to golden retrievers. You need to keep monitoring their health and should probably stay away from long, intense runs. If you want to begin going for runs with an older golden retriever, you should gradually introduce them to your running routines. A slow pace is recommended in the introduction phase. The gradual introduction also helps your golden retriever gain the needed strength for runs and jogs. As your pooch begins to grow older, there are several factors that you need to take into consideration. With old age, muscles start to weaken, and it might not be able to perform lengthy runs and jogs as you used to. For instance, if your golden is more wiped out after a run than they used to be, it may be time to dial it back a bit. It will be up to you to know by carefully watching their reactions and behavior. With a very elderly dog, you should consider keeping physical activity to a minimum. Always Consult a Vet You also need to take your golden retriever for regular check-ups to your favorite vet. Regular check-ups ensure that your dog does not have any problems with their joints, bones, and stamina. A common condition among older dogs is hip dysplasia. The condition causes considerable pain and suffering to your pooch. If not addressed, it can get aggravated by intense jogs and runs. You should also talk to your vet about getting your pet some supplements to improve its joints. Some golden retrievers may start to slow down when they hit their 8th birthday, while others can stay active at their 12th birthday and beyond. It is important to note that retrievers are breeds that love to please. If you ask too much from them in old age, they might overwork themselves and hurt their health. Continuously monitor your dog, and if they seem to be getting shortness of breath, aches, and pains, then it might be time to take a rest. Older golden retrievers might still enjoy taking walks and swimming but avoid making them jump hedges or dragging them on the run for an hour straight. Taking an Obese Golden Retriever for a Run If your golden retriever is overweight, starting-off with an intense run or running long distances is not advisable. An overweight dog can experience a variety of health issues while on fast and long runs. A common issue you might observe is breathing problems. You should make sure your dog attains a healthy body to weight ratio as advised by the vet. Start-off with jogs or low intensity runs to help your furry friend lose weight before going for regular runs in the park. Pets that put on more weight due to their genes need special care. They need to eat a healthy diet and stay active. These two pillars of weight management will help you keep your golden retriever healthy and happy. You should also consider asking your vet to prepare a diet plan for your pet. Being pulled along while running is not fun. Distractions may become a problem when you start going for longer runs. To deal with the challenge, always carry treats. That way, you can go back to enjoying your run without too much hassle. A leash allows you to have full control of your pet in the course of the run. You might even want to consider a hands free leash like this one on amazon. At this point, golden retrievers may get agitated and often become destructive. They begin digging, chewing on stuff, and running around uncontrollably. Some even try to escape from their homes. Running with your golden retriever is a great way to release their pent up energy! Going on runs in public spaces is, however, quite a different story. So before going on that run, here are some factors that you need to consider: Select a running space that has limited disturbance such as noises, strangers, and other animals. Where possible, use an open yard or a wide road. Get your dog accustomed to a collar for their first couple of runs. Or better yet, instead of a collar use a comfortable harness like this popular one on amazon. Make sure your pet is in good health condition. If possible, consult your vet for an expert opinion on their fitness levels. Socialization and early obedience training are a must before going on a run. Take a beautiful trail run with Kicker the Golden Retriever Tips to Enjoy a Run With Your Golden Retriever Now that you know you can go for a run with your golden retriever, here are a few tips on how to make your run or jog enjoyable: Always start by getting warmed up. Warmed up muscles have a higher energy production rate that increases muscle reflexes and reduces the time needed for muscle contraction. A proper warm-up should begin with gentle exercise. Be mindful of weather conditions when planning your jog or run. Dogs generally do not handle hot and humid conditions well. Remember to carry water when going for long runs and allow your golden retriever to quench their thirst regularly. When your golden retriever starts panting excessively and lagging, take a break. Slotting-in frequent breaks in your run or jog help recharge your body. Your dog also needs to recharge, and this could make runs more enjoyable for both of you. Every once in a while, let