goldendoodle miniature puppies for sale

What Is a Parti Poodle? Are Parti Poodles Purebred? Aside from its color, it has the same physical and behavioral traits as the regular poodle. It is known for its dense and curly fur and its intelligence and loyalty. Parti Poodles are just like the ones you already know and love, with a unique color combination — primarily white, with another color of either black, apricot, silver, cafe au lait, cream, or red. While the combination is usually half of each color, the patterns can vary per dog, so no two parti Poodles ever look alike. While there are other types of multi-colored Poodles , including mismarks, ticking, and tuxedo, parti Poodles are the most popular kind. In fact, it was the original coloring of the Poodle before solid-colored ones rose to prominence and became widely accepted. They may or may not be purebred. Parti Poodle Appearance? This secondary color often occurs in dark patches over the eyes and ears and as spots in the body. This distinction sets them apart from other multi-colored Poodles. The size of a parti Poodle can vary. The standard parti Poodle grows beyond 15 inches and weighs anywhere between 40 and 70 pounds. The mini parti Poodle grows between 10 and 15 inches and weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Meanwhile, the toy parti Poodle is smaller than 10 inches and can be as light as 5 pounds. Phantom Poodles and parti Poodles share similar characteristics that make them easily mistaken for each other. They both have two colors, and phantom Poodles are usually classified as a subset of parti Poodles. The phantom Poodle , on the other hand, gets patches specifically on the muzzle, the chin, the eyebrows, the paws, and the butt. The pattern is similar to what you find on Dobermans, Dachshunds, Yorkies, and Terriers. The markings of the parti Poodle are caused by a gene called the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF , which also influences other factors such as eye color and skin color. To get a parti Poodle, you need to breed two parti Poodles. Image credit: toran. How fast their fur color fades is dependent on what color they start with and their genetics. Parti Poodles with a secondary color of black may eventually fade into a blue color, while true blacks will stay black. Meanwhile, red fur may clear into something more apricot or even lighter, like cream. Are Parti Poodles Rare? Parti Poodles are not rare, but they tend to be less common than their solid-colored friends. Despite being the original looks of a Poodle, one-color Poodles became more widely accepted and recognized, especially in conformity dog shows by the biggest kennel clubs around the world. Over the years, this has encouraged breeders to focus on solid-colored Poodles, which has led to parti Poodles being bred less. However, they are rising in popularity, and more breeders are now producing them. Parti Poodle Color Combinations With Pictures While no two parti Poodles will ever look alike, there are several popular parti Poodle color combinations. Black-and-white is one of the most striking mixtures because of the contrast in their colors. On the other hand, cream-and-white is more subtle. Other parti-color combinations include white-and-gray, white-and-apricot, white-and-silver, and white-and-brown. Rarer color combinations include blue-and-white and red-and-white. Red, especially, is one of the newest colors in the breed, so producing them for either a one-colored Poodle or a parti Poodle has been elusive. White and Cream Parti Poodle Image credit: good. They even have their own designated marking codes. However, they can only join obedience and agility shows and are excluded from conformation shows. Since , they have been allowed in conformation shows. Parti Poodle Temperament and Personality Image credit: pan. They are easily trained, especially when they are still parti Poodle puppies. This makes them one of the best breeds for new dog owners to start with. Since they love company, parti Poodles will love being part of a household and will be intensely loyal to their owners. Parti Poodles are active and playful, so owners should make time to take them out on walks, a playdate at the park, or even a day at the beach. However, they can be naturally intuitive, so owners need to invest in obedience training to keep them in check. My very own white and apricot parti Poodle has one of the best temperaments in my pack. It is very patient, affectionate, and loves to cuddle. It is always excited about my presence and loves to follow me around. Just like most dogs, though, socialization is important for a parti Poodle so they can get used to the company of other people and dogs in public. Go for a quality brand of dry kibble, which is easy on their stomach and good for teeth and gums. Home-cooked meals will also be ideal for your dog. Choose proteins such as beef, salmon, and chicken; vegetables like spinach, carrots, and potatoes; eggs and cheese. To avoid canine bloat, consider feeding your dog smaller meals throughout the day instead of a big meal once a day. Cleaning and Grooming Parti Poodles require regular maintenance, especially if you plan on having them look like the classic Poodle with a distinctive haircut. Even if you prefer not to, their coats need to be brushed daily so they can be mat-free. Parti Poodles require frequent bathing more than some other dog breeds to keep them hygienic. Take care not to rub shampoo or the towel on their fur to prevent clumps. Rinse them thoroughly to avoid any skin infections. Ears should also be cleaned regularly since their ears drop down and are thus more prone to infections. Their teeth should also be brushed to prevent dental problems, and their nails trimmed short. Parti Poodles can be great workout buddies. Take them out for a brisk walk or a run every day, or bring them to the park or the beach where they can run around, whether on-leash or off-leash. They are also playful and love a game of catch. Further, parti Poodles are best suited for homes with fenced yards so they can run around and release excess energy as needed. They can adapt to a small apartment or stay indoors most of the time as long as their owners endeavor to take them out for walks and exercise regularly. However, toy parti Poodles and mini parti Poodles may live beyond that. Standard parti Poodles tend to have a slightly shorter life span, although there are many health factors to consider. There are health issues relatively common to parti Poodles, most of them often similar to the solid-colored Poodle and other large-breed dogs: Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV : GDV is a common issue often seen in standard parti Poodles. Also known as canine bloat, this condition usually affects big breeds, especially dogs with deep chests. This condition manifests through an enlarged stomach and erratic behavior and can easily turn fatal when dogs are not rushed to the vet. This disease causes weakness, abdominal pain, and weight loss, among other symptoms. However, it can be managed when caught early. Hypothyroidism: Parti poodles are also prone to hypothyroidism. Symptoms include weight gain without an increase in appetite, lethargy, dryness of their skin or coat, and behavioral changes. Thyroid problems can be managed accordingly. These diseases may be hereditary or develop on their own. Puppy Prices and Expenses Owning a parti Poodle can be costly, most especially a purebred one. Alternately, you can get parti Poodles cheaper — or even free if you find one up for adoption or rehoming at your nearest animal shelter. Here are some of the initial expenses you need to prepare for when acquiring a part Poodle: Type of Expense. Parti Poodles, Mismarks, Tuxedo and Ticking Overview While many people equate a Poodle with a solid colored dog with white, black, red and apricot being the most popular colors , there are many more variables in regard to coat color and markings; and some of these are AKC recognized but only partially allowed into certain events. This section will discuss: Mismarks a type of color marking Tuxedo a certain type of two-tone Ticking on the toy, miniature and standard Poodle. That secondary coat color may fall anywhere on the dog. This is one element that makes parti Poodles so interesting. No two ever look alike and many breeders take joy in the fact that having a litters of partis is akin to opening presents.On a well-bred parti Poodle, the white should be crisp and clear and the secondary color will have clear lines without fading into the white. While colors may blend a lot when the Poodle is a pup, there will be many changes as the Poodle matures. Final color and the element of blended vs crisp lines can be determined once the puppy has grown into adulthood. This Poodle puppy is a cream and beige parti. As the pup grows, either color may become more predominant. It is expected that many parti Poodles will have some tiny spots, usually black, that can appear on the paws or body. However, there should not be any ticking in the white hairs. One litter can contain a black and white parti and an apricot and white parti, with color falling in completely different areas. Since the MITF gene is recessive to solid color Solid color is a stronger gene , both dam and sire must be partis to create partis and a parti paired with a solid will most likely produce a solid. Parti Poodles cannot currently be shown in AKC conformation events, and due to this some people mistakenly believe that they also cannot be AKC registered. This is not true. Partis are AKC registerable, with pre-designated color numbers, and can be shown in obedience and agility events. Many people feel that at some point in the future, they will be able to enter into conformation in the United States, as they are in other countries such as Germany. It should be noted that partis were always very popular across the world. In the late 's, for unknown and unrecorded reasons, those in power decided to exclude them from the show ring. In the Multi-Color Poodle Club of American was formed and held their own conformation show in , on the same day as the IKC's 12th annual premier show. A mixmark on a Poodle is considered to be a fault in regard to show conformation. Many people and even some breeders confuse mismarks with Tuxedo Poodles, or partis, believing that these words mean the same thing. While both will have white, there is a big difference. Essentially, a mismark is a Poodle with one main coat color other than white.The light color or white will fall on some or all of the following areas of the dog: The chest, paws, chin, neck, tip of the tail. To further define the difference between partis and mismarks, if you were to shave down a mismark, the Poodle's skin would all be the main color of the coat. However, if you shaved down a parti Poodle, the skin would be 2 colors, showing where the white hair was and where the colored hair was. These dogs will have more than 1 of the acceptable color patterns. For example: A parti Poodle this is 1 acceptable color pattern with phantom markings a secondary acceptable color pattern. These dogs are not accepted into the AKC show ring. Tuxedo A true tuxedo Poodle will have a very special markings in certain areas that literally remind you of a tuxedo. There will usually be: A white bib - this is color on the chest, it may or may not wrap all the way around the dog's neck A white belly - This "should" touch the bib, making a continuous white area White that extends from the belly down to the front and hind legs and paws. A darker color that covers the entire saddle back. While this is the preferred look of a tuxedo Poodle, some will only have white that extends down the front legs, some will have a disconnection of the bib to belly, others may have white markings on the head, etc. While slight spotting on the white hairs is acceptable, heavy spotting known as ticking is not preferred. The lines of where the two colors meet should be clear and distinct with no blending or 'muddy' lines. Ticking Ticking is just a term that means spotting. When a dog such as the Poodle has ticking, these are very small dots. This usually occurs on white or light hair with the ticking or spotting being a dark color such as black. The gene that causes ticking is very dominant, therefore many breeders feel that Poodles that are ticked should not be used to breed partis, as the ticking can cause a rather muddied, dirty appearance that gets in the way of what would otherwise be a clear, crisp, clean looking coat. You may also like: Poodle behavior - A look at expected temperament and personality of toys, minis and standards. Poodle at-home dental care - This breed is prone to tooth decay and owners should be taking steps to prevent infection and loss. Poodle is chewing at paws Poodle blog - The Topic of the Month - Always something new in regard to your Poodle's health and happiness. Poodle Clothing - There are more reasons other than making your dog look cute to have a few key pieces of clothing. Cold intolerance and withstanding harsh winters is one of the main reasons why you may want to have at least one warm vest or coat for your Poodle. Are you a Member yet? When you sign up, you'll be able to receive a friendly alert when new pages of information are added to the site. The combination of white and any of those colors above make up for Parti Poodles. Parti Poodles may not be as common as compared to standard Poodles but some of their color combinations are so rare. When Parti Poodles are still young, the blending of their coat colors primary vs. As the dog ages, the coat color on specific areas of its body will be finalized until they reach adulthood. If you try combining two parts poodles, the color combination of the litter would be completely different from each other. The cause of these color variances in this dog is due to the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor MITF gene. Below is some other variance of multi-colored Poodles, each of which has distinctive characteristics which identify one from another. Some of the ones listed below are recognized in some events initiated by AKC. Interestingly, a Poodle with this genetic makeup will consistently pass on one copy of the "sp" allele to all of its offspring, making it a hereditary trait that can be passed down to the next generation. Then, the rest of its body is covered in the secondary color. Mismark poodles are also called by breeders Abstract poodles. Another way to distinguish these two is through their skin color. The skin Mismark poodle, on the other hand, follows the color of its primary coat. Multi-Patterned Poodles Colors These are Poodles having multi-colored coats or more than 1 of the accepted colored color patterns. At present, this type of breed is not yet accepted by American Kennel Clubs. Tuxedo Poodles Think of a Poodle in a tuxedo suit. This is how their coat is patterned giving them that distinctive look. Their special markings may be placed on different parts of their body. You will notice the markings in areas such as their neck, chest, and legs. These are spots or dots one would see on a Poodle's white coat. These posts are black or darker in color and can be regarded as dirt. This is the reason why breeders do not like to use dogs with ticking. The litter could end up with coats looking dirty. Origins of the Poodle According to history, the Poodles came from Germany. Originally used as hunting dogs, Poodles are considered one of the favorite pets these days. Over time, poodles were bred into smaller-sized and distinctive coat coverings. The French royalty even considered it a favored pet. Contrary to popular belief, it is the Parti Poodles that have a rich history. According to an article published by Huxtable the Poodle, Parti Poodles are often depicted in paintings and art during the ss. Even the first ever dog book published in the United States of America has contained information about Parti Poodles. Since most people preferred the Poodle in solid color, breeders would no longer register litters that are two-colored. There is no exact publication supporting where the name came from. There are some write-ups that state that Poodles were bred in the s by French people. The breed had gained a strong following across the European border. Its popularity crossed over the United States and other Asian countries too. The popularity of the Parti Poodle in the 18th and 19th centuries In the s and s owning a Parti Poodle meant that you were either part of the French royalty or a social aristocrat. It has become a status symbol. People with wealth and power are seen owning this dog breed. During this time, European aristocrats would use Parti Poodles during hunting season. Given the popularity of these dogs and their association with the rich and famous, Parti Poodles earned its place in the world of arts, and literature during this period. The decline of the Parti Poodle in the early 20th century In the early 20th, there were other dog breeds slowly taking the spotlight. Breeds such as German Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever have gained popularity causing the decline of the Parti Poodle. Both German Shepherds and Labradors are excellent hunting dogs which were much preferred. The decline in popularity was worsened by the onset of wars where breeding Parti Poodles became uncommon. The resurgence of the Parti Poodle in modern times Despite being on the brink of distinction, Parti Poodles managed to gain back its popularity again. Several factors helped its resurgence. Canine groups recognizing the Parti Poodles Allowing this dog breed to join shows and competition Increase in awareness and appreciation from dog lovers How Are Parti Poodles Bred Selective Breeding is a way in which Parti Poodles are bred. Credible breeders will choose which parents to use following the desired coat pattern. Ethical guidelines are what we practice at Stokeshire. Dogs also undergo genetic testing to avoid any medical issues being passed on to their litters. But how the litter will look is undetermined as their coat colors and markings will be different from one another. At present, particolored ones are still restricted from joining conformation shows or events organized by AKC. Although, they can still be registered in obedience and agility shows. UKC is considered the second-largest kennel organization in the United States. How Long Do Parti Poodles Live Life expectancy is years Some Parti Poodles may live shorter or longer depending on their genetic makeup, diet, exercise, and overall well-being. Some may be susceptible to health risks such as: Hip dysplasia. Some could have their color evenly spread over their bodies, but other may have it concentrated in one place. Their fur will be tightly curled and very low shedding. Some owners like to give their partis haircuts. Parti Poodle Grooming For the most part, parti Poodle grooming will be much the same as any other Poodle. But, the large amounts of white fur can make it a little more time consuming. Dirt and muck is more likely to show up on pale fur. If your Poodle has white on their face, they may also suffer from red tear stains. Poodles are low shedding because shed fur gets caught in their tight curls. But, they do need regular grooming. Poodle haircuts can make grooming a little easier, but you