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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. Puppies currently available to approved homes! I am a small hobby breeder of English Bulldogs, breeding for conformation, health, and temperament. My family began our journey with our first bulldog, Spartacus, in .He introduced us to this amazing breed and opened our eyes to how truly fun and versatile this breed is! He inspired me to showcase his charming and charismatic nature, and though he never became a part of my breeding program, his legacy is represented in our logo and in the fun opportunities our dogs get to pursue thanks to the love of training he inspired and how he opened our eyes to the joy and bonding we experience with our dogs because of him. I breed to produce my next show hopeful following the AKC breed standard as our guide, and to provide other families the opportunity to experiencew the wonderful, full life a well-bred Bulldog can enjoy. I believe bulldogs can have it all- beauty, health, AND brains! I am an active member of several groups dedicated to advanced mother and puppy care, attend seminars yearly to further my knowledge and education, and have completed and am enrolled in several other online curriculums designed to produce healthy, happy puppies and support their mothers. Everbull puppies are raised following the Puppy Culture protocols for development so we can be sure our puppies will be sound, confident, and intelligent members of your family! It starts at the very beginning as I plan for our litters, influences prenatal care, and continues through the critical weeks they are here with us. Finally, it guides us in the steps we follow as your puppy transitions to your home. We provide you with tools to support your growing puppy. Puppy Culture is a group of protocols supported by science and top experts in their field. It includes ENS Early Neurological Stimulation which is used from the very beginning, to give our puppies the very best start at life. It further incorporates steps to address important developmental periods, fear stages, potty training, crate training, communicating with you manding , problem solving and leash walking so that by the time your new puppy is ready to go home it is well on its way to being a good citizen and member of your household! Our puppies are empowered to learn how to think, not just follow commands, making them easier to train and communicate with you throughout their lifetime! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to Wrinkle Ridge Bulldogs. We are premier bulldog breeders in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We specialize in breeding registered English Bulldogs and are located in west central Wisconsin about 60 miles east of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The puppies are all home raised no kennel or backyard operation. We have over 23 years of experience and knowledge in raising and caring for this very special breed. Contact us about shipping nation wide or if you are seeking a bulldog in Minneapolis or English bulldogs in Wisconsin. At Wrinkle Ridge we have three goals in mind: 1 Do the breed justice: We strive to create healthy, up to standard puppies with the "look" and design of a true English Bulldog. Quality is a top priority and we strive for perfection! Only the best will do for our wrinkled friends! Nothing makes us happier than the thought of all the smiles these pups will be responsible for causing. We love hearing back from customers telling how much they love their new friend! A word of warning.We are committed to finding the perfect owner for each of our top quality puppies. A word to the wise,English Bulldog puppies are expensive and a lot of work to raise. They require artificial insemination,a c-section at birth and supervised hands on feeding of the puppies otherwise the mother will squash or smother them accidentally. Feeding is done around the clock night hours included every hours for weeks. Scammers will steal pictures from breeders and can also hack into websites and act like they represent someone's breeding program!!! Please heed this warning!! Get references,ask questions,do your homework. If it sounds too good to be true it is!!! Social Media: Facebook 4. Hedrick English Bulldogs Hedrick English Bulldogs is another breeder you may want to consider when searching for high-quality English Bulldog breeders in Wisconsin. However, their Facebook page has 3. This breeder has no kennel; the breeders raise their puppies in their home, have a strict breeding program, and provide health guarantees and medical records for all their puppies. They are also involved in the Bulldog community, which shows their passion for the breed. The breeders also engage with their followers frequently on social media. They are happy to answer all questions, indicating they are passionate about the breed and committed to improving it. To adopt an AKC standard, licensed English Bulldog, contact the breeder by emailing them at the address below. How can one decide which English Bulldog breeders in Wisconsin truly follow responsible breeding practices? They should also be able to answer all of your questions honestly. In addition, they should also be willing to share the details of their breeding program with you and explain their breeding decisions. Breed-specific knowledge An authentic breeder should have extensive knowledge about the English Bulldog breed. They should know their temperament, health issues, and nutritional requirements. Moreover, they should also be able to provide information on how to care for your new puppy properly. No puppy mills or pet stores Stay away from breeders who run puppy mills or sell their puppies through pet stores. These breeders often prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. Communication A good breeder should be easy to communicate with and willing to answer all your questions. They should also ask you about your lifestyle and preferences to ensure their puppies match you and your family well. The biggest tell of ethical breeders is that they adhere to strict breeding standards and guidelines. This can give you a better sense of their environment and how they interact with their dogs. If the breeder hesitates to allow visits or makes excuses, this could be a red flag. One of the most endearing traits of English Bulldogs is their love for attention and companionship. They enjoy being around their owners and are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. While English Bulldogs are typically friendly and affectionate, they can also be quite stubborn due to their independent nature and sometimes make training a challenge. However, they can be trained to follow commands and become well-behaved pets with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They can be the best pet for all sorts of families and individuals! Frequently Asked Questions Bulldogs rank at a 77 for intelligence, according to some experts. Do bulldogs bark a lot? Bulldogs are usually pretty quiet, but when they do start barking, it is hard to get them to stop. Do bulldogs grow out of chewing? Bulldogs love to chew, and they will keep chewing long into adulthood. Make sure to train them to chew bones and chew toys instead of shoes or furniture. However, this screening will be worthwhile! You can start your search with the breeders mentioned in this article, and hopefully, soon, you will be cuddling up to your loveable dog.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our puppies are raised inside our home in Sorrento, British Columbia, where they are loved and socialized from day one. We're dedicated to improving this already outstanding breed and bringing excellent quality dogs into the world. Labradoodles were originally bred for therapy and service work, which makes them ideal family companions. They are gentle and non-aggressive with a keen sense of human emotion. They come in a variety of beautiful colors, including chocolate, cream, red, black, and apricot. Part of a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle Breeding Program, Notch Hill is proud to be contributing to the development of this wonderful breed. As members of the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association, we meet and exceed the highest ethical standards. Our breeding stock is tested for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, genetic eye disorders, and heart disease. We plan a small number of litters every year with the goal of producing healthy Labradoodle puppies with exceptional temperaments and non-shedding, allergy-friendly fleece coats. Each puppy is sent home with age-appropriate veterinary care, a 2-year health guarantee, and a lifetime of support. We are so grateful to Shauneen and her family for giving our puppy the very best start in life. The thoughtful and attentive care provided to our puppy is apparent in how smart, social, and comfortable he is. Thank you! From the weekly puppy updates with tips, to the meeting of the puppies, and everything else in between, you can tell their family are pouring their hearts into their business. They are very easy to work with and very professional. We would recommend them for anyone wanting to add a new furry friend to their family! The communication was excellent. We received weekly emails and all our questions were answered along the way. Our puppy is the perfect match for our family. When he arrived to our home he was already pee pad potty trained. We were given all the tools we needed to be successful and have been supported even after our puppy came home with us! John, BC "We're a first time puppy family who needed so much help and advice and Baldonnel Lane Labradoodles was supportive, kind, and resourceful. The care, love, and attention they treat each and every puppy with is astonishing. Our puppy is adorable, soft, fun, and sweet and we feel lucky to have found Baldonnel Lane Labradoodles. So far I have had the most amazing puppy experience, he sleeps all night, no messes in the house and he listens extremely well. Very very smart pups that are easy to train. I trained Sonny in less than a week to ring the bells to go outside. Incredibly responsive, knowledgable and provided constant communication through the whole process. We now have our perfect puppy who is incredibly smart potty trained within 2 weeks smart! Could not recommend them more! Labradoodle Puppies B. Your faithful puppy to love is waiting B. Australian Labradoodle breeders with High Quality Health tested puppies since From our family to yours. They will go to the bathroom either in a potty box or outside, they will have been introduced to a crate, be able to come and sit for a kibble and will have met new people every day for their socialization. They will be ready for homes in early .We are so excited. If you would like to welcome a puppy like Lulu into your family Shelby is planning a family for spring. She is taking a well deserved rest and will be bred again in early .We are taking family names for our lovely Larger Medium puppy Shelby list. She sent this more than a week ago and happily things are now looking better for Over The Moon Woofy and her family. Fire tripled in size last night and is much closer to Sorrento