your golden retriever off the leash in safe open spaces. Also, have a reliable way of recalling your pooch. Always cool down after a run. A cool-down is an essential part of a workout. It allows both the breathing and heart rate of the pooch, as well as your own, to return to normal. It also helps promote a sense of relaxation and well-being. A cool-down routine after a jog should involve a brisk walk for minutes that gradually transitions into a stroll. A great way to end the walk is by doing a few stretches while letting your golden roll around in the grass! Running With a Golden Retriever — Conclusion Golden retrievers are excellent running and jogging partners provided you give them plenty of proper training before you start your regular runs. They can potentially run long distances, but you should not expect them to achieve this immediately. While they are undoubtedly good runners, unlike humans, they have little concept of their limit until they reach it. Remember to consider things like the weight and age of your dog before going for a run. You also need your vet to check the health of your pet and the proper diet regime. Yes, Golden Retrievers can run with you! Running is a great form of exercise for this high-energy breed. But, before you start running with your Golden Retriever, you need to ensure they are the right age, and of good health. Not all dogs are built for running, but, Golden Retrievers are! This breed has certain characteristics that make them great at running right along with you, no matter the distance. Sporting Breed Part of the sporting breed of dogs , Golden Retrievers are naturally athletic, active and strong, and require regular invigorating exercise, such as running. Their well-balanced, athletic body and muscular legs make Golden Retrievers perfect for running, plus they love to run! Bred To Retrieve Golden Retrievers were first developed in Scotland to assist hunters by retrieving fallen game on both land and water. Hunters required a dog to be obedient, have plenty of stamina, and be able to handle any terrain, which included lakes and streams. The result was a dog that was capable of working alongside hunters, with the physical ability to run, hike and swim for most of the day. The retrieval instincts of a Golden Retriever, make them great at running, and their strength and stamina make them great running partners. This characteristic makes them easier to handle than other dogs. They are extremely loyal, which means they will stay by your side while running rather than venture off. This is of course once they have been trained. Easy To Train Because of their willingness to please you, along with their love of food, Golden Retrievers are easy to train. High-quality treats along with plenty of praise will make training your Golden to run with you a much easier task. Love The Outdoors Golden Retrievers love the outdoors, and they were designed to handle rugged conditions. Their double coats protect them from the elements and their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers. They are happy to take part in any activity with you. Swimming is what they love the most, but they are quite content to run or jog along with you. You can start running with your Golden Retriever once they have reached their full maturity at 18 to 24 months of age. This ensures that your Golden Retriever has fully grown and that their growth plates are closed. If you run with your Golden before they are finished growing, there is a potential for long-term damage and soft tissue injuries. Soft surfaces like grass or forest trails are much better for your Golden Retriever. First, you need to take these factors into consideration: 1. Age The age of your Golden Retriever is a crucial factor that will influence how far and how fast he can run. As mentioned earlier, you can safely take your Golden Retriever running once they are fully grown, which is around months. What About Puppies? Golden Retriever puppies are super energetic, but, vigorous exercise like running is too damaging to their growing bodies. You can safely take your puppy for short walks, a good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise, twice a day for each month of age. So, if your puppy is 3 months old, 15 minutes of exercise twice a day is sufficient. As long as your senior Golden Retriever is still active and healthy, he can accommodate you on runs. Only take your senior on shorter runs, and watch out for any signs of tiredness, and overheating. Golden Retrievers are prone to many health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia. Golden Retrievers who have hip or elbow dysplasia, will find running difficult and painful. A low-impact activity such as swimming is the best form of exercise for these dogs. Running might seem like a great idea for your Golden to lose some weight. However, overweight Golden Retrievers should not be taken on long-distance or intense runs. It is always best to start your overweight Golden Retriever on slower and shorter runs. Long-distance running, and fast runs are much too strenuous