will still need to either brush and bathe your dog at home, or take them to a professional groomer every couple of weeks. You can read about Poodle grooming in depth here. And, you can manage small bits of dirt or red tear stains on that lovely white fur with a damp, gentle wipe. Parti Poodle Temperament The part Poodle will have the same general temperament as any other shade of Poodle. These dogs will be intelligent, eager to please, and very energetic. Poodles have origins as a working breed. They started out by the water, retrieving ducks for humans they worked with. As long as they are socialized well, the parti Poodle will be friendly with family and strangers alike. They usually get along well with kids and other animals, but supervise interactions to make sure there are no disagreements. This can lead to problems like barking, digging, and destructive chewing. Parti Poodle Health Some studies suggest that there is a link between white fur and health issues like deafness. Although, the extent of this link is still largely unexplored, particularly in Poodles. But, other than this, they will be at risk of the same issues as any other Poodle. But, there are some health problems that only affect certain sizes. You can read about them here. But, finding a breeder that specializes in parti coloring might take a little more time. The best breeders will show you health certificates from the parent dogs, will have all puppies vaccinated and treated for pests, and will care for their puppies and older dogs as well as they possibly can. Avoid puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders on your search for a parti Poodle. They may be cheaper upfront, but these dogs usually grow up to experience more health and behavioral problems. Rescue Poodles are often a little older. But, they may also have some basic obedience training, and their coat is less likely to change from when you bring them home. How Much is a Parti Poodle Puppy? Lots of factors will impact the price of puppies, including demand, location, their parents, and more. Parti Poodles are an accepted color, but not standard. So, some breeders may mark them down in price because of this. So, new owners should learn how to spot a puppy mill , and go to breeders with a big list of questions. Parti Standard Poodles - If you love spots, you may want a parti poodle. A parti poodle is a poodle of white and another color. There are several distinct patterns: the tuxedo, spotted, and abstract all refer to a poodle that is white and another color. That color can be black, brown, red, apricot, creme, silver, blue, grey, cafe-au-lait, or silver-beige. Parti poodles are usually more than half white with colored spots. They can range from almost a solid white with just a few spots of color to the more colorful tuxedos. Tuxedos look like a poodle dressed for a party. They have white on the legs and a white collar that may or may not go completely around the neck. Tuxedo-colored poodles also have white on the belly that should extend up to the chest. Some tuxedos have colored legs almost to the feet and others have white all the way up to their back. Abstract poodles have limited white markings and are almost a solid colored dog. The most common abstract poodle marking is a simple white mark on the chest. White splashes of color may also occur on the face, head, chest, and feet. Abstract poodles sometimes have a white chest and white feet that look like they have been dipped in paint. Ticking marks are the small spots found within the white parts of the dog. Dogs may have little to no ticking. Ticking on legs may look like small spots or be large enough to look like stripes. We have standard poodle puppies for sale in these parti color combinations: black and white parti, brown and white parti, red and white parti, apricot and white parti, blue and white parti and silver and white parti. Multi-colored poodles include parti poodles, abstracts, brindles and phantom poodles. What makes this Poodle so special? Poodles most commonly are solid-colored. They are all-black, all-white, all-red, apricot etc. While it is quite rare, it does happen that Poodles are born with large patches of white. The other part can be any of the common Poodle colors: blue, brown, apricot and others. The patching on Parti Poodles is irregular and random. Every one looks unique, and if you have a Parti Poodle you indeed have a one-of-a-kind dog. Because this type of pattern pops up randomly when breeding Poodles, it is very sought-after. Temperament Like all Poodles these dogs are highly intelligent and attach themselves closely to one person. They require daily exercise and interaction in order to be happy and well-mannered. A bored Poodle is likely to become destructive or show unwanted behaviors such as separation anxiety or reactivity. Poodles are not known to do well when left alone for long periods of time. If you work a job with long hours or like to travel to weekend trips, this is probably not the right dog for you. Training your Parti Poodle Like all Poodles, Parti Poodles are highly intelligent and require daily mental and physical exercise. Training your dog from am early age is the best way to turn him into a well-behaved adult dog that is a joy to have around! You should only use positive reinforcement methods to work with your dog. Plenty of treats are the best way to show him how you would like him to behave. If your Poodle is food-drive, you can even use his regular dog food for training. The most important skills to teach your Parti Poodle are: Coming when called this could be life-saving one day! Walking well on a leash Not running out the door Sitting politely when asked Not jumping up at people If you have small animals in your home, work a lot on impulse control and managing prey drive. With the right training, Poodles can live with cats in harmony. Grooming Many owners pick Poodles and their mixes for their hypoallergenic qualities and their non-shedding coat. Matting can happen quickly in their dense, coarse coat, and it can become so bad that the dog needs to be shaved down to the skin. Every Poodle owner should start bringing their dog to a groomer from puppyhood on — that way the coat is always well-maintained and looking great. Where did Parti Poodles come from? Curiously, Parti Poodles actually are not a novel fad, but a very old form of Poodles. Many paintings and drawings of Poodles in the s and earlier clearly show brown-and-white or black-and-white dogs. The most famous early record of Parti Poodles is from , when Rembrandt was painted with his own brown-and-white Poodle. As dog shows and breeding for certain looks became more popular, parti became an unwanted coloring of the breed. The AKC does not allow them to be shown, so many breeders actually took to culling them right after birth. Are Parti Poodles purebred? Parti Poodles can pop up in litters of two purebred, solid-colored Poodles. While Parti is common in many kinds of Doodle mixes such as the Sheepadoodle or Bernedoodle , it can also be seen in purebred Poodles. It is possible to have a litter consisting of solid colored puppies with one Parti Poodle in the mix — or a litter that has half solid colored puppies and half patched pups, or even a litter that only has Parti-colored puppies. Because this beautiful pattern is becoming more and more popular though, some breeders are starting to specifically select and breed Parti Poodles. Can you show Parti Poodles? The American Kennel Club currently does not allow them at conformation shows. This however does not mean that they cannot be registered. While Parti Poodles are not popular among dog show enthusiasts for this reason, they are very sought-after by many pet dog owners and often actually sold quicker than the solid-colored Poodles that can be entered in conformation shows. If you are planning on attending a conformation show with your Poodle, you should stick to solid white, brown, apricot, blue or black Poodles. How long do Parti Poodles live? Parti Poodles live just as long as their solid-colored counterparts. For a Standard Poodle this is around 13 years, for a Miniature Poodle 15 years and for a Toy Poodle as much as 17 years. Small dogs tend to live longer lives than larger ones, this holds true in any breed or mix Their coloring does not affect their lifespan or health in any way. It is just a different look! What is the difference between a Parti Poodle and a Phantom Poodle? A Phantom Poodle has a coat of a solid color and bits of a secondary color. This secondary color however only covers small parts of the body. Many Phantom Poodles look similar in appearance. The colors are more uneven and the pattern will look random and always unique. Are Parti Poodles more expensive? As always, the demand can and will determine the price. Many dog owners are looking for Parti Poodles because they are so exotic and cool-looking. Many breeders sell Parti Poodles for higher prices than solid-colored ones. In many dog breeds the rare colors sell for higher prices. You should always make sure that the breeder you pick is reputable and does not only breed for a certain color or pattering. Ask the breeder if the parents have health tests and reliable temperaments. It is very important that the parents also have calm and friendly demeanors and are genetically healthy. Which color should you get? Whether you get a Parti Poodle, a solid-colored Poodle or a Phantom Poodle will come down to personal preference. The temperament and disposition of the dogs is the same regardless of the coloring. Do not make color your only criterion when choosing a puppy though: You should always make sure that the puppy is healthy, has a friendly character and fits in well with your family. If however you are looking for a uniquely colored companion dog who will be by your side anytime, any place, the Parti Poodle is the dog for you! 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. You can also get black and white Poodles that are not parti. These Poodles have a mainly black coat with white patches. Nevertheless, in most cases black and white Poodles are parti as they have a mainly white coat. Merle is a rare coat pattern featuring mottled patches. Blue Merle Parti Poodles feature a blue, grey and tan in their merle patches while Chocolate Merle Parti Poodles feature brown, copper and beige. The ones that have no merle patches at all appear to be non-merle however they carry the merle genotype and produce merle offspring. They can be dangerous when it comes to breeding as Double Merles can accidentally be produced as breeders may not realise both parents are carriers of the merle gene. The apricot patches are usually located on their ears, around their eyes and on their backs. The apricot patches are very light in color and are somewhere between a light red and a cream with peachy undertones. If these changes occur, it will be within the first two years of their lives which will make them look like a cream and white Poodle. The red patches can range in color from a reddish cream to a rusty brown color and are usually located on their ears, around their eyes and on their backs. If these changes occur, it will be within the first two years of their lives which will make them look like an Apricot Parti Poodle. Sable patches are very unique as they feature black-tipped hairs with roots in a lighter solid color. The sable patches are usually located on their ears, on top of their heads, around their eyes and on their backs. With age, the sable patches can fade, especially on shorter hairs. For adult Sable Parti Poodles, the sable patches are usually most noticeable on their ears as they will still have dark markings on the tips of longer hairs.

A non-effective grooming tool will not only cause problems for your pooch but will also be a waste of money for you. Step 4: Find The Brand What is the first thing people check while buying something for themselves? For the majority of us, the first thing we check is the brand or the manufacturer. It is easy to rely upon and trust the names that are popular in a certain industry for a long time, especially those that you may have tried and tested. The same thing goes when choosing a suitable brush for your little furry buddy. You should always check who the manufacturer of a certain product is to make sure you are not wasting your money and time on a low-quality product. If you are one of these owners, you should read the following benefits of brushing your pup regularly. Sometimes, the hair is really hard to notice. But, you can make this task a lot less challenging by picking out one of the best brushes for French Bulldogs we listed above. This is where combing and brushing come in handy. However, in case they have some skin allergies, or other medical issues, you should consult with your vet and follow his or her advice. This not only promotes the healthy distribution of natural oils but your Frenchie also finds it much more comfortable. To avoid any mess inside the house, you should do the grooming process either outside or somewhere where you will be able to easily collect hair. Try to avoid short and brisk strokes and instead take longer and smoother ones. Short and brisk strokes can only lead to damaged fur or skin. Every time your pooch allows you to brush its coat, give them a treat! This might help you in making your pet sit for longer and you might be able to actually do some grooming on your wriggly pooch. Even though you might not notice it because of their fine hair, French Bulldogs do shed. Like most other breeds, Frenchies shed some hair daily and shed quite a lot of hair during the shedding seasons. If your French Bulldog loves to play in puddles and mud, its coat will sometimes be quite dirty. This will remove much of the grime and allow the grooming tool to do its work. However, which one of them will be the most efficient depends on your pup. This is important to keep its coat clean, shiny, and smelling as pleasant as possible. To accomplish this, you should brush your Frenchie at least once a week. Brushing too often can cause brush burn which can lead to skin irritation and redness. This is why it is recommended to only brush your pup once a week. Summary Grooming is an inevitable task for all dog owners. Because of this, you need to consider various factors that come into play when it comes to brushing a French Bulldog. As this breed has highly sensitive skin, you need to brush as carefully as you can to avoid hurting them. To help you in this endeavor we have listed out the best brushes for French Bulldogs for you to choose from. Post navigation. Safari W Slicker Dog Brush — Best Overall Check Price on Amazon Although some may think of a slicker brush as being primarily used for dogs with multiple coats of fur, the slicker brush style is beneficial for dogs that have one coat like French Bulldogs because the compact nature of the bristles allows it to gather loose fur and excess dander and dirt that a brush with more widely-spaced bristles might miss. This affordable slicker brush has one drawback: the wires bend easily and may need to be manually straightened out. We think this is the best brush for your french bulldog. If you have more than one dog at home, it may prove beneficial to get a different style or make of brush for those with longer hair. But we found that this is the best brush for French Bulldogs for the money. Pros Two-sided brush suitable for all grooming The ergonomic handle is comfortable to use Affordable Can fall apart when used on challenging fur 3. It also has an ergonomic handle for increased ease of use and a large head, so it can be used on larger dogs, as well as French Bulldogs. Although the Miracle Care Pet Slicker Brush is a good option, there are better options on the market. If you are like these people, you must read these benefits of brushing your Bully frequently. Shedding: French Bullies have short and fine fur. Sometimes you may not even notice the sheds. Instead, they can discard a lot of hair. Brushing hair helps in removing the loose hair from their body. Moreover, the movement of the brush will increase the blood circulation, aiding in new hair growth. But you can make the task convenient with the help of the best brush for French Bulldogs. The combing step will ensure that the shampoo gets well to their skin to properly remove dirt and dandruff. Cleaning: Generally, French Bulldogs are known as a cleaner breed. You need not bathe or scrub them often. Rather, it is the opposite. If you create excess friction on their skin, it can create irritation and other problems. That is where brushing comes into the role. This little grooming step can ensure that any underlying dirt in their fur gets efficiently removed. So your Bully remains clean and free from any skin troubles. Grooming: Your puppy loves when you pet and groom them every once in a while. Remember to opt only for the best brush for French Bulldogs for each of these purposes. Only then will you be able to gain the associated benefits. In a healthy condition, you can brush your Bully once a week. But in case they have some medical issues or skin allergies, you should follow whatever your vet suggests. You need to use a single sweeping motion from head to toe. This helps in the proper distribution of oils, and even the Frenchie finds it more comfortable. To avoid any mess during grooming, you should either take the Bully out or put them somewhere where you can easily collect hair. It will be excellent if you can begin brushing your French Bulldog from a young age. Remain gentle throughout the session. You should take longer and smoother strokes instead of short and brisk ones. Otherwise, you will end up hurting the pup. Every time they let you brush themselves, you can give them treats. It will help you in making them sit quietly for long brushing sessions. Before You Go Brushing is an inevitable task for all pet owners. However, you need to consider various factors while combing your French Bulldog. As they have fragile skin, you should remain careful of not hurting them. In order to avoid this, you can opt for the best brush for Bulldogs. Above, I have provided you with a few top alternatives available in the market. You should also go through the importance of brushing, the buying guide for brushes, and tips for brushing. FAQs What kind of brush is best for a French bulldog? A slicker brush or a rubber curry brush is best for a French bulldog, as they have short, dense coats that can be prone to shedding. How often should I brush my French bulldog? You should brush your French bulldog at least once a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting. During shedding season, you may need to brush them more frequently. Can I use a human hairbrush on my French bulldog? No, you should not use a human hairbrush on your French bulldog, as it may not be effective in removing loose fur and can cause discomfort or injury to their skin. Be sure to avoid getting water or soap in their eyes or nose. Can brushing help prevent skin issues in French bulldogs? Yes, regular brushing can help prevent skin issues in French bulldogs by removing loose fur, dirt, and debris that can contribute to skin irritation or infection. It can also help distribute natural oils throughout their coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. Leave a Reply You must be logged in to post a comment. This brush gently gets rid of loose hair, debris, dirt, and tangles during bath time and it can also be used dry. While you brush, the raised silicone nubs massage your pup to promote healthy skin and coat. I found this brush was great for massaging in shampoo during bath time. It was easy to use, and I felt it was very high-quality. Instead, curry combs, bristle brushes, plastic brushes with raised nubs, grooming gloves, and pin brushes will be best for your dog. Traditional deshedding brushes and undercoat rakes will be too harsh for your pooch. A medium or small brush ensures you can groom your French Bulldog thoroughly all over their body. Some brushes will have easy grip or ergonomic handles. Single-layered simply means they only have 1 layer of fur with no undercoat. Regular brushing helps to get rid of the loose hair, promoting healthy hair growth and minimizing shedding around your home. This keeps their skin and coat healthy, protected, and shiny. It provides an opportunity to check for skin irritations, lumps, fleas, and ticks. Skin irritations are common with the breed, and spotting them early allows you to deal with them quickly. Take your time and use long, gentle strokes. Make sure to give them plenty of praise, treats, and breaks when needed. This will make the grooming process stress free and more enjoyable for you both. Since they can have sensitive skin, a bath is only recommended once every 2 or 3 months when really needed. When bathing your dog, ensure you use a shampoo that is gentle on their sensitive skin. If they have a specific skin issue, you can get shampoo that will help to treat and soothe the area. Speaking of their facial folds, these areas are particularly sensitive to infection and need regular attention. Clean the folds twice a week or more if needed with a special solution or dog safe wipes. Gently clean them a couple of times a week. If not, you should regularly take them to a professional groomer. Your dog should also have a regular oral hygiene routine, for example brushing their teeth and having dental chews. This keeps plaque and tartar at bay, and keeps their teeth and gums healthy. You should brush your French Bulldog once a week and give them a full groom once every 2 to 3 months. Conclusion Grooming your French Bulldog regularly keeps them healthy and happy. May 05, 0 Owning a dog is rather a responsibility and French Bulldogs are no exception. As of the time of this article, the Frenchie is the most popular dog breed in the United States. These adorable and beloved dogs are categorized as "low-shedders" due to their short coat that sheds minimally. As such, weekly brushing with a rubber dog brush or medium-bristle brush is recommended for French Bulldogs. Moreover, brushing your French Bulldog regularly helps remove loose and dead hair and promotes new hair growth, thereby keeping your fur baby's coat looking nice and shiny. In addition, brushing French Bulldogs help circulate natural oils on their skin and keep them happy and healthy. How often should you brush your Frenchie? Thanks to its short coat, it doesn't take much time to brush a French Bulldog. Since Frenchies enjoy attention and love interacting with their owners, brushing them every day is not only ideal but also a great bonding activity. However, brushing your French Bulldog twice a week will suffice. With that in mind, below here are some brushes that are popular among French Bulldog owners in the United States. This is because the brush is specifically designed for dogs with short coats like the Frenchie. One side of the brush has silicone needles that are soft and gentle on your cute dog's skin. The other side of the brush features soft bristles that are of moderate hardness, which is suitable for brushing sensitive skin areas such as the abdomen and face. Overall, this brush is suitable for detangling, massaging, removing loose hair, and promoting your dog's blood circulation. Key Features and Specification:. You may have seen these used on horses or other dog breeds — they can also be a good choice for your French Bulldog. The gloves are made of an eco-friendly silicon material with breathable mesh fabric at the back. The glove has rubber tips and can be used for shedding hair as well as massaging while your dog is bathing. This is certainly softer and more intimate than our previous items. You may want to use this if your Frenchie has particularly sensitive skin or hates being brushed in general. The satin-smooth coat, with its silky appearance, is one of the stand-out features of every healthy French bulldog. The fur is short and smooth, but the skin is very loose in parts. This is what creates their trademark wrinkles. Yes indeed. This coat only has a single layer which not only means that your Bulldog will shed less than the average dog — approximately twice a year , but grooming is also much more relaxed. As well as cleaning the coat, brushing it regularly also allows the natural oils to be evenly distributed, eliminating any irritating dry patches. Your Frenchie will undoubtedly thank you for showing them TLC, even if not in the moment. The only question that remains then: what sort of dog brush should you buy? Types of Dog Brush for A French Bulldog There are lots of different kinds of brushes for different breeds of dog, and they all do a very different job. Brushes such as grooming rakes and wide-toothed combs are used for un-matting hair and brushing undercoats in dogs with long fur. Slicker brush The slicker brush works wonders on tangles and is ideal for getting rid of debris and loose hairs. Typically rectangular, the slicker brush is made up of wire pins which are packed densely together. A slight angle on each bristle protects the skin while still allowing maximum effectiveness. A slicker brush may sometimes be useful for the coat of a French bulldog, helping to get rid of dirt. On the pin side, there are wires, usually topped with rubber to prevent a rough finish. The bristle side of the brush is often used merely as a finished brush for longer coats, to add a bit of shine. Grooming glove One of the advantages of having a dog with such a short coat is that you have many options, including the grooming glove. In fact, due to the playful nature, it can be one of the best brushes for a French bulldog. Made from rubber bristles, the grooming glove slips over the hand. For dogs not so keen on the brush, this makes an excellent alternative and still delivers a top-quality finish. Rubber bristles get the best results on many Frenchies. This delivers the same effective yet gentle brushing — but in a more conventional style. Top French Bulldog Grooming Tips Now you know which type of brush to invest in, here are a few top tips to make the grooming session go without a hitch: Be careful not to over-brush your pooch. Vets recommend no more than once per week for a French bulldog. Brush from head to toe in one sweeping motion. This helps to distribute the oils all over the coat as well as being more comfortable for your pet. Consider brushing your dog outdoors. He will shed more hairs than you imagine and being outside will save your decor! This combination allows for a smooth brush that also effectively picks up debris and massages the skin. Depending on your French Bulldog, there will be slight variations in taking care of its skin and coat. Some may shed more, while others may have dryer skin. Bristle Brush Most French Bulldogs will benefit from having a bristle brush. Bristle brushes are usually made with synthetic materials or boar bristles. If you have a Frenchie with particularly dry or sensitive skin, make sure to shop for brushes with softer bristles. Deshedding Tool While French Bulldogs are light to moderate shedders for most parts of the year, they can do some heavy shedding in the summer and winter. Since they have straight, short coats, their hair can cling to furniture and be difficult to remove. This type of brush is mainly used for untangling hair. Slicker Brush A slicker brush has a flat head with thin metal wires positioned closely together. If you have a Frenchie that tends to shed a lot , regular use of slicker brush can help keep its hair off of furniture and carpets, especially during shedding seasons. Fine-Tooth Comb A fine-tooth comb can be helpful for picking up any additional hair after brushing a dog with another brush. However, they still need a proper grooming routine. Featured Image Credit: hedgehog94, Shutterstock Written by Jessica Kim Author Jessica is a freelance writer who spends most of her day researching and writing while her fluffy Cavapoo, Nora, naps beside her. As a dog mom, she understands the special connection that pet parents have with their pets. So, she loves sharing helpful information that people can use to better understand their pets. When she isn't writing, you may find her walking dogs, tending to her plant babies, or drinking her nth cup of coffee.Read more Advertisement.

Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. The English Bulldog — Quite a Chap! The English Bulldog can be expected to have certain traits: Affectionate, easygoing, and lovable Quiet—not much of a barker Good with kids and other pets An excellent guard dog, courageous and dependable Adaptable to a wide variety of living conditions Outgoing and friendly personality You may also these characteristics in your bully buddy: Can be gassy and drool a lot Makes a lot of snorting, snuffling, and wheezing noises, and she may snore Can become overweight easily if not exercised regularly Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a puppy Sensitive, matures slowly Can be possessive of toys and food, tending to show dominance She is an intelligent and dependable companion that forms close human bonds. With early socialization and consistent leadership , she is a social and cheerful addition to any family. The modern Bulldog, with a heavy, thickset, low body and massive head, originated in England after the elimination of bull-baiting in .The Old English Bulldog was crossed with the Pug to create a more docile and affectionate family pet. The Bulldog retained its protective and fearless nature, but aggressive and ferocious tendencies were removed from the breed. Bulldogs serve as popular mascots, representing strength in the face of adversity for the US Marine Corps and more than 30 US Universities. Bulldogs are famous for their gentle nature, fondness of children, and clownish antics. The Bulldog is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Bulldog. By knowing about health concerns specific to Bulldogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Bulldogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Bulldogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your English Bulldog looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Bulldogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Bulldogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Bulldog is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Bulldogs Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Bulldogs. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! When Bulldog puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your English Bulldog. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. Spinal Deformities Bulldogs are more likely than other canines to be born with spinal deformities a condition called hemivertebrae , which may lead to spinal cord damage, instability, or disability. Unfortunately, Bulldogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Bulldog is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea surface of the eyeball. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness. It can happen in any dog breed; however, your Bulldog is especially at risk for this heritable disorder. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early. Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is common in Bulldogs. The tear glands no longer produce enough tears to keep the eye moist, which results in sore, itchy eyes and infections. Symptoms include a thick discharge, squinting, pawing at the eye, or a dull, dry appearance of the eye. This is a painful condition; please call us immediately if you notice any of these signs. Dogs have a third eyelid that contains a gland that produces about one-third of the fluid that bathes the eye. If the gland is sore or swollen, it looks like a red blob in the corner of the eye. This condition is called cherry eye, and it can occur very suddenly in one or both eyes. If this happens to him, we may treat it with ointment first, but surgery is often the best option. Bladder or Kidney Stones There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and Bulldogs are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Call us immediately! Respiratory Distress Syndrome This disease, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose, like your Bulldog. As a consequence, the soft palate the soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth , is too long and hangs down into the airway. The nostrils are often too small, and sometimes the trachea, or windpipe, is narrow and undersized. All of these things lead to a narrow and obstructed airway. Many of these dogs can barely breathe! Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. With his short nose, he is also more likely to develop other problems, such as flatulence from excessive air intake, pneumonia from aspirating food, or heat stroke. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended. Bleeding Disorders There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result. Reproductive Difficulties Breeds with a large head and small pelvis are more prone to difficulties during the birthing process. Her pelvis is just too small to pass puppies and a C-section is often required for her health and that of her puppies. If you are interested in breeding your English Bulldog, speak with us first. We can help you make an informed decision based on body conformation of both sire and dam. Heart Disease Bulldogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control go a long way in preventing heart disease. Multiple Skin Problems Your English Bulldog is susceptible to different kinds of skin infections and diseases. One of them is caused by yeast Malassezia dermatitis. When it infects the ears, it causes itching, redness, and an accumulation of brown waxy discharge. On the skin, it leads to greasy, hairless areas, especially on the neck and throat, with a characteristic odor. Another common skin disease called seborrhea can cause dry, flaky skin or greasy, oily skin. These diseases make your pet itchy and uncomfortable. The earlier you call to have his skin problems checked, the less likely it is that you will end up caring for an itchy, bald, smelly dog. Mange Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. All dogs have them. In mild cases, pet owners may notice a few dry, irritated, hairless lesions. These often occur on the face or feet and may or may not be itchy. Secondary skin infections may occur. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management. Laryngeal Paralysis Older Bulldogs may develop this disease, in which the vocal cords become paralyzed and hang down into the airway. Watch for noisy breathing, especially when exercising or in hot, humid weather. In severe cases a pet can collapse and have difficulty breathing. Mild cases can be managed with changes at home and possibly medication. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your English Bulldog will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Dental Abnormalities Teeth abnormalities are often genetically induced and are relatively common in dogs, especially in purebred dogs like your Bulldog. An overbite or underbite is called a malocclusion, or a bad bite. Oligodontia is a condition where only a few teeth are present. Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause lots of problems, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. Yes, dogs can get braces! Taking Care of Your Bulldog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your English Bulldog live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She has low grooming needs. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Her deep wrinkles need to be cleaned and dried often to prevent infections. As an adult she can have a tendency to be lazy, so you must ensure she receives adequate exercise by providing a daily walk. She is sensitive to temperature extremes; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Bulldog needs help. How to care for your English bulldog puppy Posted on by Kiran English bulldogs are one of the exclusive dog breeds known for their cuteness and sturdiness at the same time. This bulldog breed is one of the ideal choices to have as a pet. Belonging to the brachycephalic dog breeds, English bulldog puppies often requires additional care. As a pet lover who owns an English bulldog puppy, there are certain factors you need to consider to ensure optimum health of your pooch, continue reading to get an insight about some of the important factors. Diet schedule As puppies require additional nutrient supplement when compared to the adult bulldogs, you can start feeding your puppy thrice a day, at least for the first four months. From the fifth month, you can cut back to feeding him twice a day and once he is a year old, you are good to feed him only once a day. Even though, he will happily accept all the anything edible item that you give him, it can be dangerous to his system. Always restrain your dog from ingesting the following food items, which can be toxic to his system. Chocolate: can have adverse affect on his heart and nervous system Avocado : can cause diarrhea or vomiting Alcohol: can cause intoxication Walnuts: known to affect the nervous system of English bulldog puppies and even cause muscle damage Caffeine: can induce diarrhea and vomiting Monitoring health Once you have bought your English bulldog puppy home, it is crucial to have a close eye on him for the first couple of weeks. It is during this period, he will be experiencing several changes from diet to medications. Keep him hydrated by giving him plenty of fresh water; the strategy can also help you to prevent him from eating a lot than necessary. Health checkup and treatment against pests Your new guest can easily fall prey to different pests like ticks, fleas, lice etc. Closely monitor your puppy, scan his skin for any irritations caused by excessive scratching and also look for redness in skin. If you find any abnormal skin issues, you need to take him to a local veterinarian. While you are at the veterinary clinic, you can subject your puppy for a complete checkup to sort out any issues pertaining to ear, heart, lung etc. It is important to get the ear of your bulldog inspected by the veterinarian; pests like tick and mites can easily find their way through to his ears to make a living out of the dirt and debris. Therefore, while you are at home with him, always give special attention if he seems to scratch his ears or shake his head excessively. English bulldog puppies are always an ideal choice as pets, as a caring pet owner, it is your duty to spend some time with your pooch, train and let him socialize at a very young age. Blog Posts.

Although he's known as the "French" poodle, the breed actually originated in Germany and was used as a water retriever. This smart, fancy canine is actually an athletic dog. Don't be fooled by the frilly exterior. This is one tough puppy. Poodle History In Germany, the poodle was known as the "pudel," from which comes the English breed name. The original poodle was a relatively large dog, with the smaller varieties we know today bred down from it. The fancy coat clips aren't arbitrary or simply fashionable, but reflect the breed's use as a water dog. Parts of the coat were clipped to enhance the dog's ability to swim and retrieve game. The miniature poodle was developed to hunt truffles, those underground fungi so adored by gourmands. Don't be surprised if your miniature or toy poodle -- a pet you acquired as a lap companion -- turns out to have a strong prey drive. Standard, Miniature and Toy The American Kennel Club breed standards for the three sizes of poodle -- standard, miniature and toy -- are the same, with the exception of height. A standard poodle's height is above 15 inches tall at the shoulder. The miniature poodle stands between 10 inches and 15 inches, while the toy poodle matures at less than 10 inches tall. The standard and miniature fall into the AKC nonsporting group, while the toy poodle is, obviously, in the toy category. All poodles should appear intelligent and elegant, with an "air of distinction and dignity," according to the breed standard. Poodle Coat and Colors All poodles appear in solid colors. These include white, black, cream, silver, gray and blue -- with accompanying black noses, lips and eye rims. Brown poodles and those of the faded brown shade known as cafe au lait sport liver-colored noses, lips and eye rims. Apricot poodles can have noses, lips and eye rims of either black or brown. While the poodle doesn't shed, his curly coat requires considerable grooming and upkeep. Expect to visit the groomer at least every couple of months unless you want your dog to look like a walking mop. Poodle Temperament Among the most intelligent of canines, poodles soak up training. All sizes need a fair amount of exercise, although the standard requires much more than his smaller cousins. Poodles love their people. While the standard makes the best choice for an active family with kids, the miniature and toy varieties are fine with older children. Poodles usually get along with other dogs and cats. They do well in obedience, agility and other canine competitions -- standards can star in hunt testing alongside more conventional sporting breeds -- and excel as therapy dogs. Poodle Health Issues Progressive retinal atrophy, an eye disease that eventually causes blindness, is found in toy and miniature poodles. Standard poodles are prone to sebaceous adenitis, resulting in hair loss, skin thickening, sores and foul odor. Certain bone and joint diseases affect the breed, including hip dysplasia, luxating patellas -- colloquially known as slipped kneecaps -- and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, which results in bone cell death in the femoral head. Height: over 15 inches Weight: 45 to 80 pounds Height: 19 to 24 inches Weight: 45 to 80 pounds Medium Size not recognized by the AKC Height: 14 to 18 inches Weight: 40 to 50 pounds Miniature Height: 11 to 15 inches Weight: 14 to 18 pounds Height: 12 to 13 inches Weight: 14 to 18 pounds Toy Height: 10 inches or under Weight: 6 to 9 pounds Height: 10 to 11 inches Weight: 6 to 9 pounds Apart from these four recognized sizes, there is also what breeders call the teacup French Poodle. They are essentially smaller than the toy and should not be mistaken as one. So far, no breed standard covers the size of teacups, but according to the breeders I know, they are usually 5 to 7 pounds in weight and 9 inches in size. The temperament of French Poodles slightly differs according to their size. But generally, they are smart, active, trainable, and loyal dogs. Standard French Poodles are quite energetic. However, when you compare them to the other sizes, they are still more reserved. The smaller ones are often seen following their owners and entertaining themselves with various activities, unlike the standard-sized pups who love to just chill around with their favorite person. When it comes to children, the medium and miniature are more recommended because they are slightly larger compared to the toy and the teacup. If you are worried about their behavior towards visitors, stop your anxious thoughts. French Poodles, no matter what size, are friendly to strangers and other pets in the household. If you consider taking care of them as a priority, they could even exceed this life expectancy. Puppies afflicted with this do not produce sufficient adrenal hormones, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances, lethargy, and canine stress. Chronic Active Hepatitis: This occurs when the liver is inflamed which leads to liver failure. This is a result of an autosomal recessive gene that is present in Poodles. This is a progressive disease and is seen mostly in adult French Poodles. Atrial Septal Defects: This is a rare heart problem that is present among the Poodle population. The heart is observed to have a hole in the upper chambers which can lead to breathing difficulties, coughing, exercise intolerance, and heart failure. Patellar Luxation: This is a common problem of small French Poodles which concerns their kneecap. Sebaceous Adenitis: This is a hereditary problem that is common among standard Poodles. The sebaceous glands which are responsible for lubricating the skin and coat are inflamed, so your pup might experience hair loss, flaking, scaling, skin thickening, and sores. Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: This is a congenital problem that prevents the optic nerve to fully develop, leading to blindness. Dogs with this condition do not produce enough platelet so their bleeding time is longer than usual. How Much Is a French Poodle? This price can still change if you plan to buy one who came from a champion bloodline or those with a rare or unique coloration. Apart from the initial cost of purchasing a puppy, you also have to buy some essential items so your pet will thrive inside your home. This includes dog food, crate, bed, food and water bowl, leash and collar, brush, chew toys, training treats, shampoo, urine cleaner, and poop scooper. Also, Poodles need professional grooming due to their coat. Here is a list of breeders you should get in touch with: AKC Marketplace — This is the widest breeder directory that features a lot of Poodle varieties. All the breeders listed in this marketplace are a member of the organization. You can view their website if you need breeder information like phone number and email address. Sturt Your Stuff — This breeding facility is located in an acre ranch outside Wellington, Colorado. All their pups come with pedigree papers and OFA certifications. Find adopting as the better option for you? Carolina Poodle Rescue — You can check out the French Poodles that are ready for adoption in this rescue by simply visiting their website. French Poodles do not smell. In fact, aside from being less shedding, they are also one of the cleanest breeds there is. French Poodles tend to be attached to one person, especially if that individual has been very nice and affectionate to them. The rarest French Poodle color is the apricot. This is a dilute of red which is also the last color to be recognized for the breed. Some apricot French Poodles are so light that they look almost cream. Final Thoughts Although the name French Poodle is already widely used to address the breed that originated in Germany, I would still recommend that you drop the geographical indicator and call the Poodles as they should be called. If you come across a breeder who markets his puppies using the name French Poodle, immediately cancel your transaction. These types of breeders who do not find time to research the origin and proper name usage of the dogs they are selling are obviously just in it for money. 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. They have a distinctive thick, curly coat that comes in many colors and patterns, with only solid colors recognized by breed registries. Poodles are active and intelligent, and are particularly able to learn from humans. Poodles tend to live 10—18 years, with smaller varieties tending to live longer than larger ones. Similar dogs date back to at least the 17th century. Larger Poodles were originally used by wildfowl hunters to retrieve game from water, while smaller varieties were once commonly used as circus performers. Since the midth century, Poodles have enjoyed enormous popularity as pets and show dogs — Poodles were the AKC's most registered breed from to , and are now the FCI's third most registered breed. Poodles are also common at dog shows, where they often sport the popularly recognized Continental clip, with face and rear clipped close, and tufts of hair on the hocks and tail tip. History A 17th-century engraving of a Poodle Most cynologists believe the Poodle originated in Germany in the Middle Ages , from a dog similar to today's Standard Poodle. Numerous works by various German artists from as early as the 17th century depict dogs of recognisably Poodle type. As new breeding practices were adopted, the variety became set as a toy-sized replica of the original. Not universally recognised by the world's kennel clubs , the Medium Poodle is recognised by the FCI and most Continental European kennel clubs. A pet owner can anticipate grooming a Poodle every four to eight weeks. Their individual hair follicles have an active growth period that is longer than that of many other breeds; combined with the tightly curled coat, which slows the loss of dander and dead hair by trapping it in the curls, an individual Poodle may release less dander and hair into the environment. However, researchers have generally not found a difference in allergens across breeds. The FCI additionally recognizes the Scandinavian clip. Poodle hair can also be "corded" with rope-like mats similar to those of a Komondor or human dreadlocks. Though once as common as the curly Poodle, corded Poodles are now rare. Corded coats are difficult to keep clean and take a long time to dry after washing. They were common historically, but became less popular in the early s, and are excluded from many registries. Phantom Poodles may also have a full face of the secondary color.

Download an adoption application here Please email the completed application to adoptionteam1. He loves cuddling, having his belly rubbed and giving kisses. He loves to have fun and truly enjoys the company of other dogs. If anyone ever wants to play, she is always game. However, he is just as content cuddling up with his foster family and doggie friends to watch a movie or read a book. He is such a sweet dog, who just wants to be near his people. He loves to go on all kinds of adventures and outings. His confidence and friendly disposition make him the perfect dog to accompany his forever family everywhere. He is housebroken and has never been destructive in the house. His forever family will feel blessed sharing their lives with this wonderful boy. We will reach out to you as soon as your application is processed. Thank you in advance for your patience. All of our dogs start their journey in Memphis, Tennessee where they remain in loving foster families until they are adopted. Once adopted, some pups stay local in Memphis. Many others travel via one of our transport partners to their new forever homes. For our Midwest adopters, we have our own private transport. Breed selection is done in conjunction with two local vets and is not to be considered a guarantee but rather a well-educated decision from well qualified staff. Due to the extremely high volume of inquiries we receive, we ask that you request, complete, and submit an application before asking additional questions. We try very hard to include all pertinent information in our bios. We are excited to help you find your new family member. We want to spend our time saving dogs and assisting those adopters who have taken the time to complete an application. Thank you for understanding. Thank you for choosing rescue!! We have answers. How does Uptown Puppies work? In order to begin your last search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy all you have to do is begin browsing through some of the top-rated breeders in the country below! When you're conducting a search for a new German Shepherd puppy online there is a lot that can go wrong. As Google and Yahoo searches have become more popular among dog lovers, puppy mills and other fraudulent breeders have continued to thrive! When you come across a network of German Shepherd breeders in Milwaukee like Uptown you should jump at the opportunity to deal with reputable, good-hearted breeders. There are a ton of benefits to working with a reputable shelter but they are not for everyone. If finding a purpose-bred German Shepherd or purebred designer puppy is important to you, working with an experienced breeder as opposed to with a shelter may be the right course of action. Are you ready to find your ideal German Shepherd puppy? What are some of the best breeds for apartments? If you live in an apartment or a small home but have the dream of owning a German Shepherd you should be prepared to take your dog outside as much as possible. Large, energetic dogs like the German Shepherd require exercise not just to support their physical well-being but also to support their mental health as well. Is it enough to take my German Shepherd on walks or do they need more exercise? Most dogs need more than a quick walk around the neighborhood every day to stay happy. Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog! How does transportation work? Different breeders will offer different options to connect you with your new best friend but all of them are sure to be more convenient than the alternative online option! Screening each and every breeder that you show any sort of interest in can be extremely time consuming. Are German Shepherds great for families? German Shepherds have enough energy to keep up with your oldest kids and protect your youngest!

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you looking to adopt a Goldendoodle in Iowa? Goldendoodles In Iowa: Introduction The beautiful Golden Retriever Poodle mix has quickly established itself as one of the most popular hybrid breeds all across the US. In fact, we might even say that Goldendoodles are becoming more popular than their purebred parents, as they combine the best of both worlds. So, where can you find an ethical breeder in your state and what are the key things you should look for in a reputable Doodle breeder? Now, as you may have noticed, there are tens, if not hundreds of Goldendoodle breeders in Iowa that all claim to have the best, highest quality puppies there can be. There are various factors you should keep in mind when choosing an ethical breeder. Both of them often advertise their puppies at much lower price points than ethical Doodle breeders. See Also: Click the image If Doodle scammers will likely just take your money and leave you empty handed then puppy mills are a much different case. The name puppy mill refers to an establishment whose main goal is to maximize profit without any care for the breeding dogs or puppies. The dogs are often kept in tiny cages and in unsafe and filthy environments. They rarely get any attention, care, or opportunities to exercise or socialize. But how can you do it and what should you keep in mind? This ensures that the puppies are at a much lower risk of developing any hereditary health conditions that can seriously alter their quality of life and lifespan. Moreover, you should look for breeders who offer at least a two-year health guarantee for all of their puppies. Health warranties typically cover most, if not all serious genetic conditions that the parent dogs have been tested for. Those promises are always put in writing and come with your puppy adoption agreement once you purchase your new pup. Why is that important, you might ask? Many previous customers also leave their reviews on Yelp, Reddit, or Facebook. Star Creek Kennel thoroughly health tests their parent dogs and only conducts selective breeding. This ensures that their puppies are born in great health and come with the best temperaments and personalities. In addition to breeding Goldendoodles in Iowa, they also have Golden Retrievers and all sizes of Poodles. What makes Star Creek Kennel especially great is that they use an advanced puppy curriculum. They socialize their puppies, give them lots of love, hugs and kisses, and introduce the pups to everyday household sights and sounds. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Star Creek Kennel does continuous research and attends trainings and conferences on breeding, whelping and raising dogs and puppies. Waitlist: Yes. They are loyal, intelligent, and friendly inheriting the best traits from both parents. If you're looking for a devoted family dog who's extremly smart; Golden Aussie's love children and are quick to form long-lasting bonds. They are light-moderate in shedding and tend to be a combination of white, black or brown with individual markings. Generational info Golden Labradoodle Golden Labradoodles are a hybrid breed and were were introduced in the 70's. The goal was to create a breed that would be both friendly and easy to take care of. The best suited parents identified: Labrador and Golden Retriever; who are extremely friendly and smart, and the Poodle, whose coat has outstanding shedding qualities. Golden Labradoodles are known from their gorgeous hypoallergenic coats to their amazing intelligence and fun-loving attitude Personality Our Doodles are very social, friendly, and family oriented. They are highly trainable. Doodles enjoy play time, attention and daily walks. We are a serious reputable breeder. Sign the code of ethics. Spay and neuter your pets. Spaying and neutering is done all the time at very young ages; however, kind of a really bad approach to the big problem of unwanted animals, increased chances of cancer, urinary Incontinence, and growth issues. This is how nature intended them to be, they are complete body, mind and spirit. We at Iowadoodles2love Breed for demeanor and the Love of our Goldendoodles. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Meet the Parents. Studs Premier breeder of mini and medium Goldendoodles. We are proud breeders of amazing mini and medium goldendoodle puppies. Located in Dubuque, Iowa, our puppies are multigens and come in wonderful colors of apricot, red, cream, black, chocolate, phantom, sable, and parti. Our puppies have wavy to curly coats, and are low to no shedding. Healthy dogs are a priority to us. Therefore, each of our parent dogs are genetically tested and we offer a two year guarantee against genetic disease. Our two-year guarantee covers genetic joint issues. And, finally, all of our parents visit a certified veterinary ophthalmologist every two years to get their CAER certificates. We raise our dogs with care, including taking critical steps during the first eight weeks of the puppy's life to ensure we raise happy, socially successful, and trainable dogs. Early neurological stimulation, daily handling and play, noise-desensitization, and age appropriate exposure to a crate are important parts of our program. And, of course, at 4 weeks we give the pups a great start to house-training with scheduled meals and outside potty time. All the puppies are raised in a loving family environment on their rural homestead. Personal Experience One of the most challenging aspects of bringing your puppy home is potty training him. The first thing to know is that you must start potty training your furbaby from the minute you get him home. When we arrived home with our new puppy, the first thing we did was take him straight out into the garden. As soon as the little guy relieved himself, I made a big fuss of him, and then we went indoors. Mark The Spot! That enabled me to grab the puppy and take him outside before accidents happened. Gradually, Raffles learned where his poop place was, and he quickly gravitated to the spot where the first potty stop was. After a couple of weeks, the accidents became less frequent, and by week four, little Raffles was pretty much potty trained! If you did, please remember to share! Goldendoodles are extremely popular dogs, so you can expect to pay top dollar for a well-bred puppy. Puppies offered for sale at very cheap prices are often from puppy mills or backyard breeders. Our goldendoodle puppies are raised to be the best pet for their new owners and come well socialized. These goldendoodles get lots of attention from a large family and are raised in a relaxed rural setting. Health Guarantee Our goldendoodle puppies come with a 7 day health guarantee and a 2 year genetic guarantee. We never want any of our goldendoodles to have to go through any physical pain, especially that which is caused by careless breeding of unhealthy dogs or the mistreatment of the puppy. Health of a puppy is our first concern, followed by the temperament which is explained below in the Training section. Our Goldendoodle Puppies We raise Goldendoodles. The first generation goldendoodles have a hybrid vigor common to first generation crosses. Hybrid, or F1, goldendoodle are less susceptible to common illnesses that are common to purebreds and are generally more allergy friendly than the retrievers. Most shed little and all are very intelligent. The type of coat on each of our goldendoodle puppies ranges from slightly wavy to extremely curly. Update: we are no longer raising miniature labradoodle puppies due to inconsistent coat qualities. We have been more successful in achieving lower shedding and softer coats with the miniature goldendoodle breed. Miniature Doodles We started out breeding the standard Labradoodle and Goldendoodle breeds, but we now specialize in Miniature Goldendoodles. These are also a first generation, first generation backcross, or multigen hybrid crosses, but between the golden retriever and a miniature poodle breeds. Miniature, also known as mini, goldendoodles have become increasingly popular because they retain the same retriever doodles temperaments and coat qualities only in a little smaller package. These mini goldendoodles make ideal pets for families looking for a mid-sized dog. We have experienced a little more size variation with the miniature doodles, but most should stay in the pound range F1 miniature goldendoodle, pound range F1b miniature goldendoodle , or pound range multigen miniature goldendoodle. We have had a number of miniature goldendoodle litters without the health problems that many breeders like to warn pet seekers of. As far as we know, there has been no proven health or genetic issues differing from standard breeding except that of irresponsible breeding of unhealthy Golden retriever adults with unhealthy miniature poodles. Training One of the greatest qualities of goldendoodles is their ability to be easily trained. This results from their natural affection and desire to please. Despite this, training is one of the most important aspects of a goldendoodle puppy's life. Temperament: When a puppy is first born, it requires most of its attention from its mother. By the time a goldendoodle reaches 4 weeks old, they become quite playful. It is at this age that we begin playing with and socializing each one individually. Socialization is the most important training a goldendoodle can have between 8 and 12 weeks old. This is where goldendoodles develop their temperaments that will stay with it for the rest of their dog life. Obedience: Starting from weeks old, goldendoodles should begin obedience training, whether with a professional, or at home. It is here a goldendoodle will learn which types of behavior are accepted and which are not. It is essential that goldendoodles learn who is the boss, yet the owner must treat a puppy with respect and care to achieve the best results for temperament and obedience. Potty training is also a type of obedience training. You must create a schedule or perform a certain activity to get the puppy accustomed to its potty routine. Other simple obedience training areas that must be addressed include: nipping, jumping, digging, chewing, and yard boundaries. Purchasing Please search through our puppies available and email at sandyridge gmail. The balance the payment is due when puppies are 6 weeks old. You may pick out your puppy when they are 6 weeks old and may take your puppy home when it is weeks old, depending on the size. New owners are handled on a first come, first serve basis. Those who place a down payment first on a new litter will receive pick of the litter. Thank you for visiting Sandy Ridge Puppies. Please enjoy your stay. You may visit the goldendoodle puppy page for more information on availability. Mini goldendoodles tend to be sold quickly when available, so please contact us if you are seriously interested in a one of our miniature goldendoodle puppies.

As such, they are recognized experts in facts and figures for many breeds of dogs. According to their data, most labrador litters contain between five and ten puppies, with the average being seven. In comparison to all dog breeds, Labradors are right in the middle. The average size of a litter of puppies, in general, is five or six dogs. The largest known litter of labradors ever recorded was 14 puppies , born to a black labrador in the United Kingdom in .Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! In short, probably not. Your vet can confirm pregnancy, give an estimate of how far along the pregnancy is, and give you an approximate due date. Humans and canines alike know the excitement of a first pregnancy. When it comes to labradors, this can also impact the size of the litter. Biological and evolutionary factors come into play and make first litters smaller. Expect one or two additional puppies from her first two. After the fourth pregnancy, the litter size tends to taper off. In addition to whether or not it is her first litter, the age of the mother labrador also affects the size of the litter. Generally speaking, the older the mother, the smaller the litter size. This fact is a little confusing, though, when you also consider that first litters are smaller. It means that a 3-year-old labrador will have larger litters than a 5- or 6-year-old labrador. So, if two female labradors have their third litter at ages four and six, the four-year-old labrador is likely to have the larger litter of the two. How Old is Dad? Believe it or not, the age of the father of the puppies can also impact the size of the litter. This is because of the viability of his sperm. When a female dog is in heat, her ovaries release several eggs that are ready for fertilization. However, if the male dog is older, his sperm tends to be less vigorous, meaning fewer will reach the eggs, and therefore fewer eggs will be fertilized, resulting in smaller litter size. A Labrador lounges on his dog bed Natural versus Artificial Insemination How did the mother dog become pregnant? Many labrador breeders and breeders for other types of dogs, as well prefer artificial insemination. It also takes the social interactions of the two dogs out of the equation. Some dog handlers and breeders hesitate to put their mama dogs in such a sensitive and potentially unpredictable situation. The bad news is that, while artificial insemination seems to be the more controlled and safe option, it usually yields fewer puppies. Of course, the breed of the dog is a significant factor in genetics. Does the Size of the Mom Matter? Not really. If you have a mom who is part labrador herself or is a purebred labrador but has puppies with another breed, some of these numbers and averages change. If your pregnant pooch is only part labrador, the size of her litter will also depend on what other breeds she contains. The general rule of thumb is that the larger the breed, the larger the litter. If your lab is a part German shepherd , expect a somewhat bigger litter. The breed of the father matters less, though. The breed of the father has more to do with the size of each individual puppy. Fun fact: the largest known litter of puppies ever recorded is a whopping .Unsurprisingly, the 15 male and nine female puppies were born to a Neopolitan Mastiff in , one of the most giant breeds around. Do Labs like water? Healthy dogs tend to produce larger litters. 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. If your vet isn't concerned or dwarfism isn't an issue in her lineage I wouldn't be either. Like most larger dog breeds labs can take a while to 'fill out', per se. It's totally normal for labs to go through an awkward adolescent phase where they are horribly lanky. I wouldn't worry too much about her weight either, obviously as long as your vet is fine with it. At 1-year-old Teller only weighed 45 lbs but had reached his full adult height of 24" at the withers, he had a huge head, huge paws, and a supermodel waist. Seriously, he looked more deer than dog. I was worried he would look like that forever he's my first big dog but the vet and trainer assured me he would grow into his body. A year later he had put on 30 lbs of substance! If anyone told me my greyhound-looking lab pup would turn into a solid chap, I'd have looked at them like they had 2 heads. She should be of a similar size to her parents and any previous litters they had if any. Is she from show or working lines? Working lines tend to produce more athletic-looking leaner dogs than show lines and those bred as plain ol' pets can go either way. I've seen some lab bitches out of field champions that are only 50 lbs or so and others that are closer to 70 lbs. However big she ends up being, I'm sure she will be a great girl! That's my boy at 1 year. God, he was so awkward lol. That's him at 2. Black Labrador retriever named Zola, 4, delivered ten pups who are a mixture of three different colors — only seen on a "handful" of occasions before. Over the years, they bred a mixture of yellow, chocolate, and black Labs and decided to strategically mix doggy DNA to produce a litter of all three. They have used Wylanbria Kennels as their stud farm from the moment they started breeding. Diana Stevens, 47, the farm's owner, worked with them to breed a line of stud dogs with whom their female Labs could successfully produce a mixed litter. Zola was impregnated by Stevens' black Labrador Rocks, 3, who was also uniquely bred to carry all three color genes. SWNS It took over a decade to combine the correct genes on both sides to make it happen, and even then, the chances were still slim. The ten adorable pups — two yellow, three chocolate, and five black — were born on October 18 and are all matched with permanent loving homes. Last week, Zola went into labor, and Davis told SWNS she had her fingers crossed that this would be the litter that she'd both been waiting for — and wish was granted. The couple has a huge waiting list of families keen to get one of their pups. Zola had a tricky pregnant experience with her rarer litter — culminating in her delivering the puppies via C-section — so Davis has decided not to breed her anymore. In a few years, Davis plans to breed from one of Zola's daughters, which will give her the freedom to choose between each color combination. Related Articles. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin. But what if you have a Lab that has recently given birth to only 2 puppies? Is that normal for Labradors, or should it be a cause for concern? The larger the breed, the more likely the litter will be bigger, but a healthy Lab can also have a small litter. The rest of this article will go into Labrador litter sizes in greater detail. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting subject! The breed of the mother is another factor to consider. Make sure to keep your puppies warm during the first few weeks. If the mother has previously had larger litters, she may be confused or distressed due to having such a small litter this time around. You should also stay close to her if she seems highly distressed. Littermates Are Important for Puppy Development During the first few weeks of life, puppies learn basic social skills by playing and play-biting each other. The mother will scold puppies for being too aggressive and teach them manners. Feeding your Lab a healthy diet will also increase the chances of a big litter. After seven years old, having a small litter becomes more common in Labradors and all dogs. Although it may not seem like it, keeping your Labrador healthy and active will also increase its chances of having many puppies. A healthy Labrador will have a more muscular body, so carrying a big litter will be easier. Litter Size Occurs Naturally You can do certain things to make it more likely for your Labrador to have a bigger litter, but it may not always work. Or she may be too young or too old! Many small dog breeds are likely to have small litters, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, and Yorkshire terriers. Typically, Labs will always have many more puppies than a Pomeranian. Jack Russels, for example, are a small breed, but their average litter size is six. Six is a big number, considering how tiny Jack Russels are! A healthy Labrador between 2 and 5 years old has the best chance of having a big litter. Smaller litters need extra help to stay warm due to the lack of warmth from littermates.

Boston Veterinary Clinic specializes in primary veterinary care, including wellness and preventative care, sick and emergency care, soft-tissue surgery, dentistry. The clinic also provides specialty services in behavior, nutrition, and alternative pain management therapies using acupuncture, and therapeutic laser treatments. Brian has over 19 years of veterinary experience and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 49, times. Pugs may be little, but what they lack in size, they make up for in personality. They are fun loving, loyal, and affectionate dogs that love to make their owners smile. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Crate training will keep your pug protected from household hazards, help with house training, and give him a place to retreat when he's overly excited. An ideal crate size is 24 inches long x 18 inches wide x 21 inches high 61 cm x 46 cm x 53cm. Place a blanket on top of the crate so it feels like a cozy den to your pug. Leave the crate door open at all times during this part of crate training. This will allow your pug to explore the crate at his leisure, without fear of you closing the door behind him. For crate training to be effective, your pug must learn to be comfortable in the crate when its door is closed. Gradually, have your pug wait up to 10 minutes after a meal before you open the door. You may need to leave your pug crated for hours at a time during the day, and maybe overnight. Sit with him briefly, leave the room for few minutes, then return to the crate. Work up to leaving the room for 30 minutes. Reward him with a treat each time he responds to it correctly. Practice leaving the house when you crate him. Do not get your pug worked up when you leave home or return; this could build up a lot of anxiety and anticipation in your pug. A common concern with crate training is whether to respond to whining, especially with overnight crating. Just be prepared for the whining to get worse before it gets better. Pugs aim to please, but can get sidetracked by a short attention span. When your pug stays focused on your finger on your nose, immediately give him a treat. Lengthen the time he watches your finger before you reward him. When your pug learns the basic commands, he will have the proper foundation to behave well and learn even more commands. Basic commands include sit, stay, come, and heel. If his short attention span is making training difficult, consider enrolling him in a local dog obedience class. Use plenty of positive reinforcement verbal praise, treats, extra petting each time your pug correctly follows a command. The more excited and positive you are, the more your pug will try to please you and behave properly. Pugs love to chew. Teaching your pug to 'leave it' will help keep him from chewing something inappropriate e. If you cannot stay with your pug all day and take him outside frequently, gate off an area in your home for him to stay during the day. Place some pee pads in the corner of this space where he can eliminate. When your pug urinates, the urine would go through the grass into the underlying tray. Place his water bowl and bed in the gated area. Without knowing when he should eliminate, your pug may have accidents in your home more often. A consistent bathroom routine is very important for puppies, since they cannot hold their bladders for very long. If you have a pug puppy, take him out first thing in the morning, 15 to 20 minutes after eating, after naps, and before bedtime. As he gets a little older and has better bladder control, you can start leaving his water in the crate overnight. The indoor gated area lessens the need for frequent outings during the day. However, it may take longer to house train your pug if he gets used to eliminating on pee pads or in the litter box. Your pug should learn to eliminate in the same area each time you take him outside. If you have a backyard, take him out on a 6-foot 2-meter leash, stand in one area of your yard, and let him pick a specific spot within a 6-foot radius of the leash. Examples of this body language are sniffing around, looking for a private place, going to the door, and whining. Give him a treat and verbal praise when he eliminates so he makes a positive association with eliminating outside. When you reward him for eliminating, he will also be learning how to respond to your command. It can take time—up to 20 minutes—for your pug to relax enough to eliminate outside. If you become impatient, you may experience what many other dog owners have experienced: elimination as soon as the dog gets back inside. Twenty minutes can feel like an eternity, so bring something with you e. If you pug has an accident and he probably will clean it up promptly with an enzymatic cleaner that will erase the urine smell. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source If your pug smells the urine, he will likely go back to that spot to eliminate. Do not punish your pug, whether you catch him in the act or not. Doing so will make him fear you, rather than teach him not to have another accident. Your adult pug may have had some previous training, but it may not have been completed or consistently reinforced. Ask the rescue group or animal shelter from where you adopted your pug about what types of additional training he will need. Be patient with your adult pug during the training process. If your adult pug was mistreated by his previous owner, he may be extra sensitive to yelling or harsh punishment. If you have other household members, have them all train your adult pug. The good news is that crate training a pug when done right can be relatively easy and fast compared to most breeds. The crate training process should start as soon as the pug is home, and the younger the puppy the better, old dogs have already acquired habits that need to be changed. Should pugs be crate trained? Unless your dog has some sort of separation anxiety or old bad experiences with the crate, then yes you should definitely crate train your pug or any breed for that matter. Before you do that, you should know a few things to make a good buying decision and have the perfect tools for the job. Choosing the right crate There are various types of crates and each has its pros and cons, depending on how you plan to use it and the breed of dogs you have. The most popular crates are the wire and plastic crates, there are also the heavy-duty ones for strong and aggressive dogs. Pugs are not large nor aggressive dogs, so there is no need for a heavy-duty crate, but a soft-sided crate is not a good idea neither. Pug crate size Choosing the perfect-sized crate for your pug is the most important thing about the whole process, If you get this wrong it can make the crate training difficult, longer, and perhaps even impossible. So how big should a crate be? The crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up, lay down and turn around comfortably with a few extra inches on each side. The crate should have a divider to adjust its size as the puppy grows not to change crates every couple of months. According to the AKC standards, pugs are inches in height and weigh around pounds, for a dog this big the perfect crate is 24 inches. We strongly recommend the Midwest Ultima Pro Metal Crate check price at Amazon , it comes with a divider and has a double doors feature which makes exploring it easy for the dog in the early stages of the training. Treats should be small in size to help you lure the puppy into the crate, reward good behavior and encourage the puppy when inside the crate. Chew toys will help you keep the puppy distracted inside the crate when you need to leave and after the meals. Interactive toys will help release the energy before your pug goes into his crate, and make a good training session to bond and also as a rewarding activity. A dog that is low on energy especially after a play session is more willing to go into the crate to relax, but interactive toys are to be used only for that purpose and when you are there. On the other hand, your pug can have access to his chew toys at all times especially inside the crate to keep him distracted. So what makes a good crate placement? The crate should not be placed next to noisy machines like refrigerators, heaters, or anything disturbing. It should not be directly exposed to the sun or in a spot with too much airflow. At night it should be close to your bedroom so you can hear the puppy when whining or when it needs to go for a break. Following this advice, it would be better to start in the morning so your dog has an entire day to interact with the crate before he has to sleep in it. We recommend doing it on the weekend morning to get as much time as possible to introduce your dog to his new home and get some bonding and interaction done before nighttime. Following these easy steps will make the crate training easier and faster, so make sure each step is valid before you move on to the next. Take your pug preferably with the leash on and just circle around the crate for a couple of minutes, let him sniff around, and check the crate out. When your pug gets inside the crate to get the treat you need to reward with more treats and verbally praise him. The best way to create a bond with the crate is to use food and toys, start serving your dog his meals in the crate then secure a chew toy inside the crate for your dog to stay inside as long as possible inside. Pug in the crate closed While your pug is enjoying his meal inside the crate you can slowly close the door while keeping an eye on his reaction. In the beginning, you want to stay next to the crate while your pug is feeding with the crate closed, when he finishes his meal offer a chew toy to keep him distracted inside. If things are going as planned you can leave the room for a couple of minutes at a time and then go back inside but act casual. At this point, you can leave the house for 30 minutes at a time, but you want to keep a couple of things in mind. Crate training a pug at night Crate training a pug at night is the hardest part especially the first night , but if you start early in the morning and introduce your dog to his crate it will sure be easier. You can expect to wake up a few times especially in the first few nights as most puppies will start whining and barking at night and also need to go for a potty break since young puppies especially small breeds can not hold it throughout the night. You can reduce the number of breaks by simply taking your dog for a walk just before he goes into the crate and also stop giving him water at least a couple of hours before. At night it is best at the beginning to have the crate placed close to your bedroom or in it so you can hear the puppy if he starts whining, usually just talking or gently tapping on the crate will suffice to calm him. How long can a pug stay in the crate? The time a puppy can spend in the crate depends on many factors, including age, the breed, and the activity level, but in general, young puppies can not stay for longer than one hour with two to three sessions a day. Pugs are not very active dogs, so adults that have had enough exercise and playtime before crating could stay from two to three hours at a time in the crate twice a day. Are pugs hard to crate train? The only difficulty being the breed is of small size so at first you might need to wake up a few times at night as they have small bladders and will need a pee break. Related Posts. The Complete Guide February 24, by Susan Crate training a pug puppy may be a frustrating or fun experience for you and your puppy. Younger puppies may take longer than older puppies. The trick to successful crate training is to introduce the training in small steps as you build up their love for the crate. In this article, I will take you through all the aspects of crate training a pug puppy that you need to know to make this whole process fast and easy. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you Keep reading. Why you should crate train your puppy I know this has been emphasized enough times already but I will say it once more, crating dogs is not being inhumane but a way of liberating them. A place he can retreat to find peace, calm, and alone time. You can go about your duties in the home without worry or distraction. Crates also come in handy when you want to step out of the house for a couple of hours and you have no one to pet sit. You can rest assured that you will not come to a messed-up house with litter allover, gnawed sofas, and pee in your fur carpet. Another great reason to start crate training is that it is the easiest way to housetrain your puppy. Since he will not want to potty where he will be sleeping, he will be forced to hold the bladder until when he is taken out. Crates are also a super convenient way to travel with your puppy. They are safer than having to keep checking on them as you drive knowing how playful and cheeky pug puppies are. You can use them for both short trips like to the vet, groomers, or grocery store as well as for long trips like interstate drives. In case of emergencies, it is safer and easier to move your puppy in a crate. In the midst of panic during emergencies, a puppy may run away out of fear which can be frustrating having to run after him. If you have multiple pug puppies, you can buy one with a divider, that way you can set a specific size space for each pug instead of buying several crates which can take up so much space. Finding the Right Crate Size and Type The perfect crate size should allow your puppy some room to make some movement like turning, lying down, and standing. Then add inches on all the measurements. Crates come in small, large, and medium sizes, most likely your puppy will fall into the small category size, but still, go ahead and check from the above measurements the category your puppy falls. If you would rather take a bigger crate that your puppy will grow into you can take a size up and use cardboard or dividers to allocate a sizeable amount of space. Crates are made of different materials and each material is ideal for specific purposes. Depending on your lifestyle, you may end up having more than one crate. We have wire crates which are mostly open, collapsible, and lightweight. These are perfect for owners who live in warmer areas or for use during the warmer months because they allow maximum airflow to keep your puppy cool. Since they are collapsible, they are great for traveling and movement from one room to another. Next, we have plastic crates. These are pretty sturdy and durable and great for air transport as they meet most airline requirements. We also have wooden crates. These come in a variety of styles and designs and are great for people who are keen on aesthetics. These however require permanent storage space and tend to be heavy therefore not portable. Lastly, we have the popular soft-sided crates that almost all small breed owners have. They are super light, portable, and great for short trips. Just like wooden crates, they come in a variety of sizes, designs, styles, and colors. When choosing a crate size and type, consider key things like portability, sturdiness, how well the crate blends with your home decor and ventilation. As for traveling, choose a crate that is lightweight, safe, has handles and allows enough ventilation. Its recommended that you get a crate that has ventilation space on opposite sides. Choose a place with high traffic, your dog still needs to feel part of the family even though in a crate. The living room or even in the kitchen would be perfect. However, if your pug puppy is the kind that prefers total alone time and gets anxious in a busy and noisy place, you are better off setting it up in a secluded corner. Ensure the place is clean, ventilated, away from direct sunlight and heat. It should not be too hot neither too cold. Set it up and allow your puppy to explore the crate. Remember pugs can get pretty anxious very fast when around strange things. Part of them getting familiar with the crate will include poking, scratching, and pulling it. Give them a few days before you can begin the training. Stock Up the Crate Once your puppy is comfortable being around the crate, stock it up with their essentials- food, water, toys, and bedding. Most preferred is to get one that you can clip on to the wall of the crate. Stock up a couple of his chewy toys too to keep him busy and to prevent him from chewing his beddings. For the first day, you want to put your puppy in the crate when he is maxed out. By this time he will be looking to take a good rest. Lead him to the crate, close it up, and walk away without looking at him. Continue with your chores as if nothing is strange. Come back later and open the crate to let him out. Repeat this several times a day every day until he associates the crate as his retreat space. Take note of his behavior while in there, if he seems anxious or agitated, take him out. It could be that he wants to toilet or he simply wants out. After a couple of days, start leaving him alone inside the crate. Step out for about 10 minutes, increasing the duration each day until he gets used to being in the crate alone with no one watching him. Never push, pull, or force him to get inside the crate. If he refuses, let him be. Try again after an hour or so. You want him to learn to get in the crate whenever he wants to. Crating only when leaving will make him associate the crate with being abandoned. Keep your kids away from it. They should not play with the dog when in the crate or play inside the crate when the puppy is out of it. Make it a habit to exercise your puppy before crating him. As mentioned earlier, pugs are naturally playful, and crating him when he is under-exercised will cause him to be agitated and restless and may make crate training so frustrating for both of you. Leave the crate open so your puppy can walk in anytime they want to without you having to lead them to it. Every four weeks, you can increase the duration by minutes. By the time he is 17 weeks and more, he should be able to be doing hours at a go. However, it should never go longer than that. However, there are times when you will be forced to cut short his crate time like when he wants to use the toilet, he is crying uncontrollably, vomiting or eliminating, or when he is very agitated. Pugs are naturally active breeds and so they need to be active way more than they need to sit and relax. Ignore your puppy when he whines or fusses wanting to be let out unless you are very convinced there is a need to. You will know when your puppy is scared when he shows signs like flat ears, trembling, and having their tail down. Some even defecate when scared. Going ahead with the crating will only make things worse. Also never crate a puppy that suffers from separation anxiety , this will make their condition worse. Instead, seek professional help to deal with the anxiety. Puppies with separation anxiety show signs like drooling, excessive gnawing, non-stop crying and barking as well as soiling the house. This also applies to puppies with special medical conditions like convalescing. For these puppies, freedom of movement is what they need to help them feel better. And lastly, never use crating as a punishment. This will make your puppy hate the crate as they associate it with negative feelings that come with punishment. Also crating them just because they are demanding your attention and you want your peace and quiet is a form of punishment. After all, you signed up for it. You knew puppies demand affection and attention. The best way to start night time crate training is to ensure that your puppy is super tired before bedtime. Keep them very active one or two hours leading to bedtime so they are exhausted. They will fall asleep with no fuss. Wake him up if you catch them snoozing just before bedtime. Avoid nap times in the late afternoon or early evening. For the first few nights, have him sleep in your bedroom just so he can feel safe with you around. Every couple of days move the crate away from your room towards where you intend it to be eventually. During the first few nights of crate training, your puppy may whine and even cry uncontrollably. Let him whine till he falls asleep. Coming out to engage him will only encourage this naughty nighttime behavior. Soon he will learn that bedtime means only one thing- sleeping till morning and only coming out for bathroom breaks. If getting a wire or wooden crate or a crate with no enclosures, you may need to cover the crate, especially at night so as to keep your puppy warm. Covering the crate can help some dogs feel safer. Covering also helps to keep the dog under-stimulated at night and undistracted during their daytime naps. It makes them feel calm and relaxed. If however, you find that your puppy gets anxious or stressed remove the cover. Use old towels or bedsheets to cover the sides of the crate. Those tiny pieces of clothes can choke your puppy or cause obstruction. This can be very dangerous not to mention amounting to costly vet bills. You can also use wooden cardboard or specially designed crate covers. Puppies are notoriously playful and would rather spend time with you than in a kennel. If you heed to everything we have taught you and put it into practice consistently, crate training should take you two to three weeks depending on the age of your puppy. So yeah, it is difficult but very doable and rewarding. Email One of the most cuddly and sweet yet, stubborn and destructive to stuffs at home is the pug breed. Pug puppies in particular can be quite a handful when not house trained properly. They can gnaw on precious furniture, break valuable decors or, worst, bite or scratch anyone who comes near them. Crate training for pug helps put a lid to their seemingly limitless vigor and minimize some of the difficult aspects of house training. It also makes it easier to bring them along when traveling. So, how does a pug owner go about it? Many pet owners have used this method to control their pugs for either competitive-obedience training or when going to a competition or simply, to house train a new pug. Here are the steps how: 1. Consider the future size of your pug. This dog breed though predominantly small will need a lot of wiggle room due to their hyperactive nature. A puppy, for instance, will need at least a crate that allows it to stand, turn and lie down. While multiple pugs owner go for ones with a divider. Coming in either 1 door or 2-door choices, it features the following 7 sizes— 2XS 22x13x16in , XS 24x18x20in , S 30x19x21in , M 36x23x25 , and L 42x28x30in — to suit your specific requirement. Made from high quality heavy-duty metal construction, this pug crate is built with durability in mind. The plastic pan at the bottom also helps collect waste. Fret-not though as this removable pan can be easily cleaned. Once you have the right size crate, it is time to set it up. Find a space where it is most active and familiar. Some choose less trafficked areas in the household to help alleviate pug anxiety. Others, however, are more liberal-minded by exposing it to where the commotion in a home to keep it attuned to the environment. Allow your pug to get curious with its crate. Like other dog breeds, crate training for pug can make pugs anxious. Allow it to explore then. Aside from the puppy, make sure it has comfortable bedding, chew toys, and clean water. Feed a pug inside its crate. As pugs love to eat, this move will link it to associate being inside the crate as a good thing. Keep the door shut when the pug is eating and then, opening it after feeding time. After a week, place your pug inside the crate and close the door. Now feed some treats to it every 5 minutes through the door. Increate the time of giving treats gradually until such time that the pug keep itself comfortable without you shoving treats every now and then. With you still inside the room, leave it there for 10 minutes max. Now, leave the pug inside the crate with a chew toy and leave the room for at least 5 minutes. Let it out once you are back inside the room. Do not go beyond the three-hour training period of keeping a pug inside its crate. Be reminded that this is a highly sociable dog breed. Keeping them locked up will only make them miserable as well as destructive. Pugs, as well as other dog breeds kept far too long in a crate, can become vicious when crate training becomes extensive. Many find crate training for pub challenging. But being a good housebreaking tool, crates can be truly liberating to you as an owner and beneficial to the pug, too. It keeps them free from outside dangers when you are not around. Crate training also allow them to easily travel without any fuss. All in all, training your pug to stay in a comfortable place like a crate will prevent accidents as well as keep its obedience in check. Incoming search terms:. If not, did you know that crate training your dog can be highly beneficial to both you and your dog? Contrary to popular belief, crating a dog is not a cruel act. In fact, providing a dog with proper crate Pug training is, in actuality, a positive thing. What makes it so positive? The den provided them with shelter and protection. This instinct is still engrained in your Pug. With proper crate training, your Pug will use his crate as his den and be able to totally relax in this special area which is solely his own. When you give your Pug a crate he has a place where he can feel secure. Crate Pug training helps to make housebreaking an easier task. Since a dog does not naturally want to eliminate in his home, he will choose to refrain from doing so until you take him out. When your Pug is effectively crate trained he will bark and chew less, and be provided a safe place to stay when you are not home to keep him out of mischief. A crate is a safe and comfortable place for your dog when traveling. You can also try feeding him in the crate to crate the same effect of making the crate inviting to your pooch. If your Pug is unsure about going into the crate right away to eat his treats or food, first place the treats just outside the door. Once he is comfortable with this, move the food inside the crate. When you are first introducing your Pug to his crate, always praise him when he enters it. Never try to push, pull or get him into the crate by force. Crate your Pug for short periods while you are at home. You will find that he will respond better to the crate when he knows you are still near him. During the first times you start the Pug training with the crate, close him up in his crate and stay where he can see you. As he becomes comfortable with this, take the next step and leave the room for short periods 5 minutes to start then gradually make it longer. When you get your Pug used to your absence while you are still at home, he will not associate being crated with your total absence from the house. How long should I crate my dog? It depends on how old your Pug is. The following are the essential furnishings his crate will need: Toys — two or three favorite or different toys will do IE. Kong, ball, plush toy. Just make sure it is nothing he can choke on. Water — If your Pug will be in his crate for two hours or more, attach a small hamster-style water dispenser to the cage. Fill it with ice water. Bedding — Place a blanket or towel on the floor of the crate so your Pug has a comfy place to lie down. If during the Pug training your puppy eliminates on the towel remove and clean it and do not put it back in the cage until he is properly housebroken. Where Should I keep the crate? Keep the crate in a well used area of your home; essentially wherever you and your family spend the most of your time. This could be the living room, family room, kitchen or hallway near the entrance. They also should not be permitted to play with the dog while he is being crated. It is important that you let your children know how this form of Pug training works. What size crate should I buy? The standard crate size for Pugs is 16in. If you want you can purchase your dog a crate that is one size larger than his recommended size. Your Pug is vomiting or has diarrhea. Your Pug is too young to control his bladder You must leave him alone for longer than is recommended for his age or longer than 5 hours. Your Pug has not eliminated before being crated The temperature is really hot or cold Your Pug has not be exercise properly Never use the crate as a punishment. Pug training in relation to a crate is something that will become easier with time. Be patient and persistent with your pup. The sooner he understands that the crate is his special sanctuary, the less he will reject it. Related Posts.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Sometimes I look at photos of my dog when she was small enough to sit in the palm of my hand. When did she get so big?! Times like those make me wonder, too: how much bigger will she get? Exactly when is my puppy likely to reach her full size and stop growing? If these sound like questions you have asked yourself, then you are not alone as a pet parent. Puppies change so much in the first months of their lives, but then things slow down. As a result, their changing size can sometimes creep up and surprise you. Exactly how long it will take for your dog to reach their full size depends on their breed, and them as an individual. Read on as we look at when different types of dogs reach full size and signs that indicate whether your pup may still be growing or has finally stopped. Puppies can reach their full adult size anywhere between six and 24 months of age. Smaller dogs tend to reach their full size sooner, and live for longer, while larger dogs tend to take a bit longer to fully mature and have slightly shorter overall lifespans, but these rules do not hold true for all dogs. Below you will find a list of some of the most popular breeds and when you can expect them to reach full size. Labrador Retrievers One of the most popular breeds in the United States often used as working dogs, Labrador retrievers measure between .They tend to reach their full size at around 12 months of age. Golden retrievers are another dog popular as both family pets and working dogs. They measure between 20 and 24 inches and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. They will reach their full height at around 12 months. German Shepherds Popular as police dogs, affectionate family pets, and guard dogs, German shepherds measure between 22 and 26 inches and weigh 50 to 90 pounds. They are not considered fully grown until they are at least 18 months old. French Bulldogs These adorable compassion dogs usually stand about 12 inches tall and can weigh between 16 and 28 pounds they have a tendency to put on weight when overfed. Unusually for such a small dog, they need months to reach their full size. Bulldogs A little bigger than their French cousins, people love these dogs for their distinctive faces. They are usually 12 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 15 pounds. It takes them about 18 months to reach their full size, skin rolls and all. Poodles Among the most intelligent dogs, poodles are fantastic companions and are often used in mix-breed dogs because of their hypoallergenic coats. While toy and miniature poodles are common, standard poodles are inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds. They do not reach their full size until two years of age. Beagles These little English hunters with their floppy ears measure 13 to 16 inches and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. They reach their full size at around 18 months. Rottweilers While rottweilers can have a bad reputation because of the ways that they have been used in the past, they are naturally intelligent and non-aggressive. They are big dogs, measuring inches and weighing 80 to pounds. They are slow maturing and will only stop growing somewhere between two and three years old. Daschunds Sausage dogs come in many shapes and sizes, but all have distinctive long bodies with short legs. The standard size is 14 to 19 inches and can weigh between 12 and 30 pounds. They grow up fast and will reach their full size at around eight months. Pembroke Welsh Corgis These little herders from Wales will measure between 10 and 12 inches and weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Most will be pretty much their full size by one year of age, but they may have additional growth spurts until they are as old as three. Australian Shepherds These intelligent working dogs from California despite the name measure 18 to 23 inches and weigh between 35 and 70 pounds. They will reach their full size at around 16 months of age. Yorkshire Terriers Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds measuring just inches and weighing just pounds. They stick to the height-related growth rules and will stop growing when they are only months old. Great Danes Great Danes are great in terms of both their size and their personality. These German kings and queens grow to between 28 and 35 inches and weigh between and pounds. They will keep growing until at least 18 months, and will probably be full size before two years. Boxers Boxers are another German dog of medium to large size. They grow to between 21 and 24 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full height somewhere between 18 and 24 months old. Siberian Huskies These dogs were bred to pull sleds in cold places, but their cute wolf look makes them popular household pets. They grow to inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds. They will reach their full size at 15 months of age. Cavalier King James Spaniels These dogs can look a bit bigger than they are thanks to their flowing locks. They will reach between 12 and 13 inches tall and weigh pounds. They will reach their full size at around 18 months. Doberman Pinschers Regular Doberman pinschers are quite large dogs, measuring inches and weighing pounds. They will reach their full height at around one year old but will continue to fill out noticeably until around two years old. Shih Tzu This Asian toy dog breed from Tibet measures between 8 and 11 inches and weighs pounds. They will be their full adult size by the time they are about 10 months old. Pomeranians Fluffy Pomeranians are inches tall and weigh just pounds under all that hair. Most will reach their full size at six or seven months old. English Mastiffs English mastiffs are big dogs , measuring around inches and weighing up to pounds. They will only reach their full size at about three, but growth slows significantly around the one year mark. Chihuahuas Another of the toy breeds, Chihuahuas, hailing from Mexico, measure inches and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. They will reach their full diminutive height by around 9 months of age. Basset Hounds The short legs of a basset hound mean that they only grow to about inches, but they can weigh as much as 75 pounds. Maltese These white balls of love and fur measure inches tall and weigh pounds under all that hair. They will reach their complete size at months old. Dalmations Dalmations are known for their distinctive spots, but they are also strong and intelligent dogs. They reach between 19 and 23 inches and have an athletic physique of pounds. Greyhounds There is more to these spindly littler racers than it seems. They grow to between 27 and 30 inches and weigh pounds. They will reach their full racing height at months old. Mixed breed dogs are likely to reach full size sometimes between the time period for their two purebred parent breeds. If your dog is not on the list, you can compare them with dogs of a similar size for a general guide. The best thing to look at as a guide is their paws. Look at the size of paws of similar dogs to help you determine whether they are the right proportions for your pup. If you are desperate to know how big your dog will be, you can also do a dog DNA test that can help you narrow down the possibilities. Factors That Influence The Size Of Your Dog While breed and genetic hereditary factors are the most important factors when it comes to the size of your dog, there are a few lifestyle factors that may result in your pup being bigger or smaller as well. Worm Infections If your puppy becomes infected by hookworms or roundworms as a puppy, this can stunt their growth. The worms steal calories and nutrition from your dog, which means that it is unable to grow the way that it should. Worm infestations are more common than many people imagine, as they are easily picked up in the environment. Poor coat quality, potbelly, and regular diarrhea are all signs that they may have worms. Other puppy diseases such as Parvo can also stunt their growth. Most dogs are vaccinated against Parvo, but it can be a problem when they have not yet been vaccinated. Prioritize food that is rich in protein and healthy fats, and keep carbohydrate intake under control to ensure they can reach their full size in top health. Spaying Or Neutering While many dog owners will tell you that spaying or neutering their dog seems to have stunted their growth, the evidence is anecdotal. In studies that have been run, it seems to have a negligible effect. It is often a good idea to delay spaying female dogs until they are fully grown, rather than at around six months, but this is to prevent related cancer risks as opposed to size considerations. Excessive Exercise Exercising your puppy too much can be detrimental to their growth. While it may not stunt their overall growth, it can cause different parts of their body to grow at different speeds. This can lead to malformations such as elbow and hip dysplasia. This is most common in larger dogs since the puppies have lots of energy to burn off, but as a general rule, until your dog is fully grown you should exercise them for five minutes per day for each month of their life. If your dog is six months old, then, they need just half an hour of exercise a day. If they are still growing at one year, they will need just 60 minutes, rather than the 90 minutes they will want when they are a full-grown dog. You can read more about the right way to exercise Labrador puppies here. FAQs Do dogs double in size from six months? No, at six months old most small dogs will be almost fully grown. Larger dogs, on the other hand, are likely to be about two-thirds of their adult weight at six months. Only very large breeds such as Rottweilers and Great Danes are likely to still be half their adult size at six months. Do the back legs of puppies grow faster? It is true that not every part of your dog will grow at the same pace, and it is not unusual for them to be a bit disproportional while they are growing. Puppies often have legs that are too long for their body. It can happen that their hind legs grow faster than their front legs, but this is not an overly common phenomenon. Do dogs have growth spurts? Rather, they have short rapid growth spurts that make it seem like they grew an inch overnight. They also tend to put on a bit of weight and then lean out as their body goes through its quick growth stage. Their appetite will also increase before a big growth period. If you are worried that your puppy is not growing at a normal rate, you should speak to your vet to see if there really is something wrong. Slower growth could be normal for them. If you want to give your dog the best chance to reach their full size, focus on good nutrition. The Verdict As your adorable puppy seems to just keep getting bigger each day, it is normal to ask yourself when exactly they will stop growing. How long it takes dogs to reach their full size depends significantly on their breed, so there is no single rule for all dogs. As a general guideline, vets will tell you that small dogs grow quickly and will reach their full size between six months and one year. Larger dogs grow more slowly and can take up to two years to fully grow, but there are many exceptions to the rule. It is best to research your breed and see what is normal for them. If you have a mixed breed, their age will sit somewhere between the ages of their two parent breeds. In terms of skeletal growth, paws are generally the thing that the rest of the body is catching up with, though they might still fill out. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Young labs are the Energizer bunnies of canines. They have boundless energy and seem like puppies for a longer time than many other breeds. But they do eventually calm down. And how you can deal with his energy throughout his youth. Labrador Purpose and Types Labrador retrievers are friendly dogs who love everyone—human and canine alike. No doubt that they make great family companions. They have boundless energy and were bred to work. They were originally bred to help with hunting and fishing and were tireless workers even in the icy waters of Newfoundland, Canada. Labs currently are also used in hunting, to flush and retrieve game. So their origins and current abilities demonstrate that the breed is still energetic in line with its heritage. There is one recognized labrador breed. Even though there is no official distinction, lab aficionados recognize two types of labs : the American lab and the English lab. The American labrador is leaner and was bred to work whereas the English type has a stockier build and is bred for the conformation ring. Because of their breeding, the American type generally is more energetic. If bored, they can become destructive. So you wonder when your tireless, bouncing lab will calm down. Most dogs noticeably calm down between 18 and 24 months old. Generally, smaller dogs calm down at a younger age than larger breeds. Labrador retrievers are a slow-maturing breed. But they will start to show more self-control in the home around two years old. A healthy lab will still have bursts of energy then and even later in life and may do zoomies around your family room. And most labs will still have a lot of energy, exuberance, and enthusiasm until four or five years old. But your pup will have more innate impulse control than he previously had and he will noticeably have less excess energy. Based on our experience, our first black Lab, Stetson began to calm down at around 2 years old. Our current black Lab, Elsa is almost 3 years old and still a ball of energy! Stages of Development As is true with any breed, a lab passes through various stages of development as he reaches maturity. During the first six months, the lab is truly a puppy. He will become increasingly independent and ignore known commands. Between six and 18 months, your lab is an adolescent. He will be full of energy, boisterous, and exuberant and will keep learning new things and socializing with new people, animals, environments, and experiences. By 12 months old , your lab will reach his full adult height. And he will add muscle and fat to his frame and will fill out between 18 and 24 months old. Then he will appear as an adult, not a gangly adolescent. But appearances can be deceiving. Although he may look like an adult, he still needs to develop emotionally and mentally. So he may engage in many unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing and destroying items, jumping on people, and pulling on clothes. After all, they can be dangerous to your lab and others. If he inadvertently ingests something, a vet visit will be in order. And jumping around people can knock them down like bowling pins. But also challenging. These practices will help your lab calm down. Physical Exercise Make sure that your lab has enough daily exercise. This can be a few long walks and some retrieving. Or even using a flirt pole can help. Labs generally love water, so having them swim can be a great way to dispel excess energy. Most will be natural swimmers. Stetson really disliked water and many of the other guide dog pups refused to swim in the pool. Second, we are taught not to allow our guide dog pups to go swimming anytime they feel like it. They are only allowed in the pool if we give them the okay. Just a few thoughts. And doing other activities can help. These include hunting with your lab, field trials, tracking, dock diving, agility, obedience, rally, and flyball. Mental Exercise Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise in releasing excess energy from your lab. It also helps expand his mind. After all, labs are intelligent dogs who need a job and want to work alongside their people. Have him explore puzzle toys. There are many, ranging from easy to more difficult. I set up various puzzle toys for my dogs and, after exploring them, my pups are happily tired and ready for a nap. Obedience Training Training helps communicate with your lab and sets forth behavior rules that he should follow. Manners training also helps with impulse control and calmer behavior. They should be small, no larger than a pea. Always have your reward treats ready before giving your obedience cue. Using a special treat such as small pieces of cheese or boiled, deboned chicken can help a dog have a positive association with something. At a minimum, you should teach your lab to do the following on cue : pay attention, come when called, walk on a loose leash, sit, lie down, leave it, stay, give and drop items, and be quiet. And teaching tricks such as spin or wave can also help. Socialization Socializing your lab is important throughout his life. Labs are naturally inquisitive, outgoing dogs and love to meet new people and friendly dogs. So take your dog out to new places to have new experiences. I teach this after a dog has had some physical exercise such as a walk or session playing fetch. You always want to set your dog up to succeed. I often use my rescued Aussie mix Millie as an example of why impulse control exercises are so important. Teach a place command. Teaching your dog to go to a place, such as a bed, and to lie down and stay there can help him calm down. First decide where the bed will be located. Gradually increase your criteria for when he will get rewarded. After he will readily go stand onto the bed without the lure, praise and reward him for remaining there for longer periods of time. When he knows the commands sit, down, and stay, you can have him perform those behaviors on the bed. Teach sit, down, stay, and leave it. These obedience commands are essential for any impulse control program. After your lab knows these basic commands, you can start adding distractions so that he will be reliable in any setting. And you can then use them in everyday life. Have him sit before releasing him to eat his food and before exiting a door or crossing a street. And have him sit before other activities too such as putting on or removing his leash and harness. Have him leave the rabbit that he wants to reach while on his walks. Capture and reward calm behavior. So have treats ready around the house out of reach from your dog. The goal is to have him naturally perform desirable behaviors. You can play this same game with a flirt pole. Teach a polite greeting. Teaching a dog to greet people calmly is a great way to enforce impulse control. And labs are so naturally friendly, they may be too boisterous when naturally greeting people. First do the training sessions with people your dog knows. This exercise is great for labs, as they are usually so friendly and want to greet everyone face-to-face. You can start out with your dog safely tethered on a six-foot lead to a solid object while wearing a harness. You approach. If your dog begins to jump, turn around and walk away. After a few times, your pup should offer to sit. Instead, you want your dog to think what behavior we want and to repeat it. You can also do a separate training exercise where you are holding the leash as someone approaches and you tell your dog to sit. If your lab goes to jump, the person should turn and walk away. As the person approaches, cue your dog to sit. Calmly praise and reward when he sits. Play a TV or white noise machine. Instead, be present to redirect him to a desirable behavior. Reward calm behavior. If you seem too excited, your lab will feed off that energy. And his excitedness will probably be off the charts. So try to keep a calm voice around him. If you wave your arms around or use a high-pitched tone, your lab will probably become so boisterous that it would be very hard for him to calm down. There are many holistic aids that can help a dog to calm down. A ThunderShirt correctly used can help alleviate stress and anxiety. And there are calming tabs and Rescue Remedy that can be ingested to help a dog be serene. Always check with your vet first before giving anything to your dog that he needs to consume. There are specific techniques described in the Tellington Touch that can help your pup relax. Even though you should see your lab become calmer over time, it will take two to four years for him to noticeably calm down. Instead, meet his exercise and training needs. He still acts like a puppy. Is this normal? Labs are a slow-maturing breed and, even though they may begin to appear as adults, they still are really puppies at heart. Your lab will become mentally mature between two and four years of age and will noticeably calm down then. In the meantime, make sure that you provide enough physical and mental exercise to meet his needs. And enjoy his puppy-ness! Why is my six-month-old lab so out of control? Will he calm down? So make sure that he has enough physical and mental exercise and train him. Do impulse control exercises with him. Eventually, over the next few years, he should become calmer. A lab rescue has a four-year old lab for adoption. Is this too old? Will he still be playful? A four-year-old lab can be a perfect companion. By that age, the puppy silliness and over-activity should be gone and he should be calm when needed. A healthy lab is playful and fun into old age. Final Thoughts Young labs are full of vim and vigor. They are constantly in motion and sometimes a blur of activity. Like any dog, they will naturally calm down over time. Between the ages of two and four, your lab should noticeably calm down. But still expect—and enjoy—his natural bursts of puppy-like energy. Do you have a lab? At what age did he calm down? Please tell us about it in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. As a Labrador owner myself, I know firsthand how energetic and excitable they can be, especially when they are young. I appreciated the detailed breakdown of the stages of development in a Labrador, as well as the different techniques and exercises that can be used to promote calm behavior. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us, and for helping us be better pet owners to our furry friends! When are Labradors considered adults? Labradors are generally considered adults when they reach about 18 months of age, though not all Labradors have reached their full size or maturity level by this point. However, this age is hotly contested, and many other Labrador owners have differing opinions. Quick Navigation What makes a Labrador an adult? Determining when a Labrador actually becomes an adult is a surprisingly difficult process. The general consensus is that 18 months constitutes adulthood, but there are many people who disagree with this statement. Labradors reach sexual maturity around 6 months. They can also reach physical maturity before reaching the month mark. Who decided that 18 months is the age we would use to separate puppyhood from adulthood? Labradors just grow, and eventually, they become large enough and mature enough that we consider adults. Many people still consider year-olds to be nothing more than glorified kids. This lack of a legally defined age of adulthood makes it extremely difficult to assign a specific age that Labradors become adults. In my opinion, the best way to decide when your Labrador is an adult is to use your own judgment based on their behavior and growth. Differences between Labrador puppies and Labrador adults Puppies are way more inquisitive One of the biggest differences between young Labradors and adult Labradors is that adults have more or less figured out how their small, contained world works. They know which time food is generally laid out, they know which areas are acceptable for sitting, they know where to go or who to bother when they need to go to the bathroom. This can be a problem for your home, especially if your Labrador puppy is an avid chewer. Despite your best efforts, your puppy will inevitably bite, chew, and attempt to swallow everything in its path. It can be tough to deal with if you have expensive furniture or leave your shoes lying around though. Puppies are oblivious to danger The scariest thing about owning a puppy is how oblivious to dangerous situations they are. For example, adult Labradors are less likely to get themselves tangled up in your feet. They are also more mindful of stairwells and are less likely to fall down them and get hurt. While adult Labradors can still have accidents, they are much more likely to hold it in and wait until they get outside to go to the bathroom. Adult Labradors have grown accustomed to the surroundings of your home and therefore look forward to the wild and interesting adventure that is a walk outside. Puppies are more independent Human beings typically become more independent as the years go on. Labrador puppies go through a stage of life called the flight period. This typically occurs between months old, and is characterized by the following behaviors: The puppy runs away and hides when you call them The puppy stays just out of reach of your hand when you reach out to put a leash on them. The puppy attempts to break free of its leash and run away. If you can successfully train your dog to come to your side whenever you want, the stresses of the flight period will be much less severe. This quest for independence only increases when your dog enters the adolescent phase, which typically starts at around 8 months. It might be a good idea to move any fragile valuables to unreachable places, lest your dog knock them over as he flies around the building. Your dog will become defensive and aggressive toward strange men. Your dog will either become afraid of or aggressive toward other dogs. Your dog may stop listening to commands as it vies for the leadership spot in the pack. Just know that their bond with you might not be as strong as a dog who has spent their entire life living with you and learning to trust you. Do other dog breeds take this long to become adults? Labradors are considered a medium-sized dog, which is where the consensus of 18 months until adulthood comes from. Again, there is no hard and fast rule on when your dog is technically an adult. While there are certain milestones you can use to estimate their maturity level, the best way to figure out whether a dog is an adult or not is to examine their behavior and make your own judgment. When is a Labrador Fully Grown? When is a Labrador fully grown? I was playing with a beautiful black Lab Retriever puppy the other day. It was still quite puppy like in its behavior but was physically quite a big dog. So, when is a Labrador fully grown? Most Labradors reach full physical adult height by 12 months old. Some labs may stop growing at 6 months while others will still be filling out by the time they reach 2 years old. Physical Stage of Growth for a Labrador Retriever Labradors are medium to large dogs with a working background. The tallest male Labs reach almost two feet in height and can weigh as much as 80 pounds or more. Labs were traditionally bred to retrieve waterfowl, which plays a large part in how they look now. The skin between the toes is longer which helps them to swim. Labradors, cute as they are, do grow up to be sturdy dogs. But what about 12 month old Lab? Or an 18 month old? As a rule of thumb, puppies tend to grow very quickly. In fact, the most rapid period of growth will happen at around 4 — 6 months old. By 9 months old, Labrador Retrievers will usually be at their tallest but will continue to grow into their second year. Most of the growing they do in the second year will be related to weight distribution and filling out rather than getting much taller. Generally speaking, Labradors will continue to grow up until around 18 months old. Aside from practicality, there are other reasons you should be conscious of how much growing your dog has to do. Many trainers who teach activities such as agility will not work with dogs under 18 months old for this reason. As well as growing taller, Labs will continue to put on weight until around 18 months old. Their eyes stay closed for the first 14 days. During the third week of life, dogs usually start to begin lapping water. At around 12 weeks old, it would be wise to consider putting your Labrador on a training program and continue with socialization. This is the best period for dogs to learn key life skills, from this age up until around 5 months old. So, getting training in early is important to raise a well behaved dog. Dogs reach adolescence somewhere between 5 — 10 months old. Dogs who are in the adolescent stage will have more energy, a poor attention span, more likely to show signs of aggression, and will be less obedient. Why Dog Behavior Changes as They Grow Just like adolescent humans, adolescent dogs are going through many physical changes. There hormones are all over the place which affects their mood and behavior. We all know about the moody teenager. Well, the same is true for dogs. Also, as dogs grow up, the world around them changes. We, as owners, change the rules. For example, when you just got your little labrador home at 12 weeks old, it was pretty cute when she jumped up you. She has learned that every time she jumps up you, she gets a fuss and a cuddle. Now, instead of giving her a fuss and a cuddle, you push her down and tell her to get off. From her point of view, the same behavior is getting a difference response. This causes the dog to become frustrated which causes a change in behavior. Adolescence can be a very difficult time for a dog! Related Questions How big should my fully grown Labrador be? How much should my Labrador weigh? An male adult lab should weight between 65 and 80 pounds according to the AKC standard. A female should weight between 55 and 70 pounds. However, these are just standards set out by the AKC and are not necessarily indicators of whether or not your lab is healthy. How old are Labs when they stop growing? Trusted by millions of dog lovers worldwide. When do Labradors calm down? If your Lab seems to be acting out, or is refusing to follow commands, you may need to reflect on their training. Sometimes you need to go back to the beginning to move forward. When Do Labradors Mature — Physical Maturity Large breeds like the Labrador Retriever will reach physical maturity somewhere between the ages of 11 and 18 months. This can vary based on genetics, sex, and more. Physical maturity can affect a lot of things, including, the type of food your dog eats. When are Labradors Fully Grown? This question will depend a little on the size of your Lab when fully grown. Even within one breed, adult sizes can vary a lot. Fully grown Labs can range from 55 to 80 pounds in weight, and from .Females are usually smaller than males. Your Lab will usually reach their full grown height and weight at some point between 11 and 18 months old. But, the exact time will depend on their adult size. When Should I Neuter my Lab? This is because, after being neutered, your dog lacks the hormones that would switch off his growth. Studies have shown that early neutering or spaying Labradors before 6 months old can increase their risk of developing joint problems like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament tear. Speak to your vet to get the latest information on this topic. Neutering or spaying your dog can have a number of health benefits, including the obvious birth control. This study suggests that neutering a Lab before 6 months old can significantly increase their risk of joint problems. So, you may choose to wait until your Lab is physically mature before you neuter or spay them. Puppy food and adult dog food have very different balances of nutrients. Puppy food will contain higher levels of protein than adult dog food. But, this can vary from dog to dog. Some dogs will still be growing at this age, so should wait a little longer. The best person to advise you about this is your vet. They will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific Lab. Generally, Labradors will usually reach sexual maturity somewhere between 6 and 9 months old. Although, this stage could be later. This means it is very possible for your Lab to get pregnant whilst she is still a puppy. When Can my Labrador Breed? As Labradors can reach sexual maturity from as early as 6 months, some Labradors can technically mate from this young age. When your female Lab has her first heat, it is possible for her to get pregnant. Male Labs will usually start showing interest to females at around this age, so you should assume they can impregnate another dog from this age. Whether you have a male or female Lab, you should avoid breeding them at this age. Female dogs need to be both physically and sexually mature before they are bred. But, they also should not be too old. Ideally, somewhere between 2 and 4 years old is the right age for breeding your Labrador. If you are not looking to breed your Lab, you may wish to talk to your vet about spaying or neutering them after they reach sexual maturity. Just remember the affect this can have on their physical growth, and the risk of joint problems. When do Labradors Mature Mentally? The third type of maturity that will be of interest to Labrador owners is mental maturity. Labs have a reputation for being friendly, affectionate, and eager to please. Lab puppies, like any puppies, can be boisterous, destructive, and bitey. This can lead to stress, exhaustion, and hopelessness in puppy owners. The bad news is that this stage of maturity takes the longest to reach. In fact, some Labs can take up to two years to reach full mental maturity. Labrador puppies are known for their biting phase. But, this stage does pass as your Labrador puppy matures. Some of this biting is down to teething. Lab puppies will usually start teething from around 3 or 4 months old. This stage can last until around 7 months old, when your Lab will have their full set of adult teeth. But, not all biting is due to teething. Puppies will also bite during play. So, practice calm behavior and ignore any biting that does happen. These steps can help to shorten the bitey period. When do Labradors Calm Down? Along with biting, Labrador puppies can seem very boisterous and over-excited, particularly when they are playing with you. So when do Labradors mature and settle down? It can take up to 2 years for Labs to completely mature mentally. This means, boisterous and excitable play can last up to two years. But, there are things you can do whilst your puppy is growing to reduce this boisterous behavior. Make sure to reward your puppy when he or she is calm. This could be when they are entertaining themselves with a toy, or just when they are chilling around your house. This way, your puppy will learn that calm behavior earns them great things! And, they will be more likely to act this way in the future. There may still be times when your Lab seems boisterous, noisy, or over-excitable, even with this tactic. But, it will help calm your pup down before they reach their full mental maturity. In terms of friendliness, affection, intelligence, and loyalty, this breed is hard to beat. A non-aggressive nature, a playful and exuberant disposition, an eager-to-please attitude, and a love of people has endeared the Labrador to thousands of dedicated enthusiasts. What you may not be aware of is that while Labs are absolutely wonderful companions, it can take a while for them to reach that point. Actually, quite a while. When do Labradors mature? Labs will reach physical maturity by 18 months. Sexual maturity will occur between months 6 .Though some maturity will be noted before age 2, a Lab will usually take 2 to 4 years to reach full mental maturity, and by the age of 5, a Lab should be well mannered, calm, and a joy to own. No more puppy issues! No more chewing slippers! Not going to happen. Your Lab will go through several developmental phases, some more drawn out than others, before becoming fully mature. Still, maturity in Labs can be difficult to measure, because, in some ways, a part of them always seems to retain some endearing puppy characteristics. Physical Maturity Most Labs will be close to their final height by around the 9-month mark. By 12 months of age, a Lab has reached his full height. Until about 18 months, a Lab will continue to add muscle and fat to his frame and fill out quite a bit, leaving behind that gangly, adolescent look. Generally, English Labs have a stockier appearance, a broader head with a shorter muzzle, a thicker coat, and are slightly more laid-back than their American counterparts. American Labs have a finer bone structure, more slender appearance, and narrower, longer muzzles. Fun fact: English Labs are more commonly seen in the show ring while American Labs are used more extensively in field trials due to their athleticism and above-average enthusiasm, but both types are Labradors through and through. Sexual Maturity Anytime between the ages of 6 -9 months both male and female dogs become sexually mature, capable of producing a litter. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about having your Lab spayed or neutered. Large breeds like Labs take longer to mature physically, sexually, and mentally, but Labs, in particular, are famous for taking an extra-long time to finally grow up and calm down a little. Brace yourself, because the answer here may be far from what you were expecting. While defiance, limit testing, and destruction should be on a downward trend by the second year, a 2-year-old Lab is still very much a puppy and will have a ton of energy. Labs who are between 2 and 4 years of age usually have an unrivaled zest for life and are always ready for action. For this reason, a sturdy crate is highly recommended until your Lab is fully mature and trustworthy enough to be left on his own in the house. By the fifth year, most Labs will be well behaved, calm, obedient companions with lower energy levels and a true desire to please their owners. Destructive behavior will begin to subside, not everything will still be viewed as a game, less time will be spent roughhousing, and more time will be spent relaxing. Puppy and adolescent behaviors such as stealing shoes, testing the limits, and outright defiance will be gradually replaced by a more calm demeanor and trustworthy behavior. Will the Teething and Chewing Ever End? Take heart! Unfortunately, no. Labradors, by nature, are a mouthy, orally fixated breed. They were, after all, bred to retrieve for hours on end, using their mouths to carry back downed waterfowl and fish a long time ago to their masters. When playing outside, many Labs will constantly have something in their mouths such as a stick, pine cone, ball, anything will do really. Socks, shoes, remotes, table legs, the list goes on and on have you ever seen Marley and Me? Training your Lab what is acceptable and what is an absolute no-no is crucial. Related Posts:. They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 60cm, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 38kg for a large male to 25kg for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognised by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Labrador are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labradors reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labradors are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labrador s are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labradors may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognise today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled the Labrador to number one ranking in popularity in America. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles.