how easy is it to train a labrador puppy

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs are a mood booster. Historically, dogs have been great companions. Research has shown that it only takes a mere minutes with your pet to feel more relaxed and calm per Web, MD. Also, when children reach out and pet or hug their dog, they are giving of themselves and soon feel better. Why pay for tranquilizers? Besides, who wants to put children on drugs any way? Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Though inhabited for hundreds of year, the area was not truly settled until the Chickasaw relinquished their lands in .The city was surveyed and designed in .At the time Memphis was only four blocks wide and had a population of around fifty people. This excerpt is just a small part of the historical information located on this history page from the city of Memphis. The distance from Memphis to Washington DC is miles. The distance to the Tennessee state capital is miles. Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. The Memphis Labrador Retriever puppies for sale on our network can trace their ancestry back to the Labrador Retrievers of Newfoundland. These brave dogs worked on fishing boats, diving off the side to retrieve lost nets and escaped fish. Luckily for a Labrador Memphis, their life is a little easier! Can Uptown help? Of course we can. Our goal is to make your puppy search both easy and fun. How is Uptown different from other places with Memphis Labrador Retrievers for sale? Wherever your dream pup is located, you may not be able to make it to visit their breeder in person. Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies for sale Memphis available now? There certainly should be! Be warned though, that these little cuties get snapped up and reserved very quickly. With plenty of families on the hunt for the perfect dog, make sure you reserve your pup as soon as you see them! Those who pass the grade will always be happy to share all the information about your new puppy that you require. From their favorite brand of food to their latest health check results, you can access it all. Do you sell puppies from the cheapest Labrador Retriever breeders Memphis? Here at Uptown we think shelter dogs are awesome too! Do you recommend specific food for a Labrador Retriever for sale in Memphis? Labrador Retrievers are famous for their healthy appetites but that doesn't mean they all like the same thing. Most Labradors will happily eat far more than they need, so keep their ration in check and go easy on the treats. Will a Memphis Labrador Retriever for sale make a good family dog? Labrador Retrievers are a classic choice as the ultimate family dog, and for good reason. Are Labradors for sale Memphis easy to train? Labrador Retrievers have the perfect combination of enthusiasm, intelligence, and eagerness to please. That means they make wonderful training partners.

The breed can trace its history all the way back to the 13th century when the first Bulldogs were created. Fast forward to the 21st century and the English Bulldog is considered the fifth-most popular dog breed in the USA. These friendly but dignified dogs will make a docile, loyal companion, according to the American Kennel Club. They like to be around their fellow family members, engaging with their owners or taking an active role in playtime. Having said that, English Bulldogs tend to be more open to meeting new people than new dogs. Isaac explained that his dog Franki frankithebully occasionally shows his affectionate side. Sometimes they [English Bulldogs] can be cuddly and want massages in the morning, he will rest his face on my leg or shoe but not often. They can excel in an apartment, townhouse or even a boat! Their relatively compact size makes these dogs adept to living in small places. Nap, move to a sun spot for a sleep, go outside for a bit and then head back to the sofa for another nap. Once you find a food that works the farts disappear! They just want to cuddle and sleep great dogs for an apartment. The American Kennel Club suggest a brief minute brush two-to-three times a week as a grooming routine for English Bulldog owners. They suggest a soft brush to take care of removing dead hair, but recommend a rubber curry brush during shedding season. Isaac shared his grooming regimen with his English Bulldog Franki frankithebully. Franki does shed sometimes but once I changed his diet to an air-dried venison most of the shedding stopped. For instance, dog-walking website Wag recommend around 30 minutes of exercise a day for an English Bulldog. So best to stay inside in the air conditioning on hot days! Minimal barking English Bulldogs have earned a reputation for being relatively quiet dogs when it comes to barking. This is another reason why they can make great apartment dogs! Franki rarely barks, I would say a few times a day on a bad day. Even if the doorbell rings he does not move. Indeed, it can be described as a mischievous stubbornness. Isaac has confirmed that he has definitely experienced some stubbornness with Franki frankithebully. Franki does not respond to anything unless he really wants to. Health problems Perhaps one of the biggest drawbacks to the breed is the health problems associated with English Bulldogs. The results revealed that English Bulldog ownership has doubled over the past decade — but breeding trends have led to some specific problems. The findings show that due to breeding trends .It also became apparent that there are a number of conditions that are more prevalent in British bulldogs than in other dog breeds: skin fold dermatitis 7. Many of these issues are linked with certain desired aesthetics encouraged when breeding British bulldogs such as the wrinkly face. Disturbingly, only 3. This suggests owners consider breathing problems such as snoring as normal for this short-muzzled breed and therefore not taking the dogs for needed check-ups with their vet. One Redditor joked that his English Bulldog cost him more money than his second-hand car. English Bulldog puppies are expensive and EB care is expensive too. Ours has cost more than a nice used car. With all their wrinkles, English Bulldog owners will need to keep an eye out for potential infection. Other basic care needs include their teeth and nails. Potty training English Bulldogs can be quite tricky to potty train. It seems to be a reoccurring theme within the English Bulldog community. The hardest part is the first months while they get potty trained. At 6 months it is much easier. Things to do with your English Bulldog Montana is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Montana that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Montana that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Montana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Montana, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Montana, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Montana, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Montana has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Montana. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Montana is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Montana? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. My germ. Very picky …. Rated 5 out of 5 Rita Huston — August 22, Dinky was given this at a pet store as a treat. She fell in love with it. Would like to try a small sample of the salmon flavor. Rated 5 out of 5 kenzington — March 2, As a first-time dog owner, I made a fatal mistake, giving my dog table scraps and tons of treats as a puppy. The result, I ended up with a picky eater and the worst of them all. I came across a bag of Wisdom food on sale and thought its worth a try. I never expected my dog to stick with it so much, he loves both the turkey and chicken recipe! To think I bought it on a whim! I am reviewing this everywhere because I gotta spread the good news! BUY IT! Rated 5 out of 5 Robert M Cordoza — August 5, So I was giving a few bags of this food from a very dear friend cause she knew my dogs were having a hard time with only want to eat treats so ever since I pored this food into the bowl they continue to run back and forth to it lol. Very picky dogs and they love this food. Rated 5 out of 5 Danielle — June 30, I have a very picky 1 year old maltipoo. We have tried everything from high quality kibble to freeze dried and he would not seem interested or eat much. I found this at Pet Supplies Plus and he absolutely devours this food! I can see why, it smells yummy and has the texture of treats. Thank you Earth Animal! Rated 5 out of 5 Will A. Btw before knowing about Wisdom, I emailed one of the raw blend kibble companies that Chloe was eating to ask about the digestibility test results for their food and guess what was the reply I got? Rated 5 out of 5 Parker — March 18, We had tried a bunch of different brands of puppy food. Were so thankful we found Wisdom and Parker loves it! Parker, Westport, CT Rated 5 out of 5 Amy B — March 18, Our English Bulldog, Winston, has such a sensitive stomach yet I really wanted to give him something he looks forward to getting everyday not the usual dry dog food. He loves Wisdom and I love the ingredients! He tolerates it very well and it seems to reduce the amount of stool I see in a day, which is always good. Amy B. As Ive mentioned, my Vizsla is pretty picky and finding a food he will eat has been a challenge. He loves his no-hides! He also gobbles up the chicken strips. He is doing well with his Turkey Wisdom — better than any other food I have tried! Love the quality and that it is full of good for him stuff.?? Nico actually runs to the bowl for Wisdom. Within a few days of eating it we noticed Nico had no gas. She seems to enjoy Wisdom dog food. I feel good about feeding her this food. We live in Washington and she thinks she is a husky, she has lots energy to play in the snow and hike when we have good weather. I recommend it to all the other Chi parents. But thanks to Wisdom I no longer have to cook special meals for him. I feel much better knowing he is getting all the nutrients he needs and he is now enjoying meal time a lot more. Louie has already gone through 2 bags of Wisdom!?????? Weve been using the health nuggets for a while now so it was a nice surprise when we saw food was available on the website. Her coat, energy level, and digestion look better overall. We will continue purchasing this food for her. Rated 5 out of 5 Kodiak — March 18, Kodiak used to be a very picky eater but once we discovered Wisdom His appetite increased to the point that I just added to his regular formula and the food is gone. Rated 5 out of 5 Addie — March 18, I was searching for a change in dog food because my dog, Addie was itching like crazy. Since we switched her food to Wisdom and given her daily Earth Animal nuggets her itching not only stopped but her coat is so shiny and healthy! We live on Long Island, New York. I should also mention Addies energy level is high so we enjoy runs, snow shoeing and yak traking thru the long island woods. Rated 5 out of 5 Annabel — March 18, I think it is a very good food. Annable can be a picky eater but she went for the Wisdom right away and is eating more every day. Rated 5 out of 5 Sammy — March 18, I have 2 dogs. Feeding them the best possible ingredients, even though more expensive, will pay off with better overall health. Rated 5 out of 5 Monica — March 18, I cook for my dog for I want to know what ingredients are n her food. We believe in having our food as medicine so one day we dont have to have medicine for food. Tory is used to only eating fresh meat, fruits and vegetables. I am thrived to be able to have a pre-made wholesome meal for her!!!! Thank you. Hope you start to create a cat recipe as well. She eats every single crumb of Wisdom. We are thrilled with it. I joke that it looks good enough for me to eat?? In addition her allergies mostly itching that have been ongoing for many years have stopped. Great product and ingredients. Rated 5 out of 5 Ellie — March 3, Earth Animal has made our dog healthy and happy! Thank you Earth Animal for helping us keep our fur family healthy with your amazing food and supplements! Wisdom food is simple complexnutrition, yet a real treat for dogs! You cannot find anything like it on the market! I hope you can improve upon their flavor since having grain in his food is why I switched to wisdom. Rated 5 out of 5 Kalani — February 3, I give Wisdom to all 3 of my dogs where ages range from 10 months to 11 years old. Wile, Jack, and Kalani respectively My 10 month old and 4 year old were abandoned and adopted from an Indian reservation from North Dakota which had immune deficiencies and now live in Colorado. My 11yr old, Kalani, is also adopted thru the Colorado puppy organization and suffers from arthritis. All 3 of my dogs are doing really well. Rated 5 out of 5 Ollie — February 3, Ollie is a 2. He was eating purina proplan before and since we switched to earth animal, he is always very excited for food! Rated 5 out of 5 Local — February 1, I brought my Italian gray hound who has lymphoma to earth animal. Bob and his daughter were there and gave us a bag for him to try. I had been having trouble keeping his weight up, and he was loosing interest in food. Now that I have started mixing it in, he finishes his whole meal and his weight is getting better as a result. He is now sleeping less, seems to feel better over all, and is playing with us and our other dogs more. His bowl movements have also become more normal, something that he has struggled with his whole life he also has colitis and related food allergies I have since started to incorporate a scoop into all 5 of my other rescue dogs diets. They range in age, size, breed and health-but all love it. They think they are getting a treat when I put it on top of if their normal food, but they are actually getting a nutrient and fiber rich meal. I am so thankful to Dr. Bob and his daughter for sharing this with us and helping us get a few more good days with our gray hound. I have also found it easier for our min pin to eat. He had a stroke and struggles to eat wet food as a result, leaving his options for good nutrition limited. The different sized bits are easier for him to pick up, similar to his dry food, but I now feel like hes able to get a more complete meal. Thank you Dr. I love it! You can use it for snacking, training, trail mix on hikes, as a topper, or as a full meal. It literally is visually beautiful and most importantly, Hobbs loves it. We also use the supplements and herbal tinctures and are so happy that we found your products. We are customers for life! It is pricey but you really get what you pay for and this also means less visits to the vet with a healthy dog. Baxter is super picky and he absolutely loves both flavors. He would absolutely love to have a beef or venison flavor as well. This stuff is the bomb! Rated 5 out of 5 Suzen Ellis — November 27, My dog is very picky. Thank you Dr Goldstein for making food that is all natural with great ingredients. The flavor and quality is everything the label states and she absolutely loves it and and chooses it over fresh cooked chicken breast. The cost is less than what we currently spend on probiotics, fresh chicken and sensitive stomach canned food. We will be lifetime customers. I ordered a 1-lb. When I opened the chicken variety and let the dogs smell it, they tried to stick their heads in the bag and eat it. They absolutely LOVE it! And I feel good about feeding them such a high-quality food with ingredients sourced from humane farmers. Thank you, Earth Animal, for always being on the cutting edge of animal nutrition that not only is superior in quality but also respects animals and our planet! Rated 5 out of 5 Nancy Watkins verified owner — September 29, You cannot know how special this dog food really is; our very small Chihuahua has been a little under the weather with congestive heart failure. It has been impossible to get him to eat much of anything. I served my pup up a small serving and he absolutely loved it. He kept eating, so I added more to the bowl, and he continued to eat a very nice portion, then went back to nibble some more later, even though he was full!! Thanks so much for all your hard work and dedication to producing such a superior dog food. We all appreciate this wonderful product!! Thanks again. Highly recommend this amazing product! Add a review Your email address will not be published. Boggs Summit Bulldogs and Papillons Raising a few bulldogs for conformation and temperament Hello, and thanks for stopping by! Here is all the information you are going to need to learn about Boggs Summit