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Breeds The link has been copied! Platinum French Bulldogs are a recent addition to the popular French Bulldog breed. They have grown in popularity recently because of their distinct color and eye-catching look. These dogs have a silvery shine to their coats that distinguishes them from other Frenchie breeds. In this post, we will look into what distinguishes Platinum French Bulldogs from other breeds, such as their DNA makeup , physical traits, potential health issues, and where you can locate healthy puppies for sale if you want to bring one of these exceptional pups into your house. What is a Platinum French Bulldog? They are distinguished by a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene, which causes their coat color to be lighter than regular Frenchies. This gene also causes an iridescent silver-blue shine on the puppies' fur, giving them a distinct appearance. Platinum French Bulldogs are essentially the same as any other Frenchie. They possess the same genetic markers and qualities that identify this breed, including its signature "bat ears," short muzzle, and robust body type. They share the same genetic markers and characteristics that define this breed, such as its signature "bat ears," short muzzle, and sturdy body type. However, what distinguishes them is a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene , which causes their coat color to be lighter than traditional Frenchies. The Blue Dilution Gene is associated with melanism, a recessive condition that requires two alleles to be present for an animal to display evidence of platinum coloring. While some dogs have only one allele, those with two alleles have the most prominent silvery blue coloration. Breeders must guarantee that both parents carry this unique gene mutation in order to avoid producing off-colored offspring or diluting their bright coats later in the breeding process. As a result, before purchasing your puppy, respectable dog vendors should always give proof that both parent dogs contain this gene. Are Platinum French Bulldogs rare? While they are not considered rare in the traditional sense, potential purchasers should conduct an extensive study before bringing one home because significant health issues are linked with this specific gene mutation. Yes, the answer is yes. This means that to be formally registered , they must comply with all of the same criteria and laws as this regulatory body. This includes having two purebred parents of the same breed, breeding according to AKC criteria, and passing specific health tests before registering. Furthermore, while some may feel Platinum Frenchies are rare owing to their unique coloration, they are very common given how popular these pups have been in recent years. This distinctive color is due to a gene mutation known as the Blue Dilution Gene, which results in an iridescent sheen on its fur, distinguishing it from other dogs. Platinum Frenchies, in addition to this eye-catching feature, have all the defining characteristics that make up this beloved breed, such as their short muzzles and "bat ears," as well as sturdy bodies and muscular legs - though they may be slightly smaller than traditional varietals due to their lighter coats! Aside from their platinum coloring, these exceptional puppies have other distinguishing physical characteristics that set them apart from other Frenchie kinds. Platinum French Bulldogs, for example, have more delicate facial traits, such as softer eyes and snouts, according to several owners. Another noticeable difference between Platinums and Standard Frenchies is their size; not only do they tend to be slightly smaller, but they also carry less weight around their midsections, giving them a leaner body type. Platinum French Bulldog common health issues Before bringing one home, potential buyers should be aware of the health problems linked with this gene mutation. The Blue Dilution Gene, which provides their pale coat color, can also cause health issues like Brachycephalic Syndrome , entropion or ectropion, hip dysplasia, or luxating patellas. As a result, owners of these particular pups must provide plenty of mental stimulation as well as physical exercise, or they may become bored rapidly. If left untreated, this syndrome leads people to have difficulty breathing via their nose or mouth and can lead to various health concerns such as snoring, gagging, coughing, wheezing, and fainting. Cleft Palate A cleft palate is a congenital birth disorder in which the roof of the mouth is affected, resulting in an incomplete or improperly formed palate. This disorder can arise alone or in combination with other facial defects, such as cleft lip and palate. While this defect does not always manifest itself immediately after birth, it is crucial to be aware of it. Newborns born with cleft palates are more prone to health concerns such as ear infections and difficulty eating due to their inability to effectively digest milk. Cherry Eye Cherry eye is a prevalent medical disease that affects puppies of certain breeds, such as French Bulldogs, even though other kinds may also be affected. This condition develops when the gland of the third eyelid enlarges and protrudes from behind the lower lid, like a cherry or lump on the eyeball. Skin Allergies Skin allergies are a prevalent problem in dogs of many breeds, including French Bulldogs. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to an allergen in the environment or food, causing inflammation and skin irritation. Deafness Deafness is a disorder that can affect any dog breed, including French Bulldogs. Symptoms include failure to respond when called, refusal to arise from sleep, and even utter silence when previously vocalizing regularly, making it critical for owners to learn how to recognize deafness in its early stages. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a serious medical issue affecting all breeds of dogs, including French Bulldogs. The latter are the most deadly because they can lead to organ failure if left untreated for too long. Platinum Frenchie lifespan A Platinum Frenchie has an average lifespan of years, while some can live even longer with adequate care and attention. These dogs are noted for being energetic and agile, making them excellent companions for active people who enjoy spending time outside. However, because of their smaller size, they may be more prone to certain medical difficulties than larger breeds. Therefore additional care should always be made to ensure the pup has the best possible care throughout its life. Potty training a Platinum French Bulldog is not necessarily more difficult than potty training a regular French Bulldog, as the process of potty training largely depends on the individual dog's personality and training history, rather than their coat color. It's important to keep in mind that all dogs, regardless of breed or coat color, require consistency and patience when it comes to potty training. The key to successful potty training is establishing a regular routine, providing plenty of opportunities for your dog to go outside, and using positive reinforcement techniques to reward good behavior. Finding a healthy Platinum French Bulldog for sale When looking for a healthy Platinum French Bulldog, it is critical to do your homework and confirm that the puppy you are interested in has been carefully bred. This includes examining the breeder's website or, if possible, visiting their premises in person and asking questions about the puppy's parents and any health testing they have done. It's also a good idea to talk to other owners of this breed to see what characteristics they have noticed in their dogs, such as energy level, temperament, and overall well-being. Other Exotic French Bulldog Colors In addition to Platinum-colored French Bulldogs, there are several other exotic coloring options available in the breed. Lilac Frenchies have a unique coat color that is a light shade of grayish-purple, while Merle Frenchies have a distinctive pattern that is characterized by random blotches of color on a base coat. Red Fawn Frenchies have a rich red hue to their coat, while Fluffy Frenchies have a longer and more wavy coat than a traditional Frenchie. While exotic coloring can make a French Bulldog stand out in a crowd, it's important to remember that breeding for specific coat colors or patterns can compromise the health and well-being of the breed. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and temperament of the breed over appearance, and carefully select breeding pairs based on factors such as health, temperament, and genetic diversity. Final Thoughts Overall, when it comes to Platinum French Bulldogs, the key to selecting a healthy pup is to do your research and buy from a reliable supplier. By asking questions of breeders, owners, and vets, you will be able to discover any possible concerns before they develop, ensuring that you and your furry pet have many happy years together. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Menu Menu Platinum French bulldog One to two litters per year will have a small number of beautiful and stunning Platinum French bulldog puppies for sale. Our Platinum Frenchie puppies for sale mostly are lilac platinum or Isabella platinum when available. Considered rare these Frenchie puppies for sale near me are some of the coolest of the bunch. Platinum Frenchie puppies for sale If you are searching for one of the most rare French bulldog colors, look no further than Platinum French bulldog puppies. Platinum Frenchies for sale are going to be anywhere from k or more depending on type of registration pet or breeding rights. Owning a platinum French bulldog puppy is just like any other type besides it being a really cool color! Here is a 2 day old platinum Frenchie puppy feeding on mom here at DFB. As experienced French bulldog breeders we offer 1 platinum on average for every litter of pups we produce. Check out our Amazing Stud and sire to most of our amazing litters! He is absolutely stunning, well mannered and one of the best structured studs carrying testable chocolate, cream and makes amazing platinum french bulldog puppies, and fluffy currently working within the USA! These pups are stunning in every aspect. There is just something about a Frenchie Puppy with white fur and blue eyes! Reserve an Elon pup today and experience one of his amazing offspring! Elon can make Blues, blues and tans, Isabella, Isabella and tan, New Shade isabella, Lilac, Lilac and tan, fluffies, creams, basically everything under the rainbow with AMAZING compact structure, big heads, with both intelligence and temperament to boot! We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. Do we have retired French Bulldogs? Since our dogs are raised in our home they are family to us. So on occasion we may have one that would be willing to place in a 5 star home. As of now we do not have any that are going to be placed. But please keep checking back or ask to be on a wait list for a retired dog. I do not ship. I will not transport our puppies in a van with other dogs. I will not put them on a plane by themselves. I will drive to meet and deliver your puppy within a reasonable distance. We can recommend a flight nanny at buyers expense. Are French Bulldogs smart? The French Bulldog is indeed an intelligent and very smart breed of dogs, and the natural companionship the French Bulldog exhibits is extraordinary. Frenchies display their smartness at home and in other activities and are very fun to be around. On the other hand, French bulldogs can be very stubborn, and difficult to train. Patience is key to having a French Bulldog. You can expect the greatest attention to detail to make your experience of purchasing a puppy a fun and enjoyable process, as it should be. We are located in Denison, Texas about 1. We are happy to meet you halfway in Amarillo. Me What makes Platinum Frenchies so special and high-value? Platinum French Bulldogs are a relatively new and rare color variation of the French Bulldog breed. As such, they are highly sought after by dog enthusiasts and breeders alike, and their value can be significantly higher than other French Bulldog colors. One of the main factors that contribute to the high value of Platinum Frenchies is their unique coat color. The platinum color in Frenchies is optically similar to albino but retains some luster in their coat as opposed to the pure white seen in albino. It is also similar to a light cream color but it is off-white or sort of silver-looking. What makes platinum Frenchies special and highly valuable for breeding purposes is that they carry the most colors in French bulldogs: whichever color a platinum Frenchie is mixed with, the puppies will be of that color. They are certainly very rare and unique dogs. Moreover, Platinum French Bulldogs are also known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. They are highly adaptable dogs that thrive in a variety of living situations, making them a popular choice for city dwellers and families alike. Platinum Frenchies are also known for their compact and sturdy build, which makes them ideal companions for those who are looking for a small but sturdy dog that is easy to care for. While the initial cost of a Platinum Frenchie may be high, they can bring years of love and companionship into your life, making them well worth the investment for many dog lovers. Here are some things to keep in mind: Socialization During the first few months of their lives, Platinum Frenchie puppies need to be socialized to a variety of people, places, and other animals. This will help them develop into well-adjusted, friendly dogs later in life. Training Basic obedience training should begin as early as possible. Consistent and positive reinforcement training will help your puppy learn good manners and develop good habits. Feeding Platinum Frenchie puppies have specific dietary needs that should be met to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. Be sure to feed your puppy a high-quality, nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Exercise While Platinum Frenchies are a small breed, they still require daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Make sure to provide your puppy with plenty of opportunities to play and exercise, but be mindful not to over-exercise them. Grooming Platinum Frenchie puppies have short coats that require minimal grooming. Overall, the first few months with your Platinum Frenchie puppy will require patience, love, and dedication. With proper care, socialization, and training, your puppy will grow up to be a loyal and loving companion. Here are some things to look for when choosing a breeder: Health certifications Reputable breeders will provide health certifications for their breeding dogs, which will help to ensure that the puppies they produce are healthy and free of genetic health issues. We also do several tests on all of our puppies before shipping them to their new homes. Socialization Good breeders will ensure that their puppies are well-socialized and exposed to a variety of people and experiences during their early weeks of life. Our puppies grow up in a kennel-free environment to ensure healthy muscle growth. Feel free to ask your questions to our Frenchie experts! References A reputable breeder should be able to provide references from previous clients who have purchased puppies from them. We have a closed Facebook group with Tomkings owners and prospective owners. Feel free to join our group and meet the others! Support A good breeder will provide ongoing support to their clients, including advice on training and care, as well as being available to answer any questions or concerns that may arise.

Weight: Less than 28 pounds. Size: inches. Temperament: Sociable, laid-back and attentive. Blue French Bulldog Appearance Despite their small size they stand with a confidence that outshines their height. The breed itself is well-known for their characteristic smushed-in face and bat-like ear, which are always pricked and attentive to their surroundings. While their tails are often short and stumpy, they are not docked. Blue Frenchies are a small and stocky breed with a smooth coat. Size The Blue French Bulldog is inches tall and should not exceed 28 pounds. Thanks to their genetics their coat has that marvelous blue color, often either solid or with some white markings on the chest and belly. Special attention should be given to these areas while grooming as wrinkles can easily trap bacteria. They will shed twice a year. Frenchies are also popular on social media — Manny the Frenchie has over 1 million Instagram followers. They are unable to give birth naturally and often need a C-Section. This breed almost ended up with the rose ear of the English Bulldog, rather than the bat ears this dog is well-known for. They are playful and alert pups who often enjoy basic dog games like fetch. Due to their flat faces they will settle for a walk around the block. Still no matter the game all they want to do is be with you. Blue Frenchies rarely barks and will often quietly get your attention. They are social and adaptable dogs that are able to get used to any situation. These pups especially enjoy the company of people, children and other dogs. Just remember that young children should be taught manners and respect when it comes to handling a dog of any breed. Because of their small size, it can be easy for them to get hurt, so it is important to remind your children to not treat your pup like a teddy bear. If they are not stimulated they can be a tad destructive, so make sure you give them an outlet for their energy — toys and exercise work best. This breed loves is tug-of-war. Due to their clinginess they may be prone to developing separation anxiety. Yes, they can provide lots of fun for the family as well as lots of cuddles on the couch. However as previously mentioned just make sure your younger children are educated on how to properly handle small dogs. Because of their brachycephalic face you should make sure to avoid overexertion while exercising. Grooming them is easy as well — just pay attention to their wrinkles as bacteria and food can get trapped between the folds. The biggest thing to look out for is their health more on this later. All in all this dog is suitable for any household, from family homes to apartments. Just make sure their needs are being met and they will be happy. Exercise Requirements This breed does not need a lot of exercise. A simple walk around the block with some off-leash play in the park is enough. Whilst they are happy with nearly any activity make sure to avoid swimming. Their top-heavy bodies can act as an anchor, making pools and lakes dangerous for this dog. These dogs would rather surf TV channels than waves! Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding When it comes to grooming they are fairly low maintenance. For their bluish gray coat, a quick brush with a rubber glove every other day with a monthly bath are all it needs. Their wrinkles need extra attention. Be sure to clean their faces weekly with dog-safe wipes as food and bacteria can get caught in between their folds. Cleaning those bat ears is a must to prevent infection, as well as maintaining proper dental hygiene. Because they are not the most active breed pay attention to their nails and trim them if they do not wear down on their own. Feeding and Diet As they are an inactive breed keep track of their diet. Overfeeding can lead to them gaining weight due to their low activity levels. This dog should not exceed 28 pounds as extra weight can put stress on their joints. Checking with your vet is a great way to gauge how much food your dog needs as well as what type of food would be best for them. Avoid kibble brands with excess fillers or by-products. An experimental study observed that obese dogs who were on a weight loss program better conserved lean body mass while on a high-protein diet. Due to their flat faces they can have respiratory issues. You can hear this through their snorting and labored breathing in hot weather or after exercise. In addition Blue French Bulldogs are susceptible to spine malformations and can be born with hemivertebrae or abnormally shaped spine bones. As well as some skin issues, there is the risk of color dilution alopecia. This can result in self-destruction of the follicle and permanent hair loss. No breed is entirely free of health problems but Blue French Bulldogs need extra research when it comes to finding a reputable breeder. Be sure to invest in good health insurance in case any of these issues arise later in life. If you plan ahead, you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on. Here at Blue Frenchies US, we strive to breed quality, healthy, loving French Bulldogs to provide to loving, forever family homes around the country. Hi and welcome to our website from the team at Blue Frenchies US. We specialise in breeding beautiful, healthy Blue French Bulldog puppies. We offer a nationwide delivery service chargeable and have delivered several puppies around the country, including Boston, Chicago, Texas and New York City. As breeders we have over 10 years experience breeding French Bulldogs and have been involved in the breeding of over 80 puppies. After visiting a friend in the UK, we fell in love with their French Bulldogs and knew we had to have one! We visited the UK for a couple of litters to learn how the breeding and whelping process works in preparation for starting Blue Frenchies US. We welcomed our first litter in at the beginning of the covid pandemic and our reputation is quickly building. Our puppies are brought up in a busy family home, around other dogs and plenty of family including children and friends. Our dogs are our pets and receive the upmost love and attention every day of the year and are constantly the stars of the show whether we have guests at home or are out on walks. Our dogs live inside, year round. When breeding, we go the extra mile to ensure that from as early as insemination, all the way until the day our puppies leave to their new forever homes, it is the most relaxed, comfortable and clean experience for our dogs and puppies. We hope you enjoy our website and find everything helpful. If you have any questions, click the contact us link at the top of any page or call us via the numbers on the contact us page. Get in touch for more information. Me What is a Blue French Bulldog? A blue French bulldog is a variation of the French bulldog breed, known for its distinctive blue-gray coat color. French bulldogs are a popular breed of domestic dogs, known for their small size, muscular build, and wrinkled faces. The blue coat color is a result of a genetic mutation that results in a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, giving it a blue-gray appearance. What makes them blue? The blue coat color in blue French bulldogs is the result of a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment in their fur. This mutation affects the melanin pigment in the hair follicles, resulting in a blue-gray appearance. The mutation is caused by a recessive gene, which means that a blue French bulldog must inherit two copies of the gene one from each parent in order to express the blue coat color. Are Blue Frenchies really blue? Blue French bulldogs are not actually blue in color. The blue coat color is a misnomer, and these dogs are actually gray-blue or silver in appearance. The blue color is the result of a dilution of the black pigment in their fur, which gives it a bluish hue. Silver Blue: This is a lighter shade of blue that is similar to silver color. Dark Blue: This is a deeper, almost black, shade of blue. Blue Brindle: This is a blue coat with a brindle pattern, which is characterized by streaks of dark fur interspersed with lighter fur. Blue Fawn: This is a blue coat with a fawn-colored undercoat, giving the dog a blue-gray appearance with a lighter underbelly. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are typically good with children and other pets and make great companions for families and individuals alike. They are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise needs, making them a good choice for apartment living or for people with limited time for dog walking. Grooming Grooming your blue French bulldog is important for maintaining its health and appearance. Brush your dog regularly to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Use a slicker brush or a rubber brush to remove tangles and mats. Bathe your blue Frenchie as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be careful to avoid getting soap in their eyes or ears, and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently clean the inside of their ears. Brush his teeth regularly to maintain their oral health and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Blue Frenchies get on well with children Blue French bulldogs generally get along well with children. French bulldogs are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful, and they tend to be good with children. They have a gentle and patient temperament, making them a great choice for families with kids. Size Blue French bulldogs are a small breed of dog and typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds, with males being larger than females. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. However, French bulldogs are generally a compact and muscular breed with a short, stocky build, and are well-proportioned for their size Lifespan The lifespan of a blue French bulldog is typically 10 to 12 years. Like all dogs, the lifespan of a blue French bulldog can be influenced by several factors, including genetics, diet, and overall health. A French bulldog can appear blue due to a genetic dilution of the black pigment in their coat, causing a blue-grey hue to appear. Are Blue Frenchies rare? Yes, Blue Frenchies are considered a rare coat color and therefore may be more expensive and difficult to find. What is the temperament of a blue French Bulldog? The temperament of a blue French Bulldog can vary, but generally, they are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs. They are known to be loyal companions and are good with children. Why should I choose Tomkings Kennel? We at TomKings Kennel are committed to the health, well-being, and responsible breeding of French Bulldogs. We put the needs of our animals first, and strive to produce healthy and well-adjusted pets that are well-suited to their new homes. We test our breeding dogs for genetic health issues and work to prevent the spread of inherited diseases. We also provide proper veterinary care for our dogs, including regular check-ups and vaccinations. We carefully plan our breeding programs to produce healthy, well-adjusted offspring. We also limit the number of litters our females produce to ensure that each animal receives the proper care and attention. We provide our dogs with clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions. We also provide our pups with regular exercise and socialization opportunities. We are transparent and open in our communication with potential Frenchie owners. We are happy to answer all your questions and provide information about our breeding practices and the care we provide to our puppies. We have a deep love and commitment to the French Bulldog breed and we work to promote and protect the health and well-being of the breed as a whole. The breed standard was introduced in stating that brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white are approved. The following colors are listed as disqualified including, mouse blue , solid black, liver, black and tan as well as black and white. The blue coat color of French Bulldogs is disqualified because it is not accepted by the official breed standard. It is considered a fad color. The reason why they disqualify this color is to preserve the breed standard and to protect the work of responsible breeders who adhere to the breed standard. Many people who breed fad colors such as blue are motivated by greed as these rare colors sell for very high prices. These breeders intentionally spread color genes that are unacceptable through the gene pool which causes problems for reputable breeds who are aim to produce quality French Bulldog puppies. No, you cannot show a Blue French Bulldog because their coat color is an instant disqualification. The B locus determines coat color which in the case of a Blue French Bulldog is originally black. The D locus is what determines if a Frenchie is fully colored or diluted. The D Locus dilute genes The D Locus controls the intensity of eumelanin pigment black coat color in Blue Frenchies as well in the pigement their eyes and noses. The two alleles on this locus are D and d. Blue French Bulldogs have a diluted coat because their melanophilin gene is mutated. Melanophilin is responsible for transporting and fixing melanin containing cells. No, Blue French Bulldogs do not change their coat color. The only change that may occur when they are a puppy is coat color lightening. For example, a Blue French Bulldog may look black when born but then over the next few weeks of their lives will develop a blue hue. A Blue French Bulldog is a diluted black color coat dog while a Lilac French Bulldog is a diluted chocolate color coat dog. Color dilute dogs such as Blue French Bulldogs are more susceptible to health issues such as color dilution alopecia which is a genetic recessive inherited condition that causes patches of hair loss or thinning as well as flaky or itchy skin. Just like all French Bulldogs, Blue French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed so they have a risk of obstructed airways, narrow nostrils, overheating and dental problems. Are Blue French Bulldogs Rare? Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are very rare. The dilute gene that causes their unique coloration is a relatively rare gene.

View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. 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. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are thinking that a Labradoodle might be a perfect addition to your family, you are right. They are friendly and intelligent dogs, and many have a low-shedding coat, which means they can be a good choice for families dealing with allergies or asthma. But exactly how much will it cost you to bring a Labradoodle home? The cost of a Labradoodle actually varies significantly depending on the specific dog and where you get it. We will go through all the things you are likely to have to pay for within the first six months of bringing the puppy home, and what you can expect to spend on the care and upkeep of your Labradoodle throughout their lives. The Cost Of Adopting A Labradoodle How much it will cost you to bring a Labradoodle into your household will vary significantly depending on where you get the puppy from. Whether you are looking for a standard Labradoodle or one of the small breeds that are the result of breeding a Labrador retriever with a miniature or toy poodle, also makes a difference, with the smaller dogs being more expensive. Why Are Labradoodles So Expensive? Labradoodles tend to be expensive because they are such desirable dogs. They are a mix of a Labrador retriever and a poodle, designed to be the perfect service dogs. Labrador retrievers have long been known as excellent working dogs because they are intelligent and motivated, which means they can be trained to complete the required tasks, and they also have a friendly and loving personality, so they know how to behave in public. This is essential when service dogs are able to enter public spaces that will be full of people, children, and other animals. However, the problem with Labradors is that they shed a lot. This means not only that they can be challenging to clean up after at home, but that they can be a health hazard in restaurants and places that need to maintain sanitary conditions, such as hospitals. Enter the poodle. Instead, the hair gets caught up in their coat and needs to be brushed out regularly. They are also highly intelligent, even more so than Labradors, which means they have a great ability to learn new tasks. They are also very loving, having been bred as companions, though they are a bit more wary of strangers than Labradors are. So the idea is that you combine a Labrador retriever and a poodle to get a Labradoodle, which has all the characteristics to work as a service dog and also has a low-shedding coat. But, since breeders are often catering to a specialist market, they do need to be careful to control for the characteristics they want. They need to be very careful to breed for the low-shedding coat since a Labradoodle naturally has an equal chance of inheriting a high-shedding Labrador coat and a friendly personality, as well as intelligence and an ability to learn. This is a lot of work for the breeder, so they charge more. The smaller pups cost even more because they are harder to breed due to the size difference between Labradors and small poodles. However, if you do come across a Labradoodle that does have the high-shedding coat of a Labrador, you might be able to get them a bit cheaper, as they will be harder to sell as service dogs. But be warned! It is almost impossible to tell whether a Labradoodle will have a low-shedding or high-shedding coat until they are at least 12 weeks old. With so much variation in the price of Labradoodles, it can be hard to know whether you are getting a good deal, or if you are being ripped off. Below are the main factors that affect the individual prices of Labradoodles and will push the price above or below the standard. These factors should help you determine whether a Labradoodle is being priced appropriately. Location Yes, just as housing costs more or less depending on where you live, the same is true of Labradoodles and all other dogs. Size As we have already said, size makes a big difference, and small Labradoodles that are the result of breeding between a Labrador retriever and either a miniature or toy poodle are significantly more expensive. This is because they are harder to breed, and they are also highly desirable pups. A mini Labradoodle can cost twice as much as a standard-sized version. Coat Type Labradoodles have three different coat types, which are classified as flat, wavy, or curly. Flat coats are most like the high-shedding coats of the Labrador, while curly coats are most like the low-shedding coats of poodles. Wavy coats fall somewhere in between. It will be no surprise to learn that curly coats are the most popular, and that dogs with these coats are more expensive. You might get a Labradoodle with a flat coat at a discount because they are shedders. This is easier to predict if you are breeding two Labradoodles that both already have the desired coat characteristics, but is very difficult to determine with first-generation Labradoodles. Coat Color Labradoodles come in a much wider range of colors than Labrador retrievers, and many of the more exotic coat colors are highly prized. Dogs like the Phantom Labradoodle and the Tuxedo Labradoodle are very coveted, and this can add significantly to the price of the dog. Breeder Reputation The fact of the matter is, when you are buying a dog from a breeder, you are putting a lot of faith into the assumption that everything they are telling you is true. They are the ones telling you that the parent pups have undergone extensive health screenings and that they have controlled for desirable characteristics. For this reason, reputation is very important among breeders, and you should always do a little bit of research on your breeder before purchasing. If you do find a good breeder with a reputation for producing happy and healthy pups, you can expect to pay more. They are at the top of the market, so they can afford to demand more money. Plus, good practice is usually more expensive to deliver. Additional Expenses When Buying A Labradoodle Puppy There are other expenses related to bringing a new puppy home beyond the price of the puppy itself. When you but a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, the price usually includes: Initial vaccination shots. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. 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. Other costs include healthcare, toys, insurance, and the cost of any training, socialization, and canine sports classes you join. You can get wellness or preventive care plans to help spread the cost of some of these monthly fees. You can feed commercial or opt for homemade food, but if you do make the meals yourself, you will have to calculate protein, carbs, and vitamins and minerals to make sure your dog is getting everything it needs. If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or general health problems, you may need special food that caters to these requirements. Labradoodles can have similarly high requirements. Some owners choose to undertake grooming and maintenance themselves while others book and attend regular grooming sessions with a professional. Which route you choose will ultimately determine the cost of grooming. A good compromise is to pay for professional grooming every 6 months and to brush, trim, and clip between professional sessions. If treatment and medication are not covered by pet insurance, you will have to meet these costs yourself. While this is true, insurance does offer peace of mind , as well as financial protection. If your dog is involved in an accident or does come down with an expensive illness, you may be hit with a vet bill of thousands of dollars. With pet insurance, the majority of this should be paid by your insurer, which means that you can decide on the best course of treatment according to how beneficial it is and not how expensive it is. If you have the kind of dog that gets through toys in no time, consider subscribing to a dog toy box. If yours gets bored of their toys, rotate new toys in and out of circulation, keeping old toys in a cupboard before giving them back after a few months. Your dog will treat it like a new toy. Image Credit: Mariusz S. It can be trained, enjoys working or taking part in canine sports, and does benefit from regular walks. Otherwise, the primary costs for owning one of these dogs will be food, insurance, and the cost of any professional grooming. The Labradoodle also benefits from being given plenty of exercise, but also mental stimulation. Canine sports, including agility, are a good way to provide the stimulation your Doodle needs, and these do cost money. If your dog develops behavioral issues that you are unable to fix yourself, there is a cost associated with training or canine behavioral work. First, consider adopting rather than buying, and if you do buy, do you really need a dog with an exceptional pedigree? You can save money on food by buying in bulk when the food is on offer, and ensure that you are getting the best value for money from the food you do buy. Insurance is another area where you can reduce regular costs. It is a good idea to have insurance but look at the level of coverage you get, as well as the excess and the copayment levels. For a slightly higher excess, you may be able to save some money on your monthly bills. Preventive care, or wellness, plans can also save you some money in the long run, but you do need to do the math and ensure that they really do represent good value for money or whether it would be cheaper to pay for each treatment individually. Grooming costs can add up , especially if you visit the groomer every month. Conclusion The Australian Labradoodle is considered a Breed in Development by the American Kennel Club and one should be fifth generation from the parent breeds, at least, to be considered a true Aussie Labradoodle. The breed is smart and intelligent, level-headed, and it gets along with family and friends while also tending to be friendly with strangers. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:.

If you notice any symptoms or changes to their appetite, mood, or energy levels, make an appointment with your vet. As a large mixed breed, New Sheps may tend to grow and develop rapidly. This can cause bone and joint issues in the long run. This is often a higher quality food that is lower in calories. It is important for this food to contain high-quality ingredients and to be free of any fillers, preservatives, or additives that will unnecessarily add calories to the food. Always measure out the appropriate amount for each meal. As a puppy, it is best to restrict treats and snacks too. Even as a puppy, your New Shep will require regular exercise. As mentioned, though, these pups are at higher risk of bone and joint issues since they grow so rapidly from the age of four to seven months. You need to be careful with how you exercise your puppy for this period. Steer clear of hard pavements and surfaces — anything that can be tough on their bones or joints. In particular, prevent them from jumping around on such surfaces. It is fine for them to play on grass and similarly soft surfaces. If your pup takes after their Newfoundland parent, they will love to swim, so this is an activity that you can try. Swimming is a great way for your pup to get a workout without putting too much stress on their joints. For high-energy dogs, break this up into two sessions. A brisk walk is the easiest physical activity. Frisbee and fetch are great for keeping things interesting. A good way to decide how much exercise your dog needs is to give them about 30 minutes and take note of their energy levels. If they seem content and not overly tired, you have hit the right time limit. If your pup still seems to have a lot of energy, slowly increase their playtime until they are satisfied. You should be aware that some New Sheps can be a bit lazy when it comes to exercise. Despite this, your dog should get a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a day. You may need to be a bit firm about taking them outside. If your pooch is on the smaller side and takes after their German Shepherd more, they may also enjoy agility training. On the other hand, make sure that you schedule a regular swimming session if your New Shep takes after their Newfoundland parent a bit more. You can expect quite a bit of shedding with this mixed breed. The best way to minimize this is to brush them regularly. Make it a point to brush your dog at least three times a week to reduce loose fur around the house. You will need to use a slicker brush and an undercoat rake as your dog has a double coat. It will make all the difference. If your New Shep has a coat that is more similar to Newfoundland, you should be aware that it will attract dirt, grit, and burrs. This means that your dog needs to be brushed whenever you take them out to a wooded area or a dog park. Failing to do so can leave the fur matted and dirty. Your dog will likely blow their coat a couple of times a year and the shedding will reach peak levels at this point. During this period, you should brush them out every day and use the undercoat rake more regularly. You will also have to add a de-shedding brush to the routine. Once every month or two is more than enough unless your dog gets dirty. Bathing them too often can dry out their skin and damage their coat. It should be noted that their coat can be rather overwhelming to the groom. This is why owners will often hire groomers to handle this task. They are best suited to cool or cold climates. They should always be kept indoors when the sun is out. It is best if they are close to a fan or air conditioning. Keep a close eye on your pooch to make sure that they are as cool as possible. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest parts of the day as they can overheat quickly. Give them exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. New Sheps are far too big for apartments. They need a lot of space so they will work better in larger homes. In smaller spaces, they may be prone to knocking things over. If your New Shep is of the high energy variety, though, having access to a yard can help them to burn off some excess energy. These dogs love human companionship , so never leave them alone in the yard for a long period. Instead, give them the option of coming in and out so that they can spend time with you when they want. Newfoundland German Shepherds are highly trainable. They have a great work ethic and are intelligent to pick up a wide variety of commands and instructions. You should start their training from the moment you bring your pup home. They can be difficult to control as they get bigger so starting young can help to avoid a lot of issues. These dogs are people pleasers so use positive reinforcement to get them to learn tricks more readily. You will need to find a breeder that specializes in this particular mix. Look for one that has tracked the health of both parent breeds, going back several generations. This can help to prevent various diseases in your pup. This is a rare mixed breed and is a designer one to boot. You may not always find one in a shelter, but looking at German Shepherd or Newfoundland-specific shelters may help. These dogs can grow as tall as 28 inches and weigh over lbs and might need to be classified as an extra-large breed. They are excellent family dogs and are great with children and other pets. This wraps up our guide to Newfoundland German Shepherds. With this information, you can now decide whether this pup is a good fit for you. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. They should be fed about 3 cups several times throughout the day with a high-quality kibble. Because of their large size, they will not be as suitable for apartments, but they love being in the water , which will allow them to burn off some of their excess energy. The Newfoundland part of the New Shep makes them excellent at water sports, hauling such as sleds or small carts and they have the potential to become exceptional therapy dogs. The undercoat tends to be dense and will be prone to tangles and matting. Particular attention should be paid during the spring and the summer when they start shedding. Dog skin differs from human skin and using the wrong shampoo might create skin problems for the dog. The ears of the New Shep might be erect like the German Shepherd or folded over like the Newfoundland. The Newfoundland is also susceptible to cataracts but also abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. The vet will run allergy, skin and eye tests to screen your dog for any possible inherited health conditions from its parents. Your vet will run hip, elbow and cardiac tests as well as DNA tests and a full physical exam on your dog. Your New Shep is a hybrid, which means it might inherit some of these conditions from its parents, but it is less likely. Male vs. Female Female and male dogs tend to differ in size, with the female usually smaller and lighter. The male can be 25—28 inches and weigh — pounds and the female might be 23—26 inches and weigh 80— pounds. As previously mentioned, these dogs can actually weigh as much as pounds. Obviously, female and male dogs also differ biologically. If you decide to have your female dog spayed, the surgery is a little more challenging than neutering the male dog. This comes at a slightly higher expense and a longer recovery time for the dog. Some believe that there are personality differences between males and females. Generally speaking, males are thought of as being more aggressive than females. In contrast, the females are thought to be more affectionate. However, there are debates on this subject. The most important thing to consider in the male versus female dog debate is that the primary source of their personalities will come from how you train and socialize them when they are puppies. Final Thoughts When you combine the intelligence and the energy of the German Shepherd with the calm and affectionate Newfoundland, you might just end up with the perfect dog for your family. The New Shep is a beautiful, large dog that loves the water and will make an excellent watchdog but without the aggression. New Shep puppies are not easy to find so you might want to begin by speaking to breeders of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. Attending dog shows and talking to rescue societies as well as local and national dog clubs could also prove helpful. Last of all, posting messages on social media will help you spread the world to a much bigger audience. The New Shep requires a fairly vigorous brushing routine, but otherwise, you will end up with a loyal and loving gentle giant that will become a beloved member of your family. See Also:. Final Thoughts The question may arise — if people have carefully perfected purebred dogs, like German Shepherds and Newfoundlands, why do they need to mix these breeds now? The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is not bred accidentally, of course. The answer is that the purpose was to receive the dogs with the best features inherited from the two breeds, such as a larger working potential and a calmer temperament. That is the answer to your question. The new dog hybrid is also called a New Shep or the Newfie Shepherd, and it is a designer dog whose characteristics are more predictable than those of other mixes. After reading this article, you will be able to decide whether this dog is right for you. Characteristics of the Crossbreed If you are interested in a New Shep, learn what characteristic features it inherits from its predecessors — German Shepherds and Newfoundlands. German Shepherds look intimidating and bark loudly. They are highly intelligent and become loyal companions to their beloved owners. They are also pretty trainable, eager to please the owner, and have a strong working drive. Shepherds are multipurpose workers suitable for doing jobs in the police, military, and guidance services. Guarding is also a good job for them because they are fierce and alert. Newfoundlands are much bigger and stronger than Shepherds. Though, they are also much calmer. The abundance of fur and big bones make them look impressive. They are gentle and sweet, but they also make perfect working dogs to carry out emergency services and rescues, especially those that include swimming in icy water. Rescuing children and adults from drowning is the job they have become well-known for. Nowadays, Newfoundlands are kept as home pets. The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix puppy is the offspring of crossbreeding that displays the best characteristics of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. It is larger than a Shepherd but much calmer and more affectionate. It is more open and patient to the presence of strangers, and more welcoming to other animals. Nevertheless, the New Shep has an outstanding work drive and very strong protective instincts. Appearance Like in other dog breeds, males and females differ in size. The male is usually inches cm in height, and they weigh pounds kg. Females are usually smaller and lighter. They can grow as tall as inches cm , and their weight is as much as pounds kg. Some dogs can grow very big and weigh up to pounds 91 kg. The typical Newfoundland German Shepherd mix has medium-length hair, and the double coat is immensely thick. The colors of the coat may vary a lot. These hybrid dogs can be solid black, sable, or even liver, blue, and white. However, the most common color after the GSD is tan with a black saddle. Some crosses may also inherit the color from their Newfoundland parent, and their coat may be brown or gray. The other characteristic features inherited from the two breeds depend on the gene mix. They can do well with children of all ages and people who are not a part of the family. These dogs are pretty approachable, though they may look intimidating because of their massiveness. New Sheps are amazing family dogs without the aggressive tendencies German Shepherds are usually prone to. They are very careful and patient with young kids. If this dog is properly socialized, it can get along well with other household pets. However, it can be wary of other dogs, especially if they are of the same sex. These dogs are very strong and fast, despite their big size. So, they can be excellent herders and work successfully in criminal apprehension for the police. They are also agile swimmers due to the feature inherited from their Newfoundland parents. The mix of German Shepherds and Newfoundlands produces more admirable personalities. While German Shepherds are alert and courageous, though prone to fearfulness, aggression, and neurotic spans if bred and socialized improperly, Newfoundlands are more loyal and selfless, courageous, calm, and patient. The mix most often displays the sweet and docile nature of Newfoundland. While being trained, New Sheps can be more stubborn and need more repetitions and consistency than their German Shepherd ancestor. This trait is also inherited from Newfoundlands and should be taken into account. It is longer than in purebred Newfoundlands but shorter than in German Shepherds. The reason is bigger because all large dog breeds tend to live shorter. The puppies are mostly born healthy, and this mix generally is not prone to severe health issues if it is bred responsibly and then well-cared and fed. The German Shepherd tends to get such minor issues as hot spots, allergies, perianal fistulas, and cataracts. The Newfoundland also tends to have cataracts as well as eye issues such as abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. So, all these conditions can be inherited by your mix-bred puppy from its parents. As for serious health problems, the German Shepherd can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bone inflammation, heart disease, fungal infections, and gastric torsion. You will need to have hip, elbow, and cardiac testing, DNA tests, and a complete physical examination for your puppy with your experienced vet to be sure about its health condition. Having the appropriate health test certificates from your reputable breeder is also great. Feeding and Care Since a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very large dog breed, it requires a special, high-quality diet meant for big dogs. You should give it 3 cups of kibble at least twice per day. You need to talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about weight loss or gain. Your doggy may need nutritious supplements or more exercise. You may also feed your hybrid puppy with a homemade raw diet, but it should be properly balanced and high-quality. Remember that human food is inappropriate for your dog, and human supplements do not suit it, either. As for taking care of the New Shep, it needs a lot of grooming. The immensely thick coats require brushing on a daily basis. The undercoat is very dense, so if left without care, it can form tangles and get matted. Brushing is especially important in springs and early autumns, when shedding is excessive. Do not bathe your dog too often. Bathing is necessary to remove heavy debris and dirt but not more often than once in two months. The special dog shampoo should be applied to avoid bad skin irritations. The ears can be either erect or folded, depending on the gene inherited either from a German Shepherd or Newfoundland parent. However, you need to clean them carefully in both cases, especially when the ears are floppy. You should also trim its nails and brush its teeth regularly. Ask for expert advice from your veterinarian if you are unsure how to do it correctly. So, if you live in a small apartment, this dog is not appropriate for you. You should at least walk with your doggy for about 60 minutes per day and play a lot with it. These dogs love being in the water, and that allows them to burn off their excess energy. So, swimming is an essential part of exercising. The doggy will enjoy hiking and biking with you, too. The dog also needs a lot of mental stimulation, including puzzle toys and enrichment games. The trainability of the German Shepherd and Newfoundland mix is amazing. These dogs are incredibly affectionate with their owners and always ready to follow all the commands. They are playful and patient, with strong guarding instincts, alert to threats but open to the presence of strangers. However, they can be pretty obstinate sometimes. So, you need reward-based and persistent training sessions for your doggy from a very early age. These dogs can become outstanding search and rescue helpers and are also great at obedience training and agility sessions. They are perfect at water sports and hauling sleds and small carts will be appropriate for them. They also can become exceptional therapy dogs due to their patience and affectionate attitudes toward people. It makes up a perfect family dog with strong guarding and protective skills. It is intelligent, patient, calm, and affectionate. The dog can be a remarkable companion, rescuer, and hauler. However, be careful to socialize and train it properly. If you have decided to adopt the New Shep, you will get the best friend and amazing companion if it is properly socialized. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. They will require plenty of space and humans that are strong enough to handle their size and weight. The color will depend on which parent it takes after. Most crosses that take after the GSD will don the famous tan coat with a black saddle. Other common coat colors include solid black and sable , while rarer GSD colors include liver , blue , and white. Similarly, crosses that inherit their coat from the Newfie parent are likely to be solid black, brown, or gray. Grooming Because the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix tends to have very dense undercoats, keeping them properly groomed involves a thorough brushing several times a week. This may become a daily requirement twice a year when they blow their coats and shed very heavily. Baths, however, can be done as infrequently as every 6 to 8 weeks. As with any other dog, regular toothbrushing is an essential part of keeping the Newfie-GSD mix properly groomed. Maintaining proper oral hygiene will keep odors at a minimum and will contribute greatly to good health and longevity. Strength Both German Shepherds and Newfoundlands are strong dogs, so their offspring will definitely be strong as well. Just seeing their size and musculature gives you a good idea of the strength of these dogs. This is a critical part of what makes them excellent working dogs. Speed Despite their size, Newfoundland-German Shepherd crosses are surprisingly nimble on their paws. Additionally, mutts that take after the Newfie parent are especially agile swimmers. They need lots of exercise to keep them on their best behavior. At a minimum, these dogs would need 30 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per day — however many of these mixes will need more especially in their younger years. Among the activities they are likely to enjoy are hiking and swimming. Because of their heritage as working dogs, Newfoundland-German Shepherd mixes also require lots of mental stimulation. Enrichment games, puzzle toys , and regular training sessions will keep them sharp and happy. Trainability Among the best traits of the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is that they are incredibly sweet and affectionate with their family. They are also playful and patient with young children as well as tolerant of other animals in the household. Despite their seemingly docile temperament, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix has strong guarding instincts. They are alert to threats and are capable of engaging if needed. However, they are more open to the presence of strangers than purebred GSDs. Health Newfie-GSDs are generally healthy dogs. However, their sheer size and weight make them more prone to bone and joint issues like elbow and hip dysplasia. Ideally, both parents would be screened for such conditions before being allowed to mate. Make sure to clean them regularly and keep them dry. Lifespan Newfie-GSDs are expected to live between 9 and 14 years old. Nevertheless, Newfoundland-GSD crosses often surpass this average lifespan when they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life. A high-quality, balanced diet is also essential to longevity. The AKC Canine Partners Program enables mixed breeds to register with the club and participate in various sports and canine events. This includes the eligibility to compete for titles in such activities as Agility , Diving Dogs , and Flyball. As far as crossbreeds go, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix is not very popular. That may have to do with the fact that each of these two breeds is more valuable as purebreds. However, it requires a dedicated handler willing to take on the responsibilities of such a large and active dog. Nevertheless, they can be an excellent dog to have, whether as a working companion or as a family pet. German Shepherd mixes come in many different forms and have many unique characteristics. The Newfoundland dog is loving, gentle, and are also famous for their loyalty and strength. Whereas, the German Shephard is recognized for its protective nature and courage despite being loyal. Now let us see, what are the traits of the mixed breed of these two dogs, the Newfoundland German shepherd mix. Newfoundland German shepherd mix physical appearance: The Newfoundland German Shepherd cross is a giant, sturdy and athletic dog with a strong and heavy bone structure. Both the parent dogs have strong and straight backs usually, whereas in some cases, the back of German Shephard is slightly sloped whereas that of Newfoundland is leveled. The chest of Newfoundland is deep while the skull is broad. Looking at the muzzle, it is more tapered and long in the case of a German Shepherd. Both the breeds have commonly pointed ears and brown eyes. The nose of the New Shep Breed dog is either brown or black. In short, the Newfoundland dog German Shepherd Mix can have traits of any of its parents. Lastly, the average lifespan of the dog is 10 years. Newfoundland German shepherd cross temperament and personality: Mostly, the New Shep hybrids are a combination of the personality of the parent breeds so, both of them are good-mannered as well as confident. If not trained properly, they can develop aggressive and anxious temperament so, train them patiently. They are playful and happy among children, but their immense size can harm them so, keep the younger ones away. They are fun, calm, and easy with the family members as well. Although the dog is intelligent, you will surely have to put some effort to train this dog. Newfoundland German shepherd mix for sale: There are two options for having a purebred New Shep Breed dog, one you can buy it from a reputable breeder, and the second adopt it from a shelter, former owner, or rescue. But it is not always the truth so, be sure about the health and lineage of your dog before purchasing it from a breeder making false claims. The only difference between these two methods is that adoption will cost you very little as compared to purchasing it. Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy coat: The Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy has a slightly dense coat that is wavy in texture and medium in length. The coat of this dog breed is more likely to catch dust, debris, and other particles. Also, their hair gets tangles frequently and heavy shedding is common in New Shep breed dogs. So, purchase a de-shedder, comb, brush, and de-matter for maintaining the coat of the dog. There are many possibilities of the coat color including sable, black, white, blue, brown, grey, cream, red, and silver. Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix training: If you have a good experience with dogs, then start training them with patience after purchasing it. As the Newfoundland and German Shepherd Mix dog is intelligent, so they pick up things easily. Be aware of the little obstinate nature of the dog and handle it with patience rather than behaving harshly or aggressively. If you are unable to control and train the dog, then take it or group training sessions. Also, hiring a personal trainer will help you a lot in this regard but then get ready to pay a little more training price than usual. Newfoundland and German shepherd mix grooming: As discussed, the coat of the Newfoundland German shepherd mix dog is dense and tangles easily so, daily brushing is necessary to maintain the look of the dog. Usually, the coat sheds in the summer and spring season, so maintaining the coat in these seasons is a challenge. Excessive or cheap shampoo can damage the skin of your dog resulting in skin irritation so, only give it a bath when there is a dire need to remove the dirt. Keep on clipping the nails once a month and visit a professional groomer 3 to 6 times a year. Make sure you are providing a hygienic and quality diet to your dog. Usually, a New shep dog eats 3 cups of kibble every day. Well, if you observe any disturbance in the health of the dog, immediately consult your vet. New shep breed health concerns: Just like every other dog breed, purebred or mix, the New shep dog also has some common health concerns. Some of the minor concerns include bloating, gastric dilation volvulus, subaortic stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, perianal fistulas, and hip or elbow dysplasia. Whereas if we talk about some serious health conditions that can be fatal for the new shep breed dog, then these include pyoderma, mitral valve dysplasia, urolithiasis, pannus, cherry eye, cataracts, exocrine pancreatic, footpad disorder, insufficiency, progressive renal atrophy, persistent right aortic arch and many more. To prevent these conditions, keep a healthy track of the diet and physical activity of your dog. Male and female Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppies for sale: The height of a male Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix is 25 to 28 inches whereas that of a female dog is 23 to 26 inches. The weight of a female New Shep dog is 75 to 95 lbs while a male dog weighs 95 to lbs. The temperament of the dog depends on socialization and training rather than gender. Also, spaying of the female New shep dog is a bit complicated than neutering the male dog as spaying requires a little more time to recover. January 14, Fancy a dog with the smarts of the impressive German Shepherd and the sweetness of the gentle Newfoundland? What about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? Why not learn a little more about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? If you are a fan of big dogs, with big hearts then a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix might just be the dog for you! Origins of the Newfoundland Newfoundland dogs have long been relied on by Canadian fishermen to help on fishing boats. They would bring in the nets of fish and pull them to the markets on carts. Their strength and natural swimming ability also earned them a reputation as lifeguards. They are skilled at saving people in trouble in the water. The first German Shepherd showed up in America in and by , the first German Shepherd club has been established. At this point, it is worth addressing the controversy which surrounds the purebreds versus mutts. The Mixed Breed Controversy Advocates of purebred dogs claim the size, temperament, and health of a purebred can be reliably predicted. Moreover, their lineage can be traced back for many generations. They also assert that supporting purebred dog breeders encourages the betterment of breeds. This is mainly because breeders will ensure the characteristics and abilities inherent in purebreds can be improved upon and preserved for generations to come. On the other hand, advocates of mixed breeds voice concern that inbreeding and exaggeration of certain physical characteristics in purebreds often result in dogs with serious health problems. They point out that breed standards, which dictate the desirable physical attributes of purebred dogs, can at times have more to do with aesthetics than the welfare of the dog. This has led to dogs with breathing difficulties, back and joint problems, and even difficulty giving birth. Many believe hybrid dogs are healthier since they are purportedly less predisposed to inherited conditions than purebreds. Indeed, one study has suggested that dogs with genetically diverse backgrounds are healthier and appear to live longer than their purebred counterparts. Here are some that stand out: The actions of one Newfoundland may have had a hand in how history played out. In a Newfoundland reportedly saved the life of none other than Napoleon Bonaparte when he went overboard while fleeing the island of Elba. Rin Tin Tin starred in 27 films throughout his life. In the end, the Academy decided the award must be given to a human. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Appearance The Newfoundland stands between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulders and weighs between and lbs. They are sturdy and strong in build and appearance. Their thick double coat is water resistant and comes in black, brown, grey, and black and white. White patches are the only markings seen in this breed. The German Shepherd stands 22 to 26 inches at the shoulders and can weigh from 50 to 90 lbs. While strong and muscular in build, the German Shepherd also has great agility. They have a thick, wiry outer coat which comes in variations of black, tan, solid black and sable. This coat needs regular grooming. Both dogs are large, so a mix of the two is going to be a large dog. The coloring could be any combination of the parent breeds markings. Owning a dog of this size may bring with it challenges in terms of caring and housing for your dog. But the Newfoundland wins big points for being so agreeable. Temperament-wise, the German Shepherd is quite different from the Newfoundland. Its definitive qualities are loyalty, intelligence, and courage. Perhaps the greatest evidence of this is their status as the preferred breed for law enforcement and military organizations. In the family setting, a German Shepherd will make a loyal protector. As such, they tend to remain a little reserved when introduced to strangers. The sight of a German Shepherd may incite fear amongst many, and they have a reputation for being good watchdogs. A study published in found that German Shepherds did score higher than other breeds when it came to dog on dog aggression as well as aggression toward strangers. In terms of aggression towards owners, however, you have more to fear if you live with a Dachshund than a German Shepherd. A mix of these breeds could produce a dog that takes after one breed more than the other. However, the sweet nature of the Newfoundland could balance out the more serious and protective tendencies of the German Shepherd. Both these dogs are large and powerful. The German Shepherd is by nature a little wary of strangers and protective of their human family. Socialization, which involves exposing your puppy to as many new situations and experiences as possible, is an absolute must if you decide to adopt a mix of these two dogs. German Shepherds are active, intelligent dogs. It is important that you keep them busy and engaged mentally. Both of these dogs enjoy regular exercise. Both breeds enjoy canine sports such as agility, dock jumping, and herding. Crossing with a Newfoundland might reduce such problems. Ultimately, checking that their parents did not suffer from these issues before choosing your puppy is the wisest course of action. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Health Both these breeds are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia. The German Shepherd Club of America does not require any further health tests. However, as we mentioned, German Shepherds are prone to conformational problems. The Newfoundland is susceptible to heart problems and cystinuria, a condition in which stones form in the urinary system. Both dogs can be expected to live up to 10 years. If your puppy has taken after their Newfoundland parent and has floppy ears, check them regularly for infection. As with any breed, feed your dog a well-balanced, high-quality diet to keep them healthy. Being big dogs, make sure you have the budget for this. Both dog breeds have thick coats, so they will have to be brushed regularly even when they are not shedding. In shedding season, these bushings may need to be daily. The combination of these two breeds can make great a family dog. Taking into consideration the size, power, and temperament of the parent breeds, however, socialization and appropriate training is an absolute must. Ideally, your family should have enough time and space to devote to training and exercising this mixed breed. Rescuing a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix If you are looking to rescue one of these dogs, check local rescue groups dedicated to the parent breeds. Sometimes these groups will help find homes for crosses as well as purebreds. Otherwise, check at your local shelter. Get as much information as you can about the background of the dog, as they might have some special requirements if they have been abused or neglected in the past. How to Find a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix puppy The growing popularity of mixes can be good news for the general health of dogs. However, some unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of the demand, and view the production of puppies as nothing more than a way to make a profit. While it may seem to be the easiest option, getting your new puppy from a pet shop is not recommended. Sadly, these puppies have more often than not been bred in puppy farms. Dogs kept in puppy farms are housed in appalling conditions and often suffer untreated injuries and health problems. Not only are they often neglected physically, but mentally these dogs are deprived of the chance to socialize and play. First and foremost, make sure you can meet the parents of your dog, and see where they have been raised in person. Care needs to be taken with training and socialization due to the size of both breeds, and the protective traits of the German Shepherd. This dog will have a thick coat which will shed. Pros The Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix will be loyal to their family and eager to please loved ones. This mix is great for those who like swimming and the outdoors. The kind nature of the Newfoundland mixed with the intelligence of the German Shepherd is an appealing combination. Similar Mixed Breeds and Purebred Dogs. No one knows for sure who first came up with the idea to breed a German Shepherd with a Newfoundland or exactly why. Experimentation with the breeding probably occurred a few times before anyone came up with a clear-cut reason or thought it was a good idea. We know the German Shepherd originated in Germany from generic herding dogs. A show dog named Hektor became the foundation type for the breed, further developed by Max von Stephanitz beginning in the late s. According to German Shepherd Rescue Elite , Stephanitz was a former student of Berlin Veterinary College and highly interested in how conformation correlated with working proficiency. Most experts agree that Newfoundland originated from native dogs of the Newfoundland coast and Labrador, in Canada, but are uncertain if the black wolf, Great Pyrenees, or others had the greatest influence. DNA confirms the fact that St. A well-established Newfie type was apparent by , represented by massive black dogs that had huge heads. George Cartwright officially named the Newfoundland in , and the English further modernized the breed beginning in the s. What is a designer dog? Undoubtedly clear to most, not every mixed dog is a designer dog. The marketing of specific breed combinations enables owners of these hybrids to ironically attain an elevated social status among their peers. In historical times, starting with the Victorian era in the s , many societies linked superiority with smaller genetic pools. Owning a purebred dog was equivalent to privilege. Until the advent of what would become the designer dog craze, purebred dogs remained at the pinnacle of desirability and personal worth in many societies. The appeal of certain purebred dogs, like French Bulldogs and Pugs, will probably never wane, but designer dogs have given owners another avenue to climb the social ladder. Generally, the name of the hybrid will be a blend of the two separate breed names. The Labradoodle was the first such designer dog, matching a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle in , and the New Shep arrived much later. The New Shep remains much less common than some of the other designer dogs. Many early designer dogs originated intending to introduce the hypoallergenic low-shedding hair of the Poodle to breeds with desirable charms like an easy-going steadfast temperament, unusual charisma, or unique coat color. Later, dog lovers sought to improve the health issues of breeds they loved such as the English Bulldog. Purely speculative, the New Shep may have come about to smooth some aggressive and neurotic tendencies of the Shepherd and increase the lifespan and add novelty colors and trainability to the Newfie. What makes the New Shep unpredictable? New Shep puppies have a greater number of standard characteristics in common with each other than alternative German Shepherd crosses because there are more of them. We can judge probability based on how the majority of current litters turn out. That being said, first-generation genetics is still largely a roll of the dice. Many features, like personality and temperament, are more unpredictable than coat length and size. Individuals inherit some qualities as a straightforward recessive or dominant single gene. Other genes, like those for coat color, are multiple and incompletely dominant. Separate breed standards tell the tale of the Newfie Shepherd Mix. Most people know what a purebred German Shepherd or Newfoundland looks like. The German Shepherd, with her elegant good looks, has a dome-shaped forehead with a narrow, somewhat square muzzle, a long back sloping down from the shoulders to the hips , brown slightly-slanted eyes, large open upright ears, and a thick tail. Classic colors are tan or red with a black saddle and black mask. German Shepherds can also be silver and black, sable, or solid colors like red, blue , black , or white. Where Shepherds are solidly-built and athletic, Newfoundlands are stately and powerful. One of their most remarkable features is their partially webbed feet, which contribute to their legendary swimming ability. Newfoundlands can sport the colors solid black, brown, white and black, known as Landseer, and, less commonly, gray. New Sheps range from 23 to 28 inches tall and average to pounds. The range, however, can be from to over pounds. New Shep dogs sport an array of colors such as black and tan, solid black, gray, silver, blue, or red, black and white, or sable. What is hybrid vigor? Hybrid vigor, despite numerous misconceptions, does not necessarily imply increased health and vitality. It refers, however, to improved biological functions which usually influence size and fertility. According to the Centre for Small Animal Studies in Suffolk , hybrids tend to have a higher lifespan than purebred dogs except for certain toy breeds. Moreover, any comparison between dogs illustrates a smaller size generally means a longer life. Not all crossbreeding results in hybrid vigor. New Sheps are frequently larger than their parents. It is not uncommon to see Shepherd Newfoundland mixes that are pounds. Giant size likely accounts for a shortened longevity. What kind of personality can you expect? German Shepherds are also courageous, loyal, affectionate with their families , and protective. Poor breeding allows fearfulness, aggression , or neurotic tendencies to enter specific German Shepherd lines. The breed standard for the Newfoundland calls for a sweet disposition to define her, more important than any other character trait. An irresponsibly bred Newfie can be fearful or aggressive. A German Shepherd Newfie cross should shine as a family companion with a loyal, sweet, and affectionate nature. Most puppies exhibit the calm and docile natures of the Newfoundland. New Sheps tend to get along with children and other dogs, especially with effective socialization by you the owner. Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrids may inherit some dog aggression from the GSD and same-sex aggression from the Newfie. Again, frequent exposure to other dogs as a puppy will help prevent inter-dog aggression from cropping up later in life. Does New Sheps have high intelligence and trainability? According to Dogbreedslist. The ranking includes purebred dogs. Both breeds are amenable to consistent and early training. The German Shepherd excels at learning quickly and obediently. She is considered one of the most trainable dogs. Newfoundlands demonstrate an uncanny instinct for the prevention of drowning and knowing how to save people from hazardous situations on land. However, they tend to be independent and need repetition to pick up simple commands. How much exercise does a New Shep need? Hybrids inherit the more laid-back demeanor of the Newfie, not nearly as exuberant as the Shepherd. They require moderate to low exercise. The winter cold is not likely to be a concern for your New Shep. Newfoundland and Shepherd mixes are also sure to enjoy swimming. Some training and walking services suggest 14 miles per week and an hour every day of exercise for your New Shep, although your dog will probably thrive on half that. Grooming requirements depend on coat thickness Both the Newfoundland and German Shepherd have thick undercoats. They have two large molts a year, dropping copious tufts of hair during these times. The Newfoundland requires daily brushing to prevent matting of his fleecy down. The rare Shepherd has long hair without an undercoat. Both dogs should get a consistent bath to eliminate odors and resistant dirt. German Shepherds are not particularly averse to water, but most Newfoundlands love it. New Sheps can possess a variety of coat types. Most of them will have a medium to long moderately thick wavy outer coat with dense underfur. Some have short hair and others have thinner hair than usual for either breed. A few dogs have straight hair while others appear to have loose curls in areas. Brushing is crucial for the same reasons as with the parent breeds. Will your New Shep be a good watchdog? While the German Shepherd is renowned for guard abilities, the Newfoundland has always had a more utilitarian heritage. Since biting and aggression is so contrary to rescuing people from the water, the Newfie has minimal guarding tendencies. You are pretty lucky if your Newfie barks to announce a stranger. You can expect a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix to be friendly and even affectionate to guests. They likely will make better watchdogs than Newfies, barking if sensing a disturbance. Certain families of dogs, as mentioned above, can produce New Sheps with the same undesirable characteristics of the responsible parent, such as fear-biting, uncharacteristic aggression, and shyness. Unfortunately, ailments plague all purebred dogs. While trying to improve a breed through hybridization is a noble endeavor, the reality often falls short. Improvement in the puppies is only possible when exercising a strict selection process with the parents. Some breeders do not adhere to strict breeding criteria, whether involved with purebreds or designer dogs. Moreover, potential owners may not know what kinds of problems their new dog may be susceptible to or what tests may pertain to particular breeds. Still, another factor is dogs inherit some disorders like hip dysplasia, across multiple genes While a few of the sources we ran across cited Shepherd Newfie hybrids as having no health issues, this is probably not entirely accurate. Because of their parentage, we must theorize that New Sheps are vulnerable to the following health issues, discussed by Science Direct and PetMD. According to the Veterinary DNA Center , Newfoundlands can exhibit cystinuria at the exceptionally young age of six months. What fun activities can you do with your New Shep? German Shepherds may excel at agility trials and obedience challenges, like Shutzhund, but Newfoundlands are better suited for hauling competitions and water sports. Both can make excellent therapy dogs and search and rescue workers. Some New Sheps may be more athletic than Newfies. Depending on their size, a hybrid will probably show the greatest promise in activities similar to what a Newfoundland does best. With a German Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrid, you are likely to get what looks like a giant black or black and tan Shepherd. His ears may be erect or semi-prick. Your New Shep will have intelligence and trainability approaching the Shepherd with a slightly stubborn or willful streak. She will greet strangers and friends alike with friendly enthusiasm but in a contained manner. She may bark at intruders but will likely blend in happily with children and other animals in your household. Your Newfie Shepherd cross may take to the water like a sea lion and may even have webbed feet. The only drawbacks are a medium tendency to drool, heat sensitivity, her tremendous size, and her thick coat. This German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is pretty close to one of the varieties you could see in a typical litter. The puppy is not yet sporting his adult coat but looks like he will end up red fawn or sable with a black mask. You can also gauge youth by how much higher his hindquarters are than his shoulders, an indication of a growth spurt. The combination of these two breeds results in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. This sturdy breed is known for its loyalty, protectiveness and obedience. They are also intelligent, eager to learn and make great family pets. Newfoundland and German Shepherd — Breeding History The Newfoundland is a large working dog breed originating from the island of Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada. They were originally bred for helping fishermen with tasks such as hauling in nets and catching fish that had escaped from the nets. They are also known for their water rescue abilities and were used extensively during the 19th century by lifeboat crews. The German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They were originally bred for herding and guarding sheep. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world and are highly prized for their loyalty and working ability. They were first used as police dogs back in in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. They are well known over the years as highly effective police and military dogs due to their loyalty, obedience, and intelligence. The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a relatively new crossbreed that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Known as adaptable designer dogs, the mix of these two breeds result in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. The most common reason people mix these two breeds is to take advantage of the best traits of each. Their characteristics will vary depending on which parent breed they take after more, but they will typically have the long head and muzzle of a German Shepherd combined with the thick coat and webbed feet of a Newfoundland. They are typically strong and muscular with a large, square head and medium to long coat. The typical size of a Newfoundland is inches cm at the shoulder, weighing between pounds kg. The typical size of a German Shepherd is inches cm at the shoulder, and they weigh between pounds kg. A mix of both breeds will typically fall somewhere in the middle, with males generally being larger than females. Coat Type The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will have a thick, double coat that is water-resistant and sheds moderately. Their fluffy coats can be either short or long, but is typically medium in length. They will have the thick undercoat of a Newfoundland combined with the longer outer coat of a German Shepherd. Colors New Sheps can come in a wide variety of colors, depending on their parentage. Their coat color can be either black, brown, gray, red, or white. They may also have markings of a different color on their face, chest, or paws. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. New Sheps are active dogs that need plenty of exercise and stimulation. They are also guard dogs by nature and will bark to warn you of strangers or any potential danger. While they make fantastic family dogs, New Sheps are not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and need for training and socialization. Protectiveness New Sheps display extreme protectiveness of their owners and are very loyal. This behavior is instinctive and cannot be trained out of them. It is important to socialize New Sheps early on so that they can learn to distinguish between actual threats and harmless strangers. Without early socialization, they may become overly suspicious of anyone who is not their owner and become aggressive toward them. New Sheps are also very protective of their families and will do anything to keep them safe. They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to warn their family of any potential danger. They are also very loving and affectionate toward their families and will do anything to make them happy. Strength The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very strong and large dog. They are one of the strongest dog breeds, and their size can be intimidating to some people. They are also very muscular, and their coats are thick and dense, which helps protect them from the elements. Speed The speed of a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is about 27 miles per hour mph , but can reach up to 35 mph when running. They are working dogs and were bred for their herding and guarding abilities, so they have a lot of energy. If you have an active lifestyle and are looking for a canine companion to join you on hikes, runs, or swims, this mix may be a good fit. Newfs are known for being relatively lazy, while German Shepherds are much more active. A good rule of thumb is that this mix should get at least an hour of daily exercise. This can be a combination of walks, runs, hikes, and playtime. If your dog is particularly energetic, they may need even more exercise than that. This could include water sports, agility sessions, or other intense activities. Having plenty of space for exercise will naturally be of huge benefit for you and your dog. This mix would be a great companion for you if you live an active lifestyle. They can keep up with most activities and will be happy to do so. Just make sure to give them plenty of breaks, as they can overheat easily. Along with physical exercise, they also need mental stimulation and regular brain exercise. They will likely become bored and destructive if they have excess energy and their activity level is not catered for. Make sure you are prepared to give them the exercise they need before bringing one home. Some may need more obedience training than others, while some may require more socialization. Always consult with a professional trainer to determine what training methods would be best for your specific dog. Typically, the first type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need is obedience training. This type of training will teach the dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. It is important to start obedience training early on, as it will set the foundation for all other types of training. The second type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may need is socialization training. This training is important to help the dog develop a gentle nature and become comfortable around people and other animals. Socialization training can be started at any age, but it is typically best to start early on. They are going to be very trainable and will likely excel in obedience trials and other activities. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also likely to have above average intelligence when compared to other dog breeds. This means that they are likely to learn new tricks and commands quickly. They may also be quick to understand the intentions of their owners and be able to follow complex commands. So, if you are looking for a dog that is intelligent and easily trainable, then a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may be the perfect breed for you! Good with Other Dogs The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a good dog for people who have other dogs in their family. They are gentle and good-natured and get along well with other dogs. Due to their size, they need to be properly socialized with other dogs when they are puppies so that they know how to interact with them and not be afraid of them. They do have natural protective instincts, so they may be leery of strange dogs, but with proper socialization, they can learn to get along with just about any dog. They make great family dogs and love being around people, which is why they do well in homes where there are other dogs present. Good with Children The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a great breed of dog if you are looking for one that is good with children. This mix is known to be gentle, loving, and protective of those they love, which makes them perfect for families with young kids. They are also known for having an affectionate nature. They will quickly become a loyal and trusted friend to your children, and will always be there to lend a furry shoulder to cry on and for constant companionship. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also great dogs for first-time dog owners, as they are relatively easy to train and care for. For example, a growing puppy will need more calories than an adult dog, and a working dog will need more calories than a couch potato. In general, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need a diet that is high in protein and fat, and moderate in carbohydrates. When it comes to choosing a commercial dog food, look for one that is specifically designed for large breeds. Avoid any food that contains fillers or by-products, and make sure the first ingredient is a meat protein. Grooming When it comes to grooming ,the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a low-maintenance dog. A weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy and clean. Ears should be checked regularly and cleaned when necessary to prevent infection. Teeth should be brushed on a regular basis as well. Newfs are known for being heavy shedders, so expect some extra vacuuming during shedding season. Shedding The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will be a moderate to heavy shedder. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are double-coated, so they will also require regular grooming to help reduce matting and tangles in their fur. Drooling The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is known to be a very sloppy dog in relation to drooling. This can be quite a nuisance for owners, as it can result in wet floors and furniture. Adaptability to Weather In terms of adapting to weather extremes, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile dog. They can withstand very cold and very hot weather conditions better than most other breeds. They have a thick, double coat of fur that helps protect them against the cold weather and their long legs help them keep their balance in the snow. In terms of the hot weather, they do not have as much fur so they do not get as hot as other breeds. They also have a lot of energy and can run around in the heat without getting tired. Just be sure to provide plenty of shade and fresh water during extremely hot temperatures. Overall, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to any type of weather condition. They are, however, susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, which is common in large breeds.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Mississippi Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Mississippi? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Mississippi? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to the Mississippi state page on TrustedPuppies. Renowned for its rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse natural beauty, Mississippi is an ideal place to find and raise your new Golden Retriever companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Golden Retriever breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable MS breeders who specialize in raising amazing healthy puppies. Our Mississippi dog breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Mississippi, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Mississippi Gulf Coast Kennel Club Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Golden Retriever canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Mississippi, with an estimated dog population of around thousand, holds the 39th position among U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Golden Retriever breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Mississippi. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Golden Retriever puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Golden Retriever puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Source: Pexels With a loveable pudgy body and a cute cartoonish face, the French Bulldog has been popular since it was first introduced. A clear celebrity favourite, the affectionately named 'Frenchie' is fast on its way to becoming the most popular breed in the UK. These pups thrive on human contact, love to play with anyone and everything, and are incredibly easy-going — it's no wonder they've stolen so many hearts! To keep your dog happy and healthy, it's important that you feed them a well-balanced diet suited to their needs. As French Bulldogs are unfortunately prone to numerous health complications later in life, this is a priority for this breed. To make things a little easier, we've gathered everything you need to know into one simple, user-friendly guide. Bred to be toy-sized bulldogs that could be carried easily, they accompanied their owners to France during the Industrial Revolution. These adorable pups caused quite the stir in Paris due to their unusual appearance, and quickly became a national favourite. Source: Wikimedia Commons By the late nineteenth century, many wealthy French households had acquired a French Bulldog. Visitors from the US were also fascinated by the breed and many took home puppies of their own. After an acclaimed dog show in , in which the French Bulldog was presented as the most stylish pooch of the season, the breed went on to dominate the high society market and became a staple show-dog by .French Bulldog Size and Life Expectancy These personable pups grow to around 30cm tall and should weigh 8 to 13kg. They are small or medium-sized dogs with short, smooth coats and a solid, muscular body that looks particularly compact. French Bulldogs have an average lifespan on 10 to 12 years, though they can live longer — this is dependent on the debilitating health issues that the breed is likely to develop later in life. Source: Unsplash Celebrity French Bulldogs This breed's playful personality and adorable appearance has made it particularly popular with celebrities, making it a firm favourite with fans. Experts have forecasted that this rising star may be next year's favourite dog. Instagram and other social media sites have been flooded over the last couple of years with photographs featuring loveable French Bulldogs. A French Bulldog Diet Source: Wikimedia Commons Preferred Food for French Bulldogs Feeding your French Bulldog doesn't differ too much from feeding your other dogs — your Frenchie needs a high quality, hypoallergenic diet that's filled with lots of vitamins and nutrients. We recommend trying a grain-free diet first as wheat and grain may cause excessive flatulence in this breed. Make sure to include lots of complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes rather than single grains, as these can be a problem for already health-problematical pups. Most importantly, be sure to feed your dog a well-balanced diet from a brand that you can trust. Preferred Food for French Bulldog Seniors While you can continue to feed French Bulldogs the same diet for most of their lives, there are some small changes that you can make for your senior dog. In later life stages, French Bulldogs need high quality food that is easy to digest; wet food will keep them well-fed and hydrated. We recommend that you purchase specialised senior dog food , as this will contain fewer calories to match their low energy, and be richer in essential vitamins and nutrients. This will keep their teeth and coat in excellent shape. Preferred Food for French Bulldog Puppies Source: Wikimedia Commons It can be difficult to know what to feed your new French Bulldog puppy, as the food you choose will have long-term ramifications over your Frenchie's health. Puppy food is specially curated to support your playful and energetic pup, with bonus nutrients to aid in teeth and bone growth. As puppies tend to grow in small bursts, it's important that you feed them frequently. Puppies need three high-quality, well-balanced, measured meals a day. These should be made from natural ingredients, and low in processed foods and sugars. Help your puppy adjust to its new home by following the same routine as its previous owner and purchasing the same brand of dog food, slowly introducing your preferred pick. If you feed your puppy high-quality food at the same time every day, your pooch will grow up happy and healthy. French Bulldog Feeding Guide Depending on their size and level of activity, how much your French Bulldog should be fed changes. This chart will help you to figure out how much you should be feeding your dog to maintain a healthy weight. To avoid this, if your pup walks on the lead or is likely only to be active for up to one hour per day, start at the lowest activity level and adjust from there. French Bulldog Feeding Guide Source: Pexels With a loveable pudgy body and a cute cartoonish face, the French Bulldog has been popular since it was first introduced. Celebrity French Bulldogs This breed's playful personality and adorable appearance has made it particularly popular with celebrities, making it a firm favourite with fans. A French Bulldog Diet Preferred Food for French Bulldogs Feeding your French Bulldog doesn't differ too much from feeding your other dogs — your Frenchie needs a high quality, hypoallergenic diet that's filled with lots of vitamins and nutrients. Here is the link to the US metrics feeding chart for your four-legged friends across the pond: US French Bulldog Feeding Guide Most dog food packaging will have a specialised feeding chart similar to this one — always read the branded guide on the back for optimal calculations. If your dog is overweight or underweight, use their ideal weight as your guide. We recommend that you break this advised portion into two feedings, every morning and evening. Try not to feed your Frenchie too late in the day though, in order to make room for a walk before bedtime. Make sure to feed your puppy three to four smaller meals a day so as not to overwhelm their tiny tummies. Their last meal should be around two or three hours before their last walk, to give them enough time to digest their food and avoid any house-training mishaps. Some dogs develop faster than others and may need to move onto adult dog food more quickly, but this is something you should discuss with your vet when the time comes. French Bulldog Allergies Just like their owners, dogs are equally susceptible to allergies. These can unfortunately be particularly difficult to diagnose, being both dietary and environmental. Symptoms include itching or watery eyes, sore patches on the skin, and incidents of diarrhoea or vomiting. To prevent allergic reactions, make sure to use only pet-friendly cleaning products in your home and be prepared to alter your dog's diet. Hypoallergenic dog foods are perfect for your French Bulldog as they've been specially formulated to counter dietary allergies. Also, try not to give your Frenchie too many table scraps — even some vegetables do more harm than good. French Bulldog Obesity French Bulldogs are not a highly-active breed, though they'll certainly eat like one if given the chance. It's your job to make sure that they stay adorably pump and don't gain too much weight. Your French Bulldog should have a solid structure supported by an athletic build. You should be able to feel its ribs, and your dog shouldn't have any breathing issues on a short walk unless it's a hot day in which case, take them inside. Overweight pups are more likely to develop severe heart problems and other health disorders, so it's important to keep your Frenchie on the right track. Following these suggestions to give your pup a high-quality, hypoallergenic diet will make certain to provide all the essential nutrients and vitamins. No matter what dog food you choose, be sure to introduce small amounts into their regular food a little at a time. We hope that this guide has helped you to make informed choices about how to feed your pup — remember, you can always contact us with any questions too! Happy feeding! We recommend talking to your vet for more information on puppy weight so that they can advise on food and nutrition. They should be in a safe place with little to no disturbance, especially during nursing time, to help keep them calm while getting their nourishment. By 3 weeks of age, your puppy should have at least twice the weight they had at birth. Also, during their third week, if your vet recommends it already, have your puppy dewormed to avoid onsets of digestive problems, sickness, and the like. One common mistake of most beginner breeders and pet owners is forgetting to deworm their little ones, but this is crucial since puppies can be prone to sickness. A French bulldog puppy that is 4 weeks of age can begin the solid food introduction. This makes them far earlier in terms of weaning as compared to other breeds. Try offering your puppy kibble portioned with water to make it easier to digest for them. You can also feed them with bits of raw food, as long as your vet agrees to it and if you prepared the raw food properly. However, kibble is the most standard way of feeding your French bulldog puppy, especially if you are on a limited budget and if you have a plethora of puppies to take care of. Just make sure to take your time into offering them, as weaning is not an instant process that happens overnight. Remove any uneaten food immediately after 20 minutes of not being touched to avoid spoilage or give to the other puppies. During the sixth week of your French bulldog puppy, they should somehow already eat solid food, even in little amounts, because it will help with their overall physical development. Consider serving high-quality food that is not made with too many filler ingredients. Look for French bulldog puppy food that is filled with a lot of protein to help them gain muscle mass and energy throughout the day. This is especially the case for puppies that are often active. Likewise, the 6th week is also the time when your puppy has their first milk teeth so they need comfort food. Ask your vet about whether your French bulldog puppy is ready to get vaccinations and other supplements by this time. You can choose the time of day that you want to feed them, but keep them spaced just fine to avoid bouts of hunger and overeating. Full raw feeding is also okay by this stage if your French bulldog puppy is fully weaned. Make sure that you calculate your raw food nutrients and calories carefully to avoid a lack of nutrition, or simply ask your vet or breeder about it. Puppies that are 8 weeks old will also need to be socialized more often. By doing this, you are training their body clock to eat at certain times. Some breeders already slowly transition from puppy to adult food during this time. Get advice from your vet as to when your pup should switch to adult formulas since it might disrupt their tummy and overall health. If you must feed them with treats due to training, make sure to include it in their list of calories consumed the entire day, and talk to your vet about it. Your vet could even offer treats that are low in calories but are healthy and tasty for your pup as an alternative. Recommended Food French bulldogs are known to be prone to diarrhea, skin problems, cherry eye, and hip dysplasia. Therefore, they will need a good amount of nutrients for their food during puppyhood. Glucosamine foods Glucosamine is a type of nutrient found in most chicken, fish, and seafood. You can also talk to your vet about glucosamine supplements although they might only recommend it when needed, such as due to genetic history of joint problems. Omega fatty acids Omega fatty acids come from fish oil, which can help improve their coat appearance and resist skin allergies. Generally, French bulldogs are known to be very sensitive when it comes to getting skin diseases so having omega fatty acids in their diet is a must. Your veterinarian might also recommend supplements to help improve their coat appearance. However, of course, a healthy coat and skin still largely depend on proper grooming habits, such as bathing, brushing, and clipping as needed. Quality meat sources Typical protein sources, such as fish, chicken, lamb, and beef, are a staple for most puppies — French bulldogs included. The trick is to look for a brand that has a certain animal as their first ingredient and not merely a random mixture of meat that you might find suspicious. Carrots Vitamin A is found in carrots, which can help lessen the likelihood of cherry eye and similar eye problems in your French bulldog when they get older. They mostly contain poisonous ingredients that are not suitable for French bulldogs and all canines, anyway. Keep in mind to stay away from these veggies and fruits as they are only for human consumption. Choking hazards Foods that are considered choking hazards for a French bulldog puppy include asparagus, avocadoes, and cherries. Asparagus is usually okay for French bulldogs, but if you need to feed it to them, make sure to cut them into very small pieces. Cooked bones are also quite tricky and usually not recommended for French bulldogs due to their threat of being a choking hazard. When the bones split after being cracked and chewed, they could injure your puppy — even when they turn into adults later on. Fillers like corn and wheat We did mention that French bulldog puppies have sensitive tummies, right? Look for high-quality content in your puppy food, such as little to no corn or wheat, and more of healthier carbohydrate sources, such as sweet potatoes, and meats like chicken, fish, beef, and turkey. FAQs on Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy If you want to know more about how to feed a French bulldog properly, here are some additional information on their feeding habits and other tips: How many calories are suitable for my French Bulldog puppy? The average calories for a French bulldog puppy should be around 12 calories per pound and you can increase that up to 30 if they are highly active. However, more factors will come into play, such as the type of food and their genetics. When should I switch my French bulldog puppy to adult food? We recommend waiting for your puppy to grow at least 1 year old for them to switch properly to adult food. A French bulldog should be switched from puppy to adult food gradually. Next, wait for a couple of meals and transition every few days by giving them more of the new food than the old formula. Eventually, after about a few weeks or so, your puppy should already eat only the new food. What this slow food adjustment does is eliminate the likelihood of stomach upsets. As we mentioned above, French bulldog puppies are prone to digestive issues, which is why you need to be mindful of what they eat. First, if your French bulldog puppy just moved in from an old breeder, they might feel uneasy and might not eat well. Be sure to make the change slowly to avoid ruining their digestive system. Feeding your puppy is all about trial and error because every pup has a different taste preference, after all, just like humans. It could be an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed. Raw feeding a French Bulldog puppy Raw feeding a French bulldog puppy is possible, as long as you get proper advice from your vet. It is quite a complicated process since it involves calculating the amount of protein and nutrients from organ meat, vegetables, fruits, supplements, and others. On the flip side, it is quite a daunting task to prepare raw food for them to ensure that everything is balanced in terms of nutrients. If food sanitation is a problem in your area and you live in highly-humid coastal areas, it will be more difficult for you to handle raw meat. Conclusion As a whole, French bulldogs are sensitive as puppies and adults. This is why feeding them properly is a must. French bulldogs, like other breeds, need specific nutrients and also a strict schedule to maintain their weight properly. We hope that this guide on feeding a French bulldog puppy helped you out in raising your companion to be a healthy and happy dog! Excellent nutrition is important in order to have a healthy and happy dog. There are many varieties of food out there; wet, dry, freeze dried, raw, or cooked. Regardless of what food you decide on, they do need to be on a high-quality and nutritionally balanced dog food. What are the signs of high-quality dog food? The food should contain lean meat-based protein sources such as chicken , turkey , pork and beef. Feeding Your French Bulldog at Different Life Stages Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress on adult dog food. As young puppies, they have a huge requirement for calories and high-quality ingredients to promote puppy growth. Puppies grow rapidly during the first six months of their life and they continue growing more after this period. Without proper nutrition, they might be stunted and underweight. Check out our other article to learn how to switch puppy to two meals per day! Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress to adult dog food. This food will provide the nutrients and calories required to maintain an adult weight. Very active dogs will need more calories while sedentary dogs will need less. Dogs that have been neutered will have slightly different nutritional requirements than other adult dogs. They generally need fewer calories to prevent weight gain which can happen in the months after neutering surgery. This can be achieved by feeding a diet with relatively low carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein. Senior dogs require highly digestible foods and a good source of omega fatty acids for potentially stiff joints. They might require varying levels of protein depending on their kidney function and body condition. Good quality nutrition will keep your dog at optimal body condition and health. Feeding stage-of-life specific recipes allows your dog to have the optimal nutrients for the life stage they are in. However, regardless of small differences, most dogs will loosely follow the growth chart below. Age of French Bulldog. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! We do not claim to be veterinarians. French Bulldogs can easily become overweight or underweight , especially the lazy ones. Some french bulldogs are hyperactive while others are couch potatoes. It is also critical that you maintain a consistent feeding schedule and never slack off on feeding your French Bulldog. Even more important than that is feeding your Frenchie the proper amount of food daily. Young Frenchies have high caloric and nutrient needs. French Bulldogs aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. Spreading out the meals minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Feeding only twice daily can sometimes lead to gastric dilatation volvulus. By this stage, your French Bulldog is ready to get into an eating routine that they will continue on for the rest of their happy, little chubby lives, barring no serious medical ailments later on in life. From around 6 months to 1 year of age, you can start feeding your French Bulldog a very high quality adult doggy food. It is important to maintain a strict routine for your French Bulldog. You can always supplement a few treats in between. Wink wink. A half a cup at a time will make sure your Frenchie is pleasantly tubby and happy. Some days, it seems like a French Bulldog can never get enough food. This seemingly natural hunger is relative to the breed and you should be weary of overfeeding your French Bulldog. Monitor your Frenchie as she eats and make sure she only eats her own food, especially if you feed your French Bulldog near other pets. Note that non-neutered males may grow into the low 30lb range. Always consult a vet. Ideally, 2. This sort of consult is always quick and cheap sometimes free and you owe it to your companion to get the opinion of an expert veterinarian. Overweight Frenchies can suffer from some very severe health problems, including heart disease just like humans , labored breathing, and lack of physical exercise. Never take a French Bulldog out to play in sweltering heat, they can die. Generally, older French Bulldogs will require slightly less food than their young counterparts. However, do not restrict food from your French Bulldog if they appear to be underweight or hungry. A reader pointed out in the comments below that these calculations would put french bulldogs in the 40lbs range somewhere around calories per day. This is obviously an outlier situation and no french bulldog needs that many calories. This means feeding your french bulldog less food as they age. If they look thinner than usual, you can move up by 5 calories per pound of weight until you find a magic number. No french bulldog is identical and our suggestions are based on average weights computed to a mean average calorie intake suggestion. Read: I use this calculator and a pad of paper. See this guide in order to determine the appropriate weight for your Frenchie. Subject: How much should I feed my French Bulldog? Getting a new dog entails a great deal of responsibility. Primarily, you must correctly feed them. French Bulldogs are delicate canines who can develop health problems if they are not properly fed. Indeed, what they eat as puppies has an impact on their health later in life. You must provide three balanced meals every day to your French Bulldog in order for it to be a healthy dog. He requires high-quality puppy chow that is high in protein and vitamins. Consult your veterinarian or an experienced dog breeder if you are unsure about which food to purchase. Please keep in mind that the weaning process usually takes two to three weeks. The puppy should be acclimated to eating puppy food before you take him to his new home. As previously stated, feeding your French Bulldog puppy three times a day is crucial. Remember to feed them on a frequent basis when they are growing and burning a lot of calories. This demonstrates how active they are during their formative years. At each mealtime, how much should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? It will be the equivalent of 1. This should be followed as a general rule until they are around six months old. Then, as they become older, their weight and health will dictate how much you should feed your French Bulldog puppy. A French Bulldog puppy between the ages of 8 and 12 weeks should eat about 1 and a half cups of food each day, divided into three meals. The amount of food your dog need will alter as he grows older. The weight of a puppy, the amount of food a typical dog should eat, and the adjusted amount for a very active dog are all listed on the French Bulldog feeding chart. For example, a 9-kilogram dog should receive 1. A 2- to a 3-week-old puppy is starting to respond to sounds and his eyes are fully open. By now, your puppy should have grown to be twice the size he was when he was born. Every 4—6 hours, he still needs to be nursed. He has become more active and is able to urinate and defecate on his own. A puppy this young, however, should not be weaned and separated from his mother. Raw beef mixed with a particular formula is given by some owners, while kibble is given by others. For disease prevention, some dog breeders prefer raw feeding. Little puppies get more playful at this age and go out of their sleeping place. This is an excellent opportunity to expose him to a different place where he can do his business. They are enthralled by other animals. House training has begun in earnest. Puppies are now consuming solid food, which is often ground raw food with a high protein and vitamin content. This is also the time when puppies receive their first vaccinations. After the initial shots, booster vaccines are administered every few weeks. This is a distressing situation for a puppy, just as it is for human babies. By the time they are 8 to 12 weeks old, puppies should be eating 1. This diet should be high in calories, protein, and other nutrients necessary for them to grow. You can offer your puppy raw food during this time. Your lovely puppy is developing a fear of the unknown, which includes people and other dogs. Puppy social skills develop as they receive care and instruction, and they learn their place in the pack. Your French Bulldogs will be the most comfortable and happy if you feed them at the same time every day. This is also a good time to begin gradually introducing adult dog food to your puppy. If you have a little dog, you might want to wait until he or she is a year old. Puppies should be fed 1. French Bulldog Puppy, 12 Weeks Your dog will still require 1. Follow this routine and resist the impulse to give your dog more food. French Bulldogs have a tendency to gain weight and, as a result, suffer health problems. Activity level, health, age, and weight are all factors that influence the amount of food your French Bulldog requires. The number of calories your French Bulldog puppy consumes should increase in proportion to their weight as they grow older. Feeding your puppy 12 to 30 calories per pound of bodyweight is recommended. Allowing your French Bulldog puppy to have consistent access to food throughout the day is known as free feeding. Because they lack the self-control to stop eating when they are full, free-feeding your French Bulldog can lead to obesity. Free feeding makes it tough to train your puppy and keep track of how much food they consume. Wet foods are easy to chew, especially for pups, and they include a lot of moisture, which keeps your French Bulldog hydrated. Wet food has more moisture, which minimizes the risk of urinary infections and other problems. Some people feed their puppies a combination of wet and dry food. If you decide to use this procedure, consult your veterinarian beforehand to avoid causing health issues in your dog. Is it possible to feed raw food to a French Bulldog puppy? Raw foods are safe for your French Bulldog. As part of the raw food diet, give your puppy grains, fruits, and vitamins. Raw meats, on the other hand, can induce bacterial infections if they are not handled or cooked. Bones in raw foods can cause your puppy to choke or shatter his teeth. Food is required three to four times per day for French Bulldog puppies, and twice per day for adult Bulldogs. Your French Bulldog puppy can consume a variety of human foods. Apples, broccoli, bananas, mango, and blueberries, among other fruits and vegetables, are safe for your puppy. Cheese, chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, sweet potatoes, rice, and pumpkin are all safe human foods for your puppy. All of these diets provide your puppy with the nutrition he or she requires to grow strong and healthy. Because they contain components that are poisonous to your French Bulldog, certain human foods may not be safe for your puppy. Chocolate is the most deadly food for your dog because it includes theobromine, which can induce seizures, tremors, irregular heartbeats, and even death in some cases. Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, candies, baked goods, fruit drinks, and cereals are among the foods that a French Bulldog puppy should avoid. The major disadvantage is that there are several low-quality kibble products on the market. Some people are only in it for the money, just like in any other industry. These drawbacks, however, can be mitigated by selecting a high-quality brand. L Look for formulae designed exclusively for French Bulldogs. To assist them, specialized recipes are carefully crafted. Wet food, on the other hand, has fewer calories due to the water content. Wet food is more expensive than dry food since your dog will need to eat more of it. Wet food is also messier than dry food, which is especially true if your dog is a sloppy eater. Some experts believe it is the finest option! To avoid this, conduct your homework and know exactly what your dog needs so that they do not go without essential nutrients. It takes time to make because you must buy the ingredients separately and cook the meals. Raw food also takes longer to clean up than any other cuisine. To prevent you and your family from being ill, make sure to sterilize the place where you made the food. Many of the benefits and drawbacks of feeding a puppy a prepared food are the same as when feeding raw. A raw diet is more dangerous than eating homemade cuisine with properly cooked meats. It will, however, be costly and time-consuming. A French Bulldog is a little dog with a short growth rate. By three months, these canines are only 5 — 6 inches tall on average. All puppies had grown another 2 inches three months later, at the age of six months. They grow another inch in the eleventh month. When your puppy is a year old, you can do this. When French Bulldog puppies reach the age of one year, they are considered adults. It is not a good idea to make a complete switch all at once. You should gradually introduce his new food to your dog. This can be accomplished by substituting a portion of the old food for the new food and mixing it in with the new food. Start by feeding your dog 14 percent new food and 34 percent old food for a few days. Then, for a few days, give the dog half and half, and then, for another few days, give him 34 new food and 14 old food. If your dog appears to be content, switch to only the new food. When it comes to selecting adult food, a good rule of thumb is to select an adult meal that contains similar ingredients to the puppy food your dog is accustomed to. When anxious, French Bulldog puppies may refuse to eat. There are a variety of reasons why your dog may be stressed, including recent relocation, the addition of a new infant, or the removal of your puppy from his pack to live with you. This is completely normal and anticipated. Ensure that you serve him the same food that he is accustomed to. He might be interested in the change. If none of these methods work, you should take him to the veterinarian for an examination. For maximum health, French Bulldogs require a well-balanced diet that includes a wide variety of nutrients. The food should be made mostly of high-quality protein sourced from chicken, eggs, lamb, duck, and venison. This guarantees that your muscles expand in a healthy way. Calcium and phosphorus should be incorporated in the diet for strong bones and teeth. Essential vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants are also required for a healthy immune system in dogs. To ensure healthy skin and a lustrous coat, the mix should also include vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. To encourage healthy digestion, the formula should include both prebiotic fiber and probiotics. Read the dog food labels carefully before purchasing a reliable brand. If your dog shows signs of being undernourished, such as being restless and lacking energy, it may be time to explore supplementation. Many dogs require supplements as they age because they may acquire an increased need for nutrients that they may not be getting enough of from their food. If you have any doubts, it is preferable to see your veterinarian. Most dogs, especially puppies, drink the recommended quantity of water on their own. Your dog will drink enough water if you have drinking water in a clean bowl available. Young puppies, on average, require one-half cup of water every two hours. They need between a half ounce and one ounce of water per pound of body weight every day as they become older. So, if your dog is 16 pounds, he will need between 8 and 16 ounces of water every day. This equates to one to two cups of water every day. If you give your dog dry food, make sure he drinks plenty of water afterward. The French Bulldog is an energetic breed that enjoys being active. Every day, they require at least an hour of exercise. This might be as simple as taking a quick walk around the neighborhood or a lengthier walk in the park. Of course, a beloved toy can also be used to entertain your dog. Remember that brachycephalic short-nosed dog breeds often have breathing problems and should not be overworked, especially in hot weather. The head is large and square, with prominent wrinkles wrapping around the extremely short nose. Underneath the sleek, glittering coat, the body is compact and muscular. The lovely Frenchie is cheerful and outgoing. How many cups of food should I feed my French bulldog? How much water should a French bulldog puppy drink? How much water should a French Bulldog puppy be given? Puppies drink more than adult dogs and can consume half a cup of water every few hours. What should I feed my 8-week-old French Bulldog? This food should be high in calories, protein, and other nutrients that they require in order to thrive. During this period, you can feed your puppy uncooked food. Can you overfeed a French bulldog? Due to the high-calorie content of puppy chow, be careful not to overfeed your French bulldog. How many times a day should a Frenchie be fed? You Might Like:.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Use Both Low-Value and High-Value Treats In general, owners should aim for a good mix of low-value and high-value treats: low-value treats to use often for average responses and high-value treats for when you need a stronger lure or when your dog responds particularly well and you want to give a BIG reward! A good variety of treats will also make sure your dog stays interested in their training. Some owners may prefer to opt for homemade treats such as biscuits and patties. Convenience — The treat should be easy to carry in your pocket or bait bag and definitely not greasy or crumbly. Delicious — Obviously, this is more subjective but your treats must excite your dog otherwise they will not work as a training tool. Whether you pick a treat with crunch, sweetness or a meaty texture is completely up to you — just make sure that your dog loves it! Treats are healthier for your dog than table scraps due to the herbs, spices, salt and so on that we add to our food. These are the no. Made of natural whole food ingredients sourced from right here in the US and even supplemented with added antioxidants, these small-sized treats are just 3. They also come in a resealable ziplock bag to guarantee their continued freshness. Flavors available include beef and turkey; chicken and lamb; chicken and venison; turkey and duck; and lamb and salmon. Boasting credentials of percent wheat free with no added corn, soy or artificial colors and flavors, these treats would be ideal for dogs suffering from allergies. The Wellness WellBites would certainly be an easy addition to your training arsenal as they are soft and chewy. Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs The bacony flavor of these small yet nutritious treats are guaranteed to make any dog want to work for them. I mean, have you ever seen a dog turn their nose up to bacon? Made in the USA with pork liver as the number 1 ingredient, with real bacon added for irresistible flavor, these soft aromatic treats your dog is sure to love. They are a perfectly small size and low calorie for frequent and repetitive rewards during training. There are no artificial preservatives, no BHT, BHA or soy but instead the treats are full of vegetables and include flax-seed and salmon oil. They really are tasty and nutritious. So what are you paying for? All-American made with no wheat, corn, soy or gluten, these jerky treats are smoked for 15 hours before they make it into their packaging. Although the treats themselves are 7 inches long, they are soft in texture so are easy to divide into smaller, treat-sized portions. As always with their products, quality, taste and flavor are paramount, hence the slightly higher price tag. Being such quality and so tasty, you should use these sparingly during training as a high value reward. Made in the USA from a single ingredient, these are guaranteed to be gluten and grain free with no fillers. Quite simply healthy and delicious. As you can expect with such high-quality treats as these, they are delivered to you freeze dried in an air tight bag to guarantee their freshness and flavor. Your dog will love them! Treat pouches are indispensable if using treats during training with your pooch. Excellent for carrying the recommended duo of low-value and high-value treats. It features a removable and adjustable belt, or can simply clip on to your existing belt with the caribiner clip provided my preferred way of using. It also has elastic loops for securing other items and you can attach your keys, or training whistle, with the caribiner. It can be hand washed or placed into a machine washer on cool, so keeping it clean and hygienic is no problem at all. Available in red, black or blue. Kurgo Go Stuff-It Dog Treat Bag This treat bag is made from nylon, with a drawstring to close the bag and secure the treats when not in use. Like the Petsafe above, it does have a second compartment for you to carry other items you need while on your training adventures. It comes supplied with a caribiner to attach the bag to your belt, but unlike the PetSafe above, no belt supplied. Not a problem as I always prefer my own belts :- All in all, this a good-sized, versatile bag that does what you need from a treat pouch: Keeps the treats secure, your pockets clean and your hands free so you can concentrate on the task in hand. To avoid this, learn to reward and treat during training correctly in the following article: How to use Dog Treats Correctly During Training Final Thoughts… Hopefully this article has given you some useful information and options for the best dog treats for training your dog or puppy. Just keep in mind that not all dogs will respond to the same treats in the same way. It might take a little experimentation before you find the ones your dog will work hard to earn. This has no effect on the eventual price you pay and we are very grateful for your support. 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. No bake pumpkin balls for puppies. Puppies are growing bundles of energy, so they need lots of food. However, be careful not to over-do the portion size. Large breed puppies will obviously require more food than small breed puppies. If you think your puppy is gaining too much weight, or not enough, talk to your vet about modifying their diet. These include chocolate, grapes, macadamia nuts, and raisins. Puppies Love Treats All dog owners know their pups live for treats. And nothing makes a tail wag faster than a delicious snack! Furthermore, treats are also great for positive reinforcement training or giving a puppy energy between meals. While conventional, store-bought treats look good, they can sometimes hide undesirable ingredients. To make sure your pup is getting a nutritious, healthy and all-natural snack why not bake them yourself at home? The other added bonus is that you can save some money, too. If, like some of us, you have lots of big breed dogs, the bill for treats can soon add up! Read on to discover why you should consider making your own healthy puppy treats, what ingredients you should include. For example, do you have a puppy with fussy tastebuds? Of course, you can also add some of the flavours that she absolutely loves. Are Homemade Puppy Treats Healthy? So, are puppy treat recipes healthy? And they can also be cheaper than store-bought treats. If you buy your ingredients in bulk, you can make your dollar stretch further. Simply make a large batch and freeze some for later use. There are plenty of easy homemade puppy treats recipes available. A list of tasty, nutritious recipes that you can try out on your puppies. However, be warned — large adult dogs love these just as much! Peanut butter and honey are two things guaranteed to drive most puppies wild. We have to watch those calories! Photo Credit — The Scrumptious Pumpkin. Click here to check out the recipe. The Novice Chef makes dainty and delicious peanut butter snack sandwiches. Photo Credit — The Novice Chef. Click here for the recipe. However, these are high-calorie treats so be sure to serve them in moderation. These cute flourless donuts have pink frosting and veggie sprinkles. If they taste as good as they look, your pup will be very happy. Made for Calvin the Beagle, these treats contain only six ingredients and take about 10 minutes to make. My pup was very happy to road-test peanut butter, banana and parsley treats from Margaritas in the Rain. They are easy to assemble and, judging by how quickly they disappeared, passed the taste test with flying colors. Our puppies love bananas, which are safe to give in moderation. For a savoury option, try these all natural puppy treats from The Kitchn, which contain bacon fat. Photo Credit — The Kitchn. Click here to view the full recipe. Plus, they have delicious bacon fat that had all our dogs hovering around the kitchen while these were baking! Healthy Homemade Puppy Treats Food allergies and food sensitivities can make life very difficult for both puppies and their owners. They can show up in a number of ways, including skin problems, digestive upsets, and chronic infections. It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what foods are causing the problem, but eggs, corn, wheat, soy, and milk are common offenders. Since these are often found in store-bought treats, a great way to prevent a breakout is to make your own hypoallergenic treats. Mint and Buckwheat Homemade Puppy Treats Lola the Pitty has a great mint and buckwheat homemade puppy treats recipe that is wheat and dairy-free. Photo Credit — Lola the Pitty. Check out the recipe here. Photo Credit — Bitter Sweet. These biscuits are packed with superfoods like spinach and flaxseeds, so they contain plenty of fibre, antioxidants, and a whole lot of love. Hence, if you want to keep your puppy in trim shape, consider treats with low-calorie sweeteners such as apple and carrot. Homemade Puppy Cookies My Baking Addiction has a recipe for apple carrot homemade puppy treats that contains just four ingredients. Photo Credit — My Baking Addiction. These small, round cookies take just minutes to assemble and are made from ingredients you probably already have to hand. If you are a novice baker, they are a great place to start because it is difficult to go wrong. Pumpkin Puppy Treats Another very simple recipe comes from Kol the Puggle with his no-bake pumpkin balls. Coconut flour, pumpkin and peanut butter are combined to make a snack that the human members of the household can enjoy as well. Here are some ideas for making DIY puppy treats. If you want to go one step further, try your DIY skills on crafting frosted cookies, doggie donuts, or sweet sandwiches. To give your treats an extra edge, consider buying dog cookie cutters. These come in a range of shapes from bones and pawprints, to dogs and kennels. These look great and puppies will absolutely wolf them down. Click here to check them out. Natural Puppy Treats Fruit and vegetables can make great and easy snacks that are healthy and nutritious. Although you should watch the calories and keep in mind that some fruits, such as cherries , are not safe. Like making things yourself? Then why not create a cute replica of your very own puppy! These strong-smelling treats are a good option for overweight dogs as they contain less than 3 calories per treat. However, they are quite pricey. The best treats for your dog are nutritious ones, and these contain peas and sweet potatoes, which are high in iron, fiber, taurine, vitamins, and omegas. Firstly, you have to give your Lab the right type of treats according to their life stage and health issues. Some treats that are suitable for adult Labs may not be suitable for Lab puppies or senior Labs with dental issues. There is a variety of dog treats on the market, but some of them serve different purposes. Have a look at the different types of treats and their purposes. Examples are biscuits, cookies, kibbles, and bars. They can be used for overweight dogs because you can portion out how much you break off and give them. If you have a food dehydrator, you can make these treats for your dog yourself. Never give your dog these treats in their full form, as they can be a choking hazard, but chopping them up into bite-sized pieces should be safe to chew. Apples, cucumber, carrots, plain popcorn, and blueberries are some of the human food treats your dog can enjoy in moderation. Make sure that the treat you give your dog is safe to eat because some human food is poisonous to dogs while others are high in sodium, sugar, and calories which could upset their stomachs. However, a healthy Labrador Retriever can eat any of the treat types listed above due to their large size and strong teeth. In fact, the crunchy treats that might be too hard for puppies and senior Labs are a great option for adult Labs because the harder texture breaks down plaque on their teeth as they chew. However, never give your Lab a treat that is so hard that it hurts if you tap it against your elbow or knee because those are potential choking hazards. What Ingredients Are in Dog Treats? Even in treat form, you should aim to give your dog high-quality ingredients that will benefit them nutritionally. Avoid treats with fillers, lots of preservatives, and synthetic ingredients and instead, get treats that have a shorter list of uncomplicated whole-food ingredients on the packaging. Examples of good ingredients are real fruits, vegetables, and meat. We love our dogs, and you may feel like you should express your feelings about them by giving them treat after treat. Treats are great for rewarding good behavior and training, but dogs do get all the nutrients they require from their meals. If your dog is overweight, it might be better to lay off the treats for a while. Treats are given to dogs as positive reinforcement for good behavior, which means that they should never be given for bad behavior. Avoid treat giving when your dog is jumping, barking, or being disobedient. Instead, give them lots of water. She has grown up with a range of pets, volunteered at countless pet shelters, and is highly passionate about pet care. With so much information out there, Keri-Beth has made it her mission to make pet care as easy and straightforward as possible for anyone in the world. In her spare time, Keri-Beth enjoys camping, photography, and spending time with her husband, who is a professional drummer.Read more Advertisement. Written by Dr. The average Labrador is very food motivated. What are some of the best treats for Labrador Retrievers and how do you know which ones to pick for your furry best friend? Healthy Treats and Finding a Balance Dog treats not only strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners, they can also come with some great health benefits. Knowing what to look for in a treat can be extremely important. Treats can also contain some of the ingredients commonly found in joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. Be Cautious There are many commercially available treats on the market, and it can be difficult to know which is the healthiest for your dog. Even the lowest-calorie treats can cause weight gain if they are given in excess. It is a good idea to offer treats no more than two or three times a day. If he gains too much weight, it could be detrimental to his health! They can be commercially produced dog treats or can be as simple as the fruits and veggies in your kitchen! Here are some examples of healthy treats for your canine companion. Natural Dog Treats: Fruits and Vegetables Many of the fruits and vegetables that humans eat are healthy and safe to give to your dog. Below are just a few safe options to share with your dog. They can be served at room temperature or even frozen for a nice treat on a hot summer day, and they are an excellent source of antioxidants. Bananas Peeled bananas are also a sweet antioxidizing treat but have more natural sugars in them, so give these infrequently. Apples Apples are an excellent fiber source and can be given in small cut-up pieces, making sure to avoid the core and seeds. Important Be sure to avoid grapes and raisins which are toxic for dogs. The cause is unknown, but just one to three grapes can cause kidney failure in a dog. Vegetables Vegetables like greens beans and carrots are safe for dogs and are a great source of fiber. Leafy greens like kale are good sources of calcium, iron, and vitamins like A and C. These can be served chopped or steamed. Peas and cooked sweet potatoes are also great dog treats and are common components of most commercial dog foods. Important Dog owners should avoid mushrooms because some are toxic, and vegetables from the Allium family like onions, chives, and garlic can cause severe health problems like vomiting, diarrhea, and anemia. Veterinary Dog Treats Some dog treats can be purchased from your veterinarian, and most of these have a dual purpose because they are often recommended for health reasons. Dental Chews.

Overview The process of Poodle tail docking is quite controversial. Many countries have banned both dog tail docking and ear cropping. In the United States, docking is legal and actually expected with certain dog breeds. Let's take a look at: How proper docking is done The correct length to dock Common questions about the tail docking process How Docking is Done In countries where docking is legal and expected in the show ring, many Poodle owners wonder how long a docked tail should be how the tail should be docked and at what age this should be done. Docking or bobbing as it is sometimes called is a procedure in which the Poodle's natural long tail is cut to produce a smaller tail that stands erect. Although this is done so that a Poodle will meet the AKC's Poodle conformation standards, the majority of breeders in the U. If a dog is show quality, docking within a few days of birth is best for the dog as opposed to docking later in life when it can become very complicated.Docking is done 1 of 2 ways. Both methods have created quite an uproar from animal rights activists. The first method is to cut off the blood flow in the tail with the use of a special rubber band, put on so tightly that the blood literally cannot reach the end of the tail; thus causing it to eventually fall off. This is called banding and if a Poodle is to be docked, this is not recommended. The second method is the cutting of the tail. When done correctly, it is a very quick process. This is normally done when the puppy is 3 to 5 days old, however some prefer to wait until the age of 1 week. This is done without anesthesia, as the Poodle is too young to handle it but is preferred over the option of waiting until a dog is older. When a Poodle's tail is docked at an older age, it is a more serious procedure with increased chances of complications and a much longer recover time. The AKC standard calls out for the tip of the tail, when erect, to be at the same height as the top of the dog's head. Long ago, Poodles were mainly used as water dogs. This means that they were retrieval dogs that were trained to retrieve animals that fell into the water after hunters shot them down. Because of this, tails were docked to increase swimming speed and the Pompon on the tip of the tail allowed hunters to see where their dog was while in the water. Today, Poodles are companion dogs however in countries where docking is legal, this is still done due to tradition and customs. Any sized Poodle must have a docked tail in order to enter an AKC conformation event. When is this done? This is done at a very early age and for that reason most owners do not see any signs of the docking process healing, etc. Most breeders will have docking done when puppies are 3 days old. The latest you would want to do this is 5 days old. It heals within about a week, so by the time an owner purchases a puppy, the tail is completely healed. If my Poodle's tail was not docked, can I have it done now? If the procedure is not done at an early age you can have it done to an older dog, however it would involve surgery with anesthesia. Banding cannot be done to an older dog and cutting the tail of an older Poodle without an anesthetic is considered extremely unethical. Does this hurt the puppy or dog? When done at the very young age of 3 days old it is thought that it does not cause extreme pain. However, one cannot say this with absolute certainty. It is known that some puppies will not make a noise and others will let out a loud, quick yelp implying that if it is felt it is fast and fleeting. Does a docked tail stop a Poodle from wagging their tail? Because the tail is shortened just a bit, the majority of the tail remains. This allows the Poodle to wags its tail and use its tail for normal canine communication purposes. Does a Poodle have to have a docked tail to be in a conformation show? It really depends on where you live. In the United States, the answer is yes. In Canada, while either docked or undocked can be shown, most winners in the ring have had docked tails. However, overseas in Europe and Australia where tail docking is not legal, it's a different story. In fact, the FCI breed standard clearly states that the 'absence of tail or naturally short tail' is a disqualifying feature. It should be noted that in many places where docking is illegal, it is okay to own a dog with a docked tail but it is against the law to actually be the responsible party that had the procedure done. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Final Thoughts 3 Common Poodle Tail Styles When discussing poodle tail styles, there are a few variations that you may see. Most of the differences in style will be seen in the overall coat style, but there are a few tail options to choose from as well. This can involve either a long or docked tail, but the fur will flow freely throughout the length. Their tail may still be trimmed in effort to tame the fuzz, but no part of the tail will be shaved. Some poodle owners create a small puff at the tip of their tail, while others will make the entire tail into one uniform puff. These pups will have their tail shaved from base to tip, freeing them from the burden of maintaining the ever-growing tail fur. When scrolling the internet for poodle tail inspiration, you will likely see a number of different styles. A natural poodle tail is long, full of fur, and may even have a slight curl. Though many of us are used to seeing a trimmed and polished poodle tail, natural poodle tails can be a bit unruly. If you see a tail that is only a few inches in length, this means that they had their tail cropped at some point. Do Poodles Have Long Tails? All poodles are born with naturally long tails. Many people think poodles are born with short tails, but this is likely down to how common tail docking is in this breed. But no, all poodles are born with tails that will grow fairly long if they are not docked. Not all poodles have curly tails, but many do. Sometimes the curl is slight and smooth, and other times it can be tightly wound over and held high over the back. There are many variations that a poodle can have… This usually comes down to genetics and what kind of tails their parents had. Poodle Tail Shape All natural poodle tails are typically up to 10 inches in length, but they all can vary in shape slightly. Some tails will be completely straight, some will have a slight curl at the end, and others will curl to the base of the tail. While natural poodle tails can vary in appearance, the shape of the tail is typically uniform once it is cropped. A cropped poodle tail will often be straight from base to end, as the curved portion of the tail is typically removed in the docking process. A word on Poodle training! Results show improvement in obedience and behavior quicker than we thought possible! Tail docking is a common practice performed throughout the poodle breed. This is often due to the desire to meet breed standards in show, or simply to maintain a style that poodle lovers are used to seeing. If a poodle does have their tail docked, the procedure is typically performed between 3 to 5 days of age. It is performed during this timeframe due to some believing the nervous system is not developed enough to feel pain, though this has been debunked by many experts. The tail docking procedure is performed without general anesthesia and is achieved by occluding a portion of the tail with surgical scissors. As a result of this area not receiving adequate blood flow, the tip of the tail will typically fall off within a few days. As we mentioned above, tail docking in poodles is generally performed for cosmetic purposes. Though some insist that tail docking can prevent tail injuries and complications down the line, the AVMA insists that this is not the case. With many pet owners becoming educated on the cons of tail docking in our furry friends, it is becoming easier and easier to find a poodle breeder that does not dock tails. Simple research can lead you in the right direction for the furry friend you are looking for, and into contact with a breeder that fits your needs. We always suggest doing research on the topic and what the process entails, and further determining if tail docking fits your needs going forward. When in doubt, your veterinarian can answer any questions you may have. Poodle Tail Lengths For Show If you would like your future poodle to participate in shows, you will likely need to make sure your pup meets AKC guidelines. Not only do these dogs require a certain style of coat, but they must also have a certain length of tail. Some of the best tail grooming tips for our poodle friends include: Brushing their tail every other day to prevent any tangles Keeping their tail trimmed for sanitary reasons if needed Removing any debris from the tail such as plant material or sticks Including their tail in the washing and conditioning process during bathing Final Thoughts As you can see, the poodle tail can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. By understanding the different tail style options available to your pup, you can choose the look that best fits your needs going forward. The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. After all, they all look so different! Some have slender, long tails, some have short straight tails, some have curled tails, and some have wacky hairstyles that can make their tails look very unique! These are — docking, haircuts, and genetics. As a general rule, natural Poodle tails are long, slender, and relatively straight. Poodles who were docked as puppies will have considerably shorter tails. Breed standards across the world can vary quite a lot, even for the same breed. But, the Kennel Club UK accepts both docked and undocked tails, as straight as possible. Natural Poodle tails are thicker at the base, and can either be straight or have a slight curve. Do Poodle Tails Curl Up? Although most Poodle breed standards look for the straightest tail possible, Poodle tails can come in a variety of shapes. Some will be perfectly straight, some will have a slight curve, and some will curl. There is natural variation in all dog breeds, including the Poodle. If a breeder breeds Poodles with curly tails, puppies will often show the same trait. In some dog breeds, excessively curled tails can be a problem. This is most common in breeds like the Pug and English Bulldogs, and can require surgical management in the worst cases. But, this rarely happens for Poodles. Do Poodles Wag Their Tails? Just like all other dog breeds, Poodles will wag their tails. Our dogs all use their tails to communicate. Body language is an important way for dogs to understand one another, as well as to convey their needs and emotions to us. Naturally, Poodles have long tails. But, traditionally, show and working Poodles had docked tails. In working dogs, this was practical, as it reduced the risk of tails getting caught on things and injured whilst Poodles were retrieving. But how long is a docked Poodle tail? Well, the length varies. Generally, these breed standards want tails docked short enough to give the Poodle a balanced outline. So, the length of the docked tail will vary depending on the size of the puppy and their predicted adult size. Traditionally, tail docking was important for the working Poodle. A shorter tail was perceived as less likely to tangle and catch on things as they were retrieving. Poodles were originally retrievers in water, who had to bring back waterfowl, ducks, and other prey. Some owners also believed that a docked tail would help their Poodle travel faster in the water. Modern Poodles tend to only have their tails docked for aesthetic reasons. Usually this is to comply with breed standards. Is Tail Docking Painful to Puppies? Tail docking will either happen when puppies are only a few days old, or at around 3 months of age. Puppies at 3 months old will need to be under general anesthesia to get their tails docked. Studies suggest that pain caused by this procedure can range from acute to severe, leading to signs of emotional distress. And, that just refers to the procedure itself. In these cases, chronic pain is a real risk. Is Tail Docking Legal? The legality of tail docking varies depending on where you live in the world. In most American states, tail docking is still legal. However, in the UK, Australia, and other parts of the world, tail docking for non-medical reasons is banned. Poodles will have the same curly hair on their tails as everywhere else on their bodies. Knots and tangles on their tail can be painful, and hair at the base of their tail could easily become covered with feces. Some will opt for shaving the tail entirely and leaving a puff of fur at the tip of the tail. But, this is down to personal preference. Detangling spray and a wide toothed comb are great tools for teasing out any knots and tangles, rather than pulling at them with a regular brush. Yanking hard at the knots can be painful and stressful for your dog. Poodles have high maintenance, curly fur. Brushing your Poodle every day is important, because it will get rid of any knots and tangles, and prevent them from turning into mats. Although brushing your Poodle every day can seem like a lot of work, it will prevent bad knots from forming, which would take much longer to detangle in the future. On top of this, grooming is a great way to bond with your dog. So, make the whole process fun! It can benefit your relationship with your dog as much as it will keep them looking their best! Longer fur is more prone to tangles and knots, which can easily develop into matts if left alone. But, longer hair can also get in the way. This will mean you need to clean their fur more regularly, and you might even need to start grooming them more than once a day. Your Poodle Tail Guide Poodle tails can look really different from one another depending on their length, shape, and haircut. Shorter tails are more popular to conform with certain breed standards, but long, natural tails are becoming more common in other parts of the world! Which type of tail does your Poodle have? More Poodle Information. The pros and cons are abundant. However, it is a topic, breeders have the deciding factor on when planning to breed poodles. AKC breed standards require poodles to be docked in order to participate in any sanctioned contest. While procedural complications are rare, the AVMA opposes tail docking in poodles unless medically necessary. The following will tell you everything you need to know about tail docking. Poodles were specifically trained to retrieve animals that fell in the water after hunters shot them down. This is why poodles have certain grooming techniques such as the pompon on the tip of their tails, which allows their owner to locate them while hunting or swimming. Upper-class owners did not dock the tails of their poodles while lower-class owners did. This would differentiate who could and could not hunt. Dog owners will then need to make the personal decision whether they would like to go with a poodle with a docked or undocked tail. The AKC has certain requirements for each type of poodle if you plan to have your poodle or another type of dog in conformation shows. Poodles get their tails docked at a very young age ranging from 3 to 5 days old. The recovery process for tail docking takes about a week for puppies to completely heal. No scars are left and there is no damage to the nervous system after the procedure is conducted. This is an important reason why poodle owners do not notice that the procedure has been conducted. When older poodles or other breeds of dogs go through this procedure, there is the likelihood they will go through more complications and may have a longer recovery time as a result. Poodles, like other breeds of dogs, have naturally long tails which are then cut to produce a smaller tail. This will cut the blood flow to supply to the end of the tail. The tail will then fall off in a few days due to a lack of blood flow. The procedure is conducted with surgical scissors or a scalpel and is done quickly. Something to take into consideration is no anesthesia or analgesia a pain reliever used when breeders dock the tails of the 3 to 5-day old poodle puppies. Both sides on the tail docking spectrum have very strong opinions on the pain caused to poodles and other dogs while going through the tail docking procedure as well as the need to dock or keep the tail length. Many individuals believe tail docking is needed when poodles are out hunting with their owners. Out of all the different breeds of dogs, poodles tend to be the most aware of where their tail is at all times. Poodles will lower their tail going up steep areas or when they are concerned about their surroundings and will raise their tail when they are feeling confident in their environment. The topic of tail docking gets more controversial when it comes to the pain the puppies endure during the tail docking procedure. Some breeders and dog owners say the procedure is not painful since it is being done when the puppy is just a few days old. Other breeders and dog owners say the procedure is very painful to the puppies. Is the Procedure Painful? Even if the puppies are a few days old, they will still experience some level of pain. At 3 to 5 days old, poodles have a fully functioning nervous system and will be able to feel when their tail is cut off, whether they make a noise or not. During the healing process, the puppies will have inflammation at the end of the docked tail until it is fully healed. The level of pain is hard to determine because each puppy has a different level of pain tolerance and reaction to the pain. The American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA opposes the clipping of ears and tail docking if it is only for the use of keeping a certain cosmetic look for the dog. Tail docking is painful. Keep in mind if the procedure goes wrong, the poodle or any type of dog can lead to long-term nervous system issues. You may be cutting some of the supracaudal scent glands, which help in olfactory signaling. Some poodles and other breeds will often have a side effect of chewing on their docked tail after the procedure is done. This is known as Neuropathic pain also known as phantom pain or phantom limb pain where there is an injury in the nerves either in the peripheral or central nervous system. Tail docking is not a requirement, but more of a cosmetic preference among dog owners and breeders. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts. Why is docking done? Should you dock the tails on Poodle mixes? Today we talk everything about tail-related! Working animals and farm dogs however were not subjected to the tax. Even though nowadays many breed registries claim that their dogs primarily hunting dogs need to have docked tails in order to prevent injuries, this was less common in the past. Only dogs with unusually long tails or previous tail injuries had them amputated for medical reasons. Some dogs, particularly many working dog breeds, were required to have docked tails by this breed standard. In the European Union tail docking has been banned since .All Poodles coming from Europe have long, natural tails. The reasons for tail docking are purely cosmetic. There is no physical benefit for the dog in having a docked tail. For dog sports such as agility or dock diving it is actually an advantage if your dog has his tail — he will use it like a rudder for keeping balance, jumping and making tight turns. Below is a picture of a Poodle skillfully using his tail to run across a narrow dogwalk. If you pick a type of Poodle that will not be a show dog, such as the Parti Poodle or a mix like the Bernedoodle , there is also no reason to not leave the tail intact! Are Poodles Born With Tails? Yes, Poodles give birth to puppies with long, natural tails. In litters where docking is performed, it happens at weeks of age. The procedure should preferably be done by a veterinarian to ensure a sanitary process. If you have a Poodle or Poodle cross with a natural tail, you will need to apply the same grooming regimen to their tail as to the rest of their body. A Poodle with a well-maintained natural tail looks beautiful — but so do the many different cuts that groomers can give him. You need to keep in mind that the tail tends to mat easily and will get dirty quickly, so pay extra attention to it when you are brushing your Poodle. The Bottom Line The practice of tail docking dates back to old conventions that do not have a use or application anymore. Unless you are planning on showing your dog in AKC shows which require a docked tail, you can pick a Poodle with a natural tail. It can mat easily. If you are trying out dog sports or your Poodle is an active companion dog, he will benefit from having a tail for staying balanced and turning tightly. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Depression in dogs is a serious matter as well, and it can have some physical effects on your dog and can cause them to lose appetite, be lazy, and become overall lethargic and sad. One of the very common causes of depression in goldens is being left alone a lot. Golden Retrievers are very social and they need to spend time with other people and animals. Leaving them alone a lot will cause behavioral problems and can make them sad. You can learn how long can you leave your golden retriever alone here. In this case, your dog will probably show other signs of being sick. They may vomit, some hair may fall, you may see red spots, etc. If this is the case, you should take them to the vet to get a diagnosis and get the treatments needed. Poor Nutrition A poor diet can harm your golden retriever quite a bit in every way, including their mood and energy levels, of course. Poor nutrition can be one of three things; They are eating too little They are eating too much They are not getting the right nutrients If you are feeding your dog the right portion and they are still gaining weight, they are probably getting fed by someone else as well. For example, a family member may be spoiling them with the treats or table scraps without you knowing about it. Here are 18 examples of humans foods golden retrievers should never consume , make sure none of the table scraps you feed your dog contain these foods. Not Getting Enough Exercise Goldens are active, energetic dogs that need a daily dose of exercise of no less than 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercises to stay physically and mentally healthy. If your dog is not getting enough exercise, they may look sad because they are indeed sad and tired. Less exercise can actually lower their energy levels and make them feel tired. If your dog is adopted, mistreatment could trigger them into depression as it could bring back the memories and bad feelings, so this is something you should consider very carefully. Physical punishments of this type should be strictly banned in your household. If you employ a dog sitter or walker, find a way to make sure they are not mistreating the dog in any way. They may also want their walks to be shorter or prefer to nap than going for a walk. I, of course, added the possible solutions that can help your golden regain their energy levels. They lose their appetite and their eating patterns can change, such as they start dragging their food to another room to eat away from everyone or prefer to eat later when no one is around. Sporadic episodes of howling or whimpering They can start howling or whimpering without apparent triggers. Their tones of the howling would be somewhat low-energy and sad, and if you have heard their sad howls before then you know it could be heartbreaking. They can be doing this to not face anyone or feel pressured to socialize with anyone. This goes hand-in-hand with the avoiding behavior discussed earlier. Becomes disinterested in things they used to like Your dog could suddenly lose interest in things and activities that used to excite them. For example, they may not be excited to play fetch anymore, play with their favorite toys, or even go to the park. Display Compulsive Behaviors Compulsive behaviors such as constantly licking their paws, chewing on furniture, or other actions done constantly and with no obvious reason behind it could be a sign that the dog is stressed out or depressed and are trying to find some relief. Improving their diet includes making sure to give them the proper meal size for their age and activity level, making sure they are getting all the needed nutrients, and maybe introducing supplements if needed. If you spend most of your day at work, make sure to make the most out of the little time you have together. The Furbo Dog Monitor also allows two-way communication so you will be able to see them, hear them, give them treats, while also allowing them to hear you and talk to you. Introduce Changes If their daily routine is making them sad or bored, you could shake things up a little bit. Maybe change their walk times from morning to evenings or take them new places around town. Taking them to a doggy day care is a good idea here because it allows them to see new faces and interact with new people and new animals. Reward them for being active Whenever your dog shows signs of activity or becomes a bit hyper for a short burst, make sure to make the most of it by rewarding them and engaging with them with high energy. Show them that this really makes you happy and keep your energy levels high. Praise them and give them treats, this will make them more likely to repeat it and gradually they will get back to their normal, active and happy self. Take them to the vet If your dog is exhibiting symptoms of illness, you should take them to the vet. You should try to communicate positive energy to your dog, which is the only way to help them improve and recover from what is making them sad. Do Golden Retrievers Get Sad? Yes, Golden Retrievers get sad when they are ignored, left alone for long periods of time, or are mistreated. Goldens are very social animals and very loyal to their owners, so when they are separated from their owners or mistreated by them they can get very sad. If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. As a pet parent, there are times when I have noticed that my Golden Retriever seems to look sad. Golden Retrievers do not experience clinical depression as humans do. However, they can feel a form of depression that includes intense sadness, the blues, and even grief. They may also experience seasonal depression during the winter months when exercise and outdoor time are reduced. So, Golden Retrievers can indeed experience a form of depression that includes sadness, grief, the blues, and even a form of seasonal affective disorder in the winter months. This article will look at sadness and depression in Golden Retrievers, including causes, signs to look for, and what you can do if your dog is sad or depressed. Golden Retriever Sadness and Depression In order to determine if dogs can feel sadness and grief, they first need to be able to feel emotions, as humans do. Logically, if they can feel grief and sadness then it stands to reason they can also experience a form of depression. New research shows that dogs feel emotions and experience loss, grief, and sadness. Gregory Burns, a professor of Neuroeconomics and Director of the Center for Neuropolicy at Emory University, has done extensive research on dog emotions. While many scientists find it hard to believe that dogs or animals can experience emotions much the same way we do, Dr. Berns utilized non-invasive magnetic imaging resonance MRIs in conjunction with a dog trainer to track the areas of the human and canine brains that are active during certain emotions [ source ]. Berns concluded that dogs have vibrant interior lives and experience-rich emotions similar to ours. Gregory Burns But, do these emotions include sadness and even depression? Yes, it appears so. Consider a study conducted in New Zealand and Australia that attempted to assess signs of depression in dogs and cats after losing a companion animal [ source ]. The study utilized a questionnaire distributed to dog and cat owners, which returned surveys, including for dogs. While researchers in that study acknowledged certain limitations, they concluded that behaviors changed due to the loss of a companion animal. Sounds a lot like sadness and grief to me. I saw these symptoms in our cat when our Sheltie passed. Our cat as a kitten had grown up with the Sheltie as a puppy, and they spent years closely bonded. Fortunately, it passed with time. Suppose you suspect your Golden Retriever is sad or experiencing depression or the blues. In that case, there is a good chance you have already identified some of the symptoms. In fact, the biggest thing to be on the lookout for is a change in demeanor. Your dog will often become lethargic and withdrawn and lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, such as walking. However, symptoms of sadness or depression can cover a wide range, including Becoming withdrawn or hiding Lethargic and a loss of interest in once enjoyed activities Sleeping more Eating less or a loss of interest in food Seeking more affection from owners or becoming more clingy An increase in destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging Suppose your Golden Retriever has lost a companion. In that case, it may experience the following symptoms of grief in addition to those listed above: Visiting favorite areas of the deceased pet Changes in vocalizations such as barking or whining Inappropriate elimination peeing or pooping in the house It is imperative to caution readers that many medical conditions cause symptoms similar to those listed. As a result, it is essential to have your dog checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any medical causes. For example, chronic pain can be mistaken as depression in older pets, as can a form of dementia in older dogs called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. In addition, if a dog is depressed, the stress from that sadness may cause medical issues to emerge or aggravate existing ones. Suppose your veterinarian rules out any medical issues and depression is expected. In that case, the vet will most likely ask for a thorough pet history. Golden Retrievers are typically not lazy, so an abrupt change in activity level might signal depression or something else. Obviously, as pet parents, if our Golden Retrievers are depressed or sad, we want to help them in any way we can. But, to do so, we first must know why or what causes a Golden Retriever to become depressed? Golden Retrievers often experience depression due to changes in physical or social well-being or home life changes. For example, emotional or physical abuse, trauma, loss of a companion, chronic pain, changes in seasons and routines, and the addition of a pet or person to the household may all be factors. Each of these, alone or in combination, has the potential to cause sadness or depression in your Golden Retriever. The breed is not known to be aggressive and is instead friendly, affectionate, and eager to please and learn. It is one of the reasons the Golden Retriever breed makes such good therapy and service dogs. However, that sensitivity means they do not do well with physical punishments, yelling, and aversives. Do NOT use aversives or severe punishments on your Golden Retriever Prolonged and harsh training methods can, over time, cause a Golden Retriever to experience many symptoms of depression, such as withdrawal and lack of interest in once enjoyable activities. In addition, many old-fashioned training methods, harsh corrections, or aversives such as shock collars can cause a Golden Retriever to have behavioral problems, including depression. Moreover, extreme forms of physical and emotional abuse such as neglect, beatings, and harsh verbal reprimands are almost guaranteed to cause learned helplessness. Segiliman administered unavoidable electric shocks to dogs. Source In fact, the Learned helplessness theory believes that clinical depression and related mental illnesses may result from an actual or perceived absence of control over the outcome of a situation. If the abuse is harsh enough, it is traumatic to your dog. Trauma could also be a vicious attack from another dog, an accident, abuse, or even a loss. Therefore, any distressing event that causes a long-lasting emotional response can be defined as traumatic. Chronic Pain Chronic pain in your Golden Retriever can be a vicious cycle. It affects your dog physically, and it can impact it mentally as well. Chronic pain is a long-standing pain or a pain that you cannot escape. It can affect your ability to participate in normal daily activities or make them very uncomfortable. It can also affect sleep, appetite, and overall quality of life. So, prolonged pain in a dog can trigger depression. In fact, by definition, prolonged and inescapable pain can trigger learned helplessness in a dog. Or us! Life-Changing Events Often the biggest trigger for sadness in a Golden Retriever is some form of a life-changing event. Life-changing events include the loss of a companion, a new pet or person in the house, being rehomed, and a change to normal routines. The good news is that for most of these, the form of depression is temporary. However, your dog may experience intense sadness, grief, and even a form of depression in the interim. For example, the dog does not get outside or walked for as long in the winter. Likewise, introducing a new pet or newborn to the family dynamic is temporary and often subsides quickly. However, other changes, such as losing an owner or pet companion, can be traumatic and take longer to subside. Losing a pet can be extremely hard on pet owners as well. Seasonal Changes It is well documented that humans can suffer from depression related to the change in seasons and lack of sunlight. Depression in this form is called seasonal affective disorder SAD. According to certified animal behavior consultant Steve Dale, the answer is maybe [ source ]. According to Dale, both humans and dogs have similar brain chemistry, including sharing hormones like melatonin and serotine, which are impacted by daylight. In the winter months, when daylight decreases, the brain produces less of these hormones, both of which can adversely affect mood. So, according to Dale, it is conceivable that pets can get SAD; however, he notes that there is no way to measure SAD in animals objectively. Another factor could be activity levels. Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and require a lot of physical exercise, which can be difficult in cold winter months. As a result, the decreased activity may contribute to mood changes in the winter months. Any discussion on sadness or depression in your Golden Retriever would not be complete without suggestions on what can be done. Below are some actionable items you can take to help your pet if it is depressed or sad and it has not resolved quickly. A Veterinarian Examination If your dog is suffering from prolonged sadness or depressive symptoms, you should first get it examined by a veterinarian. So, in other words, you may think your dog is depressed when it is suffering from a painful medical condition that your vet might be able to help with. Keep in mind, that dogs are very well adapted to hiding their pain, so you might not even know they are hurting. Hence, the need for a vet exam. Leslie Sinn, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists ACVB and certified professional dog trainer cautions owners to be aware of depressive symptoms in the absence of life-changing events [ source ]. If your dog is in pain, do not medicate with pain relievers containing Ibuprofen such as Advil. Ibuprofen is very dangerous to Golden Retrievers, even in small doses. How dangerous is Ibuprofen to Golden Retrievers? Positive methods are especially important if you are fostering or adopting a Golden Retriever that was abused, neglected, or traumatized. Suppose you have a Golden Retriever as a puppy that needs training. Golden Retrievers are not only eager to please and biddable willing to learn , but they are highly intelligent and obedient, making them very easy to train. Their sensitive natures make them best suited to positive training methods. Researchers discovered that the reported use of positive reinforcement or bond-based training methods reward-based was linked with much more positive outcomes. In contrast, positive punishment aversive-based is associated with more negative consequences, including fear. In those instances, harsh methods may only exacerbate the depressive condition, i. Golden Retrievers Need Friends Too Golden Retrievers are like human kids and adults in that for healthy socialization; they need friends. Pet friends can especially be important if they lose a pet companion. Playing with other dogs helps ease the loneliness and loss. If your dog has a fur buddy, arrange some time for them to hang out. Alternatively, you can book them a day or two each week at a reputable doggie daycare, where they can get some socialization, exercise, and play. If your pet is missing a furry friend, engaging with another dog can help fill the void. Of course, adopting another dog can also help, but you should not make this decision solely to cheer your dog up. Bringing a new pet home needs to be the right fit for you and your pet. Increase the Time You Spend With Your Dog Golden Retrievers bond closely with their owners, so spending extra time with your dog offers some support, which may benefit the dog from increased attention. In addition, going for walks helps get the body moving, and often the mind follows beneficially. Plus, sunlight and fresh air help as well. You could also increase time in short training sessions keep them to five or ten minutes a couple of times per day and games such as fetch or puzzles. Stimulating the mind and body in productive and fun ways can help a dog move through a bout of sadness more quickly. If they are overstimulated, stressed, or anxious, they need a space to settle down and decompress. Two excellent options are Kongs and snuffle mats. In addition to helping the dog self-soothe and stimulate the mind, Kongs and snuffle mats can be an effective way to ensure they eat. If you find your Golden Retriever is not eating or not as much, then you want to make sure it gets its nutrition. Snuffle mats can have kibble or freeze-dried liver snaps placed in them. In this way, it can stimulate itself while getting some nutrition. Another great option is stuffing freeze-dried treats and kibble in the Kong with a bit of peanut butter, which can often get a dog eating. Kongs and snuffle mats engage the mind while offering food more slowly. Make sure that whatever you use as a treat is a favorite of your dogs. You want it to be as appealing as possible to get them to eat. Adding a topper like the one below to their food may also encourage your pet to eat. I use this topper for Bailey when he is being a picky eater Final Thoughts Golden Retrievers can become depressed and sad at times. So be on the lookout for changes in their lives. Sometimes it will be apparent, while at other times, you may have to do a bit of investigating. A medical issue or pain may be at the root of the problem. The good news is that most of these forms of depression, be it from sadness, grief, or the blues, are mild and temporary. With some positive interventions and attention, it will pass. For more prolonged or severe bouts, it is best to work with your veterinarian to find the cause and solution.