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The information in the above list is provided courtesy of dogtime. Can Bulldogs Have Rawhide Bones? No cooked bones and now bones bought from the store. Maybe you can give your dog rawhide bones then? Unfortunately, the answer is, again, no. Dogs have been known to contract and suffer from Salmonella and E. Coli after chewing on rawhide bones. In addition, rawhide bones often contain gelatin, artificial sweeteners, and other additives and preservatives. These ingredients can be toxic to your dog. Rawhide bones have led to digestion problems, blockages, and cancer. All of this being said, your dog will in all likelihood not die if you give them a store bought bone or a rawhide bone to chew on. Although there are more dangers in presenting these bones to your dog versus presenting them with a raw bone, the dog bones that you can find in the store have to go through screening processes to make sure that they are safe. The best option, however, is still a raw bone or a raw recreational bone. Health Benefits of Chewing on Bones Chewing on bones is instinctual for dogs. They are a historically predatory species, and it is in their nature to gnaw on bones. Setting aside any physical health gains, a dog chewing on a bone is a happy dog. Bones are great sources of calcium and phosphorous, as well as a plenitude of other beneficial minerals that your dog needs in order to remain healthy and active. Chewing on bones strengthens stomach muscles, prevents bloating, and helps with bowel movements. Dangers to Watch Out for When Chewing Bones The biggest danger in letting your dog chew on a bone is the potential for the bone splintering and your dog ingesting a piece of the bone. While bigger dogs may be able to swallow a small piece of bone without batting an eye, smaller dogs can choke. However, even if your dog is quite large, swallowing a piece of bone can cause digestive issues. This is why small bones and cooked bones are such a problem because they have a higher likely hood of splintering when your dog chews on it. Make sure that your dog is chewing a bone that is proportional to their size. A large dog chewing a small bone can end up swallowing the bone and choking. Likewise, a small dog chewing a big bone can injure their teeth or jaw. A dog, especially a smaller breed of dog, can break one or more of its teeth chewing on a hard bone. Their teeth will be tender and more vulnerable to cracking or breaking. Do not give your dog a bone if they suffer from pancreatitis. The marrow in bones is high in fat, which can lead to diarrhea or a flare up in your dog. Watch to make sure that the bone does not splinter or that your dog does not swallow the bone whole. Give your dog a bone after they have already eaten their meal, as they are less likely to chew too vigorously when they are full. Once the bone becomes worn down, throw it out. Once a bone has become weak, it is more likely to splinter and cause damage. You need to know your dog and know how they eat. If you know that your dog is a particularly violent eater, then perhaps it is not the best idea to give them a bone that might break under pressure. Give your dog a bone that is longer than the length of their muzzle, as that makes it impossible for them to swallow the bone and choke. When the bone is cut, it becomes weaker and will break more easily. Bully Sticks are made out of one ingredient: beef muscle, meaning they are digestible and tasty. They are much easier to digest than rawhide and carry the additional benefit of not being full of chemicals, gelatin, or additives. If your dog is a particularly violent chewer, then you can even buy a braided Bully Stick that will last longer. There are also Bully Sticks made in fun patterns to stimulate your dog mentally while they chew. The only downside to using Bully Sticks in place of bones is that you lose the calcium and phosphorous that you get from bones. However, Bully Sticks are a very good alternative to bones if you are looking for one. You can buy them on Amazon here. Additional Questions Can dogs eat chicken bones? Dogs can eat chicken read Can Bulldogs Eat Chicken? Raw vs. Cooked and chicken bones, as long as they are raw and the bone is not too small for your dog breed. Cooked chicken bones will splinter and can injure your dog, and big dogs can end up swallowing small chicken bones. However, chicken bones can be quite beneficial to the health of your dog. Post Views: 1, Chews can help to stop this. Some are tough enough to give hours of fun and many have health benefits, in particular for their teeth. They also have a soothing effect on your dogs. If you have anxious or hyperactive dogs chews can help to relax them. What are English Bulldogs? English Bulldogs are medium sized muscular dogs with wrinkled faces and short legs. Their heads and necks are enormous and their jaws are massive, broad and square. Their upper lips hang down and they have pushed-in noses. Their coats are short and smooth. A distinctive feature of these dogs is that they drool and slobber, which makes them even cuter. Although they look intimidating, they are in fact very affectionate, playful and perfect as family dogs. However they are also protective and make good guard dogs. What Types of Chews Are There? Basically they can be divided into 2 different categories, those that are edible and those that are toys. Both are good for the dental health of your dogs. In addition they can get food poisoning from viruses and parasites which can cause big problems in the gastrointestinal system. You need to avoid this despite their pleading looks. Edible chews include bones, sticks and treats. Dogs find that they smell and taste delicious, although we may find the smell unpleasant. The downside to edible chews is that they can make a mess. They can also become costly if your dogs have a couple a day. Synthetic chews are often made of rope or nylon and are much cleaner than edible chews. Like edible chews, they help with dental health. All have an appealing scent so are not as smelly as edible chews. English Bulldogs have strong jaws so need a tougher chew. Soft ones will be gone in five minutes if not less. It is also a good idea to supplement the edible chews with toy chews as they will keep your dogs occupied while you are out. Elk Antlers Elk antlers are a good choice for English bulldogs. Not only are they tough, but they have health benefits. They contain calcium which is good for the bones and teeth. There is collagen which improves skin health, helps with joint pain and boosts muscle mass. In addition elk antlers contain phosphorus which is good for the kidneys, muscles, bones and blood vessels. In fact they are as strong as bones. They massage the gums and increase jaw strength, as well as looking after general dental health. A lot of them are shed naturally by elks so you will be doing something for animal welfare. Rawhide Rawhide is another tough chew, but it is controversial. On the other hand there are some rawhide chews that are promoted by vets. They are safe and are easily digestible. It may be a good idea to get advice from your vet. You could buy your English Bulldogs bully sticks. They are made of pizzle, and for dogs they are very tasty. They are dense so last a long time so will keep your English Bulldogs occupied. Unfortunately, on the downside, they do smell horrible. Beef Tracheas Beef tracheas are also a good choice as they are made of cartilage and are tough. They contain glucosamine and chondroitin. These both help your English Bulldogs to build cartilage and help to ease any joint pain they may have. They are made from cow and yak milk which is turned into cheese. It is mixed with salt and lime juice and then left to dry for a few weeks. This makes it very hard which is good for your English Bulldogs. They also come from cattle and yaks which are not treated with antibiotics or hormones. Other Options Finally there are dog chew toys which also give hours of enjoyment. Yes, your English Bulldogs may prefer an edible chew, but they will still have fun with a toy especially if they are left alone for a while. The best materials to go for are rubber or nylon as they are more durable. With too soft a material your dogs may be able to tear the chew apart and may swallow pieces and even the stuffing. There are also chew toys which can be filled with treats which gives your pups an extra incentive to play. They are totally natural and organic and are made from yak and cow milk from which the lactose is taken out. There is also no gluten in them, another thing that can irritate and cause allergies. They are 6 — 8 inches in length and 1 — 2 inches in width which will give your English Bulldogs hours of enjoyment. In fact they are dense and last up to 5 times longer than rawhide chews. They are the largest elk antlers on Amazon and they are 6 — 12 inches long and weigh between 9. They are dense which will suit your English Bulldogs and last longer than bully sticks, rawhides or pigs ears. They can last up to 14 hours which will provide hours of fun for your pups. In addition they are healthy and are a fantastic source of calcium, phosphorus, manganese and zinc. They are also good for dental health. There are no antibiotics, hormones or additives in these antlers. They also come from free-ranging elk that shed their antlers naturally. They are picked in the forest and hand sorted by Jim Hodges Dog Training. Beef Tracheas are made from cartilage and are very healthy. They are jam-packed full of vitamins and minerals, are high in protein and low in fat. They have glucosamine and chondroitin which helps with joint pain and arthritis. They will help your English bulldogs increase their movability and flexibility. They are made by intertwining 3 sticks and have excellent health benefits. They are high in protein which helps to build muscle mass. They are also low in fat which contributes to a lean dog. English Bulldogs are greedy dogs so these treats will help to keep their weight down. Another benefit of these chews is that they are excellent for dental health and help to remove plaque and tartar. They are made from grass-fed, free-range cattle and contain no hormones or chemicals. If your English Bulldogs are prone to allergies, these bully sticks are a good choice as they are free from corn, soy and grain, all of which can cause allergies. In addition to there being no chemicals, there are no artificial preservatives or colors either. They are made from free-range and grass-fed cattle, with no added hormones. They are great for dental health as well and clean the teeth, so reducing plaque and tartar. They are also odorless which is a great bonus. They are the perfect chews for an aggressive chewer. It will take a lot for your English Bulldogs to destroy these toys. They are a great design. Flat chews can be difficult for your dogs to hold, but this chew is wishbone shaped which is much easier. It also has deep grooves, which makes it even simpler for your dogs to grip. These include Pig ears, Rawhide sticks and hooves. Rawhide is an extremely dangerous chewy for a Bulldog; while they love them their life is always at risk when you give them Rawhide, yes even under your supervision! Bulldogs have a tendency to Chew the Rawhide making it soft and slimy they then will inhale the whole piece causing obstruction, foaming at the mouth then this will cause them to collapse from lack of oxygen into their lungs weather you are or not experience with Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR on a dog it is not worth the risk giving your Bulldren Rawhide. Although they are said to be percent digestible they are NOT many do not realize that Canine digestion is very different than human digestion; they do not have the digestive chemical breakdown like humans do. The veterinary journal now shows compressed vegetable chew treats, of which Greenies is the most popular sold, are now the third biggest cause of esophageal obstruction in dogs behind bones, rawhide and fish hooks. In my opinion they should be pulled from the shelves! To many precious dogs have lost their life chewing these now. The Nylabone Durachews are a good one and they last a long time. They make excellent dog chews because they are made of a bony material and so are hard, long-lasting, interesting to the dog and not smelly or staining. They are similar in hardness to a Nylabone, but tastier and healthier. Not all Bulldogs will appreciate chewing antlers the most are young puppies and Bulldogs that just love to chew! Antler chews are also full of nutrients such as calcium. Here are a few tips to help your Bully to enjoy the antler chew and keep him or her safe. The come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If there are any, it is easy to remove them by rubbing the sharp edge with sandpaper or I have done this with a nail file. If he is bearing down hard on the antler, it is best to take it away since chewing any hard chew this way could damage the teeth. They sell a huge selection of very Durable toys that are long lasting! They have some out now called Rip-apart's and our guys will spend hours playing with these trying to take the shells off of them. TJ has had this shark for over 6 months now and plays with it everyday and looks as good as the day it was purchased and he claimed it as his : These are fantastic and our Bullies love them! You can pick these up now in just about any pet shops! We highly recommend these even our puppies love them but even though these are rawhide free never leave your Bulldog untended with any type of chewy. But also, they have a tendency to be destructive. Namely — to their toys. Like shoes, purses, baseball caps, remote controls, end tables… In addition, bulldogs can also show a softer side to their favorite toys. Have you ever heard of English Bulldogs suckling their toys? And believe me, it is CUTE. Below I roundup and review toys that are recommended specifically for bulldogs. I go over durability, safety, enjoyment, and overall quality. They deserve the best of the best, and top quality toys. And in case you have no idea what that means, think about how a baby sucks on a pacifier. Or a young toddler who sucks their thumb. Bulldogs do this type of thing as well. But they do it with their stuffed toys, or their blankets or beds. Not sure why there would be a difference, but that was the case. I believe it makes them feel safe and comforted. Because whenever my bulldogs start to suckle, they go into almost a trance-like state, and basically fall asleep while doing it. Oh, and one other thing — it is sooo adorable to watch!! We have gone through so many Snoopy plush toys over the years. The hands and feet have squeakers in them, but no one tends to play with those parts of the monkey. For some reason, this specific monkey is a sought after suckle toy for my dogs. How many people actually recall who Lamb Chop is? Anyone born prior to millennial age will probably have a good recollection. Lamb Chop was created by entertainer and puppeteer Shari Lewis, who spent over 30 years performing for children on educational TV shows. But for some reason, my big guy loves to suckle on this one. Best English Bulldog Chew Toys For English Bulldogs who love to chew, you need to find a durable, quality product to stand up to their powerful jaws. But I do really like the quality of Nylabone brand chew toys. There are four different areas to hold onto, for them to get the best gnawing grip. Plus there is an English Bulldog on the actual packaging! The blue rubber part in the middle makes a crinkling or crackly sound as it bends. There are different versions, but the one we have contains animal sounds. We have the largest one, which is really about the size of a baseball. My smaller dog cannot fit it into her mouth, but my big guy can. Just be careful if you have a chewer, since the plastic is pretty solid. Wekin Anti-Burst Exercise Ball This is a really fun one, especially if you have a bullie who likes to herd. Have you heard about a competitive sport for dogs called Treibball? If you are in an actual competition, your dog will push 8 balls into a goal. But this inflatable exercise ball has provided hours of outdoor activity for my dogs. The question, however, is should they eat them? The problem is that some treats are loaded with salt, fat, fillers, artificial ingredients, coloring, and, sadly, even more. If, however, you feed them low-quality treats all the time, they will start to suffer from various health problems, including obesity, joint problems, tummy problems, diabetes, and several more. Below are a few ingredients you should avoid when choosing a treat for your English Bulldog. Do your best to avoid treats with these ingredients. Salt Like sugar, salt often goes by other names on the ingredient list, like sodium chloride, iodized salt, and sea salt. Yes, some salt is needed, but not much. Like humans, too much salt can cause various health problems in dogs. Dairy Dairy products, while generally healthy, are also a common cause of food sensitivity. If your English Bully has problems with sensitivity, avoid treats with any dairy in them like cheese and milk. Corn Unfortunately, corn is a cheap meat replacement found in many dogs treat recipes. First, grains can provide some needed nutrients. Also, peas are often used in place of grains, and peas have been linked to diet-associated canine heart disease DCM. Calories Calories are great when your English Bulldog needs some quick energy. Long-term chews usually have the highest calorie count, so give them sparingly to your English Bulldog. What To Look for in Dog Treats for Your English Bulldog Just as there are ingredients you should avoid, there are several you should look for in a good dog treat for your English Bulldog. They include:. Therefore, a pet owner should not purchase a tiny chewing toy for the dog because of the high risk of swallowing. More so, slippery toys that are difficult to hold and grasp are not favorable for this dog. Besides, the toy should not be made from fragile materials that can easily break when it chews the toy. Soft toys can also cause injuries to the dog, therefore necessitating a visit to the veterinary Best Chew Toys for Bull Dogs Chew toys are essential for dogs because they help in keeping the dog active. Additionally, they stimulate their brain and reduce the chance of the dog, destroying things in the house. The best chew toy for this particular dog helps clean teeth; therefore, it should have bristles. Additionally, the toy should have a flavor that will leave the dog with a good mouthfeel after chewing. The chew toy should also allow for easy picking because the dog has crowded teeth. This toy comes in natural and red colors and costs between nine and sixteen dollars. Nylabone power chew is also recommended because it gives the dog an excellent mouthfeel. Bring it on. Benebones are tougher than real bones and last for weeks. Why go with the imitation stuff? The toy comes in different flavors, including real bacon, real chicken, and natural peanut. The toy also differs in size. Even the bone can last for several weeks, and it is designed for easy grasping. Interestingly this chew bone is manufactured wholly in the United States of America. It has features such as massage nubs and chicken flavor that leaves the dog with a good feeling after chewing. Additionally, the toy allows for teeth cleaning, therefore, preventing the build-up of plaques and tartar. It is made of nylon that guarantees durability. Additionally, this product comes in different sizes, extra small, small, medium, and large. Therefore the dog owner can purchase the size that coincides with the needs of the dog. The toy is also very affordable as the price ranges from five dollars for the mini and fifteen dollars for the large chew toy. More so the toy ensures oral hygiene of the dog as it has nylon bristles. For dog owners concerned about oral hygiene, look into beef trachea for dogs. The PetSafe busy buddy is also easy to clean, and you can refill the treats. Additionally, the nylon and rubber material used to make the toy makes it suitable for strong chewers. Mammoth Flossy Chews.