Bulldogs. Take a look around and please contact us with any questions or to inquire about prices. Thanks for visiting! Harriett and Bob Boggs. Home Cell .Boggs Summit Bulldogs is focused on providing high-quality companions for the ideal family ready to be responsible pet owners. We condemn all substandard kennels which reflect poorly on the vast majority of responsible pet providers who have demonstrated by their actions that they truly care about the health and welfare of their animals. We know of some wonderful brokers in our area, however, we do NOT sell to brokers or pet stores. We choose the personal contact with our puppies new families. I know I have a lot on my website. However, I want new customers to see why I have loved this business for many years. It is all about my happy moms, dads, puppies and their new families! We keep in touch, if customers want to. I send Birthday cards out every year to keep in touch. I have: 2 bulldog moms, 3 Papillion moms, 1 bulldog stud, and 1 Papillion stud. I just I love sharing photos of the puppies as they grow. I hope you enjoy the photos too. We only sell puppies to customers in the U. Ask for a photo of items you see in photos as proof they own that puppy. Such as the car props, flowers, or such that I use. It pays to be cautious! All of our puppies receive "Super Dog Exercises" from day 3 to day 16 to help them handle stressful situations throughout their life. Each puppy receives an 8-week Puppy Evaluation for Conformity and Temperament. We KNOW the background health of all our puppies! It does not mean all of our puppies will be perfect and healthy! It means we are trying our best to produce healthy puppies. Due to actual research done on the effects of a dog's health who have been Spayed or Neutered, we Do Not require you to Spay or Neuter your dog! As well, if you plan to breed, we will help if you ask. We provide healthy puppies, and it is YOUR dog in the end. To be Responsible owners and do your best is all we expect of our clients. Your welcome name your new puppy as you wish. We require meeting you in person for delivery of your puppy. If your truly interested in a puppy, feel free to call us. We give consideration to potential customers who call us first, before others. We Do NOT ship our puppies. We will Personally Deliver your puppy safely at a workable time for us and you. We do our best to work with customers to lower the costs of all deliveries. Each delivery is different, and we try to personalize deliveries to meet your needs within our limits. We will deal fairly with clients and expect the same back. If your looking for a reputable and professional pet provider, you have found a Missouri Registered one! We no longer see the need to re-test for Brucillosis as we never allow outside dogs into our kennels or on our land. We are certified "Breeders with a H. We are always available to our customers! We are extremely proud of this as we were the 21st breeders in the nation to receive this award in .Some find the French bulldog also called a Frenchie to be the prettier version of the classic bulldog because they have more delicate features. English bulldogs are purebred dogs registered with the American Kennel Club. Breed History As their name suggests, French and English bulldogs share a common ancestry. Bulldogs have their origin in the British Isles. Around the s, they were bred for bull baiting sport. To survive the cruel sport, the dogs needed tremendous power. So, the breed was selected because of their distinct features: wide lower jaw and short muzzle. The original bulldogs had to be courageous, ferocious, and almost insensitive to pain. Thankfully, bull baiting was later made illegal by the Cruelty to Animals Act of .Some considered bulldogs useless after the passage of that legislation, but several dog lovers preserved the breed and eliminated their aggressive streak. After a few generations, the bulldog was bred to be a fine domesticated companion. The cross-breeding of original bulldogs with terriers, pugs, and other small dogs to reduce their size, led to the birth of French and English bulldogs. Their historical journey separated when breeders in England sent some bulldogs to France. Modern French and English bulldogs are affectionate, stable, and gentle. While they are capable of great power and are courageous, they are also loyal and get along with others, especially kids. See the article - Are French Bulldogs aggressive? Appearance Source The English bulldog has a meatier and wider head held by a sturdy and strong neck. On the other hand, the French bulldog has a much smaller head held by a longer and thinner neck. The English bulldogs have eyes that are slightly smaller and set wider apart, while the French bulldogs have rounder eyes. The skin and ears are the most notable difference between the two breeds. English bulldogs have folded-rose-shaped ears, while French bulldogs have erect and tall ears resembling a bat. It has a short, smooth coat that is glossy and fine. Meanwhile, the French bulldog has much tighter skin with fewer folds situated above the muzzle between the eyes and the nose. Both breeds have a curly tail like a pig, although they may occasionally have a corkscrew tail. Size Another notable difference between a French and English bulldog is their size. The English bulldog has a square stature, while the French bulldog is slightly in proportion. They also have black masks and bindle markings. In contrast, fawn, white, and brindle are the common hues for English bulldogs, though they can also be red or gray. Energy Level Source Frenchies have higher energy levels than English bulldogs. Still, both breeds need regular exercise, especially the English bulldog, which is prone to obesity. Help your bulldog stay healthy by walking them for 20 to 30 minutes per day. Temperament The adjectives that are usually used to describe English bulldogs include amiable, calm, courageous, and laid-back. They make loving cuddle companions and their personality ranges from clownish to dignified. In contrast, the adjectives used to describe French bulldogs includes adaptable, intelligent, playful, and alert. They are often more energetic. Health Care Unfortunately, English and French bulldogs are two of the least healthy canine breeds. Both are prone to the same expensive health issues. And the most important health issue that dog owners need to be aware of is Brachycephalic Syndrome. This refers to the combination of abnormalities caused by their poor respiratory structure and flat faces. Be sure to monitor them during warm days. Their breathing trouble likewise means that they are not the best airline companions. Both breeds are also prone to the cherry eye. Nutrition The best diet for both breeds is high in natural proteins without extra fillers, like corn, wheat, and soy. It must likewise have enough carbs vegetables, fruit, and healthy grains and fats to cover its daily macro nutritional requirements. Which, in turn, can cause nutritional deficiencies. They may also need special diets, medication, or surgery to remove the chronic health issues caused by their shortened skull. They should be provided with the right amount and type of food. Grooming Their short coats require little grooming and they are moderate shedders. Yet, the wrinkles on the face need to be cleaned regularly. Neglecting wrinkle care in French or English bulldogs may lead to uncomfortable skin infections or conditions. There are tricks for cleaning bulldog wrinkles. A simple wipe using a soft cloth dipped in warm water often does the trick. Trainability Source French and English bulldogs are easy to exercise with indoor playtime, thanks to their small size. However, the Frenchies are much easier to train than the English bulldog. This is because the IQ of French bulldogs is slightly higher than that of English bulldogs, although average compared to other dog breeds. Learning tricks may not be their strong suit. Living With a Bulldog Both French and English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not need a yard. They are very good choices for people living in busy cities. They bark very little, love to be in close quarters with their owners, and are kind-hearted dogs. These dogs can tolerate other pets at home, although they are territorial and may guard their territory aggressively. They thrive best in temperate climates. Moreover, they sometimes have trouble breathing and readily overheat in hot weather. Yet, they chill easily during winter. Both breeds are known to snore and have noisy breathing. Many drool too. Dog bandanas offer health benefits, such as keeping your dog cool or warm. They can also help calm stressed-out dogs. Plus, they make your dogs look super stylish. Lifespan French bulldogs live longer with a life expectancy of up to 10 to 12 years. The English bulldog has a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. The average lifespan of a canine is 10 to 13 years. Despite having a longer lifespan than the English bulldog, a Frenchie can face more health problems. A thorough physical exam on a French bulldog should be done twice a year to prevent health problems like hemivertebrae hip dysplasia and allergies. Cost The average cost of an English bulldog in the U. The price range increases if you opt for one with a rare coat color or if they come from a champion bloodline. And sadly, because they are so popular, many people breed them without proper genetic health testing. Which type of Bulldog is best? All bulldogs are affectionate dogs; the best type depends on preference. English bulldogs are generally peaceful and dignified. French bulldogs are affectionate and adaptable. The American bulldog is known for being great with children. The old English Bulldog is confident and alert. The Dogue de Bordeaux ancient French breed is balanced and self-assured. Is an English or French Bulldog more expensive? Adult French bulldog Source French and English bulldogs are adorable breeds. They are a blast to be around with their lovable, chill, goofy, and sometimes lazy nature. Any dog lover planning to bring home one of them can ensure they will be an amiable companion for life. Their sweet faces and their lovable dispositions will keep you smiling. Choose a French bulldog if you prefer an adaptable, playful, alert, and affectionate dog with steady temperaments. On the other hand, set your heart on an English bulldog if you love a peaceful, dignified, and courageous bulldog. Whichever pup you prefer, both are fun-loving, loyal, and affectionate companions. At SparkPaws, we love caring for dogs. Written by Spark Paws Admin.

If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. At only a year old we cannot figure out how this healthy hunk ended up there. Wallace is already neutered, vaccinated and almost 50lbs! Welcome Wallace! A good samaritan saved them before they were hit by speeding cars and took them to the local shelter. Their microchips were not registered and no one came to claim them. We thought someone must be missing these beauties but it appears they are another case of abandonment. They do not need to be adopted together. Could you be the person to offer this boy the loving environment he deserves? Meet Constantine! This supremely handsome fella is searching for a home where he can feel safe and loved. Constantine has shown some curiosity towards cats, and he might indulge in a playful chase, so a slow introduction would be best. His care team also believes he may have been beaten up or picked on by other dogs. Constantine has received all necessary veterinary care, but the wounds on his leg are still visible and healing. Do you have the patience, time and commitment a young, energetic boxer needs? Link below to apply to adopt Constantine! Same sex bully breed aggression is a real thing, and all too often an owner having to surrender a dog they love dearly is the unfortunate outcome, but the only solution. Brown is an absolute joy of a dog! He knows his basic commands, will give paw and lives to be close to his people. He is 4. He is kind to humans and kids, but has never been exposed to cats or dogs other than his k-9 sibling with whom he is fighting. At this time we feel a home with no other pets would be best for Brown, but will consider an experienced home with a docile female dog. We are in the process of bringing Cosmo into rescue and will have more information shortly. He is only 3 years old and sweet as sugar. Can you help Cosmo get his life back by opening your home to foster or adopt? This 2-year-old female boxer is the embodiment of affection and warmth. A natural with kids and other dogs, she effortlessly spreads happiness wherever she goes. Could you be the one to offer her the love and home she deserves? Here comes Diesel! After a bumpy start, Diesel has the green flag to find a furever home at Mach speed He hit the track when a breeder without space for multiple energetic boxers released him. We are happy to have him join our CH Boxer Rescue crew. Diesel is a year old, dog friendly and still a novice at being a cherished indoor pet. Rex is 11 months old and up to date on his vet care. This bright star is a mere 11 months old and admired by canine as well as human fans. He is only 9 months old and more of a jester than a dictator. He loves to romp around at court boarding with other dogs. He would enjoy a fur sister and a yard to rule over! His eyes are a little far apart so he looks absolutely ridiculous and completely adorable at the same time. He is super skinny, a 2. However, he sits on command and waits patiently for treats! He met another female dog through the fence and kept a wagging tail then went about sniffing absolutely everything he could get his nose on. He catches treats in the air and never misses. They need a foster or adopter as well as long overdue vet care. She is sweetheart with people, kids and other dogs. She is currently living with her mother Chata and 3 other dogs. They both need a foster or adopter and to be brought up to date on vet care. Born on June 6th, we have 2 handsome males and 2 darling females ready for their forever homes. Daddy was a boxer, while Mommy, a brave boxer mix, trots around beautifully on just three legs. This litter was larger, but they were split up. As of now, our little furballs have been vaccinated with DHPP and are just a tad too young for their rabies shots. Get ready for the adventure of puppyhood and consider adding one of these charmers to your family. For more information or to make one of them a part of your story, contact us! Empty bowls, evidence of her lack of food and water, painted a dire picture. Thanks to the unyielding spirit of our volunteers and the invaluable support from each one of you, Gypsy is no longer in that forsaken place. Tonight, she is safe, surrounded by love and care, and starting her journey to a better life. Gypsy is an incredibly sweet, young boxer despite being chained outside most of her life. She would love a family to call her own including children and possibly a fur brother. On behalf of Gypsy and all of us at CHBR, thank you for standing with us, for transforming despair into hope. We estimate they were a few weeks old at the time. An employee brought the box of babies inside to keep them safe after a few were taken by passersby. The puppies were moved to a foster home where they are receiving regular meals and vet care. There are 6 females and 2 males. Please contact us for more information or to adopt. Super calm but happy. The tail is always going. She is a huge mush and loves to snuggle and cuddle right in your arms. He plays hard, and would benefit greatly from a home ready to help shape his untamed energy into polished behavior. Greetings from the ever-charming Ben, a 2-year-old Cockapoo who is as fluffy as he is sweet. His playful nature and affectionate demeanor make him a perfect companion! She is very sweet with people including children. Maia is blind but navigates familiar spaces smoothly. She loves to lay in the grass while her foster mom works in the garden. Maia can be an only dog or possibly go with a calm male dog. First, we thank you for all the generous donations we received on behalf of Maia! We started her treatment plan which is paid for by your generosity. She is also visually impaired. She walks well outside on leash but inside bumps into walls and doors. When dogs bark, she freezes but with encouragement from her foster she remains calm. Please continue helping us with Maia! If you can provide a safe place for her arrival, please contact your coordinator or apply here: Link below Adoption CASTIEL Meet Castiel, At 70 lbs of pure playfulness, this two-year-old is ready to leap into his forever home! Link below.