and can cause health issues, such as trouble breathing and exhaustion. Always consult your vet to ensure your Golden Retriever gets a clean bill of health, and that he can accompany you on regular runs. Physical stamina takes time to build up. Just as humans build up their stamina with daily exercise, so do our dogs. Start off slow by adding small stretches of running into your daily walks, then gradually increase the amount of running. This will allow your Golden to build up his endurance. Ensure that your Golden can walk properly while on a leash. The last thing you want is to run with a leash attached to your Golden Retriever that is pulling you in all directions. Or, biting and jumping up at the leash. Walking a Golden Retriever that is untrained on a leash is frustrating, but, running at faster speeds can be dangerous. Weather Extreme temperatures are not only uncomfortable for your Golden Retriever, but they can be very dangerous as well. Golden Retrievers do prefer cooler temperatures and enjoy running in the snow. But, because of their long fur, they tend to get snowballs stuck on their legs and between their paws, which is very uncomfortable for them. Sidewalks in the winter are also covered with chemical ice melts that can burn their paw pads, and cause them to lift their paws. Boots or paw wax are important to keep their paws safe. Running during hot temperatures should be avoided, as Golden Retrievers quickly overheat. Longer runs on these types of surfaces are not advisable, as they can be uncomfortable and cause pain for your Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers can reach speeds up to 30 to 35 miles per hour, which is faster than a human being. That is of course taking into consideration their age, health, and fitness level. Anyone who has played a game of fetch, or has witnessed their Golden do the zoomies, knows just how fast these dogs can be. While sprinting at top speeds can be accomplished, Golden Retrievers are much better at running slowly for longer periods. Just for fun here is a comparison of the fastest dog, and fastest human to that of a Golden Retriever: Golden Retriever Top Speed: mph. Greyhound Fastest Dog Breed : 45 mph. So, a healthy and fit Golden Retriever is a faster sprinter than a human being. Golden Retrievers that are fit and healthy are capable of running about 5 miles comfortably. Once they build up their endurance, they can run up to 10 miles. This distance, however, will vary based on the individual dog. Age, health, the weather and physical stamina all play a role in how far your Golden Retriever can run with you. Keep in mind that running long distances should only be reserved for healthy adult Golden Retrievers. Young puppies need to finish growing before they partake in a high-impact exercise like running. I like to say that my Golden Retriever has attention deficit disorder! Obviously, this is problematic when running! If this sounds like your Golden, rest assured you can train them to be focused and stay by your side while running. Master walking on a leash first before trying to run. A shorter leash gives you better control and keeps your Golden close to you. You may wish to use a hands-free leash instead. Collar or Harness. Both you and your dog will need to stay hydrated. Poop Bags. Always clean up after your dog. Dog Boots or Paw Wax. Start Off Slow Start your Golden Retriever off slowly by incorporating some short jogs into your daily walks. Walk a stretch then pick up the pace by jogging for a couple of minutes, then walk again. Monitor your dog for any signs of fatigue and over-exertion. If your dog shows any signs of distress, stop running and take a break. Here are some more helpful tips to get you started on running with your dog: Final Thoughts Overall, Golden Retrievers can make great running partners! They are athletic, strong, and always eager to partake in any activity with their favourite human. They are fast sprinters but are capable of running long distances with you. However, it is important to consider their age, health, physical stamina and weather conditions before letting them join you on an extended run. You also need to be aware of the potential health issues that could arise from running long distances with your Golden Retriever. With the proper precautions, running can be a great form of exercise that both you and your Golden Retriever can enjoy! Do you run with your Golden Retriever? Let us know in the comments below, plus any tips and advice you may have. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. In the article, I discuss what distinguishes a medium dog from a large one, the size limitations of Golden Retrievers, and what factors affect growth. But what about the amount of roadwork once you get going? How much should a Golden Retriever run? Healthy adult Golden Retrievers should be exercised 60 to minutes per day, which can include running. Start slowly and take one, preferably two, days off from running per week to allow your dog to recover. So, yes, Golden Retrievers are well adapted to covering a wide range of running needs. In that case, your Golden Retriever will be happy to keep pace with you. Suppose you prefer slower, longer runs. No worries, the Golden Retriever is equally up to the task provided you worked up to longer distances slowly — more on that later. Runners World ranked the Golden Retriever as one of the best dogs for running in their article. In the article, The Best Types of Dogs for Runners , author Brian Dalek turned to some dog professionals to help determine the best dogs for running. Dog trainer JT Clough; Bryan Barrera, an experienced dog runner; Karen London, a certified animal behaviorist; and the American Kennel Club were consulted to list the best canine running partners. According to Runners World, the Golden Retriever, along with its cousin the Labrador Retriever, not only made the list of best dogs for runners but received the notable distinction of being the best dog for both short, brisk, and long slow runs. So, there it is. The Golden Retriever is an excellent running companion for short or long distances. Regardless of how much you run, the Golden Retriever is the dog for the job. It is imperative, however, to work up to longer distances and faster paces. Later in the article, I will provide some formal guidelines and resources on how to ease into running with your Golden Retriever, including some distance guidelines. So, Golden Retrievers are well adapted to running short or long distances. But that is a time requirement. As a whole, a healthy adult Golden Retriever can run 3 to 12 miles regularly and even work up to running a marathon .So, there you have it. Golden Retriever can run long distances. For most runners, a Golden Retriever can comfortably accompany them on a five or k run 3 to 6 miles after some conditioning. Running that mileage 4 or 5 times per week is not problematic for most Goldens, provided they have been given time to adapt and become conditioned. The fact that Golden Retrievers can comfortably run longer distances should not be all that surprising, considering Golden Retrievers require 60 to minutes of exercise per day. For example, suppose you run a minute mile fast jog. That pace is slow trot or quick walk for most Golden Retrievers and should pose no issues after a conditioning period. A minute mile would translate to 3 miles in 30 minutes, 6 miles in an hour, and 12 miles in two hours. Hardly unreasonable for a fit Golden Retriever. Still, an unconditioned Golden may find 6 miles too much, never mind 12, so you must build your dog up to longer distances gradually. Golden Retrievers were bred to run and do fieldwork for hours on end. Therefore, the breed is efficient runners distance-wise. So, just how fast can a Golden Retriever run? Golden Retrievers can reach top speeds of 35 mph for short bursts. The breed can run at a sustained pace for more extended periods at about 12 mph. Contrast that with Usain Bolt, who briefly reached a speed of .As a result, a Golden Retriever will have little difficulty keeping pace with most recreational runners. So, Golden Retrievers can run fast at top speeds. Very fast. Faster than meter world record holder Usain Bolt source. Obviously, like distance, the pace needs to be increased gradually over time. However, keeping pace with most runners should pose no issues for a conditioned Golden Retriever. Consider a 6-minute mile, which is a very fast pace. For example, a 6-minute mile translates to a sustained speed of 10 mph, whereas 12 mph is slightly less than a 5-minute mile. While a Golden Retriever could maintain that pace, it would not be recommended due to its potential for being too much. However, we run with our dogs for fun and the health benefits running provides. Safety is priority one, and our dogs matter most. So, save the high speeds and pace for your lone competitive aspirations if you must go fast and hard. However, for the vast majority of recreational runners — be it leisurely running for health, training for a 5 Km or 10 Km run, or even a marathon, your Golden Retriever can run fast enough to accommodate your pace. But runners still need to be mindful when it becomes too much. When running becomes too much for your Golden Retriever is discussed next. Healthy adult Golden Retrievers are well suited to running short and long distances. However, sometimes distance is not the only issue. Running distance can be impacted by certain things, which can turn a seemingly routine run into too much for your Golden Retriever. Signs that your Golden Retriever has run too much include excessive panting, lagging behind, and looking exhausted. Pad abrasions, limping, or soreness are also signs that it is too much running. Other factors that may limit how far your dog can run are weather, weight, running pace, and lack of conditioning. So, the key takeaway is to keep in mind that running distance depends on many factors. Pad Abrasions Dogs run barefoot, and their pads can wear off. Soreness According to Dr. Lee suggests swimming — something Golden Retrievers are bred for and love to do. Hot weather Dr. Running plus hot weather is a