How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Some of these may be genetic, while others can be environmental. Here are some factors that affect labradoodle puppy growth. Genetics No matter what breed of dog it is, genetics plays a very important role in the growth of a puppy. Labradoodles are a mix between Labrador Retriever and Poodle. These dogs share genetic traits from both parents. The size of a labradoodle depends on its Poodle parent. For example, if the Poodle parent is a toy or miniature, you will get a mini and medium-sized labradoodle. However, if the Poodle parent is standard size, you will get a standard-sized labradoodle. Nutrition Selecting a nutritious diet for your Labradoodle puppy is essential to his well-being and development. Giving him all of the nutrients he needs to flourish and grow. Puppies are in a period of rapid growth, so they require more nutrients for bone and joint development than adult dogs. Puppies who receive adequate nutrition grows to their full potential. When feeding your pup, make sure the food contains all essential nutrients as well as the right levels of fat and protein. Your veterinarian can advise you on the ideal food to provide them with. Physical Activity Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. If not given enough exercise, they could develop health issues such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. When your puppy is young, it is best to limit their exercise as excessive physical activity can cause joint damage that will impact their development later in life. Walking and jogging are two activities that puppies enjoy doing, but these should only be done in small amounts in order to protect their joints. Health The growth of Labradoodle puppies also depends on their overall health. Labradoodles may suffer from health conditions that hinder their growth, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These conditions make it difficult for them to walk or lead an ordinary life. So, make sure you buy a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder and screen them for any health issues. It is also advisable to take them for regular vet visits. Many new pet parents often wonder what size their Labradoodle will be when they grow up. For Labradoodle puppies, puppyhood lasts from birth until about five or six months old. During this stage, you will see a massive growth spurt in Labradoodles. They will keep growing until they reach adulthood. However, this may not always be the case; some may need additional pounds to gain before reaching this milestone. Conclusion A Labradoodle is a designer hybrid dog created by crossing two breeds — Poodles and Labrador Retrievers. As such, these dogs possess high energy levels, are friendly, and are highly affectionate. If you are planning to get a Labradoodle puppy or already have one, it is essential to monitor their growth, as their size can be drastically affected by certain factors. With some simple formulas, these charts may even allow you to predict their future weights. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Standard Australian Labradoodle .So while a mini or medium-sized Australian Labradoodle may take another 6 to 7 months to attain its adult weight and height, a standard-sized dog will take much longer. The growth rate in Australian Labradoodles is sex-dependent as well. Female dogs have a more gradual growth rate. Similarly, at maturity, their growth tails off gradually. Male dogs have more abrupt growth dynamics. They grow more rapidly, and their growth stops abruptly. And although you can see in the chart that differently sized Australian Labradoodles attain full growth at different ages, almost all of them will achieve their full height at around one year of age. Later, the development is mostly in terms of weight as the dog fills out and gains muscle. Australian Labradoodle The Poodle parentage can play a key role in determining the size of a crossbreed. However, the same is not applicable for an Australian Labradoodle, as it is a multigenerational Doodle, and the process is not as straightforward as with other Poodle crossbreeds. An Australian Labradoodle sits on a pastel purple couch. For other Doodle breeds, the generation may determine the Poodle percentage. However, the same does not apply to a Labradoodle. It has to be crossed for a minimum of 5 generations to qualify as a Labradoodle. Also, unlike other crossbreeds, a Labradoodle genetic makeup comes from more than two breeds. So, for a Doodle to classify as an Australian Labradoodle, it has to meet these two conditions: Crossbreeding has reached 5 generations. The Labradoodle must be continuously bred. Continuous breeding means both the crossed Labradoodles must have two Labradoodle parents as well. This must be repeated for 5 generations. Now, for the crossbreed to become an Australian Labradoodle, it has to fulfill just one more requirement—its pedigree must have one more breed. And although all of the above four breeds contribute, the Cocker Spaniel mostly American is preferred above other breeds. This is because breeders found that the Cocker Spaniel imparted more consistent traits than the other three. They are: Fleece-Textured: These are silky soft and can be either straight or wavy. Some also have spiral-shaped curls. The coat is usually curly with loose spirals that open readily. Hair-Coat Type: This type has a coarse feel and can be either straight or wavy. Australian Labradoodle puppies with different colors cuddle together. Australian Labradoodles come in various colors like white, red, black, parti, apricot, caramel, chocolate, merle, and more. The coat may either darken or fade, depending on the coat color. Grooming Your Australian Labradoodle The Australian Labradoodle has been developed continuously for the last 35 years. As a result, it is one of the least shedding dogs. However, this does not mean they have no grooming requirements. Dog brushes on a pink background. Below are some instructions on keeping your pup well groomed. Start brushing as soon as you bring a puppy home. If you have a young pup, brush its coat at least 4 times a week. Continue this till the time your pup develops an adult coat. This will be around 18 months. Use a brush and a dematting comb to remove all the tangles and to avoid the matting of the coat. Use rounded tip scissors to remove hair around the eyes. The adult coat starts developing at around 8 to 10 months. This time necessitates excessive brushing, that is, multiple times a week. It is also the best time to give your puppy its first trim, as it is difficult to maintain long coats that shed. The adult coat may be established by 12 to14 months. This is the coat the puppy will have for its adult life. An adult Australian Labradoodle has a low brushing requirement. It needs an hour of brushing every 2 weeks. If you have an active lifestyle and your dog joins you on regular outings, hikes, and so on, it will require more brushing to remove the debris and loosen clumped hair. Make sure your comb reaches the base of the hair. If necessary, invest in a metal greyhound comb. You can bathe your dog once a month or after a longer period if the coat is not visibly matted. Brush its teeth every month and trim his nails every 3 to 4 weeks. Australian Labradoodle Temperament Australian Labradoodles have fantastic personalities, and unlike first-generation Labradoodles who are hyperactive, Australian Labradoodles are calmer. They are intelligent, intuitive, balanced, loyal, sociable, and mature. They are widely used as service and therapy dogs; in fact, they were created for this sole purpose. Australian Labradoodles are a different breed than Labradoodles although similar! Labradoodles are great with kids and love being around humans and other pets. They are naturally playful, witty, and comical. However, children must be supervised around young pups and mini Doodles, as these dogs are fragile, and their susceptibility to injury is high. Australian Labradoodles adapt well to crates; however, they must not be left inside the crate for too long. Full Grown Australian Labradoodle Diet And Feeding Puppies have a higher calorie requirement than adults, as they are in a continuously growing phase and need enough nutrients to support the same. Also, as the dog comes in three different sizes, you need to understand that their daily feeding will depend on their size and provide accordingly. The owner pouring dog food in a bowl. Initially, the pup will need four daily meals along with snacking. As the puppy grows, it can be fed 3 meals, and as it reaches adulthood, 2 meals are sufficient. As the dog reaches adulthood, it no longer requires additional calories to support growth. They can be given an adjusted daily portion without changing diet plans. You can also start the dog on an adult diet with fewer calories. If you feel your dog is getting overweight, you can split its daily food requirement of 2 to 3 cups into 3 meals instead of 2. You can also put in on a low fat, high fiber diet. Also, replace regular treats with low-calorie treats or small pieces of fruits and veggies like carrots and apples. An Australian Labradoodle can become underweight if it does not consume the required amount of calories or burns off its intake with exercise. Also, if the dog is underweight, it could be due to some underlying health issue. Get your pet vet examined in this case. You can add an extra cup of dog food to its diet or switch to dog food for puppies as it has more calories and fat content. Exercise Requirement of An Australian Labradoodle If you are expecting the beautiful animal to be a couch potato, you are wrong. Australian Labradoodle is an active dog that needs daily exercise. It has a low-to-moderate energy level. An Australian Labradoodle enjoys playing outdoors. Also, as the animal is highly intelligent, it will also need mental stimulation. And although the Australian Labradoodle comes in three different sizes, their exercise requirements vary by small amounts, with the Standard or Large Labradoodle having the highest exercise requirement and the mini having the least. Also, an Australian Labradoodle loves the outdoors, making it a fantastic companion to take on hikes, the beach, swimming, jogging, and other physical activities. If you have a fenced backyard, it will suffice to meet the daily exercise requirement of your dog. For mental stimulation, provide your pet with toys and puzzles that will keep it intrigued and busy. If not, it may develop destructive behavior like chewing shoes and furniture. Australian Labradoodle Training The Australian Labradoodle is an intelligent breed, so training it is a breeze. However, you must initiate training as soon as the puppy comes to your home. Also, being an intelligent breed, the dog can outsmart the owner, so use gentle yet stern training tactics that make you the alpha of the pack. An Australian Labradoodle sits with a ball at the beach. Although the puppy is smart and picks up most things after 2 or 3 repetitions, it is still necessary to be patient with the pup and encourage it with positive reinforcement. Even though your dog will have completed obedience training by the time it is fully grown, there is a lot more training yet to be completed. You will need to continuously reinforce their behaviors to prevent the development of any negative behaviors. The temperament of the puppy also plays a vital role in its training. A well-socialized, healthy, and happy puppy will be easier to train and follow commands more readily. Also, puppies who are socialized early are less likely to develop behavioral problems later. It is a theory that hybrid dogs have fewer inherited disorders than parental breeds and are comparatively healthier. Australian Labradoodle wears a scarf feeling cold. However, this does not mean they are immune to all inheritable diseases. It could be allergic to an ingredient in its food. You will need to diagnose it early to tackle the allergy. Switch to hypoallergenic dog food if an allergy is what is troubling your dog. Conclusion Australian Labradoodle is a fantastic dog breed that is friendly, intelligent, and great with kids and other pets. They are a hybrid breed with gene pools that can come from 6 different parent breeds and come in three different sizes. And while the miniature and medium Australian Labradoodles are fully grown by 13 months, the Standard Australian Labradoodle may take around 16 months to attain full growth. The Doodle crossbreed has gained a lot of popularity ever since it was developed. If you, too, are interested in adopting one, we hope this article has answered most of your queries. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. And since Labradoodles are bred in three and sometimes four sizes depending on the breed line and generation, the growth rate for height and weight can vary greatly from one puppy to the next. For example, most mini and medium Labradoodles typically reach their full adult weight by the age of 12 months. Yet some standard Labradoodles may take two to three years to reach their full adult weight. A 3 month old Labradoodle may have already reached 50 to 90 percent of their full adult height. Mini and medium size Labradoodles will be closer to the 90 percent mark while standard Labradoodle puppies will be closer to the 50 percent mark at 3 months old. The Double Up size formula One way to guesstimate how much growing your 3 month old Labradoodle has left to do is to use the double up formula. Then multiply that number by two and add 10 more pounds. Take that number and multiply it by four to get an approximate adult weight. Size formulas for mini and medium Labradoodles If your 3 month old Labradoodle is a mini, take their weight at six weeks and multiply that by four to get their adult weight. And if your puppy is from a medium size breed line, take their weight at 14 weeks and multiply that by 2. Feeding a 3 Month Old Labradoodle Labradoodle puppies typically eat three times each day at least until the age of six months. For standard size Labradoodle puppies in particular, over-feeding can lead to too-fast growth which puts pressure on the bones, joints and ligaments. On the other hand, mini Labradoodles may need as many as four daily feedings until they are able to eat a sufficient amount at each meal to maintain stable blood sugar between meals. If you choose to feed your Labradoodle puppy dry kibble, you can refer to the guidance on the package to map out a daily puppy feeding schedule. This is why your 3 month old Labradoodle puppy needs daily training starting the first day they come home with you. There are the major skills your Labradoodle puppy will need to learn at the three month mark. The first skill is bite inhibition. Your puppy will be losing their baby teeth and growing in their adult teeth. You definitely want your Labradoodle to know what they can chew and what they cannot chew and to learn the command for drop it or leave it. Your second skill is recall. The third skill is part of the ongoing process of socialization. By exposing your Labradoodle puppy to lots of different people, animals and situations, you have a far greater chance of raising a calm, confident, friendly adult dog. Your fourth major skill a Labradoodle needs to begin mastering is leash and walk obedience. You should introduce commands like heel and sit and stay at this point. Grooming a 3 Month Old Labradoodle Your 3 month old Labradoodle puppy is still wearing their puppy coat and will be for some time yet to come. But that also makes this the right time to get your puppy accustomed to basic grooming, including brushing, combing and bathing. Have the groomer give your puppy a basic brush and trim. Use the puppy brush once a day or every other day to get your puppy used to being brushed. This is primarily because of teething. It can be very hard to stay patient with a puppy intent on chewing on anything and everything to relieve their discomfort! So take care to supervise your Labradoodle puppy around young kids including your own and other vulnerable family pets. This short period will pass and you can pass the time instilling appropriate obedience and socialization skills in your little pup. More About Labradoodle Puppies. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. Our puppy growth chart and calculator has your answer! Size is largely determined by genetics. Size is inherited in non-linear ways in dogs and other animals. Some puppies stay much smaller than both parents, some become much bigger, and some are in the middle. While size is already hard to predict in purebred dogs, it becomes even more erratic when two breeds are crossed such as in any Doodle mix litter. Labradors are large dogs. They can have a heavy build with deep chests and a wide rib cage. Poodles on the other hand are rather dainty, even though they are tall. Especially in the first generation of a Labradoodle litter that means a generation whose parents are a purebred Poodle and a purebred Labrador , there will be a greater variation of size. The smallest and the tallest puppy of the litter might be as much as 20 pounds apart in weight! That being said, most Labradoodles weigh somewhere between 45 and 65 pounds and are inches tall. Because they are a mixed breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club and have no breed standard that requires a certain size. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? As a large dog breed, Labradoodles grow past their first birthday. The smaller a dog, the sooner he is finished growing. Some very small breeds can stop growing around months. Since the Labradoodle is tall, expect him to continue growing until about months of age. At 12 months, most tall dogs are lanky teenagers! By the time your Labradoodle is 2 years old, he will definitely be done growing. How big is a 6 month old Labradoodle? At 6 months old, your Labradoodle will weigh about pounds. He is definitely not fully grown yet — expect him to become quite a bit taller and heavier in the coming months. As your Labradoodle puppy is growing up, his coat will become longer and thicker as well! Make sure you bathe and brush him regularly. Trimming his coat regularly with a good set of clippers will be very important as well! Ensuring healthy growth Here is what you can do to set your Labradoodle up for a healthy growth and solid adult weight: Nutrition and feeding Without the right nutrition, your pup cannot grow well. You need to feed your Labradoodle a high-quality food with a lot of protein. Protein is what our bodies are built of — your growing pup needs a lot in order to grow tall and strong. You can choose from a variety of different foods, such as: Dry food. As we can see from the Australian Labradoodle size chart above, these Doodles come in three main size categories — Mini, Medium, and Standard. The smallest of the bunch is the Mini Australian Labradoodle. The Minis weigh around 15 to 30 pounds and stand about 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. The largest are the Standard Australian Labradoodles who weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and stand about 21 to 24 inches tall. The Medium Australian Labradoodle fits right between the Minis and Standard Australian Labradoodles, with a weight of 30 to 50 pounds, and a height of 17 to 20 inches. F1 vs F1b vs F2b Australian Labradoodle If you know a little bit about Doodles, you know that their generation can play a key role in determining their size. For example, Labradoodles have only Labrador Retriever and Poodle genes. They can be either F1, F1b, F2, F3, and so on. In contrast, the Australian Labradoodles are F5 or higher, and can have a total of up to six breeds in their lineage. As a result, the Australian Labradoodle generations are a lot more complicated. This usually translates to their first 6 months of life. After that, their growth will slow down, until it plateaus at their full adult weight roughly around 1 to 1. By their first birthday, the Australian Labradoodle has most likely reached their full adult height. But we can typically expect them to continue gaining some more weight and girth over the upcoming months. Generally, smaller dogs reach their full size earlier than larger pups. Between .Medium Australian Labradoodles typically reach half their adult weight between 3. They will then plateau at their full adult weight around 11 to 13 months old. Similarly, they will then plateau at their full adult weight between 11 and 13 months of age. However, Minis might reach their full adult size slightly earlier than the Medium Australian Labradoodles. Mini Australian Labradoodles weigh about 15 to 30 pounds and stand 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Medium Australian Labradoodles weigh about 30 to 50 pounds with a height of 17 to 20 inches. The Standard Labradoodle, the largest of them, weighs between 50 and 70 pounds and stands 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. For example, a high quality diet is crucial for proper growth, development, and overall health. Make sure to check out our guides on the best dog food for Doodle puppies , and learn exactly how much you should feed your dog to keep them healthy and happy. They get along well with children and other pets, and love to please their humans more than anything. Hopefully we managed to answer all of your questions about the Australian Labradoodle size and growth patterns so you can be fully-prepared for a long and happy life with this beautiful, fluffy creature. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like.