A 6-week-old German Shepherd needs to eat frequently for optimal growth. Aim for four small meals per day to provide a steady supply of nutrients and energy. Meal Schedule: Establish a routine with four meals a day. Pups love consistency! You want to feel their ribs without them being visible. Of course, always have clean, fresh water available. Pups get thirsty too! You can also add some canned, wet food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and add a bit more enticing flavor. German Shepherds tend to be prone to sensitive stomachs , so stay alert to any symptoms of digestive upset. As your pup grows, read more about what to feed your German Shepherd puppy. Potty Training: No More Oopsies! Take them outside every minutes, especially after meals, naps, and playtimes. Watch for signs like sniffing the floor or wandering behind furniture. Reward them with praise and treats when they go outside to reinforce the behavior. After Activities: Take them out after eating, playing, or waking up from a nap. These are prime potty times. Puppy Signals: Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or restlessness. Praise and Treats: When they do their business outside, celebrate with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement works wonders! Choose an appropriately-sized crate, making it cozy with bedding and toys. Gradually introduce them to it with short, positive experiences. Over time, the crate becomes a safe haven, aiding in housebreaking and providing a sense of security for your pup. Crate training can be a game-changer for potty training! Crate as Safe Haven: Make the crate comfy with a blanket and some toys. Pups love their cozy den. It prevents accidents and helps them learn bladder control. One of the keys to raising a happy and healthy pup is understanding their sleep needs and providing the right exercises. On average, they sleep for about 18 to 20 hours a day. Puppies need these long beauty rests to grow and develop properly. Puppy Lullaby: Soft, soothing music or white noise can help them drift off into puppy dreamland. Keep their crates or beds in the same room you sleep in for the first few months. You can slowly transition them to sleeping in their own room without you. Short, frequent bursts of playtime are the way to go. Enjoy these exercises for a German Shepherd puppy: Short Walks: At this age, around 5 minutes of gentle leash walking is plenty. Think of it as a leisurely stroll and not a full-on workout and stick to just 3 short strolls a day. Avoid High Impact: Never run or jog with your dog at this young age. Let them set the pace. Tug of War: A good old game of tug can be a blast for your pup. Fetch: Start with short throws and a soft toy. Hide and Seek: Hide treats around the house in puppy-safe spots, of course and let them use their nose to find them. Sniffaris: Sniffing is great for their brain development at this age. Avoid Steps: Never let your 6-week-old puppy climb stairs because they could seriously injure themself. Remember, their little bodies are still developing, so keep it light and fun. And always keep an eye on their energy levels. If they seem tired, let them rest. Begin with gentle brushing sessions to familiarize them with the process. Here are some grooming tips to get you started: Gentle Introduction: Begin by introducing your puppy to the grooming process gradually. Let them sniff and explore the grooming tools before you start. Brushing: Use a soft brush suitable for their delicate puppy fur. Brush in the direction of hair growth to prevent discomfort. A pair of grooming gloves works wonders for keeping things gentle for your pup. Frequency: Start with short, gentle brushing sessions a few times a week. As they grow, increase the frequency to daily brushing to remove the most shedding. Bathing: Sometimes your little pup might get into a mess and need a bath. Always use a gentle puppy shampoo that helps ensure a comfortable and itch-free coat. Eye and Ear Check: While grooming, inspect their eyes and ears for any signs of irritation or discharge. Wipe their floppy ears if you find any dirt or wax on the outside of the ear canal. Remember to reward your pup with treats and praise during and after each grooming session to make it a positive experience. As they get older, follow a brushing routine to keep their coats in top shape. Enjoy this special time bonding together! The first vaccinations, called the primary vaccinations, are given when a dog is eight weeks old, but you need to prepare for their appointment and make scheduling arrangements. Make an appointment now for these vaccines and a health check. Until your pup has had the first full set of vaccinations, they should stay in your home and yard only. Eight weeks old is considered the safe age to bring a new puppy home. Your main priority is to keep your baby safe and healthy. You have a long life ahead with your Shepherd baby. One in three dogs needs vet treatment every year source. Insurance protects you from large, unexpected bills incurred when your pup is unwell, injured, or in an accident, and helps offset routine medical treatments. Your 6-week-old German Shepherd pup is like a blank canvas waiting to be painted with tons of unforgettable moments with you. Enjoy the tail-wagging ride ahead with your six week old German Shepherd! Before you go, why not grab this helpful freebie? Download it now and take the first step toward ensuring your furry friend reaches their full potential. Your baby German Shepherd deserves the best — grab your tracker and start tracking today! A 6-week-old German Shepherd typically weighs between 7 to 15 pounds. Males tend to be on the higher end of the scale and females on the lower end. In terms of height, they are generally around 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Individual puppies may vary, but this provides a general guideline for their size and weight at this age. You can also add a few spoonfuls of wet dog food mixed in to encourage them to finish their meals and increase their hydration. Can I give my 6 week old German Shepherd puppy a bath? Always use a gentle, puppy-specific shampoo when you do give them a bath, and be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Can I give my 6 week old German Shepherd puppy a bath? German Shepherds are the most recognizable and loved dog breed. They are known for their intelligence, strength, courage, and loyalty. However, a 6 week old German Shepherd puppy differs a lot from an adult dog. These puppies are born blue-eyed and black-coated. All of them are cute and clumsy when they reach six months. They require a lot of attention from a breeder or new owner. This guide will tell you how to deal with such a puppy if you adopt it at this age. You need to be aware of giving care, feeding, exercising, and training. You will find all this information here to raise a healthy dog and enjoyable companion. Though, it grows and gains weight very quickly. In general, such puppies are inches cm high. The six-week-old German Shepherd weight may differ between genders. Male puppies can approximately weigh 3. However, you need to know that every individual doggy is different, so the growth and weight gaining may differ too. The main factors that influence growth are genetic ones. Your 6-week-old pup resembles a tiny ball full of curiosity and energy. At this age, the puppy is completely weaned from its mother. Its ears are soft and floppy. It has almost all its baby teeth now. So, it can feed on more solid food. The puppy is still dark, but its natural color begins to appear. The puppy can start shedding, so you need to groom and brush it regularly. However, you can adopt it now if you know properly how to take care of such a young baby. While staying with its mom and littermates, the puppy socializes and learns canine etiquette. The breeder may start to introduce new people to it, and you can play with the puppy you have chosen for a while. It prepares the doggy for meeting and accepting a new owner. However, if you have adopted the pup at this age, you need to be very careful, especially during the first days in your home. The puppy is very playful and curious, so it can get into trouble. GS puppies need a lot of sleep when they are 6 weeks old because they grow fast. The required amount of sleep is hours per day. The little one will sleep, eat, and play all the time, so organize a quiet, safe, and peaceful place for it in your home. The first thing to know is that a puppy needs a safe and warm place to sleep and rest. It should be a special space of its own. You can put it in a crate next to your bed for the very first nights in your house. However, you have to teach it to sleep in another room soon. Follow these tips to arrange a sleeping place for your little doggy: Think about a special area in your house without loud noise and heavy traffic around. Locate the bed in the corner of the room and place a warm blanket or pad in it. Invite the doggy to sit on its bed for a while and then praise it and give it a treat. Crate training is essential at this age because even if you are not going to keep your dog in a crate, there may be special situations, such as veterinary care or grooming, when they will need to stay in a crate for some time. A 6 week old GSD cannot walk outside at this age because they have not been vaccinated yet. They can easily catch a severe virus or infection. So, take your puppy outside in your arms and let it do its business in a completely clean area somewhere in your backyard away from other dogs and strange people. Long walks are not for puppies at this age either. Walks can last only for 5 minutes. Two sessions can be enough. Take care of exercising. Do it smoothly, never run or jog, and let your pet take its own pace. If it stops to sniff something or for a rest, let it do it. Sniffing is very good for brain development. Never let your puppy climb stairs because it has poor coordination and can fall and injure itself. You can use some other ways of exercising instead of walking a lot. Play fetch with it indoors or in the backyard. Use a soft toy for this. Never pull your doggy or jerk it to prevent neck injuries. You can also hide a treat in the grass and ask your pup to find it. The doggy will do it eagerly, and this will help it to develop balance and coordination. Never make it go on far walks. Let it explore the environment slowly and comfortably in a safe and entirely secure area. There is no need to wash your dog or give it a bath. It is even dangerous for health because bathing can wash out the oils protecting the skin from unfavorable external conditions. That can lead to infections or severe itching. If your puppy really needs a bath, use soft bath wipes to remove dirt. Try not to use shampoo. If you want to do it, utilize only hypoallergenic shampoo for puppies. Never let water penetrate its ears or be splashed on the face because your little doggy is very sensitive to ear infections. Use soft puppy wipes or a piece of cotton cloth to wash their face. Do not pour water on the face because there is a risk of inhaling it and developing respiratory issues. At first, your puppy may not like bathing or grooming. Make grooming sessions short and be patient and positive. You can extend the sessions if you need them later on when your puppy grows older and does not oppose them. You will need a soft and safe brush at this age. The best solution is a brush glove. Your doggy will love it. You can make up a special brushing schedule and go step-by-step like this: Apply brushing gloves for a few minutes. Do brushing for 5 minutes 3 times per week. Offer a treat if your puppy behaves well during the brushing. Try to establish bonds with your puppy while brushing. You can follow the same routines when your pup grows older. Health and Vaccination Responsible breeders recommend finding a good vet as soon as you take a puppy home. Do not postpone the first visit to the vet for a long time. You can do it on the second or third day after you get the puppy. The first thing to do is to measure and weigh your doggy. Make it a routine because you and your vet will need to follow its healthy growth and weight gaining. The primary vaccination is usually given at the age of 8 months, but you can do it earlier. The schedule can shift depending on the state of the teeth, heart, and coat. So, a thorough examination is necessary. Before your pup is vaccinated, do not take it outside and communicate with other animals and people. There is a risk of infections. Your veterinarian will also advise you on brushing and grooming, cleaning ears, teeth, and anal sacs, trimming the nails, and checking paw pads. If you see that your pup has stopped growing or gaining weight, you need to show it to the vet immediately. There should be at least 3 meals per day, but 4 meals are ideal. Look at the package attentively. The number of calories in the kibble depends on the brand. If your dog likes goat milk, you can continue giving the milk to it throughout the entire life. It is full of nutrients, so your puppy will grow strong and healthy. Your dog needs a lot of water. Unlike the food that should be offered at certain times of the day, water can be poured into a bowl continuously. If you need to make any changes in your six week old German Shepherd puppy feeding , do it gradually because any abrupt change can lead to stomach upset. If your GS puppy refuses to eat, there may be some health problems. If you notice stumbling, vomiting, lethargy, and any inability to deal with food go and see a vet. How to Train a 6 Week Old GSD When you bring the little puppy home, your first idea may be to get it settled and accustomed for several days and then start home training. It is a mistake. You can start potty training , crate training, and socialization right away. This will help you establish closer bonds with your pet. Remember that your puppy has arrived from the well-set environment created by its mother-dog and littermates. Now, it needs to get used to something completely new for it. Potty training is essential from the first days. However, such little puppies may not succeed very much at first. They are more confident about potty walks at the age of 7- 8 weeks. Their bladder will be much stronger at that time. However, you have to start now. The first thing to do is to establish a set potty schedule. The schedule and main principles of potty training may look like this: Take the puppy outside early in the morning. Take it out late at night before it goes to bed. Go on a potty walk 10 minutes after it eats or drinks something. Always praise and treat your doggy after it does its business. Never scold or punish your little one if it has an accident inside. If you watch your puppy attentively, you will learn to notice when it needs a potty. It is a great way to prevent potty accidents. It may look exciting, go around in circles like looking for something and keep its nose close to the ground. Or it may start looking at the corner of the room as if it wants to find the right place for its needs. If you have noticed any of these signs, take your pet out immediately. You can start the obedience training too. That is why it will not be able to follow all your commands successfully. You need to be patient enough to never shout at your doggy if it fails to do what you want it to. It is too small, and its intelligence will be revealed a bit later. You can start with the two basic things to teach your pup, and then, only after it succeeds, continue with something more. Do not make training sessions too long — 2 minutes is enough. Though, you need to practice them about times per day. Do not utilize a training collar yet. If your pet does not display any interest in the commands, do not force it to follow them. You can try later when its attention span develops. Your little puppy does not look like an adult dog. It is too small. However, it is much bigger than puppies belonging to other breeds. Its height is inches cm. However, it may vary depending on some genetic or breeding factors. How much does a 6 week old German Shepherd weight? Males grow a bit bigger and at 6 weeks they can weigh 3. Females are smaller — their weight is about 3 pounds 6 kg. How much should a 6 week old German Shepherd eat? A 6-week-old GSD puppy grows very fast. So, it needs a lot of energy because its skeleton strengthens, teeth grow, and it needs a lot of energy. How often do I feed a 6 week old German Shepherd? That is why divide the daily amount of food per meals. There is no need to give your doggy a regular bath at this age. If your pup got extremely dirty, you can bathe it with warm water. However, do not use any shampoo. 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. This is vitally important for early socialization and training purposes since the mother dog and littermates will naturally help the puppy to develop certain important canine etiquette and social skills they will use for the rest of their life. Any reputable German Shepherd breeder will not release a puppy to their new forever home before the age of eight weeks at the earliest. In such a short space of time, a tiny puppy is replaced by a nearly full-grown adult dog! Considering that the AKC currently has breeds registered, this is a pretty amazing ranking! In fact, these dogs were developed by a former German cavalry captain named Max von Stephanitz. His goal was to create the perfect herding dog. Captain von Stephanitz founded the breed club and kept a watchful eye over the development of the breed for decades until his death in .But in , UK breeders changed the name back to the German Shepherd. Everywhere else around the world, the name that is most commonly used is simply the German Shepherd. People love the German Shepherd for their loyalty , strength, intelligence, athleticism, playfulness, beauty, and bravery. German Shepherds are arguably the most in-demand dogs for K-9 work in the military, police force, private security , and personal protection. Birth Birth, or whelping as it is called for canines, is a big process for a puppy to go through and an even bigger job for the mother dog, as Kennels von Lotta German Shepherds breeder points out. Most German Shepherd dog moms give birth naturally. If all goes well, the mother dog whelps each puppy, removes them from the placental sack, and licks them clean. This process continues until all the puppies are born. As soon as the puppies are born, the mother has to nurse them. When that is done, she has to lick them to get them to pee and poop. And after that, she has to cuddle with them to keep them warm while they sleep. German Shepherd puppies are born blind and deaf. Their only active senses are touch and smell. One week old By the age of one week seven days , a German Shepherd puppy will have doubled in weight. More excitingly, their eyes and ears will have begun to open, according to VomGeliebtenHaus German Shepherds breeder. Regardless of what their coat coloration and eye color will be in adulthood, all German Shepherd puppies typically are born with all-black coats and blue eyes. Interestingly, experienced German Shepherd breeders say that it is easy to see individual personality traits starting even at one week of age. The incisors are typically the first teeth to show up and they are tiny and sharp. The puppies are starting to explore a bit more and gain a little bit of control over their own elimination function. However, they are still very reliant on their mom. Three weeks old Three weeks is when it starts to get exciting to be a German Shepherd puppy. They start to look less like marionette puppets and more like dogs, walking with at least a semblance of coordination and jumping around and playing with their littermates. They can hear well and see much more clearly. This is usually when breeders begin active socialization with people so the puppies will be comfortable with being handled and played with. Four weeks old By the age of four weeks old, the puppies are starting to engage in serious play, including mock fighting and games. They begin to look a lot more like the adult dogs they are yet to become and gain greater independence from the mother dog. Speaking of fearless, week four is when puppies have their full set of puppy teeth and their little puppy claws on top of that. So it is not surprising the mother dog gets more forceful about establishing boundaries with the puppies this week. Those little claws and teeth are razor-sharp! Five weeks old German Shepherd dogs can easily produce litters of up to eight puppies, which is so cute and precious when the puppies are young. But once those puppies start to get bigger and stronger and begin to eat more and eliminate more, this can mean a whole lot of cleanup for the mother dog and the breeder! This is why five weeks old is the age that most breeders begin to introduce the concept of outdoor potty breaks. Six weeks old By the age of six weeks old, the puppies are finally old enough to start eating more solid foods and to get the first of their important vaccination treatments, distemper and parvovirus and, optionally, Bordetella. Six weeks old is also an important time for introducing strange people so the puppies get used to meeting and interacting with potential new owners. The puppies are bigger and stronger now and are very curious and playful. After all, your puppy is eating solid food, has all their puppy teeth and claws, is able to hear and see clearly, is playful and curious, and has been exposed to different people and socialized by their mom and littermates. What could possibly go wrong? But for general purposes, canine researchers believe the most critical period happens between the age of six weeks and the age of 10 weeks, with specific fears taking shape around weeks eight through .This is the time period when puppies begin to intensively socialize and interact with their littermates, human carers, and others, forming bonds or aversions as each situation or interaction may warrant. As Dr. This is one key reason why it is smart to work only with a GSD breeder that will not release puppies until after the tenth week. This way, the puppy is able to move through the fear period in very familiar and trusted surroundings with the mom and littermates. However, this is not to say that if you brought your German Shepherd puppy home when they were younger than 10 weeks old that you will have any problems. Some puppies make it through the fear period just fine without any trauma. How to Manage the Fear Period for a Six Week Old German Shepherd Puppy If you are preparing to welcome your new German Shepherd puppy into your family, you may be feeling justifiably worried about managing the fear period effectively. So is there anything you need to know or do to make sure your young puppy feels safe, secure, and loved right from day one of their new life with you? As a matter of fact, there are some things you can do to set your puppy up for success right away. You will especially want to supervise young children to make sure they handle your puppy with appropriate sensitivity and gentleness. A German Shepherd puppy that is properly socialized to the youngest family members will grow up to be a staunch guardian and protector to all. Establish a consistent daily routine For a young puppy, in particular, a consistent routine is key to comfort and feelings of safety. Begin socialization and training immediately While it can feel tempting to go easy for the first few days and just let your new puppy get settled in, this can actually be counterproductive to building your bond together. A better strategy is to start every aspect of training from potty training to crate training to sleep training right away. Your puppy will have come to you from a structured environment established by the mother dog and the breeder. The more closely you can match and maintain that structure, making gradual adjustments as needed for your own daily life schedule, the more easily and quickly your puppy will adjust to life away from the litter and their mother. Your German Shepherd breeder likely required you to take your new puppy for a veterinary checkup right away, and this will give you an excellent baseline against which to compare growth and development in the coming weeks. Get into the habit of weighing and measuring your puppy each week and paying close attention to food and water intake, exercise and playtime, and sleep cycles. This is also the best way to quickly identify if there are any emerging health issues that need your attention. This is why people love this breed so much. Luckily, there is lots of help available. People who love the GSD breed are usually delighted to provide a new owner with assistance. Though it is still getting used to the world it lives in, it is socializing and making new friends, getting to know its owner You better. Also, 6 weeks is the age at which you should eliminate bad habits, and teach a German Shepherd bite inhibition. Though it is gained at a very high rate, as a trade-off, the dog needs a lot of food to keep up that energy. On average, a 1. And the weight will be around 3. Also, at the age of 6 weeks, your German Shepherd will grow at the fastest rate in his early life. Be cautious and never forget! To give it more than enough food and your adult GSD will be very strong and athletic. Bite Inhibition As well as everything above, during this young age, the puppy has to understand some things about biting. In particular, the biting inhibition. Without proper training, the pup may and probably will bite uncontrollably, for any possible reason, in the future. And you surely understand what that means. But how do you train it: Firstly, at that young age, any dog will get distracted and probably will stop any action including biting if it hears a loud noise. As such, you may as well emit this voice any time a dog comes to bite you or somebody else. Otherwise, you can let the dog play with you and train its teeth. They would be very helpful in the future as well, if you plan on continuing the training. Hence you will also need to care for the said puppy with more effort. For example, sometimes the babies may get ill due to their immunity wearing down because of growth and age. And that means that sometimes the puppy will need medical attention. Take it to a medical clinic etc. The German Shepherd is still too young for that. Also, never leave the dog inside a closed house for too long. Let them breathe with fresh outside air from time to time. Probably the mother will walk and guide her puppies on such walks. Conclusion In the end, caring for the puppy in the age of 6 weeks is about the same, as if the dog was 5 weeks old. Though there are some differences, including the bite inhibition training, increased amount of care, as well as the effort to help your puppy develop into a strong and representative adult German Shepherd. So good luck with making them the best as well. And thank you for reading.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia? 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 Virginia? 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. More VaGolden Retrievers Hello, I hope you enjoyed my website, and have taken the time to review all my pages , from text,photos and videos. You can find answers to most of your questions on my site. Placing you and one of my puppies together is something I take very seriously. Knowing you are happy and that one of my puppies has made that happen, means a lot to me. I do hope each family takes the time to get to know me and the line of adult Golden's I have. This is my line. A strong line of Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers make perfect family pets. They always enjoy being part of the family's company and show love and devotion to all members of the family. They crave love and affection. Companionship is their top priority and they are totally devoted to their human family. Puppies For Sale If you're interested in my coming litter,, please call I have litters arriving thought out the year. Once they arrive, I will have videos of the puppies on this website. It's always best to plan taking a puppy home and contacting me in advance is always best. He has been the most amazing dog and are so blessed to have him in our life. He is going to turn 10 months old and looks so much like his Mom and Dad. Thank you Grayland for such an amazing dog! We named him Hook because we are a Disney family and he is the Captain of our new home. We will definitely recommend you to future Golden owners. Hello, it's been 3 weeks since our Penny came home. I just wanted to thank you for this precious pup. We love her very much and she's become an integral part of the family. She's doing great with house training and is even using door bells to let us know when she needs to go out. She can sit, lay down, and shake. Penny has an awesome personality and loves everyone even our cat! She just had her 10 week check up and our veterinarian said "she's perfect in every way. She's exactly what a golden should be. So thank you so very much. We are so thankful to have our little Piper. She is quite a gem that has added that extra spunk to our Golden family. We now have 4 and plan on adding to our brood with just one more from VA Golden Retrievers. We have had such a positive experience. You can definitely see that Mr. Nelson loves his Goldens. They are friendly, energetic and well bred. Thank you for sharing a part of your family with us. We purchased our golden back in April and we named him Theodore. We are so happy with him! Theo has the sweetest disposition and learns quickly. He does well on the leash, sits, stays sometimes! Our girls absolutely love him I just wanted to let you know what a blessing our puppy has been to us! Hello Mr. We meet before back in .Bailey is such a blessing to our family. First off he is the most loving and sweetest dog in the whole world! We could Not imagine life without him he has truly given our family so much happiness! I just wanted to thank you so much for our sweet boy! We brought Beamer home in December and he has been such a blessing to our little family.

These dogs are very intelligent with a cheerful demeanor, maintaining their puppy-like personality well into adulthood. Often sought after for being loyal, social, and easy to train, Golden Retrievers are sure to become lifelong best friends to their owners. Golden Retrievers are very active dogs that require daily exercise. They enjoy physical activity, such as running and playing, but due to them being high-energy dogs, Golden Retrievers can easily over-exert themselves. This is one of the many reasons why dog crates are recommended for Golden Retrievers. Since they are naturally curious dogs, and with their playful nature, even the most unsuspecting of household items can be potentially harmful. A quality dog crate is a fundamental part of caring for your Golden Retriever. When your dog has a comfortable and safe crate to retreat to, this creates a peaceful, stress-free environment for your pup to rest. This is especially important for ensuring your dog can have some relaxation or nap time and not just remain in an adrenalized state throughout the day. When you are unable to watch or play with your Golden Retriever, it is important to keep them in a crate, to both protect them and your home. When they have a lot of pent-up energy and are left outside of a crate, that is when accidents are most likely to happen. A durable, heavy-duty dog crate brings dog owners peace of mind knowing that their furniture is safe from chewing, and, more importantly, their pup is safeguarded against injuries. Energetic dogs are significantly more likely to try to escape from crates, which can result in very serious accidents. If your dog is being housed in a flimsy wire crate, that can create a very dangerous environment for your pup, causing broken nails and resulting in teeth being snagged in holes. Additionally, wire crates are not designed for transport, providing little to no protection for your dog during car and plane travel. For at-home and on-the-road use, a weak crate lacks the proper safety features, leaving your pup vulnerable to potential injuries. Our three models; the Collapsible, Stationary, and High Anxiety crates, are constructed from durable, lightweight aluminum, allowing Golden Retriever owners to securely house and transport their pups with ease. Occasionally, Golden Retriever owners will choose the size 40 inch Impact dog crate. For Goldens on the larger end, we recommend that the customer reaches out to our reps to determine the best fit for their Impact dog crate. If you're picking out an Impact dog crate for your golden retriever puppy, our reps can help you choose the appropriate crate size based on their estimated adult size and how the crate will be used. Our aluminum dog crates are trusted by Golden Retriever owners to protect their beloved pets, and we are committed to continuing to provide premium dog products that put the safety and well-being of every dog first. Though, you get what you paid for. Best Features What makes the Haige heavy duty crate so much better than any other dog crate is the frame. Young Golden Retriever puppies, in the midst of teething, will certainly try to chew up the crate. So, this feature provides a great dog-safe enclosure for your pup. However, the only negative for some people is the one-door option. It makes it slightly more difficult to access whatever you put into the crate bowls, pads, etc. Because the second door is on top, it provides a clever way of getting things in dog crate without the chance of your dog escaping. The degree rotated locking caster are 4 wheels that can lock in place for better mobility. All quality dog crate should have removable plastic trays, including the Haige heavy duty. Unlike other dog crates, this brand comes with a 3-year warranty. Check out the current price and more reviews on the Haige Heavy Duty here. I must have forgot that this crate included a bowl, water, and mat for the cage. I was so happy and for the price. Such a deal! My dog has separation anxiety and destroyed a standard wire crate and a plastic crate, injuring himself while doing so. But so far no damage or injuries. Plenty of room, our dog is 65 lbs and he can turn and move easily. It provides freedom for him with an added security to me that I still have control. He is a larger dog pounds but this is strong and durable. The sling pack makes it an easy addition to our walks. I highly recommend this product! This also does not come with a divider sold separately , which I think is such an awesome feature for dog crates. Security is always important with crates, which is why the New World crate comes with slide-bolt latches to ensure your dog is safe in the cage. In fact, Golden Retrievers much prefer to chew on socks! Like the first two options, this dog crate is foldable and can collapse in a few seconds. Easily slide out the tray and hose it down or wipe it clean with ease. As mentioned, there is no divider. So, I would only recommend this for adult-sized Golden Retrievers. If you were to purchase a divider separately, it would probably cost you more. To check out the current price of the New World dog crate, click here. Extremely secure, plenty of room for our golden retriever pup plus plenty of room for her to grow into , and the thick plastic floor is very easy to clean. This crate, however, is great value. I had one downstairs but it was too troublesome to move every time I went upstairs. Now, Max can sleep upstairs too. This is super awesome, and super neat! Consider the age of your Golden Retriever when selecting a crate. Different types of crates offer different advantages and disadvantages. Using the wrong crate size can lead to discomfort, restricted movement, and anxiety. Make sure you understand the role of a crate, not just for training but also transportation. Crate training for Golden Retrievers requires proper timing and practice. Where to place the crate and what to put in it will help make the most of your crate. Golden Retrievers will typically grow to by 20 to 24 inches tall and up to 75 lbs, so you need to make sure to get them the right size crate. Follow these steps to determine the size of your dog: Measure the height of your Golden Retriever: Have your dog stand up straight, Measure from the floor to the top of their shoulder blades. Add around inches to this measurement to determine the minimum height for the crate. Measure the length of your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Remember to add 2 to 4 inches to the measurement. Measure their width by having your Golden Retriever standing with their legs slightly apart. Focus your attention on the widest part of their body, which tends to be the chest area. Once again, always add up to 4 inches to the figure. Finally, you want to consider the age of your Golden Retriever. For example, if you have a puppy, keep in mind that they will grow rapidly. You may want to choose a crate that will work for their adult size or opt for an adjustable crate with dividers, so you can gradually increase the space as they grow. Your Golden Retriever puppy will rapidly outgrow a nice crate that is not suited for an adult size. Now that you have all the measurements, you can refer to this Crate Size Calculator to find out the right and best dog crate size for your golden retriever. Types of Crates For Golden Retrievers Crates come not only in different sizes, but also with different structural elements. Below, we explain the pros and cons of each type of crate. Wire Crates Wire crates are popular due to their durability and visibility, They provide excellent ventilation and are easy to clean. However, bear in mind that some Golden Retrievers tend to find them less cozy than other options. Plastic Crates Plastic crates are a popular choice for travel. They offer more privacy and create a den-like environment for your Golden Retriever. Being lightweight, they are easy to transport and provide a sense of security. However, they may not offer as much airflow as wire crates. They are perfectly suitable for strong and aggressive chewers , which is a frequent issue among puppies! Bear in mind that steel crates can be heavy and less budget-friendly than other crate types. Soft Crates Lightweight and collapsible, soft crates are convenient for temporary use, such as short transportation needs. They are not suitable for dogs that like to chew or scratch as they are easily damaged. These crates come in various materials, including wood or wicker, and provide a stylish alternative to traditional crates. Yet, they may be less durable, and some favor design over ventilation. Recommendations for Best Golden Retriever Crates We suggest discussing crate recommendations with your veterinarian and your Golden Retriever breeder for tips and favorite brands. It has a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning and folds down for storage. Having double doors on the crate is a practical feature as it offers convenient access and flexibility in terms of crate placement. The secure locking mechanism adds an extra layer of safety. Cons: While the crate is generally considered of decent quality, there could be durability concerns for dogs with a history of trying to escape crates. This means it might not be the most suitable option for such dogs. This plastic crate is airline-approved in the USA and provides a secure and comfortable space for your Golden Retriever during air travel. It features ventilation on all sides and a durable, heavy-duty construction. Withstood mile flight. Arrived on time. Easy to set up. Met all airline guidelines for flying pets. The dog had ample room for a mat. Adding that this is also rust resistant! Spacious and roomy: The crate offered plenty of space for dogs to stand up and move around comfortably. Cons: Durability concerns: Considering the price paid for these crates, it was mentioned by previous buyers that they were not as sturdy as expected. This raised doubts about their long-term durability. Potential safety issues: The crate had plastic edges and lips that protruded, which proved problematic for dogs with severe separation anxiety. If you have a strong and powerful Golden Retriever, this steel crate is an excellent choice. It has reinforced steel tubing and multiple locks for maximum security. I used to worry while I was out, and would come home to a 45 min cleanup, not anymore! Thanks for the great product that is, as advertised. It effectively prevents the dog from escaping and causing damage to the surroundings, giving peace of mind when leaving my dog alone. Durability and strength: The crate is built to be indestructible, and it lives up to its claim. The sturdy construction and quality materials used make it resistant to escape attempts and capable of withstanding the efforts of even the most determined dogs. Cons: Inconvenient assembly and weight: The crate can be challenging to assemble due to the use of hex screws, which may not be the most user-friendly option. Additionally, it is quite heavy, making it less portable and difficult to move around. Grated bottom design: The grated floor of the crate, although intended for easy cleaning in case of accidents, may not be comfortable for dogs to lie on or move around. Some dogs may find it less appealing, and additional padding or a flat surface may be necessary to ensure their comfort. This soft crate is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for temporary use. It features three mesh doors for easy access and ventilation. I used it for a weekend dog show and plan on using it often. I may need to purchase another for my other pup! It provides ample room for your golden retriever puppy to stand up and stretch out, allowing for comfort and mobility. Lots of ventilation: The 4-door model offers excellent cross-ventilation options, making it suitable for hot weather conditions. Sturdiness and portability: The crate feels sturdy and durable, giving you confidence in its ability to contain my dog. Lightweight: Despite its strength, it is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport and handle. The included storage bag with various handle options adds to its portability. Cons: Limited instructions and assembly complexity: The provided instructions were not comprehensive, and there was a lack of guidance on disassembling the crate. Assembly can be straightforward, but taking it down and folding it back may require some trial and error. It may not be suitable for dogs with such behaviors, and additional caution is necessary. Additionally, the larger windows and netting material can pose risks for puppies, as they may get caught or try to escape through them. This aesthetic crate combines the functionality of a wire crate with a stylish cover. It blends well with home decor and provides a cozy den-like environment for your Golden Retriever. No more stuck paws. After my puppy got her paw stuck twice in the kennel bars and woke me up screaming, I knew I needed to find a way to make her kennel safer. This is a great solution. Not only does it keep her from accidently getting caught in the bars, it looks great and is high quality and well made. My huge kennel looks so much nicer in my room now and the crate pad is pretty nice. I love the option for side or front entry too as my kennel has both. The fabric is described as plush and the bumper and pad offer protection from the wires of the crate, making it more den-like and cozy. The set created a more appealing and inviting space for the dog. Cons: Inadequate size and ties: There were issues with the sizing and ties of the bumper set. The side panels were reported to be slightly short for the cage, which could affect the overall fit and coverage. Additionally, the ties on the bumper set were not sturdy enough and ripped easily, particularly during playful interactions inside the crate. Misleading washing instructions: While the packaging stated that the set was completely machine washable, the bumper was later found to be spot clean only, resulting in twisting and seams starting to rip after washing. One user felt that the packaging and description were misleading, and that clearer instructions should have been provided. Advantages of Choosing the Right Crate Size Comfort A properly sized crate ensures your Golden Retriever has enough space to lie down, stand, turn around, and stretch comfortably. Safety The right crate size prevents your Golden Retriever from getting stuck or injured while inside. It reduces the risk of accidents or escape attempts. Effective House Training A correctly sized crate aids in house training by discouraging your Golden Retriever from soiling their sleeping area. It helps establish a routine and promotes bladder control. If the crate you choose is too small, your dog will be uncomfortable. And if the crate you choose is too big, they may feel comfortable pottying inside of it. Downsides of Choosing the Wrong Crate Size Beware of some of the most common issues when picking the wrong crate size. A crate that is too small can cause discomfort, stiffness, and limited mobility for your dog. Insufficient space in the crate may prevent your dog from stretching, changing positions, or engaging in natural behaviors. Finally, a cramped or confining crate can lead to anxiety and stress for your Golden Retriever , resulting in behavioral issues or reluctance to enter the crate. A crate offers several benefits for both you and your Golden Retriever. Crates provide a secure and private space where your Golden Retriever can retreat when they need rest or alone time. The crate helps build a routine and provides a designated area for your dog. Crating your Golden Retriever when unsupervised can prevent them from engaging in destructive behaviors, such as chewing furniture or household items. Finally, a crate will give your dog safety and prevent distractions while traveling in a car or an airplane. Benefits Of Crate Training Crate training can present many benefits, such as accelerating house training. The crate helps establish a routine and teach your Golden Retriever to hold their bladder and bowels until they are outside. For anxious dogs, crate training can provide the safety and secure space they need to rest and feel protected. Finally, crate training also reduces separation anxiety through a cozy environment. Of course, it is important to ensure the crate is well-ventilated and meets the necessary travel requirements and airline approvals. Ideally, you want to start crate training when your Golden Retriever is still a puppy. Puppies are more adaptable and open to learning. However, that being said, crate training can be successful at any age. Make it more comfortable by providing toys, blankets, and treats. Step 2: Once your pup is at ease, close the door and bring toys and treats inside. Keep an eye on them and let them out if they become distressed. Step 3: Increase the time your puppy spends in the crate with the door closed gradually, and step away from the crate while they are distracted. Step 4: Extend the time you are away from the crate. Remember, crate training requires patience , consistency, and positive reinforcement. Make it comfortable! Add a soft and washable bedding for your Golden Retriever to rest on inside the crate. Never rush the introduction phase. Always introduce the crate slowly, allowing your dog to explore and associate it with positive experience. They should always see the crate as a positive place to be. Clean the crate regularly. Opting for washable beddings makes it easy to maintain the crate. You should also wipe down any surface after use, especially for temporary or transportation crates. Remember to use safe and gentle cleaning products. Provide toys and chewable treats for your dog when they get in the crate. This will engage their mind and keep them entertained. Make sure you put the crate in a quiet, sheltered and well-ventilated spot inside your home. Poor placement of your crate may cause stress for your dog. Conclusion Choosing the right crate size for your Golden Retriever is crucial for their comfort, safety, and effective training. Measure your dog accurately and consider their age when selecting a crate. Bear in mind that crates can come in a variety of materials, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of each crate type. It may be worth having more than one crate if you suspect they will need to cover different purposes. Finally, crate training your Golden Retriever provides numerous benefits, both for your dog and for you. Generally, it is recommended not to exceed hours for adult dogs. Should I crate my Golden Retriever at night? Crate training your Golden Retriever at night can help with house training and provide a safe space for them. However, ensure the crate is appropriately sized, comfortable, and placed in a quiet area. Is it better for dogs to sleep in crate or bed? Some dogs feel more secure and comfortable in a crate, while others may prefer sleeping in a bed. What age can dogs stop sleeping in crate? The age at which dogs can stop sleeping in a crate varies. Some dogs may be ready to sleep outside the crate as early as months as they are fully house trained too. Others may benefit from longer crate usage as their house training progresses. Most pet carriers are designed with safety features that protect your dog from injury during travel, such as secure latches and ventilation. Additionally, many airlines require pets to be transported in an approved carrier that meets certain size and weight restrictions. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian or animal transportation specialist for advice on safe and comfortable ways to transport your dog. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Advantages of using a dog crate Eases the Transportation of Your Dog A fully trained golden retriever knows how to behave well. The well-spent time in dog crate training can also be applied in this situation wherein you will need to transport your dog using a crate through a long ride journey. Your dog is happy while remaining calm on the road. Because some dogs, especially puppies who are full energy will play with another dog or children endlessly. Instead, the best way to calm them down is to put them in a dog crate for just a few minutes. If they are relaxed and have calmed down, release them immediately and give them some positive reinforcement like his favorite dog treats. This is to remove the idea of punishing him through solitary confinement and feel not bad about what happened. Not to be confused with cruel punishment by confining him because you are in big trouble if you do that. And you know that having two alpha dogs living together can be a bit tough job. Although if properly trained, dominance among the two alpha male dog can be avoided it will actually take time and your best possible option, for now, is to dog crate one of them. Also, a dog crate is an excellent substitute for a kennel. By the time your dog gets used to the place of the dog crate and becomes comfortable with it, it might be useful for them to take the crate as their place of comfort. Add some bedding or blanket to ensure that your dog will feel that he is in a safe dwelling place. A Useful Place For House Training Crate training your dog is so useful that it can also help you house train your golden retriever be it a puppy or an adult dog. That said, by the time you are ready to introduce your pet to a new home, it will be easier for them to transition and get accustomed to their new home and mark it as their territory. Actually, you can use a dog crate or a playpen and either of the two will absolutely work just fine. Furthermore, crate training your dog really helps you in a lot of ways and one of them includes discipline and responsible dogs. Different types of Crates Wire Crates Wire crates are very suitable for breeds like golden retrievers to larger breeds. They are breathable and allowing the cool breeze to come into the crate, which is excellent to have especially if you live in a hotter climate. Most of the wire crates are easier to clean and it has removable trays. Actually, there are no negatives sides when using these wire crates. Perfect if you have a furry friend that is destructive chewer because the frames are steel. Plastic crates Plastic crates have are less sturdy and they are great for small to medium breeds. Also, they are very susceptible to destructive chewers and they often break compared to the metal crates. But if you are considering a long-term investment with a medium to a large-sized dog breed, better to choose the wire crates instead. Some pet owners use this as an end table. They are actually not the best when it comes to practicality and crate training. The fact that this is only for aesthetics. Surely these types of products are only for visual appeal over the quality it offers. This is perfect for medium to large-sized dog breeds who are aggressive chewers. And if your primary concern is your dog keeps on breaking free, then this is the best possible dog crate I can suggest to you. But keep in mind this is the most expensive because of the materials and added security features. Either way, the important thing is to measure first your furry friend. That way, you are able to know the specific measurement so that you can have the accurate size for your ideal dog crate. Also, dog crates are great for training your golden retriever to be responsible and become more disciplined by the time he reaches adulthood. The only issue dog crates have is if you will going to use them as a cruel punishment for your dog. And that is a big no-no and you can even send to jail. At 7 weeks, your pup may weigh a whopping 3 pounds. Many training crates feature a divider system. And then remove the divider when your Golden reaches her full adult size. You are aiming for a snug, comforting fit that mimics the den a wolf might find for himself in the wild. He will need a few spare inches of head and side room, but no more than that. The entranceway itself is about 18 inches across. These dimensions are mirrored in the recommended crate size for an adult Golden Retriever dog. Best Dog Crate For Golden Retriever Puppy Each of these awesome crates features that key essential you need during puppyhood: the divider. Each also offers a slide-out under-tray for easy cleaning, and all will fold down for storage or travel. This affordable, versatile, and functional metal dog crate features a side door and a front door. Along with a removable divider for use during puppyhood. The slide-out under-tray is easy to clean and replace. It comes with a removable divider for use during puppyhood and a slide-out dog tray for easy cleaning. There is a top handle for carrying, and the crate folds down flat for travel or storage. The doors have two bolts per door for safety. One neat feature about this crate is the rolling feet to help protect your flooring. It comes in single- and double-door models. Each features a double latch system with two latches per door. The slide-out, leak-proof under-tray makes cleaning easy and fast. It comes with a removable divider and slide-out tray for easy cleaning. The crate has rounded, smooth corners for safety, and the whole crate is coated with a rust-resistant finish. The entire unit collapses to a width of two inches, making it easy to store or use for travel. This heavy duty, high-end dog crate comes in silver or black models and will also take spray paint, if you desire. It is rust resistant and comes on heavy-duty locking casters to rotate it degrees or move it outside or from room to room as you desire. The door is actually a door-within-a-door to give you more interaction flexibility. The plastic under-tray is easy to slide out, clean, and replace. The locks have an extra feature: safety buckles to prevent escape. The tray slides out and back in for easy cleaning. The cage is coated with a durable anti-rust black epoxy. It folds down easily for storage or travel. It also offers a handy top carry handle. You want the same close, cozy fit, where your dog has just enough room to stand up to full height and turn around fully. This is for safety as well as comfort. But you may want a different crate for car travel, specifically one that is soft-sided or plastic and lighter weight. For air travel, you will need a crate that is approved for use on the carrier you are flying with. This can differ from one carrier to the next, so be sure to call the carrier ahead of time for guidance! The sides roll up with Velcro hinges to offer ventilation. This 3-door, soft-sided travel crate features a strong steel crate frame covered in durable, washable fabric. The sides can be rolled up and secured with Velcro for ventilation. The frame is spring-loaded and collapsible for storage or travel, and it comes with a handy, adjustable handle. A sheepskin bed is included. This affordable, functional travel crate features soft sides with a collapsible steel frame. The fabric is durable polyester. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Too large or too small and it will not be fit for purpose. You have to get this just right. This article will discuss all these factors so that by the end you will be highly informed and confident in making the correct buying decision. A crate should be just big enough for your dog to stand up without hitting their head, to turn around comfortably, and provide room to lay on their side with their paws stretched out before them. This is an unnecessary waste of money. Many brands of dog crates have dividers available that can be used to reduce the available space of a larger crate to suit a puppy. The divider is a removable panel you can place inside the crate to reduce the space to suit the size of your dog. So my advice is to buy a crate large enough to suit an adult Golden retriever, then use a divider to scale it down to a size that suits a puppy. This will save you money in the long run. However, the best way to know what size crate your Golden Retriever needs is to measure their size and buy the crate that best fits. Add 4 inches and this is the height of the crate you want to purchase so your Golden can comfortably sit or stand inside without hitting their head on the ceiling. Secondly, have your dog stand on all fours and referring to the picture, take measurement B, from the base of their tail to the tip of their nose. Again, add 4 inches and this is the perfect length of the crate for your Golden to be able to lay down comfortably without being cramped. So to summarise, your Golden needs a crate of height A plus 4 inches, and of length B plus 4 inches. So now you will be able to get exactly the right size crate for your adult Golden Retriever. But how about buying a crate for a puppy? As previously discussed, I recommend you purchase a crate for an adult Golden and use a divider to make it suit your puppy, thereby doing away with the need to upgrade to increasingly bigger crates 3 or 4 times during their first 18 months. But if you do wish to have crates just right for your puppy without the use of a divider, please take measurements as detailed in the previous section to guide you in your buying decision. And be prepared to upgrade and replace every 4 or so months as they grow. The sheer number of different styles of dog crates on the market is quite startling. There are crates made of wire, plastic, wood, cloth, and many more besides. As explained on www. There is still some variety of styles available within this one type: Some have a single door, some have two or three. Most have a removable plastic tray at the base…but not all. But with these choices aside, what are the pros and cons of a wire crate: The Advantages Of A Wire Dog Crate Very strong, durable and long-lasting Very easy to keep clean Most have a slide out tray as a base that makes cleaning after accidents very easy make sure to look for this feature when buying! Folding ones are available for easy storage or moving the crate They allow the maximum flow of air compared to other styles, making them most suitable to hotter climates. They allow maximum visibility of the surroundings to the dog inside. This can be important for some dogs. Dividers are readily available for most models so you can buy a large one and re-size it for a puppy instead of replacing it as they grow. Though you can of course cover them if necessary. They are one of the easiest types to escape from if your dog is a budding Houdini! They are noisy if placed on solid surfaces and you have a fidgety dog.

What is the cost to adopt a Labradoodle in the UK? The price for a Cockapoo in the UK varies depending on where you are looking to adopt. However, there are other places that charge more or less than this amount. You might be wondering if you should adopt a rescue dog or a puppy. Puppies: No one can deny that raising a puppy is not an easy task, just like raising children. A majority of the largest dog rescue charities in the UK offer excellent service. It simply depends on your personal preference which one you choose. Here are some tips when it comes to finding a reputable Labradoodle rescue center in UK. Research: Do some research online and ask other people in the area about their experience with different rescues. This will give you an idea of what kind of services they provide and how responsive they are when contacted. Reviews: Check out reviews before making any donations or signing agreements with them — even if they seem like the perfect match! Rescues often go through financial hardships so be sure to check their website often to see if there has been any change in contact information or hours of operation. Dogs Safe For Rehoming:Rescue dogs are amazing, but they come with some challenges. It can be hard to find a good re-homing center that tests the temperament of their animals before letting them go into homes or foster care. Reputable centers work hard to ensure that all of the prospective pets they receive have been temperament tested before adoption, providing you with detailed information about each dog as to how it will affect your home environment if you adopt them in as well as any specific requirements needed from owners who adopt these dogs. Home Checking:All reputable rescue centers will perform a home check before they let you take on any dog. Most rescue centers will expect potential adopters like you who live inside with at least one securely enclosed outdoor area where pets can play without running off too far every day. If you know any great Labradoodle rescues ceneters in UK, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Rescue Name? Where are they located in UK? It really helps others who are looking to adopt a Labradoodle puppies in UK. Which will help them a lot. Post navigation. Volunteer Opportunities Welcome to Doodle Rescue, the rescue charity owners trust with the welfare of their doodles. Doodle Rescue -registered charity number - is a caring foster based UK wide poodle cross rescue charity. We fully understand how difficult the decision to rehome a beloved dog is, and our experienced team provide owners with compassionate and non-judgmental support throughout the rehoming process. Once a dog has been signed over to us, we take care of all aspects of the rehoming process, with the welfare and needs of the individual dog paramount. We do not make payment to owners for their dogs but we cover all costs associated with their care whilst dogs are in foster with us. When a dog needs to be removed from their current home urgently, where appropriate Doodle Rescue will make arrangements to have the dog bought into emergency foster with one of our foster families. If we cannot help directly, we do our utmost to support owners in finding an alternative option for their dogs and, depending on the circumstances, we may also be able to offer advice to owners who wish to avoid giving up their dogs Doodles are very special dogs and the needs of the various poodle crosses and individual dogs vary enormously. This is a website that connects you with rescued dogs who are waiting for a loving home. They have partnered with shelters across the country and have successfully rehomed over dogs. On their website, you can see the photos and stories of dogs who are looking for a family. You can filter them by age, size, breed, personality, and more. You can also read testimonials from other adopters who have found their best friends through Dogblog. It is a community of dog lovers who want to make a difference in the lives of these adorable dogs. If you are interested in adopting a Labradoodle from Dogsblog. There is no greater feeling than welcoming a new member to your family, especially one with a wagging tail and a big heart. But, before you fall in love with a Labradoodle, you should know what it takes to adopt one. The adoption cost for a Labradoodle in the UK is not fixed but depends on where you live and when you want to adopt. So, make sure you are prepared for the financial commitment before you adopt a Labradoodle. Any Recommendation for Labradoodle Rescue in UK: If you have any personal experience with one of the rescues listed or know of any reputable rescue organization that you trust that is not included in our list, please share them in the comments section. We would be happy to add them to our list. If you know of anyone who may be interested in adopting a Labradoodle, please share this post with them and help support these dedicated rescue organizations! Are you curious to know more about the Labradoodle, the adorable mix of Labrador and Poodle? Step 4 - Join the Reservation List Once you are happy that the ASD Labradoodle is right for you, you know your requirements and you are happy with our policies then its time to join our list. This is taken off the cost of your puppy at collection. We then start working on your requirements - the timescale for this can be immediate availability, or it could be that we say months. As a general rule, we permit extension of your dates up to your allocated puppy reaching 5 weeks old. Thereafter, it is too close to adoption date to simply change your mind. Deposits on partly-trained pups and export pups outside UK are non-refundable as they are chosen, trained and grown on for you. This includes organising the necessary rabies vaccinations, export paperwork etc. Step 5 - The Wait! Once the decision to adopt has been reached by the family then the waiting is possibly the hardest part of the process! This can be extremely frustrating and we totally sympathise. However, mother nature is totally beyond our control and she rarely works to Lisa's diary requests. We agree earliest and latest dates as part of our instructions from you. If we can't fulfil our agreed timescales then of course we would let you know. We'll offer to either a extend the time, or b offer an alternative change of gender or colour etc or c offer to return your deposit. Step 6 - Email Notification and photos We wait until the pups' eyes are open and the preliminary vet check is all clear. This is to avoid the situation when we have sent newborn photos and then something is wrong. We dont want to upset you, your children or us by exciting everyone too early in a puppy's development. Our mortality rate is extremely low, however occasionally, in all living animals there are congenital defects which may not be apparent until eyes open and motor functions develop. We aim to give 4 weeks notice of collection date if adopting at 8 weeks ie just after first vet check is all clear. We send email with photos or we call you. We then take more photos and send them at 6 weeks old after the second vet check. We then neuter at 7 weeks old if adoption is at 8 weeks. You must then give last vaccines at 10 weeks old to start external toilet training at 14 days after last vaccine so typically 12 weeks old when puppy first enters garden. Check out our health screening page to find out more about vaccines, DNA tests and vet checks. Step 7 - Puppy Preparation Once your puppy is identified, we start diarising a collection date and start discussing puppy preparation with you. We are currently working on a puppy resource centre on the site, with help sheets to get you ready for adopting. All puppy goods we recommend are available for purchase at the time of adoption. Even if you prefer to source goods locally, then it may be worth seeing what we suggest before going too mad. We've tried and tested most canine goods and identified the strongest or best! Food can then be ordered online from us in the future, and it's couriered to your door, postage included. Step 8 - Which Puppy? However, sometimes there is more than one puppy in the litter which meets your criteria. In these cases, we send photos of the pups to families, usually around 6 weeks old, so you can express any immediate preference. We do this generally in order of when you've joined our waiting list. So if there were 3 chocolate males in the litter, then the earliest family to join would get a choice of 3; the next, a choice of 2. The third family on the list would have no choice. However, before this happens, we also try to ensure that we have taken into account personalities. So, if there was a family on the list which expressed preference for "lively" and we had a puppy which matched this personality profile - we would prioritise this match on personality before a choice on cuteness. It can be tricky occasionally balancing everyones' wishes. Despite this, in over a decade of breeding and helping families' select the right puppy, it has always worked out thus far. It is a stress point in the process but try to relax - often we frequently hear the comment "They are all lovely, I could take any of them home and be happy". In our experience, in a week you'll have forgotten about the others and simply adore the one you took home. Step 9 - Collection Day You will be sent directions to our home and we'll have agreed a time for collection. Often we have a few families collect on the same day, especially on weekends when the pups turn 8 weeks or 10 weeks old. So, if you are early, please call or text to ask if the family before you has finished. If you're running late, please contact us asap. We may be able to swap the order of families arriving. However, if you arrive outside your allocated time, then you may need to wait until the next family have left. They too will probably have travelled a far distance with excited children. We may ask that you rebook collection if you miss your time - this is because of our committment to other families and also to our 4 children. Please allow minutes for collection as we need to chat to you about grooming etc. We'll also go through what to expect for the first week as your puppy settles. Step 10 - Post Adoption Just after adoption, we organise your paperwork. We'll activate your Petplan Insurance, transfer your microchip and request to know your new name for your puppy. Our Resource Centre will also have helpsheets on crate training, toilet training etc. We appreciate updates and photos and, of course, we would love your permission to put these on our website and facebook as testimonials.

The cornea is the transparent layer on the front part of the eye. In order to see, light needs to pass through it to reach the lens and the retina. If a dog has corneal ulcers, which is like a divot in the cornea, they will affect the ability of light to pass through the cornea, inhibiting the vision of the dog. This is a sign that your dog is having discomfort and may need veterinary treatment. You may also notice a lack of shine in the part of the eye with the ulcer, or jagged reflections instead of a reflection with smooth edges. In the pug, the ulcer develops because of the large amount of cornea that is exposed to the air, making it more prone to drying and trauma. Pugs are prone to hereditary forms of lens cataracts. The lens is the structure which focuses light on the retina. It is a transparent sack of jelly and sits just behind the colored part of the eye, the iris. A cataract refers to a cloudiness of the lens. This genetic condition can develop in a pug anytime between 6 months and 6 years old. You may also notice the general behavior associated with a dog going blind, for example it is bumping into items in the home that it previously easily avoided. The lack of tear fluid production causes the surface of the eye to be too dry. This makes the eye uncomfortable, hot, and itchy. The surface of the eye loses its shine and appears dull. The dog may rub its head to relieve the itch and damages the cornea while itching. To protect itself, the eye produces a tacky, mucus like substance that has the effect of gumming up the eye. A dog with dry eye may squint, holding the eye closed because it's more comfortable that way. This could be either genetic, meaning a poorly-formed tear duct, or by condition, such as a clogged tear duct. Cherry eye is a condition that occurs when the gland behind the third eyelid in the inner corner of the eye pops out from its position behind the third eyelid. It sticks forward, looking like a small red cherry stuck on the eye. Diagnosing cherry eye is not difficult, as it can even be seen across the room because of the big red area in the dog's eye. It is not known if it is an inherited condition, even though it is a congenital condition. Pigmentary keratopathy is a hereditary condition that is not yet fully understood. Brown pigment is deposited in the clear cells of the cornea, which is like wearing a contact lens covered in paint. The dog cannot see through it and eventually loses its vision. Look carefully at the surface of the eye for deposits of brown pigments. These can range in size from small speckles to large patches. Don't concern yourself with making a definite diagnosis. Your job is to recognize that something isn't quite right and then to make the judgement as to whether or not your dog needs to go to a vet. In the case of eye problems, it is probably better to be safe than sorry, as many eye conditions that are left untreated could lead to blindness and pain for your dog. Signs there is a problem include: [10] X Research source Holding the eye closed or squinting: This is a sign of discomfort and requires urgent attention. Rubbing the eye: Again, an important sign the dog's eye is uncomfortable. A discharge from the eye: This can be watery is the eye is irritated, green if there is infection, or a tacky glue like discharge for dry eye. A dull eye: A dull eye can indicate an ulcer on the surface, or a lack of moisture production. Look for squinting, thick eye discharge, watering, or eye redness. Your pug may act like he's in pain. This is because your dog's cornea is large and can easily become scratched or injured. This kind of trauma can cause ulcers that may become infected. Depending on the cause of the ulcer, your pug may need surgery, topical medications, or contact lenses instead of surgery. EKS shares many of the same signs as corneal ulcers. Your dog will appear to be in pain, may rub her eye with her paws, have more tears, and red eyes. If your dog has EKS, she won't be able to fully close her eyes even when she sleeps. This can cause damage to the cornea since it will dry out. To treat EKS, your veterinarian will probably recommend surgery to improve the eyelid. In the meantime, your pug will probably need lubricating drops to prevent damage to the cornea. Again, your dog's eyes might seem red, irritated, watery, or you may see a thick discharge. Your pug may appear bothered by something in his eye. The eyelashes can scratch and irritate the eyeball. Your vet may treat distichiasis by surgically destroying the hair follicles so the eyelashes can't grow back. If your dog only has minor irritation, the vet can recommend an eye ointment to keep the eye lubricated. If you look at your pug's eye and see abnormal brown spots or a grayish haze covering the cornea, she may have a type of keratitis. Trauma to the eye can cause pigmentary keratitis which makes the brown spots. Pannus or chronic superficial keratitis can cause the grayish haze when blood vessels and tissue grows on the eye. Pannus keratitis is an immune response that causes eye inflammation. Since keratitis can cause loss of vision, it's important to get medical treatment. To treat keratitis, your pug will probably need topical steroids or anti-inflammatory eye drops for the rest of her life. If your pug experiences trauma around the head or too much pressure is placed on the neck, his eyes may literally bulge out of the sockets. If you see this, get emergency veterinary treatment since it's painful. The veterinarian may try to lubricate the eye and gently push it back into place while your dog is under anesthesia. Or, the veterinarian may recommend surgically removing the eye. Use a harness instead of a collar when walking your pug. Check your pug every day for any signs of eye problems. If you notice anything unusual or have any questions about a potential eye problem, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early eye treatment could prevent serious damage to the eye. Follow through with the veterinarian's orders. This means giving all medications as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not discontinue a medication without consulting your veterinarian. Learn more » Wrinkled and rotund, the compact Pug has been a favorite breed internationally for hundreds of years but has soared in popularity in recent decades. Their round, bulging eyes are one of their appeals, along with their cute snub noses. However, new studies reveal that the very features humans find attractive actually cause a lot of health issues for these little guys. For example the Pug is about 13 times as likely to have painful eye ulceration than other common dog breeds. Are Pugs a Healthy Breed? Pugs seem about twice as likely overall to develop health issues than other breeds. Brachycephalic breeds like the Pug have squished faces that negatively impact their breathing. Brachycephalic airway syndrome is a combination of the following problems: 2 narrow nostrils,a crowded nose and throat, an overlong soft palate and a narrow windpipe. All of these issues can unfortunately result in breathing problems for our loveable pugs. The surface of their eyes then becomes exposed and damaged. In addition the lower eyelids often roll inwards and this can mean the eyelashes rub onto the surface of the eye causing more damage. Here are a few ailments that commonly affect this breed: 1. Pigment and blood vessels grow across the cornea to varying degrees. Some dogs can have dark brown pigment covering a large part of the surface of the eye and this severely affects their vision. Of course, not all Pugs will develop this disease, and even fewer acquire it to such a severe degree. Image Credit: Hepper. Corneal Ulcers Corneal ulcers impair Pugs to a greater degree than other breeds. An eye ulcer is damage to the surface of the eye for example from a cat scratch or a stick. The cornea is the thin clear layer at the front of the eye and ulcers can vary from being very shallow to much deeper and more serious. All corneal ulcers require immediate veterinary attention as they are very painful and can quickly get worse if left untreated. Usually this happens as a result of trauma. Unfortunately for brachycephalic dogs, it might not take as much to dislodge the eye since the socket is so shallow and the eyes bulge out. Proptosis requires urgent medical care. Your vet may be able to save their eye if treated quickly but it is not always possible. For example, Pugs are the most obese breed in the world. Genetic factors such as body shape and low energy levels certainly contribute to this issue. However, pet parents can lower their risks by making sure they receive ample exercise and a well-balanced diet with a conservative number of treats. A harness rather than a collar is recommended to walk them. Roughhousing with other dogs is also discouraged. Their eyes are easily damaged since they bulge out from their face, which can result in corneal ulcers or other eye injuries. Unfortunately, eye problems are only one issue that this brachycephalic breed is at increased risk of. This can vary from progressive scarring and brown pigment building up on the cornea the normally clear part of the eye to painful ulcers a wound on the cornea. The typical appearance of a Pug — note that both eyes appear to be bulging outwards and there is scar tissue formation on the left eye following a recent wound to the surface of the eye. The right eye of the same Pug above - note the large are of pigment on the surface of the eye. Why do Pugs and similar breeds of dog get so many eye problems? The eyelids of these dogs are much too long for the size of the eye. This means that the dogs cannot blink properly and the clear part of the eye the cornea becomes exposed and damaged. The lower eyelid close to the nose of these dogs often roles inwards. The eyelashes then rub directly onto the clear part of the eye cornea causing further damage. Some of these dogs have extra eyelashes either on the edge or underneath the eyelid. These hairs directly rub on the cornea again causing damage. This Pug has developed a wound or ulcer on the surface of the eye — the cause of the wound is a tiny hair ectopic cilium growing out of the upper eyelid. The hair and follicle needs to be carefully removed in order to allow the wound to heal. Some of these dogs are prone to developing dry eye meaning that they do not produce enough tears. The ability for a normal corneal wound or ulcer to heal in these dogs seems to be reduced as compared to dogs with longer noses such as a Border Collie. This means that the wounds can deteriorate very quickly despite medical treatment and go deeper to the point that the eye itself can rupture. These cases then require an urgent operation to save the eye. This Pug has developed a serious infection on the surface of the eye — Pugs and similar breeds are more prone to developing these serious infections which require urgent medical treatment as well as surgery. What can we do to help these eyes? The good news is that despite all of these problems we are able to help these dogs. How do we do this? Improve the tear production — we can apply an ointment to the eyes twice daily which helps to stimulate the tear production. This ointment also has the added beneficial effect of slowing down the brown pigment build up on the surface of the eye. We often recommend the use of protective eye wear that your pet can wear when out on a walk. If tolerated this can significantly minimise the risk of your dog damaging the eyes. For more options see Google. Examples include: Doggles — these come in both plastic and mesh forms. Optivizor — although slightly more expensive than Doggles some dogs tolerate this face and eye visor better. Corneal cryotherapy — the surface of the eye is gently frozen using a special cryo-spray. This Pug has undergone a corneal grafting procedure following a deep corneal wound. The easiest way to do this is to speak to your own vet, who can then arrange the appointment for you. In all of these animals it is always best to see your dog before it gets a problem. Early intervention and prevention is often better than dealing with a problem once it has happened. Print this page Feedback At Focus Referrals we are keen to get things right. We would be very happy to hear about your experience with Focus Referrals so that we can improve how we work. Please let us know via email: info focusreferrals. Pug Dog Eyes Overview Pugs have large, gorgeous, dark eyes. Because they are so big and protrude slightly, this makes Pugs more prone to certain eye issues, though some eye problems seen with this breed are either common to small breeds or to dogs in general. Because debris can easily enter a Pug's eye and there may be issues with eye discharge, extra attention needs to be given to keep the eye area clean. Tommy, photo courtesy of owner Srinivas This section will cover: Breed Standard Nomenclature Regarding the Eyes - The ideal color, shape, and expression. The Most Common Pug Eye Issues - This includes bloodshot and teary eyes, inflammation and irritation, dry eye, cherry eye, eyelash abnormalities, entropion, corneal abrasions and ulcers, and pigmentary keratitis brown melanin moves onto the sclera white of the eye. Pug Eye Care and Cleaning - The 5 steps to keep a Pug's eye area clean to help prevent irritation and other issues and instructions for flushing the eyes. Breed Standard Nomenclature Regarding the Eyes Breed standards are detailed descriptions of what is considered to be the 'ideal' specimen of a particular dog breed. These criterion are used when judging dogs in conformation show events and are used as a general guideline for breeders when working toward the 'betterment of the breed'. The AKC, along with other clubs, lists both the physical description of a Pug's eyes as well as expression: "The eyes are dark in color, very large, bold and prominent, globular in shape, soft and solicitous in expression, very lustrous, and, when excited, full of fire. They are dark in color and very lustrous. Solicitous in expression; when excited, full of fire. Due in part to their size and shape, the eyes are vulnerable to a number of eye conditions which will be covered next. Allergies can be a year-round issue or appear in any of the four seasons. Though distichiasis and other conditions in this section should be ruled out, if you suspect allergies as the cause of eye irritation, you may wish to refer to Pug Dog Allergies. In most cases, this is due to small debris a tiny blade of grass, crusted rheum - also known as 'sleep', etc. Flushing the eyes with a canine eye rinse can usually help. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, also known as dry eye, can be a very painful condition, in which there is an abrasion on the clear film that naturally protects. The Pug is very prone to this, though poor nutrition and dehydration can play a role, and it most commonly affects middle-aged and senior dogs. If not treated, scarring can occur, which can lead to complete loss of vision. This is usually diagnosed via a Schirmer tear test that measures tear production and a fluorescein stain test to check for abrasions. Treatment includes artificial-tear medication, eye drops for lubrication, medication to reduce pain and inflammation, and in some cases, antibiotics. This condition is thought to develop due to a weakening of connective tissues. If cherry eye is not treated quickly, it can lead to other very serious issues. It is very rare for this to happen to both eyes at the same time, but once it happens to one eye it's very common for it to occur in the other within a few months. Signs of this include a pink or red bump that significantly protrudes out over the sclera the white part of the eye. This is treated with corrective surgery in which a small section of the nictitating membrane is removed and stitches are placed to secure the remaining tissue back into its proper place. Eyelash Abnormalities - Distichiasis and Ectopic Cilia Both of these issues involve the abnormal growth of eyelashes. With distichiasis, a condition Pugs are moderately prone to, one or more eyelash grows in an odd direction out from the eyelid. With ectopic cilia, a condition seen less commonly with Pugs, one or more eyelash grows through the inside of the eyelid toward the eye. With either condition, when an eyelash pokes into the eyeball, it is extremely painful and can lead to corneal ulcers. Although an offending eyelash can be plucked out, offering immediate relief, it is often temporary since it usually regrows within 4 to 5 weeks. For this reason, a minor procedure is often performed to remove both the eyelash and the follicle to prevent any reoccurrence. Entropion Entropion, also referred to as inverted or folded-in lid, is an inherited condition in which either the upper or lower eyelid rolls inward. This is moderately common with Pugs, usually involves the lower eyelids, and typically develops within the first year. This is mainly a genetic condition linked to tension in the ligaments of the inner eye but can also be triggered by rapid weight loss or can develop alongside chronic eye infections. While the inverted lid itself will irritate the eye, there are other issues that can develop. Eyelashes that that point inward can scratch the surface of the eye, leading to corneal ulcers. And, any scar tissue that may form after a scratch that can lead to vision problems or even vision loss in some cases. In very minor cases, and if the cornea is not ulcerated, the eyelid may be temporarily stitched back into place and artificial-tear medication given. However, in most cases, this needs to be resolved with corrective surgery to permanently reposition the eyelid back into position. Corneal Abrasions and Ulcerations The cornea is the clear, shiny membrane that makes up the surface of the eyeball and because Pugs have very prominent eyes, corneal abrasions and ulcers are not uncommon. A corneal abrasion is a scrape that only affects the epithelium 1st layer. A corneal ulcer is a scrape through the whole epithelium 1st layer and into the basement membrane 2nd layer or stroma 3rd layer. The most common cause of abrasions and ulcerations is trauma to the eye which can be anything from debris entering a Pug's eye to rubbing the head along the ground resulting in a scratch. This is also linked to entropion, chronic eye infections, keratoconjunctivitis sicca dry eye , canine diabetes, and hypothyroidism. Signs include moderate to severe pain a Pug may paw at the eye or rub the eye area against surfaces , sensitivity to light, keeping the eye closed, discharge in some cases. Exact treatment will depend on whether there is a corneal abrasion, ulcer, or descemetocele. Corneal abrasions generally are treated with topical antibiotics and often the use of a protection cone collar to prevent a dog from pawing at the eye and typically heal in 1 week or less. For corneal ulcers or descemetocele, treatment varies. For moderate cases, surgery may be performed to temporarily stitch the eyelid closed to allow it to heal. If both eyes are affected, each eye may be alternatingly treated. For more serious cases, other surgery including grafts or transplants may be required. If an ulcer does not heal as expected, there can be a buildup of dead cells on the rim of the ulcer which prevent normal cells from repairing the tear. If this happens, the dead cells are removed and surgical closing of the eyelids may follow. If there is no improvement after days of treatment, bring your Pug back to the vet to be reexamined. Pigmentary Keratitis Pigmentary keratitis refers the migration of brown melanin pigment from the iris into the sclera white area of the eye. This can range from minor which has no affect on vision to severe melanin covers the pupil, leading to blindness. Early detection plays a huge role in successfully managing and treating this. This may develop with no underlying causes, however it is frequently linked to other issues such as entropion or keratoconjunctivitis sicca dry eye. The sign of this is brown pigment seen within the sclera white part of the eye. It can vary from faint tiny brown specks to severe black patches. Because many cases are due to an underlying eye issue, treatment almost always involves resolving that underlying disorder. Therefore, if entropion is present, it will be treated with surgery to reposition the eyelid. If keratoconjunctivitis sicca is the culprit, it will be treated either with topical medications or, in rare cases, surgery to reposition the salivary duct. When the underlying cause is successfully treated, this will usually stop pigmentary keratitis from developing any further. In regard to the pigmentation that has already migrated to the cornea, there is very rarely an attempt to surgically remove it due to the risks involved, and there are no medications that have been proven to eliminate it. In time months or even years , the pigmentation may lighten on its own. When caught early, prognosis is good. However, prognosis worsens the longer it takes to have this diagnosed. If the pigmentary keratitis already reached a severe level and is covering the pupil, this can profoundly affect a Pug's vision, even leading to blindness. Pug Eye Care and Cleaning With such big gorgeous eyes that slightly protrude out from the face, a huge part of taking care of your Pug will be to guard the eyes against irritants, keep the eye area clean, and know how to rinse the eyes if needed. Daily Eye Care Follow these 5 tips to help keep your Pug's eyes clean and protected: 1. Take care when grooming your Pug to help prevent loose hairs, shampoo, and other grooming-related elements from entering the eyes. Routinely wipe the eye area to remove fine debris, bits of food, rheum commonly known as 'eye sleep' and any discharge. At a minimum, this should be done once per day and ideally up to 3 times per day after each meal. For this, use a wipe that is specifically made for the sensitive area around the eyes, it should be all-natural with no irritating additives. These are hypo-allergenic wipes with the all-natural soothing ingredients of chamomile and aloe vera plus lion's tooth and eyebright made from dandelions to keep the fur around the eyes free from staining. These work great for removing dirt, debris, eye crust and discharge. Avoid spraying cleaning products including air fresheners near your Pug and keep the house smoke-free. Have eye cleanser on hand in order to promptly flush the eyes if needed. Pay attention to your Pug's eyes and bring any issues to the attention of the veterinarian; most eye-related problems have a good prognosis when caught early. Removing Something from the Eye If your Pug has something in their eye, flush this out as soon as possible. Here's how: What you need: A sterile canine eye cleaning solution like Tomlyn Sterile Eye Wash this is something that owners should have on hand at all times and clean sterile gauze. Instructions: 1. Use your fingers to open the eye, gently pushing both upper and lower lids open wider. Squeeze 4 to 5 drops into the cup of the lower lid. Let go of your Pug and allow him to blink. As he does, a combination of the solution and tears will spill out from his eye. Be sure to swipe this up with a clean piece of gauze. It is a popular myth that this is a common occurrence. However, there is no reason why a Pug's eye would spontaneously pop or fall out. Only a very serious injury such as descemetocele a deep cut into all layers of the cornea could make this happen. This breed does have large, somewhat protruding eyes, however they are held into place by ligaments just as any other dog, or human for that matter. The ligaments are just as strong as with any other canine. My Pug was just stung in the eye by a bee! It's very swollen. What should I do? A bee sting, to any part of the body, is enough of a problem already. Canines can be allergic to the venom just as humans can. Hives and trouble breathing are just two concerns and while Benadryl can be given for minor reactions, the risk of anaphylactic shock is a concern that should be in the mind of all owners. With a sting right to the eye, this presents a whole new set of concerns. If the bee stung your Pug directly in the eyeball, the stinger could have caused a laceration or perforating injury to the cornea which is something that needs immediate treatment at the vet's. Even if the stinger just entered into the eye area lid, surrounding skin , severe swelling is a sign of allergic reaction. For these reasons, we'd suggest immediately contacting the veterinarian. Do you know about our book? This is the most comprehensive book of its kine. Stay informed: Receive newsletters that let you know about new articles and important information. Become a free PetPugDog Member today. Other articles: Pug Feeding Guidelines - All the details you need to know about the best food for your Pug, how often to provide meals, and answers to common eating problems. Giving a Pug a Bath - Since this breed has sensitive skin, how you give baths and the products you use will have a big impact on skin and coat health. Taking Care of a Pug's Wrinkles - The facial folds on a Pug need to be kept clean and dry to help prevent common issues including irritation and skin yeast infections. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Email Pugs have a unique cranial shape that makes those astoundingly large and loving eyes to protrude. This makes pug eyes vulnerable to various infections, scratches and other issues requiring immediate and handy solutions. If you are new parents, it is essential that you know who to properly sanitize and protect your baby from various hazards that may cause lasting damage to its eyes. In some cases, however, your pug may develop certain eye conditions requiring medical attention. To give you an idea, here are 5 of the most common pug eye problems and their corresponding solution. Cherry Eye Pug cherry eye is condition in which the tear duct gland became inflamed and reddish like a cherry. In its most severe form, the tear duct may become too swollen making it slip out of its usual place. Though bothersome to these highly active pets, they are not as painful as you may think. Other important aspects that the vet will also consider will be the age and general health of the pug. First round of treatment usually involves non-invasive methods such as topical antibiotics, inflammatory medications, and massage to return the tear gland to its accurate location. Surgery is only suggested when all non-invasive options are exhausted to no avail. Dry Pug Eyes The strategic protrusion of pug eyes often make them vulnerable to this condition—dry eye or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This condition is caused when tear ducts fail to produce enough fluid leaving the eyes dry and sore. The fluid produced usually casts off irritants and debris from collecting on the eye surface. Common symptoms usually manifest as constant blinking and red eye. Solution: The vet normally prescribes topical and oral medication to stimulate tear production. Constant cleaning of the eyes using a soft clean cloth also prevent further infection. Entropion The protrusion of pugs eyes often deliver large eyelids that sometimes fold inwardly at the lash area causing irritation and infection called entropion. This eye problem often happens to the upper eyelid but may also affect the lower part. This usually happens to pugs at 4 to 6 months of age. Some of the notable symptoms are constant pawing at the eye, red or irritated eyes, and overall facial discomfort. Solution: Surgery is the only solution for entropion. Sometimes a vet may simply remove a portion of the eyelid to prevent it from rolling inward. In severe cases, a cosmetic surgery will be done to remove some part of the skin and muscle around the eyelid. Cataracts Pugs eyes are also prone to cataracts. This opaque or cloudy or hazy bluish tint usually ensconced on the eyeball. It can grow from a small dot to affecting the whole eyeball making your pet blind when left untreated. Cataracts are hereditary in nature but sometimes can also be caused by other conditions like trauma, diabetes, inflammation, and milk substitute. An antibacterial solution and a collar neck protector will then be placed to prevent irritation and scratching. Though painless, this slow progressing disease usually manifests as a shimmer on pug eyes and seemingly unresponsiveness to light. On its onset, your pet may loss its night vision. No treatment has been discovered but adequate care like serving healthy food will prevent it from developing early. Important Considerations Pugs are the sweetest of dog breeds. When you decide to become a parent, it is imperative that you take extra good care of pug eyes. Do pug-proof your home by removing rosebushes and other thorny plants, sharp corners or surfaces, and hazardous stuffs as they can prove to be risky. Good grooming and regular vet visit is also essential to keep your baby in tip-top shape. Incoming search terms:. Cherry eye is not always painful but should not be ignored. Cause: weak tear duct gland loosens and protrudes. Symptoms: redness, swelling, pronounced corner of the eyelid. Treatment: possible tear duct surgery. Corneal Ulcer The membrane that protects the eyeball is the Cornea. Many factors can cause damage to the cornea including playtime with anyone, including another dog or cat or getting something in their eye. Minor damage to the Cornea, like a scratch or abrasion will normally heal in a few days. Ulcers require more attention. Cause: membrane covering the surface of the eye wears thin due to trauma, foreign object, burn, or infection. Symptoms: redness, pain, squinting or your dog may keep their eyes closed, frequent rubbing, light sensitivity, discharge, and a noticeable film over the eyes. Treatment: antibiotic eye drops, painkillers, possible surgery in severe cases. Distichiasis Distichiasis is a serious issue that should be treated. Lack of treatment can lead to more serious issues including corneal ulcers. Cause: eyelashes growing in abnormal locations. Symptoms: redness, discharge, frequent rubbing, and itching. Treatment: professional eye exam including fluorescent staining to assess the degree of injury, prescribed lubricants, possible surgical lash removal. Entropion Imagine the discomfort if your eyelid rolled in, scraping your eyeball with eyelashes. This is common at around six-months-old. Cause: eyelids fold under pushing eyelashes into the eyes. Symptoms: eyelid distortion up or inward , milky look, redness, swelling, and constant scratching. Treatment: probable surgery to remove excess eyelid. Dry Eye most common ailment Unfortunately, dry eye, as with humans, is a chronic condition. It is likely that your Pug will need eye lubricants for the duration of their life if they are diagnosed with dry eye. Cause: low tear production causing irritation and build-up of debris. Symptoms: excessive blinking, redness, and thick discharge. Treatment: prescribed oral medication, and possible eye drops. Cataracts The lens of the eyeball consists mainly of water and protein. The precise makeup of the protein ensures that the lens remains clear. At times the protein can clump, creating a clouded area called a cataract. Cataracts normally develop slowly, over many years. Influences such as spiked sugar levels due to diabetes can speed up the process. Cause: diabetes, inflammation, trauma, genetic inheritance. Symptoms: milky or cloudy look to the eyes, grayish film, noticeable vision loss, clumsiness. Treatment: surgical removal with lens replacement or laser removal. PRA is an inherited condition and dogs diagnosed with it should not be used for breeding purposes. Cause: degenerating retina. Symptoms: noticeable night blindness, clumsiness, shinier look to eyes, and abnormal pupil dilation. Treatment: although studies have shown that dietary changes can slow disease progression, at the time of this writing treatment is not available and blindness will eventually result. Pugs love to explore and play. Their lack of a sufficient snout may be an attractive characteristic but offers less protection for their eyes. Cause: short snout. Symptoms: signs of pain, irritation, rubbing, watering, or visible scratches. Treatment: inspect the area to determine if professional intervention is necessary. Seeking the professional help of a vet can mean the difference between simple treatment and a chronic eye problem. I love these two bundies. They are the cutest.

Conclusion 1. You must make room for your dog and her hair Golden Retrievers are medium — large dogs. A male Golden is about inches tall cm and weighs between 60 and 75 pounds kg. Females are smaller, but they still need space to move, being inches tall cm and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds kg. Free your schedule for cleaning up hair as Golden Retrievers shed all year, becoming heavier in spring and autumn. The easiest way to reduce the amount of lost hair is by brushing your dog time a week, for about 15 minutes. Leaving your Golden by herself all day will only make her suffer, which in time can generate depression, separation anxiety , and in some cases destructive behavior. Hiring a pet walker or taking your Golden to dog care during the day can help, but none of these solutions replaces your presence. Only buy or adopt one of these dogs if you or other family members have time to play with her every day. She should never go through your dinner leftovers as eating human food can harm Golden Retrievers. For safety reasons, hide all electric cables before bringing your puppy or new dog home. Besides running, Golden Retrievers need mental stimulation to thrive. You can teach her obedience training by yourself, as these dogs are known to be among the most obedient breeds. Other stimulating activities where Golden Retrievers register great results are canine freestyle and agility training. Golden Retrievers were bred to work, so they need to be active to stay happy. Furthermore, the lack of exercise will generate a series of medical problems, including obesity and other related issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or problems with ligaments and tendons. In this post, Dr. Karen Becker talks about alternative methods of keeping your dog from breeding, such as a vasectomy or tubal ligation. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since .However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!