recipe for heatstroke, and the farther the run on hot days, the greater risk of it being too much for your dog. Lee confirms that Golden Retrievers make great running partners but cautions runners to take things slow. If your dog is panting excessively, dragging behind, or looking tired even on a cool day , take it easy. Humans can modify their dress to accommodate the weather. Our dogs do not. Veterinarian Joe Whalen suggests sticking to shorter runs of 3 to 5 miles in the winter source. Weight Obese or overweight Golden Retrievers should not run. The extra pudge adds stress to joints, something we Golden Retriever owners need to be cautious of when exercising our dogs. Pace As discussed earlier, Golden Retrievers can run very fast. However, the quicker your dog has to run, the harder it becomes. So setting a reasonable pace for your dog is your job. Can a Golden Retriever Run a Marathon While running is a recreational activity many people love, many runners do not aspire to run a marathon. Most of us are content to stick to 5 or 10 K runs. However, some runners enjoy longer distances, which begs the question: can a Golden Retriever run a marathon? Golden Retrievers can run a marathon given adequate time to build their conditioning. However, Golden Retrievers can be prone to joint issues and dysplasias, so consult your vet before starting. Provided there are no health issues, start slow and build distance slowly by adding 0. While some may be concerned that running a marathon with your dog is too much, it is more common than many think. However, successfully running a marathon with a dog largely depends on the breed of the dog. Fortunately, as we learned earlier, Golden Retrievers belong to the sporting group of dogs, a highly energetic breed and well suited to running. Consider Bella — a four-year-old Labrador Retriever, and her owner Elizabeth spotlighted in an article by Runners World in .Since being adopted, Bella and her owner have completed 18 half marathons and two full marathons. A lab is not a Golden Retriever, but they are genetic cousins and belong to the same group of dogs, with both possessing a penchant for high activity and running. Hold up. Please take a few minutes to check it out. Elizabeth proceeded slowly with Bella. First, she got the all-clear from her vet, who suggested she wait until one year before Bella starts running remember those joint issues for retrievers. Elizabeth and Bella follow a structured plan when training for a marathon, with their roadwork now ranging between 30 to 45 miles weekly. Going slow with the right dog breed is echoed by Bob Halpenny, an avid long-distance runner with years of experience running with dogs. All bodies take time to build up for distance running. To start running with your Golden Retriever, begin by warming up and end with a cool down. Keep the runs short to start, letting the dog set a comfortable pace. Bring 2 to 3 times the water you drink for your dog. When starting, let your dog walk if it wants and explore. Always watch your Golden Retriever, regardless of the distance being run, to see how the dog adapts. Only when your dog has easily adjusted to a certain distance is it safe to increase mileage. While running, listen to your dog for signs of labored breathing or excessive panting. If you hear anything concerning, stop immediately or walk until the dog recovers. One of the best ways to begin a running program is to alternate walking with running. It eases the dog into running for longer distances while allowing you to assess how your Golden Retriever handles the increased mileage. Brian, a running enthusiast, and director of content operations at Runners World recommends starting at 2 to 3 miles per run, 3 or 4 days per week. If your Golden Retriever adapts easily to that extra distance or time, increase the pace a bit or add an extra run to the week. After a month or so at that base mileage, Brian recommends increasing it to four or five days a week. Brian stresses that most dog trainers strongly recommend at least one, preferably two, rest days per week. Some of these tips may have been discussed earlier, but they are so important that it bears repeating. Heck, with proper training and time, they can even run marathons. Dos Do consult your vet before starting a running program to ensure your Golden Retriever is healthy to run. Do teach your dog to walk politely on the leash. Leash pulling will tire you more quickly. Running should be enjoyable for both of you. Signs include paw abrasions, limping, soreness, difficulty getting up, and excessive panting or lagging behind you during a run. Do warm-ups and cool-downs. Start workouts by walking before running at a leisurely pace. Finish with a walk as a cool down. Do examine your dog after each run, and especially the paws for signs of abrasions. Clean the paws to remove dirt and debris, especially in the wintertime. Use a paw cream check out my Must-Have Dog Gear at the end of the post for some great paw cream. Joints need to be fully fused first. Instead, walk the dog until it reaches a healthy weight. Instead, stick to grass where available. Joint health is essential to a long and healthy running career. However, Golden Retrievers still need daily exercise, so walk times per week on designated rest days. If your Golden Retriever loves to run, then you not only have an activity that you both can enjoy for years but one that will keep both of you healthy as well. You should pretty much be set now to run with your Golden Retriever, and you have all the helpful information your need to get you on your way. You know to check with your vet first. Now all you need to do is get your running gear on, put a leash on your Golden Retriever, and head out the door. Happy running! Benefits of Running with Your Golden Retriever There are a number of benefits you and your dog will enjoy by going running together: Lower stress levels. People that regularly run with their dogs experience less stress and manage their mental health better. Daily exercise also lowers stress levels in dogs. Especially if they stay home alone all day. Cardiovascular health. Regular exercise is important for keeping your heart and respiratory system healthy. Running is a great cardiovascular exercise for you and your best friend. Increased sense of productivity and motivation. There are two things that are proven to increase the levels of happy hormones and chemicals in our brain: dogs and exercise. Put the two together and feel your sense of purpose and motivation soar. Maintain a healthy weight. Going running with your dog will help you both stay in the best physical shape. Regular exercise is key to maintaining healthy body weight. JT Clough is a professional dog trainer who specializes in running with dogs. They consider Golden Retrievers one of the best dog breeds to run with. Golden Retrievers were bred in Scotland over years ago as working dogs. They were used by hunters for retrieving fallen game, like ducks and pheasants, from dense vegetation and water. Dogs were required to spend days hiking, swimming, and running with their owners. Therefore, Golden Retrievers have high energy levels and are built to run. With a deep chest and long, muscular legs, they are athletic dogs with strength and stamina. They are very eager to please, and this, together with their strong instinct to retrieve, make training Golden Retrievers to run alongside you a breeze. They can be trained to run with you off-leash. Golden Retrievers require at least minutes of rigorous exercise per day. This prevents pent-up energy and boredom that will cause them to dig up the garden, chew stuff, and jump all over the furniture. A daily run that incorporates a game of fetch is enough exercise for these dogs. When to Start Running with Golden Retrievers You should wait until your Golden Retriever is around 18 months old before you start running with them. Before this age, their bones and muscles are still growing and developing. The growth plates on the bones cannot handle the impact and stress of the long runs. Intense running at a young age can lead to joint problems, like hip dysplasia later in life. You can spend the first year and a half with your Goldie leash training them and getting them used to walking along at your side. Building a solid foundation of obedience training will guarantee that your puppy will grow into a great running partner. Golden Retrievers are Marathon Runners What better motivation could there be when running a marathon than having your best friend at your side the whole way? Golden Retrievers are able to run marathon distances! That is provided that they train for it in the same way you do. Dogs can injure themselves if they are not in the right physical condition. If you want your dog to run long distances with you, you will need to start by running shorter distances and increasing the length as their stamina improves. This is especially important if they are older or overweight. Start By Walking Your Golden Retriever Before taking your Golden Retriever running with you, consider if they are good at going for a walk on a leash beside you, with a slack leash. Running with a dog that is not leash trained is not fun, so start by building a strong training foundation. Use lots of treats and positive affirmation in leash training. Start off by training in the garden or in a quiet park or public space without any distractions. Dogs need training to develop their attention span. High-value rewards will help to keep their focus. Make training sessions fun and incorporate bursts of play. It is best to socialize Golden Retriever puppies to wearing a collar and leash from as young as possible. This makes leash training much easier. Also, socialize them well with other animals, strangers, and cars — all the things they will encounter when they go running with you. When you leash train your puppy, approach it with structure and consistency. Teach them to always walk on either your left or right side. Training your Golden Retriever to Run with You Just like humans, dogs need to gradually increase their fitness so that they do not sustain injuries. Follow a training program that you and your dog can do together. Start training at a comfortable pace and aim to go for a 2 to 3 mile run 3 to 4 times weekly. Once you have been training for two weeks, you should notice your dog getting fitter. Increase the distance or time of your runs. After a week or so, add in another run on the weekend. Remember to take rest days, no matter how motivated you are feeling to run. They are important for you and your dog. Continue in this way, slowly increasing the distance of the runs. Their stamina and endurance will gradually increase, and soon your dog will be training for a marathon with you! Because they are so eager to please you, they can easily overexert themselves when running or playing. Older Retrievers cannot run as far or as fast as when they were younger. Watch your dog closely. If they are more tired, out of breath. When dogs get very elderly, they may still want to come walking or running with you, but it is best not to do too much physical activity. Golden Retrievers generally start to feel their age at around 8 years old. However, this varies, and some Goldies still run around at 12 years of age. Take them to the vet for regular check-ups and give them supplements for their joints and bones. Check out our recommended products page to see our picks for the best equipment for your Golden Retriever! While anyone can go for a general run with their Golden Retriever without much equipment, it may make this time spent with your dog more enjoyable for both of you if you have some quality equipment. Leashes If you regularly go running with your dog, it helps to have the proper equipment. The ultimate goal is running with your Golden Retriever off-leash, but until you work up to this, you will need a proper hands-free, anti-pull leash. These are designed as a belt you wear around your waist. The leash is elasticated, like a bungee cord, and attaches to the front of the belt. Some hands-free leash belts even have zippered pockets for treats. Collars and Harnesses When leash training your Golden Retriever puppy, using a collar is most effective, as there is maximum contact with the dog, allowing for communication between them and the owner. However, once they are leash trained, it is more comfortable for your dog to wear a harness. Harnesses do not restrict their movement and have handles, so you can help your dog over obstacles or difficult terrain when they need. Other Useful Gear To keep your dog safe, comfortable and happy while they accompany you on long-distance runs, consider some of the following items: Collapsible water bowl. If you go running where there is no fresh water for your dog to drink, you can carry along a compact, silicone water bowl to take out whenever your dog needs a drink. You can just fill it up from your water bottle. Reflective harness for running. If you go running early in the morning or at dusk, you and your dog both need to wear reflective gear. Reflective harnesses for dogs are available Training treats in a pouch. Rewards are essential to take on walks and runs with your dog. It will help speed up leash training by maintaining their focus. It is useful to get a waist-bag for treats if your hands-free leash does not have pockets. Bags for poop. This is important not only in urban areas but on hiking trails too. Your fellow runners will thank you. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make great running partners. However, it is important to remain safe and prepare your dog for the distance you plan to run. Before you go, just be sure to remember the following three tips to ensure your dogs safety. You should wait until your Golden Retriever is at least a year to 18 months old before you take them running with you. Before this, their bones and muscles are still growing and cannot handle the stress of running long distances. With proper training, Golden Retrievers can run a marathon! Older dogs cannot run as far or as fast. Always keep an eye on them and check how they are doing. If they pant excessively or are exhausted after a run, it may be time to dial it back. Now you are ready to start running with your Golden Retriever and building your health and relationship together. Be sure you are getting them the nutrients they need for their runs, and enjoy your new routine. He and his wife have three children who are always keeping Brady entertained. They love spending time together, traveling, and meeting other dog families. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Anyone who takes their golden retriever running with them will tell you that this is one the best things they have experienced as pet parents. Maybe you are wondering if your golden retriever will love this idea, but that should be the least of your worries. In fact, you will be the one playing catch-up because this is what golden retrievers were bred to do. That said, both you and your dog will definitely need a few items to make your running activities better and more exciting. Having A Running Buddy Running alone is fine, but doing so with a partner is even more beneficial. It will also be easier to hold yourself accountable. Partners are great motivators as well, plus you can have conversations along the way that will make the running more enjoyable. But there are a number of factors that may stop a human partner from joining you on your next run. It could be work, family stuff, social engagements, and so on. Your dog, on the other hand, will always be available and ready to serve as your running buddy. Even better, golden retrievers love to go outside and will be happy the entire time you will be running. Make your golden retriever a running partner and let me know how it goes. Protection Not all road running is safe. Some areas are insecure and others potentially dangerous, especially for women. Sexual attacks against women while running are real and not uncommon. The same applies to trail running. Sometimes it too can be risky. You could be attacked by a wild animal or violent individuals. However, you can have them accompany you on your usual daily runs, during nighttime running, and to less risky areas where they can easily protect you in case of threatening encounters. Improved Mental Health Running triggers the release of happy hormones, specifically endorphins, and serotonin into your body. Their role is to promote pleasurable feelings such as happiness and love. This explains why your mood gets better when you go on a run with your golden retriever. Running also increases blood circulation to the brain, specifically to the parts that deal with stress and control your mood. The change that occurs thereafter leads to an improved mood and better reaction to stressful situations. In the end, you will be able to lower your stress levels, anxiety, and depression. Even your golden will experience these kinds of outcomes and this will make both of you happier. Better Heart Health Nothing comes as close to taking good care of your heart as running. Those consistent runs with your dog will see your heart reach its highest performance and maintain it as you grow older. You may not know this but your heart is the most significant muscle in your body. Running strengthens it the same way it strengthens other muscles such as hamstrings, calves, glutes, and so on. Your cholesterol level and blood pressure will also decrease if you run with your dog several times a week. In fact, you will decrease your risk for heart diseases and blood clots by a huge margin. But your retriever will be right there, staring at you with those big, sad eyes and this will guilt trip you. You will eventually give in and, the next thing you know, both of you are out there having fun on a run and loving it. Increased Productivity A short run with your canine friend is often enough to shake off those moods that are hindering your productivity. Productivity actually has very strong ties to your mental health. Remember the happy hormones I told you about earlier: Endorphins and serotonin? When released into your brain, they will also calm you down and eventually put you in a productive state of mind. Running alone may raise the level of happy hormones, but if you want to see even greater results, let your dog accompany you. Your golden will increase your motivation to run and eventually get you into a positive mindset. Weight Loss And Maintenance Losing weight or maintaining it takes willpower and lots of effort. Goldens need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy and so do you. You could sign up for a running event or activity that allows participants to train together with their dogs. Do this as often as you can. Those consistent runs will help both of you burn enough calories and stay in good shape. Moderation It is not uncommon to see those new to running pushing themselves too hard and overdoing it. You will want to be competitive, even with yourself, which is not a bad thing, but it would be great to know the risks as well. For example, when you run too much, you could easily expose yourself to injuries that might prevent you from ever running again. But this is less likely to happen if you run alongside your golden retriever. No responsible pet parent will be happy to push their dog too hard and watch them suffer after the run. Most of us buy gear that makes the running experience better and more beneficial. It could be running shoes, shorts, gloves, hats, tights or a jacket, a fancy water bottle, sports watch, earbuds, armband phone case, a GPS watch—you name it. Well, your running buddy golden retriever deserves such treatment, too. In fact, caring for your golden retriever is not even negotiable. Here are some recommendations to get you started. A Great Leash For Running I know the ultimate wish for most of us is to run with our dogs while they are off the leash, but this may not be possible if they lack proper off-leash training or local laws forbid it. In those cases, you will have to get the best leash for running. Most of them come complete with a harness, a waist belt for you, and a tether that connects the leash to you, meaning the leash is hands-free. A quick search will yield lots of options.