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. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Breeds The link has been copied! Are you looking for a new four-legged addition to your family? The blue English Bulldog is an adorable and unique breed of canine companion that will appeal to pet lovers everywhere. The blue English Bulldog stands out from many other breeds. They have distinct traits that make them unique and endearing to so many. In this blog post, we'll explore why owning a blue English Bulldog breed can be such an incredible experience, from their chill personality and cheerful disposition to their loving nature and ability to stick by your side through thick or thin. Read on if you're interested in discovering more about this eye-catching pup. A blue English Bulldog is one of the unique and striking hues among the breed. They have a shimmery, silvery-gray coat that stands out from other colors in the Bulldog family. It can appear almost black at first glance but has a subtle icy sheen that's unmistakable. Blue English Bulldogs tend to have light eyes and blue noses, adding to their eye-catching appearance. Though the coat color is rare, this makes the blue English Bulldog even more desirable to pet owners. They are often referred to as "blue fawns" due to their distinct coloring. English Bulldogs are known for their unique coat colors, especially when it comes to the 'blue' variety. This results in a lightening of the coat, which in turn gives it a distinct bluish-gray tint. The coloring is also not just limited to blue, as it can range from a pale steel gray right through to a deeper grayish-black color depending on the intensity of the mutation. They typically have short, smooth coats with a white or fawn undercoat. Their faces are round and flat, with long wrinkles on the forehead, and a short, wide muzzle. The ears are small and folded over their heads. Bulldogs' tails are also short and thickly coated. They have strong legs that end in feet that are slightly turned outwards, giving them a distinctive look. When walking or running, their strong bodies move in a smooth, rolling way that is unmistakably "Bulldog" in nature. These Bulldogs typically stand 12 to 16 inches tall. An athletic build, a broad chest, and short legs give them a solid appearance. While compact, blue English Bulldogs are surprisingly strong and powerful in terms of strength and agility. They also have very determined personalities, which can sometimes come off as stubbornness if not properly trained or given enough attention. This blood sport involved tying a bull to a stake, while several Bulldogs would fight against it in an attempt to subdue it, all while spectators bet on who would win. After the blood sport was outlawed in , these Bulldogs were bred primarily as companion animals and show dogs. Some historians believe that bulldogs were also used to hunt boar and guard livestock at one point. A fascinating feature about blue English Bulldogs is that they are actually black dogs whose coat color has been diluted through generations of breeding. A blue English Bulldog is a medium-sized breed of dog. They have a solid, weighty build. Their broad chest, muscular body and short legs give them a powerful, stocky appearance. Although they are not fluffy fur dogs, their short coats often appear thick and heavy due to their dense muscle mass. While they may not be the biggest breed of dog out there, they are certainly larger than toy breeds and possess impressive strength for their size. When fully grown, they can reach heights of up to 16 inches at the shoulder. Their weight depends on their size, but on average a male blue English Bulldog will weigh around pounds while females will weigh slightly less at pounds. They are eager to please their owners and families, and tend to form strong bonds with them quickly. Their sweet, docile nature makes them great companions for those who want a laid-back pet that is content to snuggle up on the couch. Despite their appearance of having low energy levels, they enjoy being active and will love going out for regular walks and playing in the yard with their family members. This breed is intelligent and alert, making them an excellent watchdog too. They can be stubborn at times but respond readily when given consistent training. As with all breeds, socialization from a young age is key to ensuring the blue English Bulldog grows up to be a well-rounded adult dog. Yes, the blue English Bulldog is a great family dog. They are loyal, friendly, and affectionate companions that make excellent playmates for children and other pets. Because of their mellow nature, they don't require as much exercise as other dog breeds , making them an ideal pet for busy families or those living in urban areas. The blue English Bulldog's intelligence and gentle nature make them easy to train and can even be taught simple tricks. Their loving personality makes them great guardians as well. All in all, the blue English Bulldog is an ideal pet for families looking for a faithful companion who will give plenty of love and devotion in return. Blue English Bulldog Health Risks With any breed of dog, there are certain health risks that owners should be aware of before bringing one into their home. Here we will discuss the various blue English Bulldog health issues associated with these Bulldogs specifically. Brachycephalic airway syndrome is one of the most common blue English bulldog health risks. This is a condition caused by the shortened skull typically found in brachycephalic breeds, like the Bulldog and Pug. Dogs can experience difficulty breathing due to an obstruction in their nasal passages or throat, and this can lead to major respiratory problems such as snoring, gagging, coughing, and even difficulty eating or drinking water. Another big risk for blue English Bulldogs is overheating. This breed has a thick coat that can make it difficult for them to cool down during hot summer months, leading to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke if left outside for too long without access to shade or water. It's important to keep your dog indoors during extremely hot days and provide them with plenty of water at all times in order to prevent overheating. Blue English bulldogs also have a predisposition towards skin problems such as allergies , hot spots, eczema, dry skin, etc. Additionally, this breed is prone to Degenerative myelopathy DM , commonly described as degenerative spine disease, which can cause pain and immobility over time if not addressed properly through diet and exercise modification from a young age. Other potential health risks include eye problems cherry eye, dry eye , hip dysplasia, head shakes, thyroid and heart disease which can both be screened for prior to adoption , cancer, and joint and ligament injuries. While some of these conditions may sound scary at first glance, many of them are preventable or manageable when caught early on with proper care and monitoring from an experienced veterinarian. Being aware of the various health risks associated with blue English Bulldogs is essential in order for owners to provide their pets with the best possible blue English Bulldog care throughout their lifetime. Blue English Bulldog Exercise Requirements Blue English Bulldogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, but they should avoid strenuous exercises. Brisk walking, light jogging, and playing fetch are great ways to give them the exercise they need while keeping them calm. Bulldog owners must also be aware of the breed's limited endurance; Bulldogs become quickly agitated and can overheat easily. For this reason, it is important to keep their exercise sessions short and controlled. Feeding your Bulldog quality food in small amounts throughout the day will help keep energy levels regulated for a more enjoyable exercise routine. A slicker brush and comb should be used to brush the coat at least once or twice a week, with added brushing during seasonal shedding periods. Bathing Once a month to every six to eight weeks is sufficient for bathing a blue English Bulldog. This should include washing the skin folds on its body and face to keep them clean and dry, as food, dirt, or moisture can get trapped in these areas and lead to irritation or infection. Regular checks of these areas are essential. It's also important not to over-bathe your Bulldog, as this may result in skin irritation or damage the coat and increase the chance of skin allergies appearing. When choosing a shampoo for your dog, look for one that is specifically designed for sensitive dog skin. If you prefer, you can take your Bulldog to the groomer for a haircut, nail clipping, or ear cleaning, three to four times a year every three months. Ear Care To ensure a blue English Bulldog's ears remain clean and healthy, they should be cleaned weekly with a cotton ball soaked in a cleansing agent designed specifically for dog ears. It is important to only use a cleanser that has been recommended by a veterinarian, as some products may irritate the skin or cause further infection. When cleaning, it is important to be gentle; it is best to never insert anything deeper than the first knuckle on your finger into the ear canal. If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical advice right away. Oral Hygiene To maintain oral hygiene, brushing your dog's teeth at least three to four times a week is a must. Using an enzymatic toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs, as well as a soft-bristled toothbrush and finger brush, will help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of the teeth. Also, adding dental treats such as chew bones can help massage the gums and remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas in between teeth. It is clear that not all kennel clubs recognize the blue English Bulldog. This means that if an individual wishes to register their blue English Bulldog with a kennel club, they must find one that will acknowledge it as a legitimate breed. There is a possibility that they can be registered with the American Kennel Club and other kennel clubs as a Bulldog. But, unfortunately, this lack of recognition from some of the world's most prominent kennel clubs means that blue English Bulldogs cannot compete in major dog shows or other competitions. Are Blue English Bulldogs Rare? Yes, blue English Bulldogs are indeed very rare. Although there are other rare Bulldog colors in the breed, such as black, chocolate, and lilac, blue is considered to be the most unique and sought-after color of Bulldog. This rarity makes blue English Bulldog puppies more expensive than their counterparts with more common coat colors. In fact, they are so rare that some breeders may not even have access to this type of bulldog at all. Despite this, it does not stop many people from trying to get their hands on a blue English Bulldog pup. The rarest English Bulldog color is known as the merle coat. This unique and distinctive coat color features a pattern of dark brown or black mottled markings on the fur. The merle gene is recessive, meaning that both parents need to possess the gene for puppies to be born with this coloration. As such, breeding for a merle-colored bulldog can be quite difficult and takes time, which explains why it is so rare. Merles are also more prone to health issues because of the associated recessive genetic traits, making them even more scarce in the bulldog world. However, those who do own a merle-colored English Bulldog often consider them highly prized possessions due to their uniqueness. Final Thoughts The blue English bulldog is an amazing pet for families, singles and seniors alike. Their blue English Bulldog characteristics, combined with their adorable looks, make them one of the cutest and most popular companion pets out there. With a decent exercise regime, good nutrition and regular vet visits, these dogs can easily become lifelong members of any family. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Usually, they have a white base with light and dark gray markings. Often, there are also patches of tan and black on their coat. The shades make them appear to have dusky-looking fur. Note that fawn, a light tan or yellow color, may have many different shades, ranging from a pale tan to a deep deer-red. Specifically, brindle stripings are visible on the top of the head and the chest or back area. Usually, these appear to be blue and fawn stripes with various white markings. Blue-grey English Bulldog The blue-grey English Bulldog has a dilute bluish-gray coat, from dark grey to light grey. Their coat usually goes with white or tan color around the face and the chest. These dogs made their first appearance in the United States in the s. They may have patterns including brindle and solid colors white, fawn, red, or black , with or without white markings. A full-grown blue English Bulldog ranges from 12 to 25 inches in height and can weigh around 40 to 50 pounds. They are generally short, compact which adds to their whole appeal. Their size makes them suitable for small living spaces such as apartments, considering they do not need a lot of room to move around. Unlike large dog breeds, their average size makes them less intimidating and easier to manage. Like other breeds, a blue English Bulldog is expected to be fully grown at around one year. Most likely, you can expect your new furry friend to reach its final weight and height after one year and up to 18 months. In most dogs, a blue-colored coat is due to a recessive gene known as the dilution gene. Different color variation in English Bulldogs occurs as genes modify eumelanin to create other colors, including blue grey. For blue English Bulldogs, the genetic locations or Loci is called D for dilution. It is responsible for diluted pigment that lightens coats from black or brown to gray, blue, or very pale brown. The d-d genotype makes up the blue English Bulldog variations: blue brindle, blue fawn, blue with tan points, blue sable fawn, etc. Hence, d-d is a dilution that affects black pigment and black-colored hairs. Are Blue English Bulldogs Rare? Yes, blue English Bulldogs are extremely rare. Typically, you will pay a premium for one because of its uniqueness. Blue Bulldogs are considered one of the rarest colors in the breed, alongside black, chocolate, and lilac. Only a few blue English Bulldogs exist in the world. They are notably tricky to breed to a great degree, making them more costly than standard Bullies. If you find a blue Bulldog pup, ensure that it is a purebred English Bulldog with proper AKC documentation before making a purchase. It would also be best if you affirm that the breeder is reliable and knowledgeable. Most blue English Bulldog puppies do not entirely change color as they grow. When Bulldogs grow, the shade of their coat may change, making them look darker or lighter, but their color usually stays the same. For instance, when blue Bulldog puppies are born, they may look black at first. The coat color may fade over time until they take on a blue or grey coat in their adult years. Different types of lighting may also play an important role in how your Bulldogs appear to the naked eye. Hence, their color can certainly look different in specific lightings. However, the skin and coat of your dog may sometimes change later in life, becoming lighter or darker. It may be due to several reasons such as their nutrition, infectious diseases, cancer, inherited health conditions, bruises, or ear or saliva staining. The different causes of a pigment change in your blue English Bulldog pup may vary. It is better to contact your vet for a diagnostic assessment. However, many kennel clubs do not recognize rare colored Bullies such as the blue English Bulldog. In particular, the American Kennel Club AKC is yet to acknowledge this color along with some other non-standard varieties like merle, lilac, or chocolate. Thanks to their sweet and gentle disposition, the blue English Bulldog makes for a brilliant family pet. Rest assured, their rare coloration does not affect their general temperament in any way. They also have the well-loved sweet disposition of the English Bulldog breed. Some female Bullies tend to display maternal instincts with kids and toddlers around. Hence, they will watch over them and become protective. However, some may act aggressively toward other dogs and cats. Prospective owners must prepare for possible animal aggression. With Strangers: These dogs are typically shy and timid around strangers, especially if not trained to socialize at a young age. If you want your blue English Bulldog to act well around other people, expose them early towards new presences. Before you adopt or buy a blue English Bulldog puppy, get to know the dog so you can assess its overall disposition. It will help you figure out whether the puppy fits your lifestyle or not. The average lifespan of blue English Bulldogs ranges from about 6 to 8 years. They were once considered very healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10 years, but their expected dog years changed over the years of breeding. Due to inadequate and improper breeding practices, some blue Bullies may develop genetic health problems. An initial sign to look out for is the gradual onset of a dry and dull hair coat. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: This pathological condition affects short-nosed dogs such as the blue English Bulldog, leading to severe respiratory distress. Some telling signs include Dyspnea or difficulty breathing, stress and heat intolerance during exercise, and collapse. Severe Skin Problems: Your blue English Bulldog may be prone to several skin allergies, hot spots, eczema, and dry skin. The breed is known to be at risk of severe skin infections or recurrence of disease within skin folds. Degenerative Spine Disease: This progressive disease of the spinal cord targets older blue English Bulldogs between 8 and 14 years old. It starts with a lack of balance Ataxia in the hind limbs, causing the affected dog to wobble, knuckle down, or drag his feet while walking. Eye Problems: This condition includes cherry eyes, dry eyes, and more. Eye and eyelid problems are common in blue English Bulldogs, which presents with redness, discharge, and frequent rubbing due to pain. Hip Dysplasia: This common orthopedic condition in blue English Bulldogs results from a malformed hip joint. Thyroid and Heart Disease: Hypothyroidism occurs when your blue English Bulldog is not secreting enough thyroid hormones. This condition is also linked to seizures, heart and blood vessel problems, and infertility. Ensuring your blue English Bulldog has a proper diet, adequate exercise, and treatment are essential in preventing these health problems. Remember that Bulldogs quickly overheat and have breathing problems in hot weather. Hence, never leave your blue Bulldog out in the sun unattended or without access to shade and water. Photo from bigsbythebully IG Blue Bulldog puppies are so rare and hard to produce, which makes them very expensive. The price depends on their coat type, color, and generation. For those wondering if blue puppies are more expensive than other Bulldog colors, the answer is yes. It is quite cheaper than the price range of blue Bulldog puppies. It is going to be very rare to see a blue English Bulldog in any rescue center. Your only chance of owning one of these expensive and rare breeds is by looking for a reputable breeder. Moreover, the high and life-long expenses only start when you bring home these adorable blue English Bulldog puppies. Photo from Adoist Blue is the second rarest color in the English bulldog breed, next to black. Because it is out of the ordinary, there are pet enthusiasts who prefer to have dogs in this color. Some are even willing to pay thousands of dollars just to have an English bulldog puppy with a rare coat color like blue. While blue is such a stunning color, there are controversies in breeding dogs with this type of coat. Ticking, white streaks, and a black mask are also some of the markings allowed for this breed. Here are the descriptions of the standard colors for English bulldogs: Fawn — this is also called the red fawn and it comes with a soft glow. Many pet parents are confused with this coat color because it comes in many shades. Fawn is a lighter shade of brown and dogs with this coloring typically have a melanistic mask. Red — it usually comes with white, but the red color is more dominant. You will be able to see the white spots on some areas of the face and also on the legs. Aside from red and white, English bulldogs also come in a solid red coat and omit the white shade. Piebald — bulldogs with piebald coat usually have well-defined color patches. The color should be pure, otherwise, it will be considered as a defective color. It is also preferred that the patches are distributed in a well-proportioned manner for a dog to be considered a piebald. White — these bulldogs have a purely white appearance from their nose all the way down to the tail. However, it is possible to see white bulldogs with freckles on the chest area or on the muzzle. White should not be mistaken for albino, which may also occur in English bulldogs. True albinos have pinkish hues around their eyes and also exhibit pink noses and blue eyes. A real white dog, on the other hand, should have ticking or flecks of color. Brindle — these patterns, which look like tiger stripes may also appear in various shades, although the often seen one is the red brindle which is the most preferred color of bulldogs as per breed standard. The base is a dark shade while the stripes normally appear in black, making the pattern more visible. Some dogs may even have more of this pattern and only minimal amounts of other colors, like white. This is referred to as reverse brindle. Other than the ones mentioned above, it is also possible to see dogs in other colors like black and chocolate. However, these colors are not desired as per the breed standard. Solid black bulldogs are objectionable. Dogs with undesirable features are not acknowledged in the show ring. They may be eligible for registration in the AKC and various kennel clubs but they cannot compete in dog shows. Color is one of the factors people consider when buying a pup. Previous studies suggest that chocolate-colored dogs have a shorter lifespan compared to black or yellow colored dogs. It does not naturally occur among this breed. Blue occurs due to the presence of the dilute gene. The dilute gene is the reason why black gets a lighter appearance. It also alters the black pigment in the nose and lips with blue color. In , bulldogs with rare colors have become a hot topic. There were people who believe these dogs do not possess the same quality as dogs with standard color. There were even opinions that these designer dogs are a result of bad breeding. Not all breeders of blue English bulldogs are in it just for the money. Some have years of experience and they are doing it out of their passion for English bulldogs. However, the breeders of blue English bulldogs defend that color is the only thing that sets these dogs apart from those with generally accepted coloring. In reality, breeding is all about trial and error. Just because a dog is from a champion bloodline does not mean it will automatically produce a perfectly healthy litter. DNA tests can confirm if a bulldog is carrying the dilute gene. A true blue English bulldog should have a slate gray appearance. Appearance A blue English bulldog looks like a typical English bulldog with its stocky body, wrinkly face, large head and drooping cheeks. But unlike the usual colors we see with the breed, these dogs exhibit an exotic appearance. These dogs are known for their gray coat and not really the blue shade most people think of. Blue English bulldogs have a shiny coat. When put against the sun, their coat appears to be gray. When you rub the hair backward, you will able to see that the second layer of their coat has a fawn coloring. But in rare instances, it is possible to come across Blue English bulldogs with a maroon undertone. These dogs are carrying the seal gene. It is a larger dog created to be a guard dog for families. Alapaha Blue Bloods normally appear in white color but often come with different amounts of red, black, and brown. Blue English bulldogs look gray instead of blue for which they are known for. Health It is no secret that English bulldogs are among the unhealthiest breeds. Regardless of the coat color you are planning to choose, these dogs face serious health problems and this is the reason why they also have a short lifespan. Many of them live an average of 10 years but some dogs were not able to survive that long because they go through a number of health problems. Their flat face makes them more prone to major respiratory problems. Second, their stocky and heavy body makes them more prone to hip dysplasia. Other than these, blue English bulldogs may face some of the other conditions common to the breed, like severe skin allergy, joint and ligament injuries, as well as overheating. Price The cost of buying a blue English bulldog will depend on a number of factors including your location, the years of experience of your prospect breeder, and the supply and demand for these dogs. Apparently, a breeder may charge a higher price for each pup if there is a high demand for English bulldogs in your area but there are only a few breeders. Puppies should already have their first vet visit, complete de-worming, and vaccinations appropriate for their age. It is actually just a diluted shade of black, which happens to be one of the fad colorings for the English bulldog breed. The dog may be eligible for registration in canine associations but it may not enjoy all the perks currently given to those with the standard coloring. This means the dog cannot join conformation shows since the coat color is not recognized as per breed standard. Other than these, there is nothing more to worry about having a blue English bulldog. Their health and temperament are not far from those with standard colors.

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. Or, if you'd like to attend our events join our Meetup group where you can stay up to date on all of our events it's free -- no strings! CEBR is the oldest and most experienced non-profit c3 english bully rescue organization. You can feel confident that your donations are put to appropriate use and they are also tax deductible to the extent of the law. In addition we are a licensed shelter with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. We know you are excited about the thought of getting a bully. But before you make this decision, we ask that you have done the following: Spoken with all members of your household and come to mutual agreement. Discussed the new addition with your home owner's association or landlord if applicable. Experienced the breed yourself. If you do not currently have a bully family member, we ask that you attend one of our CEBR events before applying. Double check our Adoption Area Map to be sure you are within our adoption radius. Bullies are not an inexpensive breed and having a solid savings account that has an emergency fund is essential. Rescue bullies are also not a way to get a "cheap bully. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Chicago IL? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Chicago IL? Keep in mind that in order to breed Bulldogs Chicago, artificial inseminations and C-sections must occur. This raises their prices against other breeds. However, every breeder and business sells them at a different price! What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Chicago? What is the screening process for Bulldog breeders? We constantly have Bulldog breeders Chicago, businesses and companies selling Bulldog puppies in Chicago applying to be part of our network, however less than a tenth of them make it on board. Why is Uptown Puppies such a great Bulldog puppy-finder website? Start today! What is a Chicago puppy mill like? There are too many puppy mills in existence selling Bulldog puppies for sale Chicago today unfortunately. Chicago Bulldogs for sale growing up in puppy mills experience terrible treatment and conditions which, unfortunately, have a long-term effect on their behavior and health as they grow older in life. Are there any Bulldog puppies currently that I can buy? Just take a look on our site, find the Bulldog that catches your eye, and connect with its breeder, business or company. Get ready to meet your new best friend! Bulldogs for sale in Chicago have their origins in England where they were bred to drive cattle, and take part in a terrible, bloody sport involving bulls. Today their ferocity has been bred out of them, creating very friendly, social animals that are really sweet to be around - and a bit lazy! Their wrinkled up faces make them extra cute! What size is a Bulldog? Are they friendly? Bulldogs in Chicago were bred to have low bodies with broad shoulders and legs that are thick. This mix makes the Chicago Bulldog for sale medium-sized dogs. They have great temperaments , are very friendly, and love being part of families. What makes a Bulldog, a Bulldog? The Bulldog for sale Chicago is a well-loved dog by most dog-lovers in the world. They can be lazy, although some are famous for riding skateboards this is true! Which celebrities own Bulldogs? Celebrities have joined the bandwagon and also love the Bulldog for sale in Chicago.

This comes at no extra cost to you. At three months of age, Golden Retriever puppies get a little more confident, mischievous, and, of course, bigger! As a puppy parent, you might have lots of questions about your three-month-old Golden. Is this normal? Am I handling this the right way? Should I be doing something differently? At three months old, a puppy is feeling more settled in their new home. They are experts at identifying patterns and routines, and are understanding how things work around the house. You may notice increased confidence and curiosity around the house, as exploration can be fun for sixteen-week-old Golden Retrievers. This confidence boost may also come with more antics, like shredding the toilet paper in the bathroom and pulling down your nice throw pillows to wrestle with. You might observe that your three-month-old puppy has more energy than they did last month, as well. At this age, they also have better control of their bodies and are more coordinated, as opposed to when they were a two-month-old puppy. You may notice that they are running faster, jumping higher, and tackling obstacles like stairs. At three months old, a pup is still in the critical socialization window. What your puppy learns and experiences between three and sixteen weeks of age helps set a precedent for the rest of their life. Providing them with positive educational experiences with the sights, sounds, and experiences they will encounter as an adult dog is extremely important during this time. Avoid scary and stressful experiences with a three-month-old Golden Retriever puppy , as those can leave lasting negative associations resulting in a fearful or anxious dog. Remember that a pup at this age is still so young and needs lots of patient guidance as they grow into their adult self. Three-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy Size Most three-month-old Goldens will weigh between 15 and 35 pounds, but each puppy is a unique individual so there could be some that fall outside that range. Female puppies tend to be smaller than males, but there are exceptions to that rule. They will be growing a lot this month, so you may notice those legs getting longer by the day! Their cute little snout may also get a little longer as they develop. Golden Retrievers can have a variety of builds and sizes, so your vet can help you make sure that your puppy is at an appropriate weight if you have any concerns. With all that growing comes the need for a lot of sleep. Sixteen-week-old Golden Retrievers need about 18 hours of sleep a day. As much as possible, let your puppy sleep as much as they choose. At this age, they may not always be the best at settling themselves down for a nap even though they really need rest. Sometimes puppies can get overly tired and become super wild and bitey — puppy tornado mode! This is when your puppy needs you to step in and help them get the sleep they need. Utilizing a crate or pen is super helpful for this as it limits their options and promotes settling in for a nap. Set up the crate or pen so it has a comfy place for them to snooze. You can also offer them something like a bully stick or a stuffed kong to work on while they drift off to sleep. Many three-month-old puppies do well when the crate is covered, which cuts down on visual stimulation. You can also drape an old bed sheet over the panels of a pen to give the same effect. If your puppy struggles to settle, you can sit near their crate or pen, as your presence is a comfort to them. If you notice your pup curling up for a nap, you can pick them up and put them in their pen or crate. Behavior issues like excessive chewing , biting , barking and just general hyperactivity can come from lack of sleep. Ensuring that your puppy gets enough uninterrupted sleep is very important for their physical, mental, and behavioral wellbeing. If you got your puppy when they were two months of age, you may now notice that your three-month-old Golden seems to have more energy. With all that puppy energy, you might think that you need to wear your puppy out with exercise. While puppies certainly do need exercise, be careful not to overdo it. Exercise should be guided by the puppy. That means letting them set the pace and duration of exercise. Three-month-old Golden Retrievers do not yet have the physical and mental stamina for structured exercise like long leashed walks. Instead, short, easygoing walks are great at this stage. Think of walks more as adventures! Instead of trying to walk a certain route or distance, set an amount of time for the walk. Ten to twenty minutes is probably sufficient at this age. Free play is also a great outlet for exercise for three-month-old Golden Retrievers. Indoor playtime with toys is also a fun way for active pups to burn some of that puppy energy. Avoid long games of fetch, as the repetitive nature of the game can be hard on their growing bodies. Finally, getting your puppy out in nature is a great way to get them some exercise while also providing lots of mental stimulation. Historically, Golden Retrievers were bred to spend a lot of time outdoors in the fields with their owners. Our modern-day Goldens still absolutely adore getting outside in nature, and puppies are no exception. I recommend putting your puppy on a well-fitting, non-restrictive harness , and a fifteen or twenty feet biothane long line. This longer leash allows your puppy to explore more freely and makes pulling the leash less likely. Keep these outings short, and let your puppy take breaks as needed. It sounds a bit silly, but it can be easy to forget that a puppy is not a human! Keeping this in mind helps you stay patient as you teach your new best friend the ways of the world. One of the most important things for a puppy to learn is how to be alone. Even if you work from home, you have to run errands, hang out with friends and family, and go to doctor appointments. Using a crate or pen, or gating off a small space, is invaluable, as leaving a three-month-old Golden Retriever loose in your house would likely be a disaster! This e-book walks you through all the steps to teach your puppy how to be comfortable with confinement and being left home alone. Potty training will also be an ongoing process, so keep at it with your puppy this month. Just a few minutes every day is enough to start building some great skills with your puppy. You may also notice that some days your puppy has more energy, and on other days they are more relaxed. With their growing bodies comes a bigger appetite! Most three-month-old Golden Retrievers eat about two cups of food a day, split over three meals. As always, each puppy is a unique individual and so some puppies may eat more or less than that amount each day. Some days your puppy may eat all their food, and some days they may leave a little in the bowl, though Goldens are known to be chowhounds so your puppy might scarf down each and every meal. It can be really fun for both you and your puppy to feed meals in more creative ways. There are lots of toys available that make mealtime more mentally and physically enriching. You have to feed your puppy, so why not burn some puppy energy in the process! Here are some favorites:. Share 0 Shares At three months old, Golden Retriever puppies have experienced a lot of the world and their surroundings, which makes them more confident and can make them little rascals. By now, three-month-old puppies should be acquainted with their new homes, having been there for several weeks. Parents of these rambunctious, quickly-developing puppies are full of concerns. Training a 3-month-old Golden Retriever Feeding a 3-month-old Golden Retriever How to curb 3-month-old Golden Retriever biting Owning and caring for a week-old puppy is so rewarding, but taking care of the needs of these babies constantly can be a lot to deal with. Golden puppies at this age have become acquainted with their home. Unfortunately, that confidence borders on cockiness, and your sweet little puppy will sometimes seem like an agent of chaos and mischief. Your puppy will also be more vocal during this time period and bark more often. This is your puppy experimenting with its voice and learning about its capabilities. Three- months- old also marks a very important milestone for socialization. The socialization skills they learn during this time will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Try to avoid exposing your three-month-old Golden Retriever puppy to scary situations. Just as scary events can leave lifelong impressions on children, they can traumatize your puppy, as well. This can result in giving your dog permanent fears, phobias, and anxiety. Three months is still quite young for any sort of baby, so you need to remember that your role is that of a parent and a nurturer. How big a 3-Month-Old Golden Retriever will get? How much should a three-month-old Golden Retriever weigh? A three-month-old Golden Retriever puppy will typically weigh somewhere between lbs. Each pup is different and their health and size will be as unique as they are! Three-month-old Golden Retriever puppies are typically around 10 — 20 inches tall. Of course, there are several varieties of Golden Retrievers and they all have different sizes and builds. Your Golden Retriever puppy will need somewhere around 18 hours of sleep a day. Some days your puppy will sleep more. Whatever the case, your pup needs the extra zzzs. If puppies get overly tired they get cranky and start getting wild and bitey. Chewing is comforting to them. Another great way to help your pup wind down and get to sleep is by covering their crate with a blanket. This shuts out light and other stimuli so the puppy can focus on sleep without getting distracted. Again, this is much like children. When you see your puppy laying down and getting comfortable, you should put them in their pen or crate so they can take a nap. A lot of behavioral issues and hyperactivity at this age stem from a lack of sleep, so you can save yourself a lot of trouble if you start working to ensure your pup gets enough sleep. Like most pet owners, you likely got your puppy when it was two months old. This month, your puppy has a lot more energy! Most Golden Retriever owners assume that since puppies have this excess energy they need to exercise to burn it off. Your puppy will be able to instinctively know how much exercise they need. When they want to stop, let them. Your puppy may plop down to rest in the middle of your walk. This is pretty normal at this age. Instead, give them a few minutes to rest and see if they catch a second wind and start walking again. You should set your walk not in terms of distance, but in terms of minutes. Your pup will likely be tired after 20 minutes of walking. Another form of exercise that three-month-old puppies love is free play. You can let your puppy have free play outside if you have a fenced-in yard. Whether you have a fenced-in yard or not, your puppy will benefit from indoor playtime, as well. Golden puppies love a good romp with their favorite toys! You can play fetch with your Golden. Get your puppy outside and let them play. Golden Retrievers love the outdoors! They were originally bred to be hunting and field dogs, and although they have a variety of purposes today, they still love the great outdoors. Your pup will enjoy playing around outside and going for short nature walks. If you choose a longer leash, your puppy can explore independently without the dangers of being unleashed. For more information about the exercise needs of golden retrievers, check out our article about how much exercise golden retrievers need. How to Train a 3-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy Training is an important part of raising any puppy and ensuring they grow into a well-mannered adult. You need to train your puppy to be comfortable with being alone early on. You can teach your puppy to be okay with being alone by using a crate or gates. Golden Retrievers are easily trained with positive reinforcement and treats! For more information about puppy training, check out our article about golden retriever puppy training. In general, you should feed a three-month-old Golden Retriever puppy around 2 cups of puppy food per day spread out over the course of three meals. Again, there are no set- in- stone rules for how much to feed a three-month-old Golden Retriever. Some will eat more than others, and some will eat less. For this reason, you can give your puppies toys with food in them to slow them down a bit and give them a bit of mental stimulation during the process. You can put some puppy food on a towel or blanket, then roll it up and let your puppy find their food. You can also toss some kibble on the ground outside and let your pup follow their nose to their food. When it rolls, the kibble will come out of the hole. Using toys while feeding your puppy can help with their insane energy levels, too! Biting Puppies will bite, chew and nip. Biting and chewing are just how puppies play. The problem is that they have little needle-sharp teeth that hurt! But you need to stay calm so that you can teach them to stop. Instead, give them a toy to chew on. Another thing that helps is setting up a baby gate. When they bite and play too rough, you can put them on one side of the gate and yourself on the other side. Just let them stay in there long enough to calm down. When you do this, stay calm. Some people worry that puppies biting during this stage indicates aggression, but three-month-old Golden Retriever puppies rarely exhibit aggression this early on. One toy suggestion for puppies that are biting is a flirt pole toy. This is a stick with a toy attached with a string that you can pull around on the ground or floor. The puppy can burn off some energy chasing the toy, and then bite and chew on the toy once they catch it. Move the toy away from the puppy, and the second they drop the toy start moving it again. Excessive play and exercise can damage their developing joints and muscles. Conclusion Three-month-old Golden Retriever puppies are so much fun! During this month you should be doing lots of training, socialization, and bonding with your fur baby. With the right amount of nurturing and support, your puppy will grow into a well-behaved, emotionally- mature adult in no time! Check out our other posts about the development of Golden Retriever puppies:. At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! The puppies were doing great as their eyes were wide open, they were sobering up the drunk man waddle was becoming more stable , and a few other major landmarks. Yep, I heard the first real bark from one of the pups. First Bark? From children to adults to seniors our pups got to meet and greet many a visitor. Puppies are becoming active! They are finally starting to interact with each other in a playful manner! Every step in their journey seems monumental and the first signs of playing together is no different. Week 3 marked the time when puppies started looking and acting like puppies. A couple of other notes from week 3: Our Golden pups are becoming little fur balls as their coats grow in. Mom still cleans up most of their messes and keeps their whelping box fairly clean. Although from day 1 we regularly change out the whelping mat. Alright, guys and gals if anyone else out there has ever raised a litter of puppies tell us about your experiences during week 3. Were your puppies hitting all of the same milestones as this Golden litter? Tell us your story in the comment section below. Check out our other Golden Retriever puppy growth week-by-week blog posts: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — This is Week 3! Week 4 — Little guys are starting to eat solid foods. Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. FYI, Weeks were some of my favorite weeks. Raven still takes care of a lot of the messy puppy stuff while we got to play with little 3 lb fur balls! Is your Golden about to have a litter of puppies? Check out Puppy Culture Bundle to get you started. Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Our litter of Golden Retriever puppies — Week Three. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Articles Goldendoodles are easily one of the most charming doodles on the planet. The lamb cut is one of the most popular styles that will give your pooch a sweet look. There are plenty more Goldendoodle haircuts to choose from, and we got them all for you. Plus, we added some pictures to give you a visual idea of each style and determine which one would look great on your little dood. Then, keep the rest of the length long enough to taper off nicely toward the tip. Clean Face Cut Image from Instagram: britneyrmackgrooming Goldendoodles naturally have thick and wavy facial hair when you let it grow out. So, if you like less hair in that area, a clean face cut works well. You can also combine this with other haircuts you want for your pooch. Bell Bottom cut Image from Instagram: priscilla. The bell bottom cut is just as the term suggests — long, flared fur on the bottom of the legs. To emphasize the bell bottom shape, the upper portion of the legs is cut shorter. Full Shave Image from Instagram: 2kingstonwithlove The full shave is a much shorter version of the kennel cut. The name is not quite appealing, yet it is suitable for dogs that get bad tangles and mats over time. So, if you want to put an end to coat clumping and nasty mat issues, the full shave should be a quick fix. Not only does it let your pooch start a brand new hairstyle once the coat grows back but the full shave is also suitable for the hot and humid weather. The rounded face requires trimming the fur on the head and face at the same length. The Clipped Ears style is great to flaunt those gorgeous floppy ears and keep them nice and neat. For this cut, you will need a clipper comb or blade to trim the ear hair shorter. When all done, this style makes the ears more visible instead of being covered in thick fur. Medium-Length Cut Image from Instagram: stewie. With a medium-length cut, this gives you more styling options for your pooch. The clean feet cut is particularly appealing when combined with shorter Goldendoodle haircuts such as the teddy bear or lamb cut. Give your pooch a clean feet look by completely having the hair around this area. You can also include even the ankle, so it exposes the entire feet and nails. This is a classic look for Poodles, as well as Doodles. Full Ears Image from Instagram: gouda. You can choose not to clip it at all and keep the natural length. But you can also add some variations to the full ears by adding layers, cutting it bluntly or with a rounded edge. Pom Poms Image from Instagram: britneyrmackgrooming Pom poms are a fun look for Goldendoodles, which makes them look like purebred Poodles. You can create the pom pom style by adding some rounded balls right above the clean, shaven feet. Then, you trim the leg hair short to emphasize those cute pom poms. Think of the plume tail cut as a variation of the flag tail, which is a creative style for your pooch. Simply let the hair grow out even up to the base, and this will eventually billow out beautifully. To create the round feet look, simply scissor neatly the fur on the feet. This will make the feet appear fluffy and round, which is exactly what you are shooting for. Be sure that the nails remain concealed in all that fur. Pom Tail Image from Instagram: little. You can even combine this look with the pom pom haircut, Poodle cut, or any other short to medium-length Goldendoodle haircut. You will need to shave the base of the tail for this look. Then, shape the tail into a ball, which will then resemble a pom pom. You want to trim it neatly and with a round shape to blend well into the body and neck. This is an adorable cut that keeps the head nice and fluffy. Then, you can pair it with a clean face and add in some of those colorful clips to finish off the look. Beveled Feet Image from Instagram: kingsleythedoood Another haircut for the feet, the beveled feet gives your pup a neat and tidy appearance. You only need to maintain the hair length on the feet long enough. This way, it will match the length of the leg hair. Then, the feet are kept fluffy and rounded — no nails exposed at all. As you can see in the image above, this cut makes your pooch resemble a lion. The hair on the head and chest are kept long while the body hair is short. Poodle Cut Image from Instagram: lifeofmilliemaedoodle Since your pooch is half Golden Retriever and half Poodle, you might as well try out this charming style for your pet. The poodle cut is all about keeping the hair at varying lengths in different areas. The belly and face are short, while the top of the head, tail, and ears are kept longer, somewhere between 2 to 4 inches. Lastly, the feet hair remains long to complement this style. Mohawk Image from Instagram: leon. Leave the hair long at the top of the head, around 2 to 4 inches. Then, the rest of the body hair is cut short to about an inch. Brush the head hair up until it sticks out… Like a mohawk. Others even put some natural hair dye on the mohawk to emphasize it further. The hair all over the body and head are kept short up to 2 inches. The face is clean while the ears are short. Instead of trimming the leg hair short, you should keep it long to about 4 inches. The goal is to make your pooch look like a lamb — short body hair and long leg hair. The ears are also short and the face is clean. Yes, Goldendoodles can be prone to mats and tangles, so it is best to keep their coat under control. As to when they should get their first haircut, it should be at around six months of age or once the coat is replaced by wavy, adult fur. Why Does My Goldendoodle Stink? Goldendoodles either are in need of a bath or suffer from an allergy that results in excessive oil secretion from their skin, both of which produce an odor as time passes. They need to be bathed once a month to keep them clean and neat. Otherwise, they may develop some skin problems, which can cause them to stink. A shiny coat is a sign of good health and healthy grooming practices. It also helps to use a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner designed for your pooch to keep the fur soft, smooth, and shiny. Some even say that it never stops growing, just like a Poodle. And similarly to human hair, fresh haircuts will keep their coats healthy and maintained. All of this is especially important if you or anyone in your home is allergic to pet dander. As a very important side note: a Doodle being picked up from the groomer sometimes gives us a shock, especially if they were completely shaven down without our consent. Typically, Poodles get a clean face and clean feet and the topknot is rounded with scissors. However, there are many different styles of trims for a Poodle. The listed cuts below are those that first originated for Poodles. By the way, different groomers will have different ideas of how the following types of haircuts should be. Basically, if any of the pictures linked on this page represent what you want your Doodle to look like, be sure to show it to your groomer! This is Part 1 in a 2-part series of posts on types of Doodle haircuts. This post focuses on overall body styles, while Part 2 focuses on the variations of styles for the head, face, ears, legs, feet, and tail using specific grooming terminology. Doodle Puppy Cut The puppy cut is a standard, trimmed style that looks great and cute on many breeds of fluffy dogs, including Doodles. The coat is typically clipped with a longer blade or clipper guard, or scissored to create a fluffy look. Most often, a puppy cut is when a dog is cut to an even length all over the entire body, including the head, ears, and tail. The head, face, ears, and tail can all be cut to a different length than the body if requested. The facial hair is cut in rounded, fringed layers. This style of cut is ideal because it helps to minimize matting , tangles, and allergens. Photo used with permission. Credit: zucca. Credit: miasgroomroom Photo used with permission. Just be sure to clearly communicate what you want to your groomer. Instagram Photo Link. What is a Goldendoodle? Known for their teddy bear-like appearance and loving personalities, Goldendoodles are a popular crossbreed. As a result of their hypoallergenic, non-shedding coats, Poodle mix breeds became very popular in the s. Labradoodles were one of the first Poodle crosses that became popular, developed in by an Australian breeder who needed a dog suitable for blind people suffering from allergies. Since that, many other breeds of Doodles have been developed to follow the success of the Australian Labradoodle, including the Schnoodle , Bernedoodle , and Sheepadoodle. And, of course, the Goldendoodle. The Different Coat Lengths The coat length of this breed will primarily depend on what generation cross your dog is. The most common types of Goldendoodle include F1 and F1B dogs. A F1B Goldendoodle dog resting during the long walk On the other hand, F1B Goldendoodle generation dogs are backcrosses, meaning they have one purebred parent and one crossbreed. This means that they likely contain more Poodle genetics and will have the shorter, non-shedding, curly coat of this breed. What are the Most Popular Goldendoodle Cuts? Goldendoodle haircuts are available in various designs to fit a wide range of personalities, lifestyles, and budgets. Pet owners enjoy experimenting with new hairstyles for their dogs to make them look even more adorable. See which Goldendoodle haircut is right for you and your pet by exploring the choices below. With this hairstyle, your dog will have rounded features, such as rounded ears, rounded cheeks, and even rounded paws. This gives your pet a super cuddly, fluffy appearance. The coat with this haircut is typically 0. You also need to brush your pet daily and take him to the groomer monthly to maintain his adorable look. This is also the type of cut you may attempt yourself. But for others, this haircut is specifically designed to make your dog look like a puppy. For others still, the puppy haircut simply refers to the first cut your dog gets and is more of a trim, bathe, blow-dry, and brush just to get your dog used to the grooming experience. Like a typical Poodle cut, this version features short hair on the face and body with fluffy legs and a fluffy tail. This haircut does require quite a bit of maintenance but is a chic, classic style that looks great on curly dogs. That is why this cut is also known as the Summer Cut. With this haircut, the coat is cut short all over but has a little extra length on top and around the tail. This is perfect for very active dogs and requires little maintenance. The kennel cut is quite popular among Standard Poodles and is also favored by Goldendoodle owners. The lamb cut features a smooth, rounded style free of corners or sharp edges. Dogs of other breeds may also have this style. This haircut is meant to make your dog look like a lion with shaved legs, shoulders, and tail but with a fluffy head, chest and stomach. This is a very high maintenance style that takes a lot of skill to achieve and daily brushing to maintain. As the name suggests, the mohawk cut leaves your pet with a fluffy mohawk that typically runs the entire length of the back, starting from the top of their head. The rest of their coat would be cut short in the kennel cut mentioned above. You can have a lot of fun with the length and thickness of the mohawk part of this cut. And some daring pet owners even decide to die the mohawk some bright colors to make their pet stand out from the crowd. Dino Cut Source: doodledoods. The thick coat of the Golden Poodle mix allows for some unique shaping, and with this style, your groomer would almost shave your dog in the kennel cut while keeping small blocks of hair down their back to look like Stegosaurus. This is not an exceptionally stylish cut but may be necessary for various reasons. These could include sending your dog in for a big operation, getting rid of extreme mats, or helping your dog survive the sweltering summer heat. With this haircut, you have the option to style your pooch when you want or leave it shaggy and natural to show off those gorgeous golden locks. Other Haircut Ideas for Your Golden Retriever-Poodle Mix When looking at your Goldendoodle, you may opt for a haircut that emphasizes one of its particularly adorable features. This haircut includes trimming the hair on the face and ears to the same length all around, giving your dog a very rounded appearance. This style is often paired with the teddy bear cut. To create this style, you would trim the hair around the face shorter, leaving a fluffy part on the head to look like your dog has a top knot. You can even add colorful clips or a hairband to style the look. This will help keep their hair under control and prevent any tangles or mats from forming. Here the top of the legs is trimmed short while the bottom features long flared hair. While this look can look amazing, it is pretty difficult to maintain, particularly if your dog loves swimming or running in the mud. The nails should stay concealed. Pom Poms Harking back to their Poodle heritage, pom poms look very cute on Goldendoodles. Pom poms are best added on the tail or the ankles, with the rest of the leg and the feet clean-shaven. With this look, the length of the hair on the feet should exactly match the length of hair on the leg. The ends of the feed should be rounded while hiding the nails. With this look, the hair is cut short all around the feet, including the ankle and the nails. This is a classic look that is often combined with the puppy or lamb cut. You can then brush it to create a beautiful plume. Trimming your dog short on the rest of his body will help to emphasize his beautiful tail. To achieve this cut, you need to keep the base of the tail trimmed short and the rest of the tail hair long, tapering it to the tip. Frequently Asked Questions Source: suwaneeanimalhospital. The first step would be to uncover the eyes using blunt-tipped scissors. You need to trim the hair around in a triangular shape carefully. Here you can have fun playing with the shape. Finally, you will want to trip the ears, snipping off any extra hair from the bottom of the ears, being extra careful not to cut the ears themselves. To see if the ears match, you can pull both ears gently towards the nose to check their length. Is it okay to shave a Goldendoodle? You may have to shave your Golden Retriever-Poodle mix occasionally, especially if you live somewhere warm or if you have to deal with mats and tangles. When should a Doodle puppy get its first haircut? When your Goldendoodle puppy is about 16 weeks or four months old, this is a good time to take him for his first haircut. That said, you can introduce your puppy to the grooming process before this through bathes and regular brushing. How much does it cost to groom this breed? As Goldendoodles are typically quite large dogs, they usually cost towards the higher end of the scale. Rather than going to the parlor, you can also find a mobile or home-grooming service that comes to you, although these are usually more expensive. Those who neglect their pets will end up with a Goldendoodle with a corded or matted coat, which can be painful as well as uncomfortable. Once matts and cords begin to develop, they can be very hard to remove, and you may need to shave your dog to get rid of them. You may want to initially give him some treats during brushing, so he sees the experience as a positive one. How can I find the best Goldendoodle groomer in my area? Good groomers do not groom too many dogs at a time or use medications to keep the dogs still. Which Goldendoodle Haircut is the Best? Goldendoodle haircuts are a fun way to express the personality of both yourself and your pooch. That said, the common teddy bear cut will also make your Goldendoodle even more adorable. Ultimately the choices are pretty endless! Dog lovers, how do you cut your Goldendoodle? Let us know in the comments below. Raised by a bundle of botanists, researchers, and biologists, she is passionate about things related to the animal kingdom, including, our furry friends. However, as a terrible allergy sufferer, she is limited in her pet selection and so has grown up surrounded by curly-haired Poodles. Leave a Comment. Aug 2, Share Are you a proud owner of a Goldendoodle? One of the things that makes a Goldendoodle so magnificent is their unique curly coats. There are many different styles out there that will fit your Goldendoodle and give them a personality all of their own. Goldendoodles have thick, dense coats which can be a total drag in the hot summer months. But their coats are going to be significantly shorter than normal. However, there are some huge advantages to this trim other than heat considerations. Most dogs look good with a puppy cut; however, the fluffy nature of their coats brings out their charm in this do. Like the kennel cut, this hairstyle is of uniform length all over their body. It also helps give your pup a youthful appearance no matter their age. Instead of uniformly trimming their face, the area around their snoot is a bit longer against the backdrop of the rest of their face. This gives them a unique, playful look. The puppy cut does have some added benefits besides just making your pooch cute as a button. The short length helps them to prevent mattes and tangles. However, it leaves enough hair to prevent them from completely freezing out when it gets colder. They are half-Poodle, after all! Poodle cuts can often come without warning as well. Even though you may have a specific hairstyle in mind, your groomer may think otherwise. With a Goldendoodle, mattes can run relatively deep due to their thick curly fur. This keeps your dog happy and mat-free without ruining their experience at the groomers. And with a Poodle cut, your pup will generally receive a clean low-cut face, back, belly, and sides. But the tops of their head, ears, tail, and legs can normally maintain a thicker, fluffy appearance as that where less matting will occur. While many Goldendoodle owners love the Poodle cut, others are less enthused by it. This particular hairstyling tends to make your dog look much older and elegant. Their legs are left a little longer and shaped for a puffier, rounder look. And while the lamb cut comes in at our most radical clip so far, the next style takes things to a whole new level. Lion Cut The lion cut is one of those Goldendoodle haircut styles that can set your dog apart from the rest. Normally given to smaller dogs such as the Pomeranian, the lion cut does exactly what it sounds like—makes your pooch look like a lion! This is done by recreating the shaggy mane of a lion and its signature pom tail. You can also customize the lion cut with specific details. It gives them a bit more body and the illusion of a more muscular stature. This style is achieved by giving your pup a kennel cut but leaving a fluffy mohawk that runs down their back starting from the top knot. You can have it run the width of their topknot; however, a common tactic is to shave the sides down and make it just a tad narrower. Is it going to end near their shoulder blades? Or go down their back a bit? The most fun part about a mohawk cut is the colors that you can choose to dye it! Sure, you can go without, and keep it their natural color. Dino Cut This is easily the most ridiculous Goldendoodle haircut styles on our list. The coat of the Goldendoodle seems almost too perfect for unique stylings such as this. Their dense coats allow for bold cuts and shaping. Just be careful when finding a stylist to do this type of cut. The full shave is exactly what it sounds like. From tip to tail, your Goldendoodle will be completely stripped of their coat. By giving your pup a full shave, you can remove all of those nasty mats and other coat clumps. This allows you to start anew and style as you see fit in the future. This can also be a summer option for those who live in extreme heat or tropical climates. Conclusion: Goldendoodle Haircuts Not all of the Goldendoodle haircut styles found on this list are meant for every dog. However, you know your dog better than anyone else. How to Select the Right Goldendoodle Haircut? Today in this post, we have gathered up some of the best Goldendoodle haircuts of .You can either try to give a cut to your pet by yourself or take them to professional groomers. So keep reading till the end to know more about how to give a stunning makeover to your puppy through various Golden doodle haircuts! Goldendoodles are also considered hypoallergenic dogs. Select the haircut that looks best on your Goldendoodle and make them cute. However, the haircut should not only make your pup adorable and cute to look at but also keep their hair away from the eyes. Below is the list of some of the best Goldendoodle Haircut ideas you can give your pup: 1. The groomer will leave the hair around the head rounded and trim the ears short and feathered. This gives your dog a true teddy bear-like appearance. Goldendoodle Poodle Cut The parent of the Goldendoodle, Poodle, is also well known for its unique haircuts and hairstyles. You can take some inspiration from there and give a similar cut to your puppy. In this cut, the hair around the face and feet is clipped clean, and the hair on the head is trimmed to the rounded shape of a poodle top knot. Ears and tail hairs are kept long to create a unique pom-pom look. This look is perfect for owners who want their pets to look stylish with some poodle flair. No worries, give your furry friend a medium-length cut! This haircut is not common among Goldendoodle dogs as many consider it not ideal, but still, we see many dogs with this cut. Yes, as its name suggests, this cut will magically transform your little pup into a cute dinosaur. As Goldendoodles have a thick coat, it gives you the option to go with unique shaping like this cut. No worries, the perfect cut for you is the Kennel cut! According to many groomers, this haircut is among one of the most manageable mini Goldendoodle haircuts. But the same cut on the body and head will not give your canine friend much uniqueness and personality, but it is super easy to manage and clean. It is also perfect for hot and humid weather like summer as it will keep your dog cool. This part should be trimmed neatly and cut in a way that its shape remains in its place. You can get this cut with a clean face, making your dog look fluffy and toy-like. Goldendoodle Clean Face Cut Do you feel that the facial hair comes in between and irritates your pup whenever your pooch tries to eat, drink, or play? If yes, give a clean face cut to your dog! Goldendoodles have thick and wavy facial hair, so they can easily bother your pup. In this cut, the hair on the cheeks, muzzle, and face is trimmed and cut short to about an inch in length. You can simply go to any groomers and ask them to give your pooch a lion cut. First, groomers will trim all the hair all over the body, legs, and tail. The parts like the neck and brisket have long hairs similar to a lion. The hair on the forehead and muzzle will be kept short. The tail will also be shaved completely except for the bottom part. Take a look at the above image for reference. Goldendoodle Lamb Cut This haircut was first famous in the Poodles, but many other doodle breeds later accepted this. Many people feel that this cut looks better on Goldendoodle than on Poodles. If you are looking for a stylish and adventurous cut for your dog, this is the ultimate Golden doodle haircut! Easy to maintain and will give your pooch a cute teddy bear appearance, this haircut is easy to do. So, how to give a Goldendoodle a Lamb cut? How to groom a Goldendoodle? To get this cut, first, give your dog a teddy bear cut which mostly goes on the face, neck, and torso around 1-inch in length. However, instead of trimming the top of the head and around the legs, leave the hair a bit longer around. There are numerous types and variations of Goldendoodle lamb cut. For example, some people trim the body and tail and leave the hair on the ears and legs. Goldendoodle Mohawk Cut Get this gorgeous and stylish haircut to your doodle as if he is going to join a band! In this haircut, the hair is kept a bit longer down the middle, from the top of their head to the end of their tails. This haircut for Goldendoodles is more on the fun and creative side. It is easy to clean and maintain, and your dog will also look like a rockstar. Goldendoodle Full Shave As we have already mentioned, the kennel cut, this cut is actually a short version of it. From the name, it may appear a bit weird, but it is great for dogs that get bad tangles and mats over time. So if you and your dog are facing a lot of issues because of its matted and tangled mat, the full shave is the perfect solution. This will give your pup a brand new hairstyle but is also great for hot climates. Goldendoodle Round Face Cut Round face cuts are perfect for Goldendoodles as they have small and cute faces. And this haircut will emphasize these features even more. This Goldendoodle haircut has trimmed hair on the face and ears in a similar length. This gives a fuller and rounder appearance. You can also pair this up with other Goldendoodle cuts like teddy bear cuts. The bell bottom cut will make your dog look like he is wearing the bell bottoms. In this cut, the top part of the legs is trimmed quite short, and the bottom part is left with full-grown and flared hairs. This Goldendoodle cut looks great, but it is challenging to maintain. Are you looking for Goldendoodle haircuts that emphasize the adorable features of your pooch? By Lindsay Tigar Lindsay Tigar is a freelance lifestyle and travel journalist. She's also the proud mom of her sweet cockapoo 'dogaughter', Charli, who loves digging in the sand, chasing balls and squirrels , and snuggling up on the couch. This golden retriever and poodle mix is playful, friendly, and intelligent. These dogs have an adorable appearance to match their lovable personality and can be recognized instantly because of their curly coat. His thick, luscious locks make it possible to try countless goldendoodle haircuts! When we think of goldendoodles, we often imagine a gold, curly-haired cutie. However, goldendoodles' coats can be curly, wavy, or straight and appear in an array of colors including brown, cream, red, black, or white. A goldendoodle's parents are going to impact the pup's coat. For example, a F1 goldendoodle with one pure bred poodle parent and one pure bred golden retriever parent could be more of a surprise when it comes to coat texture. Goldendoodles that are 75 percent poodle and 25 percent golden retriever, also known as F1B goldendoodles, tend to inherit that curly poodle coat we're used to associating with this mixed breed. Courtesy of lifeof. Their coats are typically low-allergen compared to other dog breeds in that their hair doesn't shed much. However, all dogs still produce some dander, so allergy sufferers should talk with their doctor before setting their sights on adopting a goldendoodle for that reason alone. Teddy Bear Cut Get your doodle a teddy bear cut and watch him break the cuteness scale. Deemed the most popular goldendoodle style by Danna Alexander, professional groomer and owner of Prestige Dog Grooming School , the teddy bear cut gives your dog cuddly, rounded features. It is accomplished by cutting "rounded ears, rounded facial features, and a soft, fluffy look with rounded paws and a polished overall finish," Alexander tells Daily Paws. The teddy bear cut can range from 0. An experienced dog groomer may use a fully hand-scissored technique for this cut that would offer longer options anywhere from 3—6 inches. While this cut is precious, Alexander mentions it is "very high maintenance" and requires a lot of skill to execute. Summer Cut Looking for an easy, maintainable 'do for your goldendoodle? The summer cut is a great option to consider! The summer cut—or kennel cut—is a short, clippered hairstyle that is typically between a few millimeters up to about a quarter of an inch in length. Puppy Cut The puppy cut is a haristyle that has various meanings and interpretations. For some, it may mean cutting your dog's hair one length all over. However, these lengths can often differ among professional dog groomers, ranging between 0. And for others, a "puppy cut" may be defined as simply making your dog look like a puppy. For Alexander, the puppy cut refers to a puppy's first time grooming. This is where your young goldendoodle will be introduced to the new sounds and sensations of grooming, preparing them for a full haircut in the future. Lion Cut If your goldendoodle has an apricot or tan colored coat, this cut will surely turn heads! Characterized by a teddy bear style front end, a shaved rear end behind the ribs, and a pom-pom on the tip of the tail, the lion cut gives your sweet goldendoodle the appearance of a fierce lion. Alexander mentions the lion cut is a specialty style that requires medium maintenance and should be completed by an experienced groomer. Lamb Cut No matter if your goldendoodle's fleece is white as snow, the lamb cut is an adorable style for all goldendoodles alike. With a lamb cut, groomers leave the length on the legs longer than the length on the body. This cut can be however long or short you prefer. Alexander says that more maintenance is needed the longer the cut, which means your goldendoodle will need to be groomed more frequently. Goldendoodles have beautiful, diverse coats that require consistent grooming so they can look and feel their best. Very long specialty styles, however, could even require weekly grooming appointments! With the right routines, grooming products , and resources, you can easily maintain your goldendoodle's hair at home! Alexander recommends brushing your curly-coated canine every day to prevent uncomfortable mats and knots. She also suggests feeding a high-quality food brand and using professional pet shampoos and conditioners when bathing your dog to keep the coat hydrated and healthy. When in doubt, choose a simple haircut for your precious goldendoodle to cut back on at-home maintenance. Was this page helpful?

They have been a Labrador Retriever state for over 20 years, with numerous Labrador Retrievers setting up in the state every year. And who can blame them? The Labrador Retriever is an awesome dog that is perfect for the family due to its calm and gentle temperament. Its high intelligence, outgoing personality, and energetic nature make it a great work dog, service dog, and hunting dog. When adopting a Labrador Retriever, helps to know the credibility of your breeder, as not all breeders are reputable. In this article, we help you make your search a little easier by recommending some of the best Labrador Retriever breeders in the state of Connecticut. These breeders care for the health of the Labrador Retriever and offer good quality Labrador Retriever puppies in Connecticut. So, get a glass of something chill and do ensure you read on to the end. Founded in , Barefoot Labradors of Killingworth are strong breeders of chocolate, black, and yellow Labrador Retrievers of superb quality. All their puppies possess a gentle temperament and high intelligence. They have a robust breeding program that allows the use of top-quality breeding lines into theirs. All their Labrador Retriever sires and dams are healthy, they possess gentle dispositions and are championed AKC dogs with a decorated pedigree to show it. The puppies are raised on a acre property in Killingworth Connecticut, where they get their name. It is a large landed property with a pond so the dogs get to swim in. They are well fed with high-quality food and sleep in temperature-regulated spaces. Each puppy enjoys a bio-sensor program or Early Neurological Stimulation from day 2. They are also exposed to various sounds like NPR and other stimulating experiences. All their puppies are microchipped and health checked by a vet. They come with a month health guarantee that frees them from genetic defects of the eye and hip or elbow dysplasia. They are also AKC registered and fully dewormed and vaccinated. Labrador Retriever Puppies For Sale! Raise them in Connecticut! Connecticut is certainly a perfect place to raise a labrador puppy. With the state having so many parks and recreational areas, as well as dog friendly common places, your young pup will surely grow to becoming a healthy, happy, and strong adult. Labrador colors! Labrador lovers also have the great liberty of choosing from 3 main different colors which one they like the most. The yellow labrador is often associated with guiding the blind, the black labrador with gundog work, and the chocolate labrador as pets at home or for dog shows. Ultimately however, it has been discovered that each of the different colors of the different labradors are able to excel in either of these known traits of above par performance. So perhaps it matters little. Labrador origins! Labradors bred for show are commonly known as English Labradors and are more common in the UK. Labradors bred for field trials and hunting are commonly known as American labradors and are more common in the USA. However, many American labradors enter dog shows and many English labradors compete in field trials and are used for hunting. The more important question to ask, is are you ready to be a labrador puppy owner? The Basic 6 Questions Have you got the space to raise a large dog? Even as puppies, labradors need quite a bit of space. Whether it is indoors or outdoors. For the space they need outdoors, it is pretty obvious. These puppies can run long and far and need to stretch those growing legs of theirs. Indoor space can be more of a challenge. Labrador puppies typically bounce off the walls and their long, thick tails tend to knock down decorations found on shelves as well as glasses and anything else it comes into contact with. You may have to move ornaments onto higher shelves and beware of their growing teeth. They may be small but they sure are sharp and can tear up delicate furniture as well as seats and other fabrics found around your house. Labradors also need to be potty trained and as puppies need bathroom breaks as often as every minutes. If you live in an apartment complex or building, doing this may be a challenge. Some dog owners are able to use doggie crates to help potty train them but these do take up quite a bit of space. Ideally, having a garden would be the best. It is a contained space in which your dog can not only run around but can also learn to use the bathroom. Just make sure that you have a good system for cleaning up after them. Do you have the time needed to love a dog? There are numerous sad stories that have come out of new puppy owners admitting that they are unable to balance their regular work lives with raising a puppy. Older dogs may be a bit more independent and less in need of your loving attention but puppies certainly require more of your time, patience, and love. In the end, a young dog should not be left alone for long periods of time and if this were to happen, one cannot expect the dog to behave as you would want him to. A healthy reminder is that dogs that are alone will make tons of noise and break things that he can get his teeth on. If you need to go out and work all day, it is best to have someone in the house with him to take him out for walks, bring him to the bathroom, play with him, train him not to break everything, teach him what he can and cannot bite, and give him water to drink and food to eat. These tasks may be a lot to ask of anyone, so be sure that who you leave these responsibilities with is someone who also loves your dog. Beyond the necessary early training of a puppy , there is also the long term commitment in training your dog to be able to co-exist in human society with being a complete nuisance to everyone around. This daily commitment and regular interaction is what will teach your dog to behave and ultimately be a good dog. Training a dog is not something that you need to do only weekends. If you try this, you will see that by the time the next weekend arrives, your dog would have forgotten everything you taught him the week before. Dogs do not have the attention span to concentrate for over an hour, this is why it is necessary to train him everyday, throughout the whole day. Besides all of this training, there is also the exercise your dog needs. Missing a day here and there will not be so bad, but making this an important habit is also what will keep your dog in tip top shape. What about your lifestyle? Buying a labrador puppy will also change your lifestyle, for the better of course! Also, if you are one who travels often and would have to leave your puppy at home, then perhaps it is not yet the right time for you to be a dog owner. Sleep ins on weekends may be harder to achieve as well, your dog is going to demand your attention and will need to be fed, and taken out to go to the bathroom, and played with. Will having this dog fit right in with your family? Think of your puppy as a human toddler. That is the sort of attention that they need. But if your kids are for example, over 5 years old and able to walk on their own, speak their thoughts, no longer need to be carried all the time, and are accepting that your pet dog has important needs too, then this might be a good age for them and the whole family will benefit from having this puppy around. Is a labrador really the right breed of dog for you? Labradors by nature are very playful dogs. They grow to a rather large size, eat a lot, but are also loving, intelligent, and loads of fun! If you want to have a Lab, call CT Breeder — .In addition to our selection of designer and purebred puppies for sale, we offer expert dog training, professional pet grooming and the best pet supplies, pet foods and pet products available at the low prices. Located in Killingworth, Connecticut , we have been providing exceptional puppies to families in the Northeast since .We breed for sound health and good temperament. We raise our puppies in a home environment and socialize them through frequent handling and play. From their third to 16th day, we give them a series of gentle neurological stimulation The Bio Sensor Program to improve cardio vascular performance, tolerance to stress and resistance to disease. We microchip all of our puppies to help in their return to you in the event they are lost or stolen. All of our pups are examined by a Vet at days and again at 6-weeks 1st immunization. They are sold with a limited AKC registration to help protect the breed from genetic faults. They come with a month Health Guarantee for hip and elbow dysplasia, and hereditary defects of the eyes. Luna and her pups Our litters are planned well in advance. Our puppies are sold to approved families that have been placed on our waiting lists. The puppies go home when they are 8 weeks old. Occasionally, we have older or retired labs to place to suitable homes. If you would like more information about upcoming litters, please email us at barefoot barefootlabpuppies. Sorry, but we cannot respond to text or phone call requests for information. Only email inquiries, please. Autumn and her litter. How to care for your new puppy Our new puppy owners might want to check out the "Caring for your new puppy" section on the left side bar. It has a lot of valuable information and tips for taking care of your pup. Also, information about Puppy Development may be of interest. Photos of recent puppies are featured below. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Nevertheless, you always want to select a Lab breeder that is reputable and responsible with all their dogs. To help you find a new addition for your home, we have put together this list of the six best Labrador Retriever puppy breeders in Connecticut. Just by taking a quick glance at their website, you can easily see how much these breeders love and respect their dogs. This club only accepts breeders that are in good standing and treat their dogs respectfully. It is the only club of its kind in the area. Their dogs are all championship grade. They only breed chocolate or black Labrador Retrievers. This is a great breeder if you want your Lab to be both a show dog and a house dog. Cross Bay Labs only breed black and chocolate puppies, and they only breed their dogs once or twice a year. All their puppies are registered, and they are diligent in ensuring that the puppies are placed in proper homes. All their adult Labs have obedience titles or are in the process of getting it. As a result, Tanzy Labrador puppies are intelligent, hardworking, and versatile. They consistently breed puppies so that you can more reliably purchase a puppy through this breeder. All puppies are registered with the AKC. In addition to breeding puppies, Woodland Kennel also offers obedience training, advanced obedience training , and even hunting dog training. They breed all three official colors, including black, chocolate, and yellow. More so, Barefoot Labradors does a great job of creating puppies with good temperaments. All of the puppies are raised inside a home environment so that they experience thorough socialization from a young age. They also provide examinations and microchips for safety and health. These efforts make the Barefoot Labs great pets. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. The Labrador Retriever is also the most popular purebred dog in America for the 21st straight year. More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs are better than popping pills or drinking elixers. Children with dogs for pets have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and fewer overall physical complaints than those without dogs. In fact, there are several diseases where dogs have been used to help those who have the disease. Two of these are: rheumatoid arthritis and emotional disturbance stemming from cases of severe abuse. Samuel B. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Stamford was known as Rippowam by the Native American inhabitants to the region, and the very first European settlers to the area also referred to it as such. The name was later changed to Stamford after a town in Lincolnshire, England. Stamford was home to a less famous witch trial than the well-known Salem witch trials, which also occurred in .The accusations were less fanatical and smaller-scale but also grew to prominence through gossip and hysterics. Starting in the late 19th century, New York residents built summer homes on the shoreline, and even back then there were some who moved to Stamford permanently and started commuting to Manhattan by train, although the practice became more popular later. Stamford incorporated as a city in .Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! Questions about Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Connecticut? We have answers. What affects Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Connecticut price? Do Labrador Retriever breeders in Connecticut ship puppies out of state? Labrador breeders and businesses in the Uptown network are total pros when it comes to shipping puppies, and can send your new best friend to your nearest major airport outside of Hawaii and Alaska. And yes, your pup will be flying up in the cabin, not crammed down in the baggage hold. How do you screen Labrador Retriever breeders Connecticut? What do we look for in a partner? Peek at our Breeder Pledge for more info! We created Uptown to give great breeders a place to shine—and to give families a fast, easy, and fun way to find their dream dog. What is a puppy mill? Why are some Labrador Retriever puppies for sale Connecticut so cheap? Puppy mills are almost like puppy factories, where profit is king and the welfare of your puppy is rarely a priority. Puppy mill dogs live short lives full of behavioral issues, health problems and more—not to mention the countless, costly vet visits. Luckily, there are NO puppy mills or unethical breeders in the Uptown network. Are there any chocolate Labrador Retriever breeders Connecticut? MatchMaker is our simple but powerful method of matching customers with breeders, businesses, and puppy litters that perfectly match your preferences and expectations from your ideal puppy. Businesses and breeders in the Uptown network love puppies just as much as you do—read over some of our glowing reviews and meet our Puppy Alumni to see the difference a little love can make.

Common bacterial causes of CIRDC include: Bordetella bronchiseptica Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus Mycoplasma spp CIRDC is spread through direct contact and is typically diagnosed by veterinarians after a dog's owner notices abrupt coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge. These symptoms often occur after a number of animals have shared a common space, like a pet care facility, for example. Treatment is determined by the severity of the disease i. Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases. The irritation they cause to nasal passages can cause runny noses in dogs. These mites can affect all kinds of dogs, regardless of breed, sex, or age. Apart from nasal discharge, other symptoms of nasal mites include nosebleeds, sneezing, impaired smell, itchiness around the face, labored or noisy breathing, and head shaking. Nasal aspergillosis in particular is a fungal infection that affects many animals, both domestic and wild. There are several species of Aspergillus known to trigger respiratory infections in animals. Oftentimes, the infection will be localized in the nasal cavity or sinuses of a dog, but in rare cases it may spread to the eyes and skull. Treatment of nasal aspergillosis typically involves the prescription of antifungal medication, which is administered either orally or nasally. Dogs have a magnificent sense of smell and regularly put their nose to work in exploring the world around them. This, in turn, can lead to nasal discharge in dogs, as well as general irritation and nosebleeds. If left untreated, the foreign object could lead to infection or worse. Nasal cancer A runny nose in a dog is one symptom of a nasal tumor. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, facial deformities, and neurologic abnormalities. To diagnose a nasal tumor, your vet may first order a CT scan to understand the scope of the condition. From there, they may conduct a tissue biopsy and extract tissue from around the nasal area. If nasal cancer is diagnosed, there are a few treatments that can be attempted. Definitive radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and stereotactic radiation therapy SRT may be employed to fight cancer. However, if the cancer has spread into the bones, life-saving treatment may not be possible. Instead of sweating throughout their body, dogs sweat on the pads of their feet and, sometimes, through their noses. Promptly reporting symptoms will help your vet determine an accurate diagnosis. An early diagnosis also means that treatment can start sooner, which enables your pup to get quick relief. At this point, your vet may order a range of tests to help facilitate an accurate diagnosis. For instance, a rhinoscopy, x-rays, or other lab work may be ordered to dig deeper and discover the root of the issue. Below, we explain some of the available treatment methods for the causes described earlier in the article. An allergy test or elimination diet trial may help to shed some light on the allergen affecting your dog. Infections In the case of infections, antibiotics are often needed to combat harmful bacteria. This object may not only be the reason your dog has a runny nose, but also can serve as a source of pain and irritation. Nasal cancer As we mentioned above, treatments such as radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and stereotactic radiation therapy SRT can be effective in battling nasal cancer in dogs. However, once cancer spreads to crucial areas such as the bones, little can be done to treat it. If the nasal discharge is clear, it may be a sign of a seasonal allergy or a reaction to the heat. However, if nasal discharge is discolored, bloody, or has pus in it, you should take your dog to the vet. When in doubt, schedule a consultation with your vet. What can you give a dog for a runny nose? If allergies are at fault, then allergy medicine may help soothe symptoms. If an infection is the root cause, then antibiotics may prove effective. In any case, always talk to your vet before administering medication to your dog. Final Notes A sense of smell is central to a dog—it allows them to perceive the world around them and better understand their environment. Beyond that, you may be worried that a runny nose is a sign of a more serious underlying health condition in your dog. While some serious ailments such as cancer are associated with runny noses in dogs, other causes tend to be more mild. If your dog has a runny nose, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Dutch is also the only pet telemedicine company that can facilitate the delivery of prescription medication right to your door. Get to the bottom of why your dog has a runny nose so that you can provide your pup with the treatment they deserve. Set up a consultation with Dutch today to access high-quality treatment and premium pet care, all from the comfort of your own home. Published on Nov 12, and updated at Apr 04, .If a viral infection is suspected, the history and examination may be enough for a diagnosis. However, your vet may ask to do a nasal swab cytology, which would involve using a swab to gently obtain some discharge to examine under a microscope. A rhinoscopy scope of inside of nose is also done to look deeper inside the nose to see if a biopsy is needed. If additional tests are needed, blood tests do not usually reveal the cause for nasal discharge. They may, however, show indications of other underlying systemic issues. X-rays or advanced imaging such as a CT scan may be required. Treatment For Runny Nose in Dogs Here are some ways you can help at home: Until your dog is seen by a vet, continue monitoring them for worsening signs. If your dog is not eating well, try warming up canned food so they can smell it better, making it more palatable. After your pet has a diagnosis, treatments will vary depending upon the underlying cause. Allergies If seasonal allergies are the offender, your veterinarian may offer supportive care or allergy medications, such as antihistamines or other prescription medications, to help ease the clinical signs. Cancer With any nasal tumor, your veterinarian will go through a series of diagnostics to determine the type of tumor, but also to determine if it has spread throughout the body. Once the tumor is staged identifying the class and level of tumor , your vet will determine an overall treatment plan. Cleft palate Because of the opening in the palate that leads to the nose, food and water can get into the nose and cause a multitude of problems. Almost all cases of cleft palate require surgery to correct the abnormality and to help prevent additional and potentially fatal medical issues, such as aspiration pneumonia or infection. Dental Issues If your vet suspects a dental issue, they will do dental X-rays to see the condition of the roots and bones. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics, pain medication, or extractions, then recommend a prescription diet. Infectious Treating the cause of an underlying infectious illness is entirely dependent on the infectious agent. In the case of kennel cough or pneumonia, if a bacterial infection is involved, antibiotics are sometimes prescribed. In the case of fungal and parasitic infections, antifungal and antiparasitic medications are prescribed by your veterinarian. Featured Image: iStock. I have been reading a lot of tips and info about Pugs and general dog care on the web. I understand that Pugs generally tend to suffer from colds more frequently, than the other dogs with normal snouts. I would really like to know if its a cause of concern and is it required to visit a vet every time my Pug shows symptoms of cold? She is otherwise very active and in good health. As an alternative I would like to know if there is a home remedy for such frequent colds and runny nose. Am I right that Pugs can get a lot of colds? Thanks for your answer. Answer: This is a very good and important Pug dog question, as one must keep a close eye on a Pug showing possible cold symptoms. Studies have shown that Pug dogs do not suffer from colds more often than other dog breeds. Why do people think they do? Because with the Pug the symptoms are stronger and more noticeable. When another breed gets a cold, they may have a bit of a runny nose. But when a Pug dog gets a cold, it is extremely noticeable. As you say, their snouts are different that most other dog breeds. There is often a lot of congestion and a lot of related noises such as even more snorting, wheezing and snoring than usual. Other conditions may mimic a cold - When a Pug shows cold symptoms quite often, this could actually be allergies. Dogs can suffer from allergies just as humans do. The symptoms can be the same as a cold. With canines, colds due to virus easily turn into infection and with the Pug being a brachycephalic breed with compacted nasal passages, this is even more common. Finally, there are other less common diseases and viruses that have cold-like symptoms including kennel cough and distemper. When should you bring her to the vet? While you don't want to bring your puppy or dog to the vet for every case of minor eye or nasal discharge, you will want to keep in mind some signs that do warrant further testing: Cold symptoms that last longer than 3 days. This includes runny nose, coughing, loud breathing and other Any worsening or additional signs including fever, not eating , not drinking, severe weakness, hacking severe cough Testing will be done to look for allergies or other sources of the cold-like symptoms and treatment will vary depending on the findings. Antihistamines are often given for these types of issues and antibiotics are needed for a wide array of infections including an ear, nose or throat infection that a Pug may have developed. More serious disease such as kennel cough and distemper will need to be ruled out. Regarding home remedies for dog colds: You may find some across the web, but please be careful. The Pug dog is extremely sensitive to what he ingests and we strongly suggest never experimenting with home remedies. You can do a few simple things that one would do for humans: Allow your Pug to rest a lot, encourage drinking fresh clean water and limit exercise until she is feeling better. Be sure to keep up with wiping any discharge from the face, including the eyes, snout and facial wrinkles. To sum it up: 1 Bring her to the vet to rule out allergies - Steps can be then taken to eliminate the trigger and treat the symptoms 2 If she is indeed suffering from common colds, there is no need to rush to the vet each time if it is only a matter of a slight runny nose or other minor issue 3 Bring her to the veterinarian if she is not better in 3 days or shows severe symptoms - she may need antibiotics PetPugDog. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Runny noses and sneezes abound for us humans, as new plants bloom in the fall. But did you know that your dog can have a runny nose too? Dog runny noses are more correctly called nasal discharge. It can run the gamut from clear and watery to thick and purulent. The appearance and frequency of nasal discharge in dogs can tell you much about the underlying cause. Could My Dog Have Allergies? In Short, Yes. A thin, watery discharge without color or odor is likely a sign of mild irritation in the nasal cavities. This can occur with seasonal allergies or other causes of inflammation within the nose such as an inhaled foreign object grass and seeds. In some cases, antihistamines will clear up the discharge without further incident. Dogs do sometimes respond to environmental allergens just as humans do—with red, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. More Serious Causes of Dog Runny Noses In cases where the discharge is thick, has odor, or discoloration with blood or pus, more serious causes are suspected. Any exposure to dogs otherwise? If both nostrils are involved, the causes are frequently different than if only one nostril. Both nostrils points to a more generalized cause while one nostril points to a localized source. If the discharge is clear, thin, and watery, your veterinarian may try antihistamines and monitoring at home for any other signs. If none develop, and your dog seems otherwise healthy, it may be normal for a small amount of discharge to occur. No further treatment may be needed. If the discharge continues or worsens, then more diagnostics are needed. In the case of unilateral discharge one nostril involved , the causes could include an inhaled foreign body such as grass or grass awns leading to rhinitis, a fungal infection, or a nasal tumor. Your veterinarian will likely try a course of antibiotics. If no response occurs, then the next step is generally a rhinoscopy. In this procedure, your dog will be anesthetized, a camera will be inserted into the nostril to look at the area, and samples will be taken for culture and biopsy. In some cases, a CT scan of the head is needed to make a definitive diagnosis. If both nostrils are involved, this points to a more generalized problem such as a viral or bacterial infection. Dogs are prone to both especially if they board at a kennel, visit the dog park, or go to grooming facilities. Canine influenza is becoming more common in the dog population. In this case, concurrent with the runny nose would be a fever, sneezing and coughing, lethargy, and often lack of appetite. Pneumonia is a possible side effect. Canine kennel cough , a common bacterial complex, can also cause a nasal discharge. This generally occurs when the disease progresses to pneumonia. Summary In the case of a dog with no other symptoms and some clear nasal discharge, a runny nose is not cause for immediate concern. It is when your pet develops other symptoms such as red, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, fever, lack of appetite, or lethargy that a trip to the veterinarian is warranted.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. Rachael Ray Nutrish is another brand I love for Labrador Retriever puppies as it is packed with DHA for healthy brain and eye development and specially formulated for young, growing dogs. You can also select different sizes and recipes. My favorite is chicken and brown rice. Bedding And Toys Lab puppies need quality bedding and toys for teething. Labrador puppies grow quickly and have sharp claws and teeth. Puppies also go through a teething phase and will need special teething toys to help soothe their sore mouths and help keep your furniture safe. As far as bedding, the best bedding for a Labrador puppy is going to be made of high quality material that is soft and plush while also being sturdy enough to keep them off the floor and support their growing bodies. KONG toys are wonderful tools to use during crate training , but they also help with separation anxiety , boredom, and the teething stage that all puppies go through. Enter the Nylabone Puppy Starter Pack. These flavored chew toys come both textured and regular to help get your pup and your furniture through the teething stage safely. Cuddly toys like the Smart PetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy above can help your new Labrador puppy adjust to sleeping on his own, assist in crate training, and may even help alleviate anxieties including noise phobias and separation anxiety. Puppy blankets are a must and can be used for multiple purposes in your home for your pup. My favorite puppy blankets are blankets that are specially made for dogs, like the Luciphia fleece blankets above. While you can use any blankets on hand, blankets that are specially made for dogs are usually a bit more durable, easier to wash, and have been made with quality and safe material for your pooch. Puppy blankets just make it easy to always a comfy place for your puppy to rest his head no matter where you are. Ultra Squeaker Ball is an absolute favorite in my house and with my clients. I especially love using this toy for puppies who are just getting the hang of playing fetch. For puppies, picking up on how to play fetch can be tough. Balls that squeak or make noise when thrown help to make the game more exciting and help encourage young pups to chase whatever is making that high pitched sound! Leashes, Harnesses, and Collars Collars, leashes, and harnesses are important tools to help socialize your puppy. Getting your puppy used to wearing a leash, harness, and collar is an important step towards socializing them. So even though your Labrador puppy will outgrow his harness and collar quickly, I still suggest investing in these items. Here are five of my favorite leash, harness, and collar products for Labrador Retriever puppies. As I mentioned above, puppies are especially fragile so steer clear of attaching a leash to their collar and try to help them adjust to wearing a harness that is comfortable. What I like about this harness is that it is adjustable so you can use it a bit longer as your puppy grows. Best of all it is the perfect length five feet for puppy training and is a leash your Lab puppy can take with him into adulthood. It is built like a standard leash, but it offers you control over how far away your puppy can get. This is excellent for puppy parents who live in busy neighborhoods or who are working with a puppy who likes to wander. Large breed puppies like Labrador Retrievers require crates that grow with them. This is why I love crates that come with dividers so that they can grow with your Lab puppy. I also recommend playpens, as Labrador puppies are notorious for being very active and energetic. Lab puppies are also incredibly curious and tend to chew a lot in their first few months, which is why indoor dog gates will also be an important part of puppy proofing your home. Take a look at some of my favorite puppy-proofing products below. Nobody likes cleaning up potty accidents. Of course, no one wants a big, bulky pen that takes up half of their home either! I also love that the pen is big enough for puppies to grow into and allows them to learn how to explore a space larger than their crate while keeping them and your home safe from their curiosity. And since crate training is such an important part of puppyhood and actually helps your puppy adjust to being alone and feeling secure, we recommend investing in a good, high quality crate you can use for years. It has two separate doors for entrance and exit and it comes with a divider so it can be adjusted to the size of your dog as he grows. Just remember to leave your pup inside his crate with a KONG and some bedding so he is comfortable, and remember that puppies who are younger than six months old should not stay in their crates for longer than four hours. For those of you who plan to leave your puppy out and about while you are gone and after he is trained, of course , then a crate that folds may be your best bet. The MidWest Foldable Dog Crate posted above is one such crate that is not only made well, but also stores well. Like most crates ideal for Labrador puppies, this crate also comes with a divider so it can grow with your dog. Along with crates and puppy playpens, you also might consider getting a gate to keep your puppy from entering places in your home that may pose a risk to him. Many of my clients keep gates up in their kitchen entryway, or gate their living rooms where puppies are tempted to chew on wood furniture. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate Sale Buy on Amazon For those of you worried about installing something or accidentally damaging walls or paint, there are always free-standing gate options, like the Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. I do like the way these gates look and the simplicity of them, however, they are not always the most secure and may not stand up to a strong and curious puppy. These gates are also not ideal for leaving puppies unsupervised as they can sometimes find ways to knock them down. Grooming your Labrador puppy early on not only helps to socialize him and prepare him for a life of vet visits, groomer visits, and physical contact with people, but it also helps to keep him clean and healthy. Like babies, puppies are more sensitive to certain products and require products that are specifically designed to be gentle on their sensitive skin and fur. Be selective of the shampoos, dog brushes , and other grooming products you pick for your Labrador puppy and make sure you always use high-quality products. Some of the products I recommend most for grooming a Labrador puppy are listed below. Pet Care Sciences Puppy Shampoo. Vet bedding fleece on a roll is ideal puppy bedding. You can line both his bed and his car crate with this. Buy several pieces so that you can pop one in the washing machine when it gets dirty or if he has an accident. There are lots of lovely beds you can get to go around the house, but in those first days veterinary bedding is an essential alternative to keep his crate cosy and clean. Puppy Toys For Labradors Puppy toys need to be sturdy. Many puppies destroy soft toys quite quickly though they are so adorable, you may not be able to resist buying one or two. Kongs and rope toys are very tough and seem to survive the onslaught of puppy teeth. A Radio If you intend your puppy to sleep alone in the kitchen from the first night, you may find it helpful to leave a radio next to his crate. Just a simple, cheap Portable Radio with the volume turned down low can serve the same role as some human company. It just helps him feel less along during those first few nights when he may be feeling very homesick. Puppy Harness There is no rush for this, but once your puppy is too heavy to carry, and going out and about on the ground, he needs some kind of safety restraint. These days I usually recommend a harness as they avoid pulling on the puppies neck. The kind where the lead attaches at the front and on the back are ideal. You can find an expert review of the big brands of harnesses, from a professional trainer here. When he is older and has learned to walk next to you, you can buy him a collar. To let your puppy know when he has done something you like. It is a really useful tool to help you teach your puppy to be quiet, and to learn simple skills. It will make training your puppy much quicker, easier and a lot more fun. Getting a recall to whistle established at an early age gets your puppy training off to a great start. I recommend the Acme Dog Whistle. There is plenty of information on the use and choice of dog whistles in this article: Should you buy a dog whistle .It will help to get you off to a great start with your new puppy. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? Lab Puppy proof the house. Things like dangerous chemicals, solvents, cleaning solutions, paint and other dangerous substances need to be secured. As well you will need to look at cords hanging and things falling on the puppy if they accidentally pull something down. Stairs need to be gated off until your puppy is older and learns how to walk down them without trying to jump off. Purchase a quality dog food. It never ceases to amaze me how some people end up feeding a low quality food to their dog, or something experimental like a vegan food, or even feed them a so called raw diet and not balance their nutrition requirements. The single biggest thing you can do for your dog is feed them a proven diet with nutrients delivered in the proper ratios. A second thing to consider is where your food is made and how you can be notified if there is a recall. At the time of writing this there is a popular food under recall for toxic levels of vitamin D. There have been numerous cases of deaths related to this and yet the company claims they independently test their ingredients. The food we recommend is such because we have years and years of experience over 13 years with it using it ourselves and recommending it to those who adopt our puppies. We have actually had so few health issues with our puppies and aging adults eating this food that we have increased our warranty to 4 years and include all major organs. Bottom line, feed a high quality proven food from the day you bring your puppy home, not necessarily one with the most protein. We will provide you with feeding suggestions once you place your reservation for a puppy and a proven puppy food to feed them. Visit the pet store for the required equipment. You are going to need a large dog crate with a divider so in the beginning your puppy will have just enough room to sleep. Crate training is the best way to protect your puppy while making them safe when unsupervised. As your dog grows you can remove the divider so it has room to lay down and not touch the walls. We stock the most popular toys and cover all the different types you will need so that you can get them when you pick up your puppy. They come with explanations of how the different types are used to both stimulate, calm and play with your puppy, how to cycle them, teething, and more. A stainless steel water and food bowl is also another good choice. I would wait on getting a collar so that you can fit them properly. We have inexpensive training leashes that adjust to any size for you to purchase when you are here. Have a family meeting to establish expectations. Every human in the home will need to follow the same rules consistently so that your puppy understands what is expected of them. Schedule an appointment with a good Veterinarian. Not all Veterinarians are of equal experience. We have heard some pretty crazy stories, so we suggest you get some referrals of some long term relationships of people you trust for a Vet. You should take your puppy to the vet a couple of days after you get home so it has time to get use to its new surroundings before being taken somewhere. Prepare fore the Drive Home 1. Your puppy can last about 2 or 3 hours without a potty break. We normally feed your puppy early in the morning on the day of pick up so that it has time to go potty before the drive home. Our recommendation is to give your puppy some water every 3 hours and then let them have a pee. This could also go along with letting them play or explore outside a bit. When you stop, find an unused grassy space to potty on. Arriving at home with your puppy 1. First quickly bring them to the spot you want them to potty. This is the beginning of your dog being house trained. They will likely have to go right after you get out of the car. So when you stop, give them a drink in the area you want them to relieve themselves in. Wait until they go and then you can take them into the home. Treat your puppy like a puppy. It is breakable and will be a puppy for about a year. Things like playing with larger dogs and such should be carefully supervised. Constant supervision. Your new puppy needs to be constantly supervised until they can be trusted and you know that they understand the rules. Constant supervision means either you or someone watching them, they are in their crate the crate is the supervisor , or that they are in a section of the home baby-gated off or also an outside run with a kennel and a cement floor so they cannot dig under the fence yes they will dig. After a potty bring your puppy to the room with their crate. Introducing them to their crate perhaps with a few pieces of kibble in it will show them where their safe space is. This is also where they need to be comfortable enough to self-calm and fall asleep. If you have another dog, first introduce them outside on neutral territory. Bringing a new puppy and simply coming straight into the home could have one of three effects. The first being that both dogs might be ok with it. Second is that the older dog has an issue with a new strange animal in its territory. This would result in your older dog being defensive, maybe even protective or possibly anxious and scared and once this has happened it is out there. Undoing this type of trauma could take days or weeks. Relax and let them get to know each other and all will be good. After some get familiar time begin training your puppy without distractions using Positive Reinforcement training methods. We suggest that everyone participates in some training classes either in a group format or private. The important thing to understand is that you are training you to train your puppy. Your puppy will also lose any training it has done if it is not reinforced by everyone in the home. Other resources are 80 Puppy Training tips that you can learn as well as an excellent site with video called Puppy Trained Right. We have a discount code available for those who are taking home one of our puppies. This will allow them time to eliminate most of their food and urine and will give a better chance of sleeping the night without having to go potty. Prepare their crate in a quiet, dark spot. Make it a sleepy place, place a blanket over the top and down 3 sides to block draft and to make it den-like. Some mild exercise or training just before bed. Just like a human, you want them to be tired before bed. So for example if you let them sleep from 9 to 11 pm they may not need to go down at 11 to sleep. The last while before bed try to stimulate them mentally and physically so that they are ready to turn in. This can be training sessions, a walk, a play session or even fetch in the house. One final potty around 11 pm. After you prepare them for sleep take them out one more time and give them ample time to relieve themselves. Bring them back in, let them settle in the crate, put an item of clothing in there that smells like you for them to snuggle on. The quicker they learn the new pack and learn to settle in the crate the better and that happens by not reminding them of their old litter. If they smell their old litter they will whine for them to find them. Settling in their crate. Once your puppy goes down you will want to be teaching your puppy that the time in their crate is for sleep, they are safe in there, and that if they bark or whine they cannot summon you to save them. So, what if they really have to go? This is something you will have to figure out. It may be possible that they must go outside to relieve themselves, but, they may also just want you to hold or feed them. If they go, just put them back in their crate to settle and go back to sleep. You will know within reason that next time they are just lonely. This normally stops after about 2 or 3 days. Whoosh them out to their pee spot. Pick them up and carry them quickly to their pee spot. When they go reward them with praise and say the potty word that you use. Feed, and then woosh them out again to their pee spot. Puppies often need to poop right after they eat, or sometimes while they are eating. Some exercise, training and mental stimulation. After waking up and eating they will be ready for a walk and some training. Setting them up for their first full day in the home. Plan their day out so that there is a balance of play, training, napping, eating, and potty. In the beginning your puppy will need about 20 hours or so of sleep a day so be sure it is getting enough. If your puppy gets nippy they may be trying to tell you they are tired and want to be left alone in their crate. Every opportunity that your puppy presents in the form of nipping is a training opportunity to teach bite inhibition. Coming home to your puppy after work. Learning how to greet them. If you work full time it is important to understand that a young puppy cannot hold their bladders for more than 3 or 4 hours. If you work full time you will need someone to watch them or at least visit them once or twice during the shift to let them out, drink and play. When you arrive home this is the time to teach them manners. Most dogs will be excited and will jump on you to greet you. Be sure you teach them how you want them to greet people. We will teach a dog to sit in front of us before it gets any attention. No attention means no talking, no eye contact and no touching. Will they need to relieve themselves? If they have been in a crate you will likely need to let them go potty, a walk or some fetching would also be good at this time because they likely have some energy to expend. Training pre or post feeding? There are also some Labs who are not food motivated. So if your Lab is not responding well to training after they are fed, you may want to train them before eating so the hunger is on your side. Socialization with people other than your family, and animals other than those in the home. While socializing you want to expose them to many people while not overwhelming them. To start we recommend 1 new person each morning and one new place each night. After you can see that your puppy is not overwhelmed you may decide to increase the frequency of exposure to new places, animals and things. Prepare for night time routine. Get your new furball ready for bed time as outlined above. Setting your puppy up for success. Avoiding dog parks and strange dogs. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated around 14 weeks old they are vulnerable to other diseases by unknown dogs. By all means, if you know someone who has a dog and you can verify that their dog is up to date on all shots such as Parvo, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough, Distemper, Hepatitis, Corona and Para Influenza, 2. Get into a reputable training class or private training with a reputable trainer. Training classes are mainly to train you. Ask around in your area for a recommendation of a good trainer at a reasonable price. Gentle, regular exposure to everyone and everything. For example, while you are exposing them to people you will need to expose them to female babies, toddlers, pre teens, teenagers, young adult women, middle aged women and older women. You will need to include women with glasses, hats, soft voices, loud voices, etc…. Adjust their food as they grow and as their activity level increases or decreases. If for example your dog is much more active or much less active then the recommended feeding amount will not be correct. Instead use your eyes. You might have to adjust the food amounts up or down as your Labrador gets more or less activity. Positive Reinforcement training by everyone in the pack. When you get into your car and you to go somewhere, you tell your gps where you want to go. Dogs are the same way. Instead teach your dog what you want it to do. Instead of scolding, simply withdraw your attention. This is enough punishment. Then, get back to showing your dog what you want it to do. If your puppy is not eating or has a loose bowel movement. Not eating much is pretty common when a puppy goes to its new home, however if it stops drinking then that would be cause for an immediate vet visit. In a new home your puppy might not be comfortable for a couple of days and eating might be just grazing. This is ok as long as it is drinking and seems to be playful. Loose bowel movements in the beginning could be due to nerves or your puppy could also have a parasite. At this young age puppies put everything, and I mean everything into their mouths. It is quite common for puppies to get loose stool from a parasite. This can be addressed easily if you take a stool sample into your Vet for analysis. What is a puppy emergency that requires a visit to the vet? Our rules for an emergency trip to the vet are: Uncontrollable bleeding, puppy not breathing properly, broken bone, puppy is not drinking and appears lethargic. If any of these present themselves you may want to consider getting help right away. Other things can normally wait until the next morning to be addressed because they are not critical. Depending on where you live however you may have a vet that is open 24 hours and even on the weekends. So this is a start for you to think about when you take a Labrador Puppy home. Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. Frankly and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact pressreleases franklymedia. Be among the first to get breaking news, weather, and general news updates from News 9 delivered right to your inbox! Morning Headlines.