this morning. We did have a rain shower which will help. Kelpie has flown to Ottawa and is happily living with two children to play with and an extended family full of love. Kelpie had a wonderful fan club rooting for him and he is thankful to each one of you. It was through his wonderful friends that he found is forever family. Labradoodles thrive with the training methods of Dr. Ian Dunbar. Lick on Dr. Dunbar's photo to learn more about it. Judith Moench, therapist with her therapy dog. The Australian Labradoodle and Allergies We strive to breed puppies that are non-shedding and allergy friendly. If you have concerns about allergies in your house please find more information about the labradoodle and allergies on our Labradoodles and Allergies Information page. They can do this easily because we make sure before they set out on their journey they are crate trained and are old enough to travel. Our puppies stay with us until they are 11 weeks of age. They are spayed or neutered and have had two out of the three sets of vaccinations. They receive Bordatella kennel cough vaccine if they are older and go to play group. International travelers receive a rabies vaccine. Usually puppies travel more easily than many humans, Jean included. Our Australian Labradoodle Puppies who become therapy Dogs Our Labradoodles are trained and temperament tested to be placed as therapy dogs. This is Dr. Contact Us. Copper Canyon Australian Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles for Sale We raise exceptional quality non-shedding Australian Labradoodle puppies … from our home to yours! Our labradoodle puppies are loved and cared for, raised in our home with our children and make wonderful family pets. We welcome you to our website! We are not listed with them but are on amicable terms with the Goldendoodle Website and recommend their services for any puppy family interested in a Goldendoodle puppy from health tested parents. We are now accepting applications for medium and miniature Australian Labradoodle puppies for our current and upcoming litters. We do also have the occasional litter of standard sized AustralianLabradoodles as well. Since then, our labradoodle family has grown! Our labradoodles are family members and live in the house with us or in carefully chosen guardian homes. We do not believe in the long term kenneling of our AustalianLabradoodles as they are a breed that thrive with contact with people. In fact, all our Australian Labradoodle puppies are born and raised in our home, where they are introduced to household noises and lots of attention! All our breeding dogs are health tested before being accepted into our breeding program. It is not enough that a labradoodle look cute, they must also be a delight to have around, be sound, easily trained and social. We have never met a breed of dog more personable than the Australian Labradoodle and we invite you to welcome a labradoodle into your heart and home! Copper Canyon Australian Labradoodles is a premium rated labradoodle breeder. All our labradoodles are fully health tested and our labradoodle puppies come with a 2 year genetic guarantee against genetic health issues. Come fall in love with a labradoodle! We post photos on facebook so visit and like our page. Welcome to Puppy Patch Doodles Inc. We are a proud breeder of the Multigeneration Australian Labradoodles. We fell in love with the Labradoodle in .I spent the first few years researching the breed, to ensure that we started with the best possible breeding dogs, I have never looked back! Our Doodles are cherished members of our family, thus they are raised in our home. They are not kept in kennels. They have the run of our homes and yards. They sleep indoors; in our beds. Puppy Patch Labradoodles are extensively health tested and our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Our dogs and puppies receive meticulous care and live in immaculate facilities. We strive to conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity. We strive to improve this breed by producing the highest quality dogs possible. We select only the best dogs to use in our breeding program.If you are looking for a top quality Multi-generation Australian Labradoodle you have come to the right place. We select only the best dogs to use in our breeding program. By doing this it ensures we are only breeding the best doodle puppies. You can be assured that your puppy comes from well-tested parents. When you adopt from Puppy Patch Labradoodles I am confident you are going to get the best family companion available. Family raised authentic Multi-gen Australian Labradoodles. First and foremost bred for temperament and of course beauty. Well socialized from the very beginning of life until they leave us at 8 weeks. I am confident in providing non-shedding hypoallergenic pups. Our Doodles make the best family pets, therapy and service dogs. We do extensive health testing. We belong to the best and follow the highest standards. Puppy Patch Labradoodles Email: click to email About our Puppies Our Australian Labradoodles are allergy and asthma friendly with low to non-shedding coats. A cross between a labrador and a poodle and multi-generational, our puppies are thoroughly socialized. Please browse our site to see the latest puppy litters and our breeder policies. Recent News.

What causes bowed legs and how does one treat it? What Causes Bowed Legs in Puppies? Is it normal for puppies to be bow legged? Breeders tend to think that bowing of the legs is genetic, but except for the genetics built in these breeds to grow fast, genetics is seldom the cause. Fast-growing puppies, especially the heavy breeds, have considerable pressure on the long bones of the legs while they are growing. The scaffolding of protein and cartilage is laid down at the growth plate and that frame work is soft and will bow to pressure. Behind that frame, calcium and phosphorus with other minor minerals use vitamins to make solid bone. Vitamin D gets calcium and phosphorus from the gut into the body, and Vitamin C gets calcium and phosphorus into the bone. If the diet is short on any of these needed vitamins, minor minerals, calcium or phosphorus, the puppy is slow to calcify while the frame is still being built; soft bones are the result. Most issues start within five to 12 weeks of age as this is when babies are going through their fast growth stage. Often the breeder reports that the legs look okay in the morning, but by the end of the day, they can see bowing on the front legs. The pressure of romping and jumping all day causes the long bone to bow. Early Detection and Prevention is Key The problem with bowed legs is that your baby is growing faster than your diet is allowing. Put on adult diet not puppy food and wean. Some large breeds are still nursing at this five to 12 week stage, and milk is all calcium! A maintenance diet or giant breed diet will not push growth. Limit the protein and slow the scaffolding growth slightly until we catch up. Limit exercise until bone is hardened as you want the bone to heal straight, not crooked. Pressure from romping and running bows the long bone while soft. Usually one week does it. If you see bowing of front legs, treat quickly or you will end up with permanently crooked legs! If you have more questions on bow legged puppies, call us at .Lack of proper exercise or exercise on unsuitable surfaces such as slippery floors and inadequate nutrition are also considered potential causes. Genetics may play some part also. Whether or not boxer puppies are prone to this affiliation is not currently known. Certain breeds appear to be more prone to the condition than others. It is certainly more prevalent in medium and large breeds, with breeds such as Dobermans and Shar Peis particularly prone. Knuckling over can occur in one leg or both legs. When looking for signs of knuckling over, keep an eye out for twisting of the toes as this is often the first symptom of the syndrome. If you notice this, see a vet immediately. Boxer Puppy Front Legs Bowed? If your boxer puppy has bowed front legs, this is a clear sign that something is not right and warrants immediate inspection by a vet. Although it can be distressing to see your boxer puppy suffer from frontal limb deformity, it is important to know that syndromes such as carpal laxity are treated relatively easily, and positive results can be seen in a matter of weeks. Although it is more common in male boxer puppies, a consultation with your vet should happen sooner rather than later, regardless of the sex of the dog. Sadly, there is a lot of misinformation out there, which may cause more harm to your four-legged friend. Although this may seem like the sensible thing to do after all, when a human has an issue related to a limb, dressings, slings, or splints are commonly used to treat the issue , this can actually make the syndrome worse as it will exacerbate weakness in the muscle and may cause secondary contractures, i. In puppies with secondary contractures, physiotherapy is recommended as this will help speed up recovery from the syndrome. Carpal Laxity Syndrome — A Complete Guide Carpal laxity syndrome, also known as carpal hypertension, is a condition that most commonly develops between the ages of two and three months of age, and is most frequently found in male puppies of medium and large breeds. The latter commonly occurs following changes in nutrition, particularly when the diet is unbalanced, of poor nutritional quality , or over-supplemented. This results in an imbalance between muscle strength in the extensor and flexor muscles, i. If left untreated, this can result in the development of secondary contractures, i. Management of carpal laxity syndrome should center around feeding a balanced diet and exercise on surfaces such as grass, i. Although some people recommend using splints, dressing, and slings to manage carpal hypertension, these forms of treatment are generally considered as being counterproductive; the aim of treatment for this syndrome is to increase muscle strength and tone rather than exacerbate muscle weakness. If a dog with carpal laxity syndrome suffers from secondary contractors, stretching three or four times daily is necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required if physiotherapy of the contracted tissues is unsuccessful. This syndrome, when present in puppies, can have a rather dramatic and certainly worrying presentation. However, in most cases, there is no need to worry as surgery is rarely needed to fix the issue s at hand. Ensuring the puppy is fed a balanced diet from commercial dog food, enjoys regular exercise on non-slippers surfaces, and has regular physiotherapy particularly in those puppies who suffer from secondary contractures is the best way to address the symptoms caused by carpal laxity. Many dogs recover in a matter of weeks. Bowed legs in dogs are an abnormality that is noticed when a leg grows curved or bowed instead of appearing straight as it normally should. This type of abnormality is most likely to be seen in young, growing due to problems in their development, but can also be seen as an aftermath to traumatic injuries sometimes even in older dogs. Canine leg deformities come in their shapes and sizes. One of the most common ones is bow legs—a condition that is common among French bulldogs, Corgis, and Dachshunds. In simple terms, bowing out is a leg deformity that causes the legs to appear curved or bowed out rather than straight. It is mostly a puppy problem but adult dogs can also suffer from it. Bow legs present in different ways. In the front legs, one limb can grow faster than the other compromising its shape. Other times, inverted growth of the leg bones leads to bow legs as well. Most bow-legged canines have curved front legs but you can also find some with bowed hind legs as well. Breeders tend to think that bowing of the legs is genetic, but except for the genetics built in these breeds to grow fast, genetics is seldom the cause. Fast-growing puppies, especially the heavy breeds, have considerable pressure on the long bones of the legs while they are growing. The scaffolding of protein and cartilage is laid down at the growth plate and that frame work is soft and will bow to pressure. Behind that frame, calcium and phosphorus with other minor minerals use vitamins to make solid bone. Vitamin D gets calcium and phosphorus from the gut into the body, and Vitamin C gets calcium and phosphorus into the bone. If the diet is short on any of these needed vitamins, minor minerals, calcium or phosphorus, the puppy is slow to calcify while the frame is still being built; soft bones are the result. Often the breeder reports that the legs look okay in the morning, but by the end of the day, they can see bowing on the front legs. The pressure of romping and jumping all day causes the long bone to bow. Early Detection and Prevention is Key The problem with bowed legs is that your baby is growing faster than your diet is allowing. Put on adult diet not puppy food and wean. Some large breeds are still nursing at this five to 12 week stage, and milk is all calcium! A maintenance diet or giant breed diet will not push growth. Limit the protein and slow the scaffolding growth slightly until we catch up. Limit exercise until bone is hardened as you want the bone to heal straight, not crooked. Pressure from romping and running bows the long bone while soft. Usually one week does it. Fast Growth A puppy is meant to grow gradually to give her bones and cartilage enough time to develop. When the process is hurried, the fast-growing body may exert too much pressure on the limbs causing leg deformities. This is especially true for heavy breeds. Essentially, the cartilage and protein of the bone are framed at the growth plate. This happens to be a very soft area that can succumb to pressure easily. As the young dog puts on weight in her body, it may exceed the limit of the growth plate resulting in curved or brandy legs. Nutrition Deficiencies Like in humans, bones rely on certain vitamins and minerals to develop optimally. These include calcium and phosphorous among others. A growing puppy needs a lot of vitamin C and vitamin D to create solid bone and teeth. His diet must have the vitamins and minerals in sufficient quantities. If it is lacking in any of them, soft bones are inevitable. Injury A growing puppy has until around 12 — 18 months before her growth plates close up. Right about this age, the soft cartilage that once formed the bone mineralizes and hardens into solid bone. In the sad event that she gets an injury before the plate matures and becomes hard, some of the cells may stop growing. In the end, the leg will appear uneven and bow-legged. Accidents can occur if the puppy is dropped from a high place or gets knocked by a moving car or bike. Genetics Although rare, genetics can be a cause for bowed legs among dogs. These genes can be passed down from generation to generation. Symptoms of Bow Legs Bow legs in dogs start presenting as early as 5 and as late as 12 weeks of age. This is the period most dogs go through the first growth stage. The symptoms can appear suddenly. The puppy can be okay in the morning just to see her with bowing later on in the day. Some of the symptoms of this condition include the following: Limited movement.

Top German Shepherds off championship bloodlines Limerick German Shepherd Age: 3 months 1 Male, 1 Female We are delighted to offer for sale our beautiful, intelligent, well-bred German Shepherd puppies. Born just a few months ago, these alert pups are already showing signs of their brilliant lineage. We have two female and one male puppy, all boasting a striking black and tan coat. Their father, a jet-black German Shepherd with a unique white Mallon streak, is a brilliant guard dog. His lineage includes top protectors from Ireland, England, and Germany, with a sire sheet available for viewing. He also boasts a lineage of show dogs. The mother, a beautiful black and tan German Shepherd, is not only intelligent but also a wonderful guard dog. She too comes from a champion show dog lineage. Both parents are our family pets and can be seen upon your visit. These puppies have been vet checked, wormed, and vaccinated. We are looking for good homes only, preferably with people who have experience with German Shepherds. Located in Limerick. Mother in last picture. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. CKC purebred registration is available if you wish to.Three males and one female available, raised around young children, well socialized. First shots and dewormed. Born August 3rd ready to go September.Family raised under foot in the house on a farm. They are well socialized already, being Raised with.Roxy is a friendly nice dog, Roxy is pretty chubby but loves.He is very handsome as you can see in the pictures and his ears are just starting to stand up. He is from amazing European lines. Going fast come by and meet your new best friend Only 4 females left from a litter of 9 raised with kids and a cat. Naturally protective and fast learners. Ready to go.See all Female Puppy Brockville Looking to re-home a 13 week old puppy, part shepherd, husky and retriever. She is very active. Born on June 29th, just a little over 2 months old. Feel free to stop by between 4 and 7 or.She was trained to protect the house and back yard. Family friendly orientated style. Our dogs are large, with a high croup rear end. We try to breed our dogs for health and longevity.Unfortunately the breeder did not supply Stella's paperwork so is not registered. She is up to date on her shots. She is a.Catharines Beauriful 3 month old German shepherd puppy. Must sell do to illness. Almost crate trained. Working on house training. He is unaltered and still intact. Fully house trained goes to door when he needs to go.Catharines world class german shepherd pups. He is pure bred. And we bought him from a breeder he does not have papers. He has all of his shots, but is not fixed yet. Reason being we had to.This is a hard decision and we want her to have a good home. We are not in a rush.

Snow Capped Shepherd Rescueis a Denver, Colorado based, volunteer-run non-profit c 3 organization. We do not have a shelter, instead all of our rescued dogs are housed with caring foster families…a temporary stop on their way to happily-ever-after. The problem. The reason so many dogs and cats have to be rescued in the first place is that there are not enough homes. Too many dogs and cats are sadly born to die. Do your part, spay and neuter your pets and encourage others to do the same. The solution. We rescue White German Shepherds of all sizes, ages and personalities. These dogs come to us from former owners, shelters or as strays. Sadly, shelters and humane societies are over-run with homeless pets and tragically must euthanize thousands of adoptable pets every month to make room for more. Why would you need to buy a pet when so many are in need? Foster homes provide care and love for these wonderful dogs while we work to find them permanent homes. Plus, by living in a true home setting, our adoptable animals become better prepared for their new adopted families. Matching responsible guardians with our adoptable dogs takes place through our adoption process. We carefully interview potential adopters to ensure that the right match is made. We ask questions about lifestyle, desired activity level, work situation and gather other pertinent information from potential adopters. Too often pets end up unwanted because they were never a good match for their previous home in the first place. At Snow Capped Shepherd Rescue, we look for people who intend to provide a home for a lifetime and understand what that requires. Visit their website for more information on how your kids can have fun at camp too! We are always looking for new volunteers — providing temporary foster homes for these dogs is the big need, but there are many more opportunities to help. Please consider joining our efforts. We also help owners who, due to unforeseen circumstances, find themselves unable to keep their dogs. Adopting Your New Canine Family Member All of the Front Range adoptable dogs are home fostered, or in cases where no foster home is available, some may even be boarded. Approved Applicants will receive detailed info on how to meet select dogs. Our entire adoption process typically takes no more than weeks from your submitting the application until you have a dog in your home. We rely solely on volunteers to place our dogs. Our volunteers have busy lives with their own families, jobs, school, pets, etc. We DO NOT discuss individual dogs with applicants until the adoption process has been completed because there is often more than one applicant interested in a particular dog, and we do not want to promise the same dog to more than one applicant. You can take home a shelter dog the same day. The first step is to submit a completed application. Your application does not obligate you to adopt, nor does accepting an application represent approval of that application. You do not apply to adopt a particular dog. The more open you are to gender, color and age, the more likely you are to find a dog with us. Next, we call your vet and your references. We are looking for people with a history of good pet care. Ideal applicants have lots of experience working with GSDs or large breed dogs. We want homes that accept that they are rescuing a dog and are willing to work with the dog to make him a good citizen. Yes, you will have to do some work. We will schedule a home visit. Once you have been approved to adopt from us we will contact you about suitable dogs and put you in contact with the foster parents. Since the foster parents know the dog the best, they are a key part of the process in determining which home and family is best suited for their foster dog. We get dogs into rescue on a regular basis and they are placed with previously approved adopters who have been waiting for their forever dog. It is best not to focus on any specific dog until you have been approved. We welcome your interest in a dog that may steal your heart but please remember that the dogs posted on our site today will most likely go to homes of applicants that applied weeks ago. Once dogs are available, we work with our current, approved applications until we find the right family for the dog. Once you are ready to adopt, we will give you all the information we have on the dogs for which you may be a good match.

Please be patient. We get hundreds of applications and can't respond to everyone. Your donations pay for expenses to foster doodles, buy pet food, cover veterinary costs, and transportation. We adopt doodles to families that will keep them as inside pets and treat them as family members. We do not adopt to families who are specifically looking for a doodle to train as a service dog. Since the majority of rescue dogs do not meet service dog requirements, this is an unfair expectation of our doodles. We also do not adopt doodles to be given as gifts. We do not permit commercial transport of our dogs, and all adopters are required to personally take their new family member home. If you adopt a doodle from us, it is important to note that rescue dogs typically require leash and other training. Your doodle may keep you up nights, have potty accidents, and other inconveniences for the first couple of weeks. We can't possibly know everything about the health or behavior of any dog in our care. You bear the responsibility of choosing to adopt your dog. If for any reason you are unable to keep your doodle, you are required to contact the California Doodle Rescue. If you are found to be a possible match for one of our doodles, you will be contacted directly by someone from California Doodle Rescue. If contacted, please be prepared for a required phone interview, contacting your references, and or veterinarian checks. Part of our adoption process requires an in-person meet and greet between the doodle and the entire household, including pets of the potential adopting family. If a home visit is not possible, you may be asked to send photos of your home and yard. Wondering whether there is a Goldendoodle rescue organization near you? To help make your search for a rescue Goldendoodle a little easier, this comprehensive list of c 3 Goldendoodle rescues is organized by region of the country. Also, many of the organizations on this list specialize not only in finding forever homes for Goldendoodles but also beloved Poodle mixes Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and Doodles dogs , Golden Retrievers, and Poodles too. Why do people put dogs up for adoption? Other personal problems In doing research for this article, I could not find any statistical research studies that have been done specifically about why people give up Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, or other Doodle dogs. Additionally, some people site they have pet allergies. Goldendoodles and Doodle mixes do require plenty of exercise and mental enrichment for dogs. Also, unfortunately, because Goldendoodles look like teddy bears, some people may assume that they are as easy to care for as a teddy bear. Why should you adopt a Goldendoodle? Goldendoodles are eager to learn and they are eager to please you. They will keep you active, keep you laughing, and keep you on your toes. Grooming and caring for their fluffy coats can be wonderful bonding experience. As an aside, have you heard of the rule of thumb for adopting a dog? This guideline suggests that there are three milestones dogs will cross as they become familiar with their new home. The first three stands for the 3-day milestone—the amount of time a dog needs to decompress and adjust from the current living situation to the new living situation. The second three stands for the 3-week milestone—the guideline for the amount of time a pupper needs to start to learn a new routine in a new home. The last three stands for the 3-month milestone—the amount of time a dog needs to start to feel at home. Rescue organizations across the U. Disclaimer: All pet rescues and organizations in this article have not endorsed or recommended any products or training methods featured on HappyGoDoolde. Content on HappyGoDoodle. Go to Petfinder. Adopt a Goldendoodle! At the time, they rescued and put up for adoption 24 Goldendoodles that were rescued from a breeding center that needed to be shut down. In addition to Goldendoodles, Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue also rescues and puts up labradoodles for adoption. Delaware Rescue has strict guidelines that must be followed. This is one of the largest doodle rescue and adoption centers in the world. IDOG Rescue is a non-profit organization that is headquartered in Houston, Texas, but they receive calls and entertain inquiries from around the country. They mostly rehome and set up retired Goldendoodle adults for adoption. Some pups are rescued, but they are extremely rare. Wavy coat F1b Goldendoodles are typically non-shedding while still maintaining that teddy bear look. If you want to adopt a Goldendoodle, then Doodle Dandy Rescue is a great option. They have strict guidelines for adoption that must be met. The entire adoption process is quite long and rigid so it can take some time for your adoption request to get approved. What are the best Goldendoodle rescues in the US? Norcal Poodle Rescue Adoption is a certified non-profit organization made up of people who specialize in rescuing and looking after poodle breeds like the Goldendoodle. They are currently based out of North Carolina and cater to humane societies, pet owners who have given up their poodles, and shelters. In addition to adoption applications, they also accept shelter volunteers. They have saved close to 4, doodles. They primarily focus on rescuing and nurturing labradoodles and Goldendoodles. Although they are based in California, they have over volunteers from all over the country who help rescue and get Goldendoodles adopted. They rarely have Goldendoodle puppies for adoption, but when they do, they provide transport and help the puppies find a new home. As the name suggests, the center primarily focuses on the rescue and adoption of golden retrievers and its mixes. GRIN is a non-profit organization that operates with over volunteers. Rather, they are a group of people and homes scattered all over Western Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio. They advise you to apply for a younger dog in advance through their website. They have rigid guidelines for adoption that must be met and their acceptance period takes anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks. They have become increasingly popular, which means finding one for adoption can be a bit of a challenge. Goldendoodle puppy plays with a toy actively outdoors. You can also reach out to your local animal shelters and rescue organizations to inquire about Goldendoodles in need of a loving home. By expressing your interest, you can be among the first to know when a Goldendoodle becomes available for adoption. Another option is to join social media groups and forums dedicated to Goldendoodle enthusiasts. These communities often share information about Goldendoodles in need of homes, upcoming adoption events, and more. Being part of such groups can increase your chances of finding a Goldendoodle that needs a loving family. Keep in mind that the adoption process may take some time, as these organizations want to ensure that the dogs are placed in the best possible homes. You may need to complete an application, provide references, and even have a home visit. Another thing to consider is offering your home as a residence for a family dog that is part of a breeders program. Many breeders offer free or very discounted dogs as long as you are okay with them having a litter or two throughout their life. It never hurts to reach out or ask the question in a local Facebook group for the Goldendoodle breed! They require a lot of attention. If you leave them alone for more than a few hours, they can be difficult to manage. A lot of people are initially enthusiastic before adopting a Goldendoodle but very quickly realize how much time they have to spend with these little canines. Goldendoodles thrive in environments where people are at home at all times. Like other smaller dogs, Goldendoodles bark as a defense mechanism. If you adopt a Goldendoodle that barks a lot, take the time to get your dog trained. We might get sick or move, and sometimes we may need to find a new job. If you know that these factors could potentially hamper the time you devote to your dog, you may have to put your dog up for adoption. Why Is Adopting a Goldendoodle Rare? Although this is a list of some of the best Goldendoodle rescue shelters and networks in the United States, most of them may not have Goldendoodles up for adoption when you check. Some adoption facilities have never received any Goldendoodles at all despite being open for their rescue. There are a couple of reasons for this. A Goldendoodle puppy needs enough sleep for best health. If these dogs get on any adoption websites or similar websites, they will likely be gone within the first day. This can lead to a puppy mill or dodgy breeder scenario where the popularity makes the breeder chase litter after litter without caring for the dog. A dog owner who adopts from a breeder must take appropriate steps to ensure it is not a puppy mill, and is in fact an ethical and reputable breeder. They form strong bonds with their owners. If owners face any problems with their dogs, they would rather find ways to work through these problems than give them up for adoption. However, Goldendoodles are one of the friendliest and most social dogs out there. Desirable Goldendoodle Personality Goldendoodles are extremely adventurous. Generally, these cute canines are outgoing, friendly, and happy dogs. They love meeting new people and dogs. One thing to remember about these dogs is that they do well in open spaces like spacious yards or country homes. Their affection, intelligence, and bubbly personalities make them great therapy and working dogs. They enjoy mentally stimulating activities. For example, Goldendoodles are known to be able to smell peanuts in foods for people suffering from nut allergies. To satiate their need for activity, you will have to take them out for walks and runs daily. Goldendoodles are also known for enjoying swimming and playing in the water. They Are Good with Children If you have children at home, then adopting a Goldendoodle is a great choice. These dogs play well with kids. They are gentle, loving, and patient around young kids which is one of the reasons they make great family dogs. You should still exercise caution and check on their behavior. You must also teach your children how to behave around dogs. Prevent your child from agitating your Goldendoodle with ear or tail pulling and other rough activities. Like any other animal, dogs are protective of their food and can become aggressive if they perceive a threat. This may not be true for all Goldendoodles, but you should still take precautions to protect your kids. These dogs are social animals and love interacting with other dogs. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. However, they still need a certain amount of grooming. To prevent them from shedding, some people cut their hair short. It will take some time for the rescue dog to get comfortable around you and you may have to deal with issues like separation anxiety. Goldendoodles require a few hours of activity every day. You will have to spend time walking and playing with them daily. Active play, a visit to a dog park, or fetch are appropraite activities. Grooming Is Imperative Though your new doodle puppy will likely shed lightly, you will still need to groom their coats or have a pet groomer take care of their grooming once a month. Just remember to do your research before adopting a dog. Goldendoodle and Labradoodle Rescue In , we received a call that 24 Goldendoodles needed rescue after a nearby breeding operation was closed. We felt the only choice was to step in and help because these dogs were, after all, half our beloved breed. All quickly found homes, and their adopters were thrilled with their new canine family members. Then greater and greater numbers of Doodles began arriving at our door step, and we decided to make Doodles part of our mission as well. There was a need for rescuing these dogs. That was a decision that brought a firestorm of criticism; however, we are not breeding these dogs, simply helping those that are need of new homes. Goldendoodles — a cross between a Golden Retriever and Poodle — are gaining in popularity, and that in turn generates demand that often leads to unscrupulous breeding and overbreeding. Of course, that results in unwanted dogs and the need for rescue. Friendly: Doodles are generally very affectionate with people, kids, and other dogs. Intelligent: Doodles are very intelligent, which may be a reflection of the Poodle genes. Personality: Goldendoodles are typically very silly dogs with crazy, outgoing personalities. A good sense of humor goes along way when bringing a Doodle into your home. Grooming: Like Goldens, do require grooming, including daily brushing to prevent painful knots. Because of so many of the similarities between Goldens and Doodles, it made sense for DVGRR to include these dogs in our rescue efforts.

References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetically-predisposed inflammatory and pruritic itchy allergic skin disease with characteristic clinical features. Allergic diseases result from an exaggerated immune system response that causes pathological damage. Some of the immune cells which help defend the body produce proteins called antibodies when stimulated to do so. Antibodies help the immune cells get rid of the pathogens invading the body. Anything that stimulates the immune system is called an antigen. Antigens are normally parts of the invading pathogen, but sometimes otherwise harmless substances stimulate an immune response in individuals who are prone to allergies and exaggerated immune responses. Any substance that can stimulate an allergic immune response is called an allergen. Atopy is associated with the immune system over-producing a type of antibodies called IgE. The clinical features of atopy are variable but the permanent cardinal feature, always present, is itchiness, which varies in degree from mild to severe. A dog may be itchy over its whole skin but more usually the itchiness is localised. The commonest areas to be affected are the ears, around the eyes, the muzzle, the underside of the neck and abdomen, the inside of the legs, the feet and under the tail Nuttall et al .In the early stages of the disease there may just be itchiness, however, redness of the skin will soon be seen. This may be general redness or red spots papules. Further problems arise either from long-term itchiness and the self harm that is caused from scratching, rubbing and chewing of the itchy area or from the presence of skin infections with bacteria both abnormally high numbers of normal skin bacteria and infections from bacteria not usually present and with skin yeasts normally present in low numbers. Atopy itself and the secondary skin changes that occur both make these infections more likely. Infected skin tends to itch and the consequential scratching, rubbing and chewing causes further, secondary skin damage and a vicious circle of itching and scratching and worsening skin damage develops. For many atopic dogs this means constant itchiness as it is often impossible to avoid constant exposure to its problematic allergen - house dust mite. Secondary skin changes often seen in atopic dogs include: lichenification thickening of the skin , a coat that is greasy and scaly dandruff and loss of fur alopecia. Pustules and crusts are seen when there is bacterial infection and, when this is deeper in the skin, nodules with pus draining from sinuses may be seen. Otitis externa inflammation of the ear canal is often seen in atopic dogs and sometimes is the main clinical problem. This follows the same pattern as atopic disease elsewhere — the ear canal is lined with skin. Initially there may just be redness but constant irritation, excess secretions and thickening of the skin with secondary bacterial and yeast infections lead to a vicious cycle until the ear canal becomes irreversibly damaged. The clinical signs include scratching at the ears, head shaking, rubbing the ears on the ground, a smelly discharge from the ears. Severe infections can lead to septicaemia bacterial infection in the bloodstream. There are currently two main theories for the pathogenesis of atopy and there is good evidence that both are important. Atopic individuals have an abnormal immune response. Allergens are detected in the skin by the immune system. In atopic individuals there is an imbalance of two types of immune cell ie more T helper 2 lymphocytes and fewer T helper 1 lymphocytes. This imbalance leads to other changes in the immune system, which make it respond excessively to small amounts of allergen in the future, easily generating skin inflammation. Excessive amounts of an antibody type IgE are present in the body. A second fundamental abnormality seen in atopic individuals is that they have a skin barrier defect. Their skin suffers from increased water loss and foreign substances such as allergens, bacteria and yeast can penetrate more easily than normal. This allows more contact of the allergens with the immune system see above. Allergens from the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farina are the most important. Allergies to other mites such as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Euroglyphus maynei, Acarus siro and Tyrophagus putrescentiae are either less common or may be largely due to cross reaction with D. Cross-reactions occur when a test detects one substance rather than another. Sensitivity to pollens can certainly be important but are usually seasonal in the UK. Many types of tree pollens are involved in canine atopy, and grass pollens are commonly involved. There are also many weeds implicated in canine atopy eg ragweed, plantain and mugwort. The importance of mould allergens in canine atopy is uncertain. Other allergens which have been considered of importance in the past, but which are no longer, include cockroach and other insects, house dust, fabrics such as cotton, wool and linen. An important concept in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis is that of the pruritic threshold. An individual may not be itchy just because it is atopic eg if it is mildly atopic. It may need another factor to combine with the atopy to tip it over the threshold of having clinical signs. So, various factors that can cause itchy skin may combine. In some dogs, just having one or two of these factors may not cause a problem but if a third or fourth occurs then disease will follow. An inherited atopic state is an important predisposing factor in many animals and a leading cause of welfare problems in dogs. They may also include environmental factors such as flea infestation or a dry climate. One important environmental influence may be the degree of early exposure to allergens for genetically predisposed individuals. There is evidence that prolonged and more intensive exposure to allergens in early life makes atopic dermatitis more likely and also that it is more likely to be severe. This is the case both for house dust mite allergens de Weck , de Weck et al and for pollens; pollen allergies may be more common in puppies born during the pollen season Halliwell .Return to top 2. The primary itch due to atopy itself varies from mild to severe between individuals. It may also vary according to the season and environment that the dog is experiencing ie whether it is housed indoors or outside and where it is exercising, for example a dog allergic mostly to grasses may be better at the seaside than walking through meadows. Skin infections worsen the condition and their severity can vary. Atopy can cause great suffering in moderately-severely affected dogs due to the constant skin itching and irritation and the secondary damage that is done by the dog to its skin creating sore inflamed areas that are uncomfortable and possibly painful. Atopy can be difficult to control medically and suffering can be difficult to avoid during the time when a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is being confirmed. This can be a prolonged and involved procedure see below. Treatment of atopic dermatitis usually involves drugs. The most effective treatments are based on corticosteroids or ciclosporin, both of which can have significant side effects with their own welfare issues. Some atopic dogs become seriously ill due to the side effects of treatment. Frequent shampooing is often required which may be unpleasant for some dogs. Dogs are euthanized because of atopic dermatitis. This is often because diagnosis and treatment are time-consuming and expensive for owners and reasonable long-term control is often the best that can be achieved rather than there being any hope of cure. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Signs of atopy can be seen in some individuals from the age of months. More usually signs start between the ages of months. It is unusual for signs to start after three years. Some dogs have seasonal problems when its pollen allergens that they are allergic to but often dogs that had seasonal problems when younger will develop problems lasting all year round when they are older. Without treatment affected dogs will have the problem for life although the severity will usually wax and wane according to the amount of allergens they are exposed to at any given time, secondary infections, any exacerbating factors such as catching fleas and the weather, and the success of treatments. Treatment of atopic dermatitis is involved and lifelong. Drugs are used in most dogs and these are often required constantly. Return to top 4. A study by Shaw et al investigated the pedigrees of dogs used as guide dogs for the blind that had been diagnosed with clinically significant atopic dermatitis. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are Labrador retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 1 million. Return to top 5. Diagnosis The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is complicated. There is no characteristic clinical sign or laboratory test result that enables the diagnosis to be made. Over the years there have been various attempts to create formal schemes to aid this process Willemse , Prelaud et al .The currently favoured scheme was created and tested by Favrot et al and its use clarified by Olivry .The Favrot diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis - used alongside the elimination of other possible causes of the signs see below. This means that if dogs were diagnosed, using this scheme alone, then 21 of this would have the wrong diagnosis — they actually have another cause of their disease, not atopy. Furthermore, there would have been another 15 dogs that actually do have atopy but had been excluded because the five criteria needed have not been found. For these reasons the scheme can not be used alone. The difficulties arise because all the clinical signs of atopic dermatitis are also seen in other common skin diseases. In order to make any of these schemes more reliable they have to be combined with tests that seek to excluded these other conditions. Mange mite infestations , and bacterial and yeast infections are ruled out by examinations of skin samples and trial treatments. Contact irritation and allergy is ruled out by avoidance of potential causes. Fleas are ruled out by trial treatment. Some rarer skin diseases may need to be ruled out by skin biopsy. Tests can be performed to identify which allergens are involved for a particular atopic dog. Unfortunately, these tests are not reliable in determining whether a dog is atopic or not and results of these tests are not used in making the diagnosis Favrot et al .Allergy testing can be performed using blood tests or intra-dermal into the skin injections. Return to top 6. The heritability of atopy has been studied by Shaw et al .When considering guide dogs as a whole, a heritability of 0. The majority of these dogs were Labrador retrievers but Golden retrievers and Labrador-Golden retriever crosses were also represented. Given that all these puppies were raised in similar conditions it is reasonable to say that about half of the factors that caused them to have clinical atopic dermatitis were genetic and half were environmental. Canine atopic dermatitis is likely to be one manifestation of canine atopy. There is evidence for an important dominant gene; at least in one line of Beagles de Weck , de Weck et al .A start has been made to investigate specific genes involved in several breeds, including the Labrador retriever but, as yet, there are few publications available Wood et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? This has not been scientifically tested. There are no genetic tests to guide us. In common with other polygenetic disorders with important environmental influences, it may be considered that any affected individual or an individual with an affected close relative parent or sibling should not be considered for breeding. However, this advice has not been tested and other considerations such as narrowing the gene pool and concurrent genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia must also be considered. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It may be considered that individuals with atopic dermatitis should not be used for breeding. This would include any affected individual, even if only mildly affected. This is because environmental factors are certainly important in whether an atopic individual has clinical signs and how bad they are. Not breeding from animals with a close relative that has suffered from any degree of atopic dermatitis would also be recommended, based on general information given for reducing disease resulting from polygenetic conditions Bell .But considerations should be given to not overbreed from individuals that are healthy, as far as atopy goes, which could have other problems as this could have unintended and undesirable genetic consequences Oberbauer .In breeds, such as the Labrador retriever, it may be necessary to widen the gene pool by introducing genes from other breeds. Return to top 9. Meat by-products Cheap fillers The elimination diet consists of a trial period in which you expose your pet to foods one at a time to rule out possible allergens. In fact, it will probably be easier if you prepare fresh ingredients from scratch so no artificial preservatives are introduced. A Sample Elimination Diet Using Hypoallergenic Ingredients Note: Just because a source of food is considered hypoallergenic does not rule out the possibility that it will cause an allergy in your dog. Dogs all have their unique immune systems, and hypoallergenic ingredients are just a starting point. Week One: Cooked ground bison mixed with mashed sweet potatoes. Week Two: If itching persists, switch out the bison for cooked ground turkey. Week Three: If itching persists, switch out the turkey for cooked white fish. You can also swap out the sweet potatoes for millet. At this point, you can also add in some cooked greens like kale, broccoli, or spinach. Be sure to note any sensitivities to new foods as you introduce them. High-quality hypoallergenic foods will also have fewer ingredients, making it easier to find potential allergens. When you choose a commercial dog food, be sure to feed your dog ONLY that food for a full week. When Stetson had skin allergies our vet recommended testing different commercial foods and it seemed that we had success switching him to Wellness Core Grain Free Dog Food. However, looking back I think it was an environmental switch that helped his allergies we moved to a new home. Try antihistamines — Antihistamines, like Benadryl, can alleviate allergic reactions in some situations. If you decide to try Benadryl, be aware that there are some mild side effects. Always follow the recommendation of your veterinarian. We covered the pros and cons of giving your dog Benadryl in this article. Always provide fresh drinking water. It must be used in conjunction with intradermal skin testing. Once the allergens have been confirmed, your veterinary dermatologist can desensitize your dog to the allergen by injecting an altered, weekend version into the skin. Shots are usually administered weekly over the course of several months. Cyclosporine — This medication can be used successfully for seasonal allergies or other types of atopy. Steroids — Steroids will help relieve extreme itching and inflammation, but they do have short and long-term side effects. They should be used sparingly and reserved for very serious conditions. Oclacitinib — This is a relatively new treatment that shows promise for treating allergic reactions to fleas, food, and environmental allergies. Cytokines help cells communicate with each other and promote itching and inflammation in dogs who have allergies. Read more about Oclacitinib on Pet MD. Vitamin E — If your dog has small problem spots, you can open up a vitamin E capsule and massage it into the skin. This will moisturize, alleviate some of the itching, and help prevent infection. Aloe Vera — This plant is commonly used to soothe sunburn in humans, but it is just as useful when treating skin conditions in dogs. If you buy commercial aloe vera, be sure that aloe vera is the first ingredient, and stay away from harsh chemicals. Calendula Tea Compresses — Calendula flowers have been used to treat skin conditions for centuries. Steep the dried flowers in hot water to make a strong tea. Apply the cooled tea directly to problem areas using a washcloth. You can also by calendula salves and sprays commercially. Epsom Salt Soak — This is helpful for paws that are red and raw. Fill a tub with warm water and a few tablespoons of Epsom salt. Have your dog stand in the water for soothing relief. Final Thoughts on Dealing with Dog Skin Allergies Diagnosing and treating dog skin allergies is a complex and difficult task, but with patience and perseverance, it will be a life changer for your dog. Your dog will thank you. Do you have an itchy scratchy dog? Have you done anything that helps? Tells us about your dog in the comment section below. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. These dogs are so popular for some great reasons: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above-average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Labs originated in Newfoundland in the s and were bred from St. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Both American and English ancestries present all three color versions—black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. Your Labrador Retriever's Health We know that because you care so much about your dog , you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. In fact, your Lab's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Parasites All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Lab's body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Labrador Retrievers Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease called hepatitis that may develop around middle age. Hepatitis is usually diagnosed through blood testing or liver biopsy, and can be treated with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed, so early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is essential for early treatment. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of a normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Labrador's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! The cranial cruciate ligament is one of four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including your Lab. Usually, surgical correction can stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary for the best outcomes. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like when playing Frisbee are key in avoiding these painful injuries. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bones properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Our recommended growth rate for Labrador Retriever puppies is no more than four pounds per week. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or regular puppy diet. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Eye Problems Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Hyperadrenocorticism Cushing's Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain's reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Labrador Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. Defects can also cause problems with heart valve function or the electrical signals that control the heartbeat. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or if you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise induced collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. After a few minutes, the weakness passes and he is able to get up again. Dogs affected with EIC cannot run or exert themselves for long periods of time, especially not in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is not a good idea for these pets. Heat stroke can also occur in conjunction with EIC. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose this disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles called myopathy between three and seven months of age. Physical signs of myopathy include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, and carrying the head low. Typically, affected pets are treated through reduced stress and occasionally with medication as well. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age and are able to have a normal life span. While they are suitable as house companions, strenuous exercise is not recommended, so no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She's a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she'll get bored. That's when the naughty stuff starts. Always walk your Lab on a leash as she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. In case the scratching persists, you can return to old food as that was not the allergen causing the itch in the first place. Remember, the numbers of food allergies in dogs are extremely low! You should start with the lowest-effort solution and slowly work your way up to the highest-investment solution. The earlier part of this article will help you determine whether the itch is contact-based or due to an inhaled allergen. Simply holding your current stash while getting a different brand is a decent step in the right direction. For some ideas and greater insight into what to feed your dog, check out my comprehensive guide, Best Diet for Labradors: Nutrition, Types, and More! Remove Items your Lab has Recently Come in Contact With Whether your Labrador has a new pillow or the wallpaper near his bed has been recently changed, you need to subtract the things introduced just before he started itching from his environment. An easy way to do this is to note the rough date when your dog started scratching himself. Then note the date a week or two before that and start auditing your living space to observe which new things have been added. If this controls the itching, you may deduce a seasonal problem. Here are some steps you can take to minimize his environmental allergies: Keep Your Doors and Windows Shut at All Times — This will prevent excessive dust and pollen from entering your living space. Use an Air Purifier — By collecting tiny particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores, air purifiers help create a cleaner, healthier atmosphere. Groom Regularly to Get Rid of Pollen and Dust — Labradors have two coats and require a lot of grooming throughout the year. To prevent allergies, I use the FURminator de-shedding tool from Amazon, which works well because it penetrates the undercoat and safely removes loose hair and any nasty allergens! Shower and Change When You Return Home — The urge to hug your best friend as soon as you return from work or even a grocery trip is always quite strong. This includes bedposts, tables, and chairs. Use a Dehumidifier — Dehumidifiers remove moisture from your home. By drying the air, allergy triggers are minimized, and symptoms are alleviated. You can also prevent mold with the use of dehumidifiers. You can use my recommended products, depending on compatibility, alongside the protective measures. That way, you may not need to implement drastic changes if they help eliminate the problem. Remember to check with your vet first before using any of them. Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo Whether your Labrador loves baths or is reluctant to get one, an itch-relief shampoo is his best friend. So expect to give your Labrador frequent baths with this shampoo. When you walk your dog, airborne allergens can often stick to his coat. This spray is excellent for itching caused in a specific spot. Due to fleas, dryness, or contact, simply spraying it on the irritated area will bring immediate relief to your dog. By moisturizing and getting rid of dryness and other irritants in the process, it prevents your Lab from scratching or biting and causing further damage to the itchy area. If your Labrador licks himself to relieve the itch, you may need to use shampoo instead. Allergy Supplements — Chews Speaking of products that are safe for oral consumption, I recommend allergy immunity supplements. Many supplements are available on the market, but their effectiveness varies drastically. Final Thoughts Your Labrador may be itching and scratching because of canine atopic dermatitis or an allergic reaction to airborne, food, or contact-based allergens. Either way, the best solution is to eliminate the cause by reducing his exposure to the allergen. You can also try washing him with anti-allergy shampoo and give him allergy immunity supplements. Related Posts You May Like:. How do you change dog scratching habits? The answer is to find the underlying reason why the dog keeps scratching and treat that. This article will take a look at some possibilities. Why is my dog scratching so much? A dog licking and scratching themselves raw is only a symptom. The trick to stop dog scratching is to pinpoint the driving force. The most common triggers for excessive scratching in dogs are parasites or allergies. A vet is best able to track down the problem. Seek a professional opinion sooner rather than later, before the dog damages their skin and creates complications. Itchy and Scratchy Symptoms Does your dog sleep on the bed? As an owner, take note of where the dog scratches. This gives the vet clues as to the nature of the problem. What Can You Look For? In fact, a dog scratching is not the only clue to itchiness. Some like to scoot their faces across the carpet or commando-crawl on their bellies across concrete as a means of quelling an itch. Then there are the lickers. Licking can also be a sign of itchiness. A tell-tale sign of a secretive licker is brown saliva-staining of the fur. The classic places to check include the paws, butt, and belly. This results in hair loss or skin infections, which require treatment. When to Seek Help Does this sound familiar? To ignore the problem means risking complications such as yeast infections causing greasy skin or bacterial invaders creating weeping sores. Indeed, any change in habits could mean the dog is uncomfortable. Something as simple as a dog scratching their face could be a clue to any number of issues, from a grass awn stuck in the ear canal to sore teeth. A dog scratching and losing hair or making their skin red definitely needs to be checked by a vet. Get your canine companion seen at the earliest hint of discomfort, and dodge unnecessary distress. What Causes Dog Scratching? Just like mosquito or flea bites irritate human skin, the same can happen to dogs. Indeed, some dogs even have an allergy to flea bites, which makes them super-itchy. Fleas are public enemy number one when it comes to dog scratching. But when going on a flea hunt, be aware that fleas hop on to feed, but actually live off-dog in soft furnishings or the yard. A different species to human head lice, but super-itchy regardless Sarcoptic Mange Mites: These highly infectious scavenger mites are common on wildlife Parasites play such a leading role in a dog licking and scratching that the vet will eradicate bugs first, before doing other tests. Allergies and the Urge to Scratch Do you suffer the misery of hay fever? The runny nose and streaming eyes are due to an allergy to pollen. You guessed it! Allergies make dogs itchy. Unfortunately, dogs can be allergic to anything from pollens to grass sap, from perfume to air freshener, from dust mites to mold spores. Unfortunately, scratching and licking damages the skin. This can allow secondary invaders in, such as yeasts and bacteria. Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? Reaching a Diagnosis First off, go on a flea hunt. Look for those tell-tale flecks of dark dust in the coat. Capture some on a piece of damp cotton wool. In this scenario, the first step is to treat the dog against fleas. If the dog scratching has not improved a month later, the vet may suggest further investigation. Typical actions include: Running a blood test to detect sarcoptes mites Bathing the dog with medicated shampoo to strength skin health A course of antibiotics if infection is present Still itchy? The dog is put on a hypoallergenic diet for eight weeks, in case they have a food allergy Oh dear, still itchy! Blood or skin tests for allergies A skin biopsy How to Stop a Dog from Scratching: Treatment You can do a surprising amount at home to make an itchy dog more comfortable. The vet will attempt to identify and treat the cause of the itch. This includes using antibiotics, medicated shampoos, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Options for Treatment If an allergy is diagnosed, there are options for treatment. These include: Immunotherapy vaccines: A bespoke vaccine is developed. The idea is that giving small, but increasing amounts of allergen. This allows the immune system to get used to the allergen and turn off the unwanted exaggerated response. Biological therapies: The latest kid-on-the-block is Cytopoint. It takes out the pathway that triggers the itch, stopping it from developing. Sadly, both of the above are expensive. However, there are a wide range of anti-inflammatory drugs which are also highly beneficial: Steroids: Inexpensive and extremely effective. Cyclosporine Atopica : Originally developed to prevent organ rejection in transplant medicine, these help switch off the unwanted immune response. Effective and relatively side-effect-free, but expensive! Oclacitinib Apoquel : A relatively new anti-itch medication, this works really well for some dogs and is almost side-effect-free. Sadly, this also is expensive. A dog scratching because of parasites can be cured. Getting rid of the bugs stops the itch. This means taking lots of small steps. Making several minor changes adds up to a big increase in comfort. Strategies to reduce the itch include: Limiting exposure to allergens Washing allergens off the skin Controlling secondary infections, such as yeasts or bacteria Use of therapies such as immunotherapy vaccines Drugs to reduce the itch Why is My Dog Scratching so Much? The occasional lazy scratch of the ear is quite normal. Excessive scratching in dogs is not. Common things like fleas are an obvious cause of itchiness. If in doubt see the vet early, to avoid unnecessary complications such as hair loss or infections. Do Fleas Die In Winter? References and Resources Diaz, S. The five most common types of allergies are food allergies, flea allergies, contact allergies, inhalant allergies, and bacterial allergies. Labrador Food Allergies Food allergies in Labrador Retrievers are caused by allergic reactions to common ingredients in dog food such as beef, corn, soy, fish, wheat, chicken, and chicken eggs. Common symptoms include: itchy skin often around the muzzle or face hair loss frequent bowel movements and skin infections. Antihistamines and occasionally antibiotics can be used to help dogs with extreme food allergies. But if your Lab has a food allergy, the symptoms will return when the treatment is stopped. Elimination diets with limited ingredients work well for most dogs with food allergies. Most common dog food brands on the market offer hypoallergenic formulas. These recipes are free of some of the most common allergens we talked about earlier: corn, soy, beef, chicken, chicken eggs, fish, and wheat. You can also consider feeding a raw diet consisting of unprocessed meats and veggies. FAD occurs when a flea bites an animal, injecting its saliva into the skin. Your dog will most likely be susceptible to FAD during the summer months. Because fleas thrive best in warm temperatures with humidity. Early warning signs of FAD include itchy, irritated skin. This in turn causes red, inflamed patches of skin called hot spots. Flea bites occur most often on the back and at the base of the tail. In severe cases, you might notice hair loss, oozing, or dark, crusty skin. The easiest way to prevent flea allergies in Labrador Retrievers is to groom your dog regularly , and apply a flea preventative such as Frontline during flea season. If your Lab does develop an allergic reaction to a flea bite, there are several methods of killing fleas instantly. Make sure to remove all traces of fleas both from him and from your home. Sometimes your Lab can develop a yeast infection as a result of a flea bite. In which case you might notice an unpleasant odor. Vets will often prescribe antibiotics and a short course of prednisone to relieve his itchy skin. Taking preventative measures, however, and regularly observing your dog for early warning signs during flea season, can help to mitigate the problem. Canine Contact Allergies Contact allergies occur when your Lab develops an allergic reaction to noxious or irritating substances in the environment. These can include dyes, carpet deodorizers, or antibiotics applied to the skin. Rubber, wool, certain metals like nickel , poison ivy sap, and salt on the road can also cause allergic reactions. The allergic reaction usually develops on areas of the skin with little or no hair. Such as the backs of the paws, the muzzle, and the lower abdomen. These areas of the skin are most likely to come into direct contact with the irritant. In order to treat a contact allergy, your vet needs to use patch or exclusion tests to determine what allergen your Lab is reacting to. Patch tests involve a small amount of the allergen being rubbed on the skin. Inhalant Allergies in Labradors Inhalant allergies also called atopic allergies or atopy are the second most common allergy in Labs after FAD. They are caused by an allergic reaction to airborne or inhaled allergens like mold, dust, or pollen. Simply put, think of atopy as the canine equivalent of hay fever in people. Like FAD, inhalant allergies usually affect dogs during the spring and summer months. Atopic Labradors will develop very itchy skin and will usually bite and scratch themselves, often on the legs, face, ears, groin, and armpit areas. Red, irritated skin and hair loss are the most common warning signs as well as yeast infections in the skin and ears. Your vet will likely perform one of two allergy tests on your dog to determine what is causing the allergic reaction. An intra-dermal or skin allergy test involves injecting a small amount of an allergen into his skin and watching for a reaction. The second test, the IgE allergy test, involves taking a blood sample from your Lab to test for IgE antibodies against specific airborne allergens. If a high number of IgE antibodies exist, this is usually a sign of an inhalant allergy. There are several ways to treat inhalant allergies. Allergy shots involve a serum containing the allergen to which your dog reacts. Over time, the injections can desensitize them to the allergen, reducing the symptoms. Your vet might also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids or antihistamines to relieve symptoms like itching and skin irritation. Since allergies often cause skin irritation and hair loss, your Lab can often develop lesions or inflamed pustules. For these, your vet will likely proscribe topical medications like ointments and sprays as well as a round of antibiotics. The vet will look for evidence that the infection is symptomatic of a more serious medical condition. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.

It is located in Deer Trail, Colorado, in a rural area of up to 10 acres. The breeders have almost 20 years of expertise producing pups. It is a place where Chinese Pugs and Boxer pups may be found. Pug pups are available in a variety of colors, including fawn, black, white, and apricot. Pugs are gregarious and well-mannered as a result of their upbringing in a home with young children and other family members. Their objective is to create high-quality puppies with happy, pleasant dispositions and a healthy body. They are extremely committed breeders. They are quite proud of their adorable puppies. Breeders want the best for their pets, as well as for you. They make certain that you receive your desired Pug from them as a result of this. The producers take great effort to breed only the best canines. They do a comprehensive health examination and meticulous planning before selecting a puppy to breed. Should you wish to inquire you can call them or visit their website for more. This way , you might find an amazing little pug puppy you can take home so you can add it to your great family. This breeding program begins with the breeding of Pugs with Mastiffs. They have a chinchilla male Pug stud, which is really unusual. When the puppies reach the age of eight weeks, they are ready for adoption. Prior to that, they are cared for and reared in a family atmosphere. With children, adults, little and large dogs, poultry, and other animals. As a result, the Chinese Pugs have a very gregarious and pleasant personality. The owner is really committed to the dogs. She works hard to improve the quality of Chinese Pugs. She spends her time studying how to care for the fur kids in order to do this. With the support of other professional breeders and her own skills in this industry. Before reaching your doorstep, the breeders ensure that the Pugs have been vet examined, have had their first few injections, have been dewormed, have been well-socialized, and have been microchipped. They provide a hour health guarantee, free health insurance for 30 days, and a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Please explore the rest of their website to learn more about them. You may also send a message to them straight from their website. Pleiades Pugs. Looking for a pug puppy for sale in Colorado? We can help you get started. Be sure to do your own research and ask a lot of questions before making a commitment. At the very least, you should be able to visit a breeder's facility without a bunch of excuses. Reputable pug breeders are glad to share information about themselves. New Arrivals Pugs Come in Many Different Colors Blue Ridge Pugs breeds pet-quality pugs in different colors including fawn, black, silver, white, platinum, apricot, stone fawn, pied, chinchilla, chocolate, merle, and panda. They provide a four-week return guarantee and a one-year genetic health guarantee with each pug puppy. Blue Ridge also offers a free gift bag of goodies to include transition food, dish, collar, blanket, framed picture collage, toys and a new puppy folder with helpful information on training, when to spay or neuter, housebreaking, etc. Each puppy will have received age appropriate wormings and puppy shots with proof. Location: Robbinsville, North Carolina. Ground transportation can be arranged for other locations by request, including Colorado. Phone: Email: rlduerr comcast. It is the goal of the PDCA and all its members to help canines live longer, happier, and healthier lives by promoting welfare. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Our dogs have mellow, affectionate, and playful temperaments, love water, and especially children. They are living as trustworthy family members, as emotional support dogs, service dogs, and medical alert dogs around the world! Content Link Block Polarbear is our Name. Or perhaps just looking for the total package in a dog? Health and longevity remains the foundation of all we do. Take for example, the standard German Shepherd dog as seen in this photo: View fullsize …Dogs bred with these traits often end up with crippling disabilities and premature death. This is so inhumane. The focus of our kennel, on the other hand, is to produce dogs with straight backs, broad heads, and short coats, as in the photo of Polarbear's foundation sire, Shack Von Hammer below. Aside from their magnificent appearance, Polarbear White Shepherds are calm, sociable, and affectionate. They are gifted empaths and comedians at heart. Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Updated on 11 February White German Shepherds are rare dogs with a striking coat. However, White GSDs can have some subtle differences. White German Shepherds have been recongised by the UKC since — and the organization have created a breed standard for this particular variety of GSD. While they were banned from registration in their native Germany in , North America proved something of a hotbed for these dogs and a breed club was formed for White German Shepherds in .Ash, who owns a White GSD called Ghost, warned prospective owners to be prepared for their dog to be confused for another popular dog breed! You will constantly be asked if your dog is a Husky white fur that is so noticeable, needs a lot of attention, lots of energy. They can become very attached to their dog owners and members of the family. This can translate to them being excellent family dogs! Alyssa highlighted this loyal trait, having firsthand experience with Lumi. White Shepherds are incredibly loyal and great family dogs. They love their families and will do anything to protect them. Because of this, they typically are a bit skeptical of strangers but this can be worked through with proper socialization and training. While German Shepherds can often be incorrectly stereotyped as aggressive dogs, the White GSD tend to have more mellow personalities. Only the Border Collie and the Poodle are considered more intelligent! They should be quick to learn new commands and can be highly obedient dogs. Having said that, sometimes smart dogs can have a stubborn or mischievous streak. Alyssa explained that consistency is key where training White GSD is concerned. White Shepherds are incredibly smart. Just keep at it and make sure to give lots of praise when they exhibit the correct behaviors. With high energy compared to other breeds, they may not be suited to all pet parents. As mentioned before they need a solid amount of exercise and mental stimulation or they can become bored and destructive. You should be prepared for lots of white fur on your clothes, on your furniture and on the floor. Alyssa shed further light on White GSD shedding! If you have issues with shedding, White Shepherds are not for you. White GSDs require regular daily exercise to stretch their legs. Aylssa provided her insight on White German Shepherd exercise. Exercise all depends on the drive and energy level of your dog. German Shepherds on average White Shepherds included need quite a bit of exercise. They can get bored very easily so its important to keep their mind busy. Training sessions also do a great job of keeping them mentally stimulated. They need regular brushing to remove shedded hair and debris from their coat to maintain their overall coat health. Ash underlined the importance of regularly grooming a White GSD. Sometimes the fur can grow back, other times the elbow becomes a little bald patch which can scab if it gets hurt. Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers.