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German Shepherds can have three different varieties of coat: double coat, plush coat, and long haired coat. The breed standard is the double coat, which consists of dense, straight, short hair that lies close to the body. The long haired coat is also quite common among German Shepherds that are family pets. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. The most common colouring for a German Shepherd is black and tan; however, the breed can also appear in all black. Typically the coat is predominantly tan with black facial and saddle markings. In rare instances, German Shepherds can have white, blue, or reddish brown coats. These colours are not recognized by the breed standard, but do occur periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is actually considered a separate breed in some areas and is called the American White Shepherd. The German Shepherd is part of the working dog classification and has a strong proportioned build. Typically, the German Shepherd is 22 to 26 inches 56 to 66 cm tall and weighs between 50 and 90 pounds 23 and 41 kg. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source It has a narrow and deep chest, and the front legs and shoulders are muscular and sloping. Its body is slightly longer than it is deep, measuring from the shoulders to the rump. Go to source German Shepherd puppies typically weigh pounds kg after the first month and will continue to grow steadily throughout their first year. By six months they will weigh approximately pounds kg. German Shepherds have very distinct pointed ears that are erect. They are long at the base and face forwards, making the shape of a triangle. As puppies, the tips of the ear may flop over slightly, but they will straighten as the dog ages. German Shepherds have a long and bushy tail that hangs down when the dog is resting. When a German Shepherd is alert or in motion, the curve of the tail is accentuated and the tail will be slightly raised. German Shepherds can be fairly aloof and reserved when first meeting new people. However, once the dog has formed a connection with their owner, they are extremely loyal. German Shepherds are usually friendly and loyal to their family, but can be protective if they feel threatened. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and they need lots of daily exercise. If a German Shepherd is left a lone for long periods of time it will likely become bored and destructive. For example, the dog may start barking, chewing things, or digging. Make sure that your German Shepherd receives at least 1 hour of exercise each day. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable. They like to have a job or task to do, and you can train a German Shepherd to do a variety of different jobs. For example, German Shepherds are often used as "working" dogs, helping with search and rescue, drug sniffing and security, as well as providing aide and assistance to the visibly impaired. This is fun and stimulating for the dog. This breed is known to herd the sheep, count them, and keep them safe. This sense of possession make them apt for guarding a family. A pet can guard when he knows what all belongs to him and what does not. This ability helps a German Shepherd to differentiate between an enemy and the family. Protection to this breed comes naturally and that's why they are known as police dogs, too. German Shepherds are fantastic with your own kids and can act strange with the strangers and other kids. If you see a dog that you think might be a German Shepherd and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. It is such a cute dog. I am considering getting one. Veterinarians will be familiar with the breed standard of most dog breeds. They will be able to easily examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as German Shepherds by the American Kennel Club. Make sure that you always use a breeder that is licensed by the American Kennel Club. This will also help to ensure that you are purchasing a purebred dog. There are a number of applications available that can help to identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, simply upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Do the same thing with each of the swabs. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Once sealed, mail the results to the lab for testing. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Are German Shepherds Dangerous? They have a strong bond with the entire family and are untrustful of strangers. Also, German Shepherds are very protective of their families and their property, so if you are entirely new to this breed, you may need to reach out for added expert advice. Purebred German Shepherds are intelligent Due to their high intelligence, they are preferred as working dogs in police departments, rescue teams, and search crews. If you think your puppy can pick up your training quickly, chances are they may have a lot of German Shepherd DNA in him! Regardless, you will need to keep them disciplined and mentally stimulated. Can They Outsmart You? Purebred German Shepherds are naturally protective and possessive German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families and their territory. This trait will quickly manifest itself as protectiveness when a potential enemy is approaching. That said, a purebred German Shepherd will intimidate a potential threat to its owners and their property without questions. Consult experts Another great way to check if your dog is a purebred German Shepherd or not is to ask experts, such as veterinarians or previous owners. A skilled veterinarian can give you plenty of valuable insight into this breed. They can inform you of the physical characteristics of German Shepherds and their most common traits. A breeder can also help answer any questions you may have about your German Shepherd. You will want to get a puppy from an American Kennel Club licensed breeder. A previous German Shepherd owner could grasp what a purebred dog looks and behaves like. However, this method may be unreliable, as many mixed breeds seem to look and behave like a purebred GSD would. Check the registration certificate if you have it If you purchase a purebred German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, you should get a registration certificate. Use dog identification apps Using dog identification apps is an innovative way to help you identify the breed of your dog by scanning a picture of a dog. All you have to do is to submit a picture of your pooch taken from your phone. Then these apps will do their analysis and return a short description of the breed as well as a match percentage of the breed. Of course, these apps may be a little more than a fun video game and are not as accurate as DNA tests. Besides taking a picture, you can also record a video or upload an image from your gallery. Share your results and compare them to the results of the community! Upload pictures of your favorite dog to our Social Feed and share them with other dog lovers! Have a look at the profiles and photos of other users, like and comment on posts from our dog community and filter them by date or popularity! All types of dogs are supported — mutts and purebreds, and everything in between. DogDNA Identify dog breeds by uploading a picture from your camera or photo library. We use advanced computer vision dog breed identifier technology to analyze the pictures and provide results on the possible breeds your dog could be. Conclusion Regardless of the result, your new furry friend deserves all of your love. Bon is a dog lover and a blogger. He loves spending time with dogs more than with humans. You will find him training himself for the next marathon when he is not writing. Conclusion 1. That said there are additional benefits to getting a DNA test for your pup and these tests are out there and readily available. All you need to do is purchase a kit online. Although the kit will likely come with two swabs, each kit is only meant to test a sample from one dog. These kits usually include sealable plastic bags to place the swabs in and a pre-paid return box or envelope. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body. This more typical look is only one of many of the purebred German Shepherd. A purebred German Shepherd can have three different varieties of coats, which are the double coat, the plush coat, and the long-haired coat. The double coat is considered the standard of the German Shepherd coats, although many German Shepherds that are kept as family pets have a long-haired coat. Regardless, German Shepherds shed regularly throughout the year and require regular brushing and grooming. While the typical and often preferred coloring of the German Shepherd is tan and black, look for other variants in coloring. The next most common coloring of the German Shepherd is pure black, along with black and cream, black and red, black and silver, bi-color, blue, gray, liver, sable and white. Other Physical Characteristics There is a multitude of other physical characteristics that immediately makes a purebred German Shepherd stand apart from other dogs. These include: Distinct, pointed ears. This means your German Shepherd is going through the puberty stage, where they are teething as well as growing and developing cartilage in their ears. Along with the distinctly pointed ears comes the distinct German Shepherd head tilt which fans of this breed also tend to adore. A strong, proportioned build. Part of the reason the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog is due to its strong, tall build. A typical German Shepherd is up to 26 inches tall and weighs somewhere between 77 and 85 pounds. A typical German Shepherd puppy weighs up to 10 pounds in the first month and reaches close to 60 pounds by the time they are six months old. A full, long, bushy tail. This is another cherished physical feature of the German Shepherd. When the German Shepherd is resting, their bushy tail tends to hang low to the ground. Behavioral Characteristics Putting aside their physical features, German Shepherds are largely known for certain behavioral characteristics — both positive and negative. These behavioral characteristics include: A high energy level. German Shepherds need a ton of daily exercise and preferably a backyard to let off some steam in-between walks. A strong sense of loyalty. They can be extremely protective of their families if they feel threatened which means that German Shepherds may not necessarily be the best choice for someone with no experience with dogs. A high level of intelligence. German Shepherds are extremely smart, making them excellent working dogs. You often see German Shepherds doing important jobs like assisting police in drug-sniffing and security and aiding in search and rescue. German Shepherds benefit from training and obedience classes which also help keep your dog stimulated and entertained. A sense of possession. As previously mentioned, German Shepherds are extremely protective and loyal dogs, especially when it comes to their families. If your family is looking for a guard dog, a German Shepherd is definitely an excellent option. Due to their sense of possession, German Shepherds are also great dogs for herding sheep. Your German Shepherd may be fantastic with you and your kids but act standoffish or protective around other adults or children. This is where additional training is necessary to make sure that your German Shepherd is not acting unnecessarily aggressive or territorial. Asking Questions The simplest way to identify a German Shepherd? Ask questions! There are a variety of different sources you can ask about the German Shepherd, including: Talking with a breeder. Find a reputable German Shepherd breeder and ask as many questions as you can about the German Shepherd. Unfortunately, a breeder may not be completely forthcoming about negative information so really dig deep about the breeder before purchasing your German Shepherd puppy. Talking with a German Shepherd owner. Speak with someone that you know has a German Shepherd and ask questions. That said, exercise caution when doing so as the German Shepherd may not be overly accepting of a stranger approaching their owner. Talking with a veterinarian. Veterinarians can provide all kinds of valuable information about German Shepherds. If you already have a dog that you believe to be a German Shepherd but are unsure, ask your veterinarian to give you their opinion on whether they believe the dog to be so. Downloading an app. You are now able to download a dog breed identification app to identify a large variety of dog breeds. Additional Identifying Factors An additional identifying factor is unfortunately the genetic health concerns that come along with German Shepherds. German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, some more so than other breeds. These health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. Ask your vet about their experience in regards to German Shepherds and whether or not they think this breed would be a good fit for you. Conclusion German Shepherd or not, there are so many wonderful breeds of dogs out there that have an incredible amount to offer you and your family. Mary Nielsen I grew up in a household that was filled with animals. I believe that my fate as a dog-loving person was sealed in early childhood since my parents owned several dogs of varying sizes and breeds. As a life-long puppy lover, I know a thing or two about dogs and how to go about caring for them in the best way possible. Along with my husband, Dave, I run MySweetPuppy for like-minded dog lovers who want to have a single, clear, and reliable information source about anything and everything related to dogs and their well-being. Buy a German Shepherd puppy that should be at least 35 days-old or 40 days-old. Show Line German Shepherds have an angulated back that slopes from high to low as you go from shoulders to rear end, but the Working Line German Shepherds backs are less sloped as compared to Show Line German Shepherds. Color Though German Shepherds are found in many colors, but the most common colors are: Black and tan. Pure black. Pure white. As the puppy will grow, the tan or orangish color will grow upward from claws to body. Some White Line German Shepherds have wolfish gray color as well. As German Shepherd puppy grows its ears droop straight whereas ears of other breeds droop sideways. The distance or gap between the ears of Germans Shepherd is less as compared to other breeds. White Spots When it comes to purity check, the white spots on German Shepherds have always been a debate. To clear your doubt you can carry a DNA test for the identification of breed and ancestry. German Shepherd puppies do have white spots on paws, legs and upper chest. Always remember that these white spots on paws, legs and upper chest will not make German Shepherd impure, it is normal. Some white spots perish naturally as the puppy grows. After 30 years a German Shepherd won this title again, and interestingly this dog has a white spot on his chest. Normally it takes 2 to 3 weeks for your sample to reach the lab. Once it reaches the lab you get customized comprehensive online report. These Dog DNA tests help you to better understand your dog and provide the best possible care, food, training etc, that it deserves. We hope these guidelines will help you to identify the purity of the German Shepherd puppy. Share your feedback in the comments section below. Also Read.

Our extensive collection of stock images includes a wide variety of black poodle photos, illustrations, and vectors that are perfect for a range of applications. Whether you're designing a website, creating a brochure, or adding visuals to your social media, our black poodle images are sure to impress. Types of Black Poodle Images Our black poodle image collection includes a range of different types, including photographs, illustrations, and vectors. Photographs capture the natural beauty and charm of these adorable dogs in various settings, from playful shots to more formal portraits. Illustrations offer a more whimsical touch and can be used to enhance the visual appeal of any project. Vectors, on the other hand, are a great choice for those who want to customize the size and color of their images. Whatever your needs, we have a type of black poodle image that is sure to meet them. They can be used in a range of settings, including websites, social media platforms, print materials, and more. Their timeless appeal makes them suitable for a variety of industries, from pet stores to fashion and beyond. When using black poodle images, it's important to consider their placement and context. For example, a playful photograph of a black poodle would be a great fit for a pet store website or social media post, while a more formal portrait might work better for an upscale pet grooming business or fashion campaign. Choosing the Right Black Poodle Image Choosing the right black poodle image is key to making a visual impact with your projects. Consider your overall brand message and target audience when selecting your images. A playful and energetic image may be more appropriate for a younger audience, while a refined and elegant image may be a better fit for an upscale campaign or product. When selecting images, pay attention to the quality and resolution. Blurry or low-resolution images can negatively impact the overall look and feel of your project. Our black poodle images are high-quality and professionally captured, ensuring that you can use them with confidence. Wrap Up If you're looking for high-quality black poodle images for your projects, look no further. Our extensive collection includes a wide variety of black poodle photographs, illustrations, and vectors that are perfect for any project. Whether you're creating a website, designing a brochure, or adding visuals to your social media, our black poodle images will help you make a lasting impression. Of the 11 Poodle colors that the Kennel Clubs and the Poodle Club recognize, apricot and blue are the rarest colors. Red Toy Poodles are another less common color. The black Poodle keeps licking his lips due to irritation. However, these dogs begin to fade as they age, with owners noticing the difference once their dog is about one year old. Aside from their color, black Toy Poodles have the following characteristics: Long, curly coat Pointy muzzle Sizing up a Black Toy Poodle Black Toy Poodles are the smallest officially recognized breed with the AKC there are unofficial teacup varieties that are even smaller. They also typically weigh between four and six pounds. In contrast, Miniature Poodles stand between 10 to 15 inches, and Standard Poodles stand at over 15 inches. But when it comes down to it, the Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles share the same genes. So, they have the same coat colors and appearance regardless of their size. Their eagerness to please humans dates back to their origins when people used them to retrieve waterfowl. Over the years, breeders have transformed these dogs into a small enough size so that they can serve as companions and best friends to people living in smaller spaces. Black Toy Poodles are also playful and have high energy. So, you can expect lots of laughs when watching them go about their day. Because black Toy Poodles love being around humans, they tend to suffer from separation anxiety. A Toy Poodle waits patiently for his owner. Dogs with hypoallergenic coats have less chance of sparking allergy symptoms in people allergic to dog dander. A black Toy Poodle carried by his owner. Grooming Care Poodles have hair that grows continually, like human hair. Therefore, when weighing whether to bring home a black Toy Poodle, you must ensure you have the time and money to care for their coat. Additionally, brushing your Poodle every one to two days is vital to prevent their hair from matting. Black Toy Poodle puppies have softer and wavier hair. As fun as it is to pet, it also tangles easily. Once your black Toy Poodle gets older, its hair will change from wavy to curlier. Combing a black Poodle. Exercise Requirements Adult black Toy Poodles need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, broken up into at least two different sessions. Nevertheless, they enjoy walks around the neighborhood, playing ball in the yard, and frolicking with other toy-sized dogs in a dog park. Until then, you should aim to give your Poodle puppy exercise in the amount of about five minutes for every one month of age. The owner walk her Toy Poodle. Ease of Training Black Toy Poodles are highly trainable dogs , making them a joy for owners. They can learn as many as words , nearly more than the average dog, which can only learn words. Since Toy Poodles are so intelligent, mixing up your training techniques is helpful. Otherwise, your dog could grow bored and disengage with the training. Toy Poodle gets a reward from his owner. Some of the most common ailments include:. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions!

Puppies available now and Wow are they Beautiful. See Puppy Page For Pictures. Email topluck hotmail. Luck French Bulldogs 1st.We are French Bulldog Owners. .We are French Bulldog Breeders with years of.We pride ourselves in having some of the 1 rarest colors in Frenchies. Our French Bulldogs are our family members, they are never caged or kenneled. All of our pets live indoors and sleep with their owners. If you are looking for a healthy, happy, hand raised puppy then look for the Luck puppies. We have gone to far lengths to get great conformation and well-rounded temperaments. We located the best from California to Dallas. Our Frenchies are well adjusted and get along with other pets and children. Our puppies are played with daily by all family members. They are kept separated from outsiders so that they stay germ free for health reasons. All our dogs are AKC registered and current on all preventative health care measures. Our dogs have regular vet checks and screenings. All French Bulldog babies leaving our place for their new home will also have the best care and leave with full health checks and screening to comply with our health guarantee. Puppies will have visited the Vet at least 3 times before they're ready to leave home, all puppies leave with a health guarantee. No puppy will leave before they are 8 weeks old and up to date on shots. Luck French Bulldogs are the first in Lubbock and Surrounding areas to have these exotic colors. We are not a Puppy Mill, Pet Shop or backyard breeder. Anything we are in question about and cannot answer we research the information for the knowledge allowing us to inform other French Bulldog owners or potential owners. We reserve the right to refuse a sale to anyone for any reason. There is nothing like a French Bulldog. They are smart, stubborn and extremely loyal. Forget about your privacy, they want to be close and will follow you everywhere. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water.

Yes, French Bulldogs are known for drinking a lot of water — fast. This is especially true after they get home from a walk or just were playing… they will usually drink a lot of water faster than they should… and throw it right back up. Why do Frenchies eat poop? This behavior is known as coprophagia. Here are a few reasons why your French Bulldog eats its own poop. Nutritional deficiencies: Some dogs eat feces to compensate for missing nutrients in their diet. Behavioral instinct: An inherited instinct from ancestors, dogs may consume feces to keep their living area clean. Boredom or attention-seeking: Dogs may engage in coprophagia due to boredom or to gain attention from their owners. Cleaning up the environment: Dogs have a natural inclination to keep their immediate surroundings clean. Medical issues: Underlying medical conditions can affect digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to coprophagia. My Frenchie has diarrhea — what do I do?! If your French Bulldog has diarrhea, there are a few steps you can take to help them recover: Monitor their condition: Keep an eye on the frequency and consistency of the diarrhea. Provide access to fresh water: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so make sure your French Bulldog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Encourage them to drink small amounts regularly to stay hydrated. Adjust their : Consider withholding food for hours to give their digestive system a rest. However, ensure they still have access to water. After the fasting period, reintroduce a bland diet consisting of easily digestible foods such as boiled chicken and rice. Gradually transition back to their regular diet once the diarrhea improves. Probiotics and digestive aids: Probiotics can help restore the balance of beneficial gut bacteria. Consult your veterinarian about appropriate probiotic supplements for your French Bulldog. Additionally, digestive aids such as pumpkin puree without additives can help firm up the stool. Maintain hygiene and cleanliness: Clean up any accidents promptly to prevent the spread of bacteria. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your Frenchie to avoid potential transmission of any pathogens. Your veterinarian can evaluate your French Bulldog, perform any necessary tests, and prescribe appropriate medication or treatment. Remember, diarrhea can be caused by various factors, including dietary indiscretion, dietary changes, infections, parasites, or underlying health conditions. There can be several reasons why your French Bulldog is not eating. Here are some possible explanations: Illness or pain: Loss of appetite can be a sign of an underlying illness or discomfort. Stress or anxiety: Dogs can experience a loss of appetite due to stress, changes in routine, or environmental factors. Events like moving to a new home, the presence of new pets, or loud noises can cause temporary appetite loss. Providing a calm and comfortable environment can help alleviate stress and encourage eating. Dental problems: Dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral pain can make it uncomfortable for your Frenchie to eat. Inspect their mouth for any signs of dental problems, and if you suspect an issue, consult with a veterinarian for an oral examination. Recent vaccination or medication: Some dogs may experience a temporary loss of appetite after receiving vaccinations or starting a new medication. If this persists for more than a day or two, consult with your veterinarian to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Food preferences or boredom: Dogs can be selective eaters or get bored with their food. Adding variety or engaging in interactive feeding activities can also stimulate their interest in eating. Dogs can be sensitive to sudden dietary changes. Gradually transitioning to a new food over a week or two can help avoid digestive upset and encourage eating. Posted on. Your French bulldog may not want to lie down Unusual movements Pain in the neck or throat Esophagitis will usually mean a trip to the vet for your Frenchie and the condition can usually be managed with medicine or a change in diet. A high in carbs and low fat diet that contains low protein foods with no allergens in them can help heal the oesophagus. Antacids may be prescribed along with other drugs to help your French bulldog swallow. In extreme cases a balloon catheter can be installed to help manage the narrowing of the oesophagus. This condition is often hereditary and diagnosed by barium swallows and x-rays, so again this will mean another trip to the vet for your four-legged friend. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this problem and will have to be managed over the life of your Frenchie. Managing it is not particularly easy. It requires your dog to be in a vertical and upright position whilst feeding and drinking. Hiatal hernia A hiatal hernia is usually detected when your dog is exercising or particularly excited. This causes an opening in the diaphragm called the oesophageal hiatus which the oesophagus passed through prior to entering the stomach. A hernia can sometimes develop in this location due to an issue caused by one of the below: A protrusion of the oesophagus Lower oesophageal sphincter Part of the stomach A hiatal hernia will mean a trip to the vet again for your French bulldog and quite possibly some surgery. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to help reduce inflammation inside the oesophagus. However medication will only reduce the frequency and severity of the hiatal hernia but will not remove it totally. Surgery may be needed to put the oesophagus and stomach back to what is considered the normal position. Related questions about Frenchie vomiting Why does my French bulldog throw up after drinking water? Frenchies wolf down their food and water. Our own dog Claude will lap his water and food up really quickly, which will often lead to vomiting. How can I help my French bulldog after he has been sick? If the problem is down to a food allergy, they will require a specific food for life. Your vet will be able to advise you with this. Never self-medicate your French bulldog as you could end up doing them more harm. French bulldogs often become frightened and distressed after throwing up. You should offer them plenty of comfort and cuddles and monitor them very closely to ensure that they are able to breathe properly. How can I prevent my French bulldog from vomiting in the future? If you think that your French bulldog has food allergies you can buy specially formulated dog food for them; but always consult your vet first before making any dietary changes. You can also buy your Frenchie a food bowl which has been designed specifically to slow down the eating process which in turn makes it easier for them to eat without gulping so much air. Do French bulldogs throw up less as they get older? As your French bulldog matures it is likely that they will vomit less frequently. Vomiting is more common in French bulldogs when they are puppies and it is not uncommon for them to throw up two to three times a day. This will decrease as they age, and your French bulldog can end up going for years without throwing up. Talking from personal experience, when Claude was a puppy, it seemed like he was throwing up on an almost daily basis. When should I take my Frenchie to the vet after throwing up? If your French bulldog is vomiting frequently and seems to be distressed and in pain it is always better to get professional advice. Try and remain calm and just explain exactly what it is that you saw. As unpleasant as it sounds, if you can video your French bulldog whilst being sick or even take a photo of what they produce it would help the vet to identify the problem and therefore get your dog the best treatment. All Frenchies throw up. Nine times out of ten its usually nothing to worry about. If it begins to dramatically affect their personality and is persistent then please give your vet a call. What other health problems should I look for? Frenchies are notorious for having various health issues. Click here to view the list of French Bulldog health issues. It seemed like every few hours we were having to get paper towels and anti-bacterial wipes to clean up the kitchen floor. We very quickly started to learn what the sick symptoms of a French Bulldog were and what we needed to keep an eye on. It was vomited food, sometimes undigested. Grass from the garden see why they eat grass. Small pieces of Lego that he had chewed up. Fur from our cat. You name it, he vomited it. If you do see anything unusual though, please do get your Frenchie looked at, as it could be the sign of something more serious. Blood in the vomit Shaking Contact your veterinarian if your dog vomits more than twice in a hour period or if intermittent vomiting continues for more than a day. Also, contact your vet if other signs of illness accompany an episode of vomiting. Include information about anything unusual you suspect your dog might have ingested, like plants, chemicals, or dangerous foods. Your vet may recommend further diagnostic testing to look for a cause for the vomiting. This may include blood and urine testing, X-rays, and ultrasound. This is especially likely if the vet suspects your dog has an intestinal obstruction or bloat. Treatment for Vomiting in Dogs Treatment ultimately depends on the underlying cause of vomiting, but it typically begins by administering anti-nausea medications and gastric protectants. Initial doses are usually given via injection to avoid further vomiting. Dogs with dehydration, pancreatitis, or other health concerns may need hospitalization for intravenous fluids and frequent medication dosing. If the vomiting was caused by toxin exposure, your vet will follow established medical protocols for treatment. This may also include hospitalization. If your vet suspects a GI obstruction, then endoscopy or surgery may be needed to remove the cause for the blockage. A hospital stay will be necessary for post-operative care. If your vet suspects bloat, it is an emergency situation, and action must be taken immediately. This will require decompression of the stomach gasses via gastric lavage pumping the stomach and then surgery. If your dog has a simple case of indigestion or another non-serious issue, then it will likely get better on its own within a day or so. You can help your dog feel better by providing plenty of water, but withholding treats, rich foods, or large meals for the first 24 hours. Be sure to contact your vet for advice if your dog is not improving with treatment. How to Prevent Vomiting in Dogs The best way to prevent vomiting is to keep your dog away from things it should not eat, lick, or chew. However, there are times when you may not be able to prevent vomiting in your dog. Illnesses can occur with no known cause, and many dogs are skilled at grabbing up and swallowing things from the ground faster than you can react. Fortunately, there are a few things you can still do to minimize the risks. Bring your dog to the vet for routine wellness check-ups every year or more if recommended by your vet. Feed a healthy diet and keep treats to a minimum. Prevent your dog from chewing on grass, plants, and sticks. Keep objects that may become foreign bodies out of reach of your dog. Some dogs will be happy to eat anything they find on the floor. Keep plants, chemicals, human food, and any other toxins out of reach. Remember to contact your veterinarian in the early signs of illness; delaying can only make things worse. When in doubt, head to the nearest open vet office, particularly if your dog is showing potentially serious symptoms such as lethargy, repeated bouts of vomiting or diarrhea, refusal to eat, shivering, or labored breathing. FAQ Is it bad if my dog throws up white foam? If your dog vomits white foam just one time, there is no need for immediate concern as long as your pet is acting normally otherwise. If your dog is experiencing other symptoms, like lethargy, diarrhea, not eating, or if you notice blood in the vomit, this is cause for concern and you should take your dog to the vet right away. What can I give my dog to stop vomiting? You should not give your dog any over-the-counter medications or home remedies to stop the vomiting without consulting your vet. If your dog is vomiting, your vet could prescribe medication depending on the cause of vomiting. How can I settle my dog's stomach after vomiting? If the vomiting has occurred because your dog ate something they shouldn't have, your vet may advise you to withhold food for a certain amount of time. After that time is up, they will probably have you give your dog a bland, easily digestible diet. Water should always be available. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Vomiting in Dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals. More from The Spruce Pets. French Bulldog puppies are especially prone to throwing up a variety of colors including yellow or white foam, undigested food, clear liquid, mucus, bile, slime and many other weird and wonderful vomits. But whatever the age of your dog, when your French Bulldog throws up it can be worrying. It could be something as simple as eating too fast, but in some cases a French Bulldog that vomits up sick all the time could signal a serious health problem. Important: I am not a vet, but I am a dog owner who has a lot of experience with vomit. Nice, I am sure you would agree! The bottom line is; if you are worried then please do consult with your vet at any point your dog starts vomiting for a professional opinion. What you see here is what I have found online or heard from vets when calling them about my own dog. However, what I can give you is what I personally know and have found out about the reasons why your French Bulldog throws up, and what the different types of vomit and sick could mean. This is based on my own online research, as I said, always consult with a vet. Why your French Bulldog is vomiting and puking There are multiple types of vomit and regurgitation that can affect French Bulldogs. Why does my French Bulldog throw up white foam? The reasons your French Bulldog keeps throwing up white foam appear to be very varied. In the majority of cases I read about, they said it might not be anything serious, but for peace of mind always seek professional advice. The first thing you need to do is actually examine what has been throw up by your French Bulldog. It might not actually be vomit but could instead be them clearing their airways. French Bulldogs are brachycephalic and their airways can become blocked. It could actually be some saliva that they need to regurgitate. Your French Bulldog could throw up after eating. They will need some TLC. Vomiting and regurgitating are two different things, and I will explain the differences at the end of this article. But for simplicities sake, I am going to address both things as the same thing; throwing up. Causes of white foam vomit 1. Indigestion and stomach upset Your French Bulldog could be throwing up white foam just because they have an upset tummy. The most common reason is gastroenteritis where they have an empty stomach and then puke up a white foam vomit. They might also have an allergy to food which is making them puke. You can try different foods to try and eliminate things. This condition is also known as bilious vomiting syndrome. The bile produced can not only be white but also have a yellow color. Puking up something they ate French Bulldogs love to put anything in their mouth they can get their teeth around, particularly during the teething phase. It might be that they ate something their stomach disagrees with such as grass or dirt. Kennel cough Another reason why French Bulldogs throw up white foam will be kennel cough. Kennel cough can be contracted when your French Bulldog has been exposed to other dogs, usually in kennels as the name suggests. It is an upper respiratory infection that your vet can treat. Bloat One of the more serious conditions I read about was bloat gastric dilatation-volvulus. As one of the most serious reasons for French Bulldogs puking up white foam and slime, it needs a vet diagnosis. It occurs when their stomach becomes twisted after expanding. The stomach can expand when filled with food, fluid, or gas which then puts pressure on their internal organs. Some vets recommend you wait a good 30 minutes after their meal, even with light walks. If you have even the smallest suspicion of bloat, call a vet immediately. Pancreatitis Another serious health condition that results in your French Bulldog throwing up white foam is pancreatitis. This is an inflammation of the pancreas, which is an organ that aids digestion of food. Your vet will need to diagnose this condition, but other signs to look out for include your French Bulldog hunching his back up, being in obvious pain around their abdomen, having diarrhoea, not eating properly, being listless, and becoming dehydrated due to not drinking enough. Kidney disease Another serious possibility related to white foam vomit can be kidney disease. Other symptoms to look out for can include increased urination or pooping the house when your French Bulldog was previously house-trained. White foam puking can be an early indicator of the disease. However, with early treatment, French Bulldogs can go on to have a good life with a reduced chance of any further complications. Parvovirus Parvovirus can be contracted through exposure to other dogs, in particular contact with faeces. It is a fatal disease but is rare as long as your French Bulldog has had the correct vaccinations as a puppy. Rabies Another unlikely reason for white slimy foam can be rabies. Dogs with rabies will foam at the mouth. Why does my French Bulldog throw up yellow foam? A French Bulldog that throws up yellow liquid and bile could have: Bilious vomiting the most likely : in simple terms, a stomach upset. Bowel problems: an irritation in the GI tract. Pancreatic problems: an inflammation of the pancreas. Stomach ulcers: can also result in weight loss, fever, and pain. Liver problems: your French Bulldog may not be able to digest food properly. Why does my French Bulldog throw up brown liquid? Brown bile and vomit will often smell like dog poop… and that can actually be what it is in some cases. Simply due to hunger as gross as that sounds. Sometimes for attention knowing it will get a reaction. It could result from: Blocked intestine. Bacterial infection. Eating sugary, fatty, or spicy human food. Vomiting will likely be accompanied by a strong cough and sneezing or a runny nose. If this is the case, your dog will develop a honking cough as well. Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation, bloat occurs when the stomach fills with air. Fungal infection: Contact with environment yeast, which is often found in bird or bat droppings, can cause this sort of vomiting, as well as diarrhea, shaking, and lack of appetite. Acid reflux : Just like humans, dogs can experience acid reflux when gastrointestinal fluid flows into the esophagus. However, if your dog is exhibiting other symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy , or tremors, make an appointment immediately. If the white foam is caused by a more serious issue, the treatment should be handled by a medical professional. However, if your dog is simply suffering from stomach upset, your goal should be to calm the frothing in his gut. Withhold food for up to 12 hours and offer your dog ice instead of water until his symptoms subside. When your dog is ready to eat again, offer a small amount of easily-digestible food like boiled chicken and rice. If he tolerates the meal, you should and your pup should be in the clear! The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.

Rabies Vaccine Rabies is a viral infection caused by a virus secreted in the saliva. According to the Humane Society , because the infection affects the nervous system, most rabid animals behave abnormally. When should puppies get rabies shots? Generally speaking, puppies should get their first rabies shot around 16 weeks of age and again between years old. Rabies Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every 3 years Non-core Vaccines Non-core vaccines are important, but they are considered optional for dogs with less risk of infection. Non-core vaccines are recommended based on lifestyle and where you live or travel. Bordetella Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium associated with respiratory disease in dogs and is known to cause the most severe form of kennel cough. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, congestion, etc. Some veterinarians may recommend Bordetella as a core vaccine for puppies based on their living environment, especially for social dogs who spend time in areas where they might come into contact with the bacteria like the dog park, boarding facilities, or doggy daycare. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally, or by injection. Bordetella Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks Booster: every year Leptospira Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by infection of the genus Leptospira, which are found in water and soil. The zoonotic disease spreads easily from animals to humans and is more common in warm climate areas with high annual rainfall; the Leptospira vaccine may be considered core in these areas. Signs of leptospirosis may include shivering, fever, muscle tenderness, increased thirst, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, kidney failure, liver failure, etc. Leptospira Vaccine Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 3rd shot: 1 year Booster: every year There is also a 5-way vaccine known as DHLPP, which is a combination vaccine of distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvo. Lyme disease Lyme disease is caused by infection with the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs include loss of appetite, lameness, joint swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. More serious cases can also develop kidney complications. The Lyme disease vaccine is highly recommended for dogs that live in or frequently travel to areas known for Lyme disease, as well as those living in areas with a high risk of tick exposure. Lyme Vaccination Schedule for Puppies 1st shot: weeks 2nd shot: weeks later Booster: every year Canine Influenza Canine influenza, or dog flu, is a contagious viral infection affecting dogs. The virus is spread through aerosols or droplets containing respiratory secretions from barking, sneezing, and coughing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places like daycare facilities, groomers, and kennels are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs, with the most common clinical sign being a cough that persists for up to 21 days. Vaccines are available for both H3N2 and H3N8 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is available as well. Dogs become infected when they swallow the parasite that may be present in water or other substances that have been soiled with feces leading to the disease Giardiasis. Giardia in dogs usually causes diarrhea, weight loss, or even death. Giardia is an available vaccine for puppies 8 weeks of age and older for 6 months of immunity against giardiasis. Most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Young dogs are at a high risk of contracting the disease, so the vaccine is highly recommended for puppies under eight weeks. Rattlesnake vaccine A rattlesnake vaccine can help dogs build antibodies to rattlesnake venom from bites that are often deadly and severely painful to dogs. The antibodies work to neutralize the venom, thereby significantly extending the window of time you have to take your dog to the emergency room , increasing their odds of survival. Protect yourself from heartbreak without breaking the bank. Compare quotes to find the best deal for your budget. After that, puppies should receive a series of vaccines every two to four weeks until actual protein can be achieved between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks old. Your vet will determine a safe vaccine schedule for your puppy based on their weight, health, age, etc. Some pet parents prefer getting multiple puppy shots in one vet visit to minimize stress on their pet, whereas others prefer to spread the shots out to reduce possible side effects and soreness — talk to your vet to create a safe vaccine schedule that works for you and your puppy. Rabies depends on local laws but is usually given by the time your dog reaches 3 to 6 months old. When should puppies have all their shots by? Most vets prefer giving the final DHPP shot at 16 weeks or later; however, new recommendations suggest up to 20 weeks out. When do puppies need booster shots? Abstaining from booster shots can put your puppy at risk. However, not all vaccines require yearly boosters. DHPP vaccine booster: every two weeks for a total of three sets, then every three years Lepto, Canine influenza, and Lyme disease vaccine booster: one month after the initial series, then annually Bordetella booster: 1 year or every 6 months where there is a concern Rabies booster: every 1 to 3 years after the initial round, depending on state laws Puppy Vaccine Schedule There are several types of puppy shots your pet might get in their first year. In addition to a deworming schedule, your vet will suggest a vaccination schedule for puppies based on their age, environment, and medical history. Most vets recommend this general timeline for first-year puppy shots: weeks of age Between 6- and 8-weeks-old, puppies get their first shot of the DHPP distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus vaccine. They might also receive their first round of vaccinations for Bordetella and Lyme disease. Leptospira Lepto is a common puppy vaccination administered around this time frame. They'll also get their first rabies vaccine depending on state-mandated vaccine schedules for puppies, as well as a second shot of the Lepto vaccine if applicable. Boosters Every Years Puppies will need a booster shot for all vaccines at age 1. Dogs need booster vaccinations for Bordetella, Lepto, Lyme, and Giardia annually receiving their first immunization as an adult. The vaccination schedule for DHPP and rabies is every 3 years, but check your local laws and defer to your veterinarian's advice to ensure your pet stays free of disease. How much are puppy shots? Non-essential vaccines your vet may recommend will also increase the price. Note that puppy shots cost more or less depending on several different factors, including your location. For instance, vets in crowded urban areas tend to charge more than vets in smaller towns and rural areas. Also keep in mind that you'll need to budget for booster shots in one- or three-year intervals to ensure your pet stays protected from disease. Fortunately, vaccines for dogs are less expensive than first-year puppy shots because boosters are administered in one dose every few years, as opposed to multiple doses every few weeks. All puppies need to get the core vaccines, i. Your veterinarian will consider the risk factors and advise you on which vaccines are best for your puppy during the first vet visit. No, but both vaccines for puppies are often combined in one shot. Distemper and parvovirus are two different illnesses that are potentially fatal if not treated quickly. What is the 5-in-1 shot for puppies? Do puppies need 3 or 4 sets of shots? It depends on their age; vets may recommend a shorter puppy vaccination schedule for dogs over 16 weeks old and not yet fully vaccinated. How many shots do puppies need before going outside? A titer test is a blood test showing whether your puppy has antibodies for a particular illness. The test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine and help determine if or which booster vaccines your dog needs. Most doggy daycares and boarding facilities do not accept a titer test in lieu of a puppy vaccination record. When should puppies get dewormed? Because worms are very common in puppies, veterinarians recommend deworming them for the first time when they're two to three weeks old. Is there a heartworm vaccine for puppies? Preventatives can either be administered as monthly medication or every six months by injection. How can you save money on puppy shots? One way to save money on puppy vaccines is by visiting a low-cost vaccination clinic. These clinics typically offer packages that combine a bundle of vaccinations into a lower price point, but also offer individual options if your dog is due for a specific vaccine. Another way to save money on puppy shots is by purchasing a pet wellness plan through a pet insurance provider. 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. German Shepherd Puppy Health Protocol Vom Banach K9 puppy worming and vaccination schedule All Vom Banach K9 puppies are healthy, happy, vibrant individuals that have been very well socialized, handled and loved from the moment they were born. All photography by Cindy Fike, Fike Fotography. Below is our protocol for worming and vaccination of puppies here at Vom Banach K9, and our recommendations for puppies from birth through adulthood. Nemex-2 is 4. This product is for heartworm prevention as well as the monthly control of other internal parasites. Vaccines should be given in the right front quadrant right shoulder. Rabies should be given in the right rear quadrant right hip. The reason for this is should there be a local reaction to a vaccine or a lump develop later in these areas you will know which vaccine caused these reactions. When I record the vaccines in the Health Record I peel the sticker off of the original vaccine vial and attach it to the lower portion of the Health Record. I record the date, location the vaccine was given, vaccine sticker and initial. I do let clients also know should they later feel a small pea to marble sized lump in that region that it could be as a result of a vaccine. This is what I give here before puppies go home. I like to give it at 7 weeks to allow time for the vaccine to kick in as opposed to doing it at 8 weeks when a puppy may be leaving. I do not like to hyper-vaccinate by doing Lepto and Corona on their first vaccine also it is recommended that Lepto be given ONLY after 10 weeks of age and not before, so do not vaccinate with Lepto under 10 weeks of age. Kennel cough is easily transmitted from dog to dog by contact with a contaminated animal, on the ground, or in a facility where affected dogs have been in such places as dog parks, pet stores, veterinary hospitals, boarding facilities and cargo facilities where animals are shipped. We vaccinate all of our puppies here at 8 weeks of age or before they go to their new homes to aid in the prevention of kennel cough and your Vom Banach K9 puppy becoming infected during those first few weeks where the puppy may be traveling or in infected areas. We recommend a kennel cough booster be given every 6 months if you are frequently in contact with common grounds and unknown dogs. It is a virus similar to Parvo but not as severe. I would check with your vet to see what they recommend for your area. Corona is a puppy virus and does not need to be re-boostered or vaccinated in adult dogs. In puppies however you need 2 boosters of it same as with Lepto. I absolutely recommend vaccinating against Lepto. Lepto is a bacteria. Leptospirosis is spread commonly by infected rodents and raccoons and passed through the contact with urine it is as well very contagious to humans. It is common in our state and many others. The Lepto vaccine has very few side effects clinically with the Large breed dogs. There is a higher risk of side effects to smaller breeds. Life saving vaccinations far outweigh the risk of possible side effects from the actual killed modified vaccine for this disease. Please check with your area for Rabies requirements in your state. Puppies should be at least 12 weeks of age to be administered a Rabies vaccine. Prior to 12 weeks it may be rejected by the immune system due to the puppies own immunities from its mother so the puppy would not be fully protected from the disease. Because Rabies is required by LAW in many States, Rabies can only be given to puppies over 12 weeks of age for this reason and in order to receive a Certificate of Immunization. Because your puppy will be 4 months old by his last scheduled puppy series vaccine it would be too soon to re vaccinate at the 1 year birthdate giving him his adult 1st booster only 8 months after his last puppy vaccine instead of a year from the last scheduled vaccine date. I recommend one booster at 3 years of age and then a titer test to determine if vaccination is needed for specific viruses and for prevention against hyper-vaccination of adult dogs thereafter. Guidelines should be followed for recommendations for Rabies in your state. A titer is a blood test performed by your veterinarian in order to determine the presence of antibodies that develop in the body as a result of vaccines. A vaccine titer reveals whether or not the animal currently has adequate protection against a disease. Low titers indicate that vaccination will be necessary to provide immune protection. Puppies who may be staying longer may not receive the same schedule as those leaving at the weeks of age. I may vaccinate them later then the initial 7 week vaccine so I then follow a vaccine protocol from the date of the initial vaccine giving subsequent vaccines every 4 weeks thereafter for the remaining two vaccines. Because both Corona and Lepto need two boosters following the initial one is why I recommend puppies receive two more vaccines in addition to rabies after leaving here. I also discuss vaccines with my clients when I give go home instructions. And I hope it mostly sinks in. I think it is very important when they take their new puppy to their vet that they bring the record and be sure they are given the correct vaccinations and only the ones that are needed. I think it is important to be on the same page with your vet that puppies are not over-vaccinated. Quick Find. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Possibly even more important is how to know what to vaccinate for and how often vaccines should be administered to our dogs. Generally speaking for adult GSD's, the most important things to vaccinate for are canine parvovirus and also for canine distemper. There are many combo vaccines on the market that can be purchased that containe vaccines to cover several things such as distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, etc at one time. Many factors are important when deciding on which combo shot to purchase and give your GSD when needed - for example, depending on the age of the animal to be vaccinated, it's actual vaccine history, it's current health, etc. Never vaccinate a sick or injured GSD. For optimal immunity German Shepherd puppies can be vaccinated at 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks of age, and then every 3 years as adult pets. If, however, there are any degenerative or immune mediated diseases or history of cancer, then the pet should be evaluated to determine the necessity of vaccinations after the puppy hood series has ended. While a vaccination for rabies is required by law in most states, and must be administered by a licensed veterinarian, many German Shepherd owners, for financial reasons, will choose to vaccinate their pets at home for all other infectious diseases. Administering GSD vaccinations: When using any vaccines that must be mixed first, there are four simple steps to follow in vaccinating dogs. Shake mixture thoroughly. Since most vaccinations are given by subcutaneous injection just under the skin , the most convenient area to give the shot is located in the shoulder area, just behind the neck near the collar area. Other important factors in giving GSD Vaccinations: Always use a separate sterile needle and syringe for each injection, and a fresh and clean needle for each dog you're giving a vaccine to never share needles among your pets and then safely dispose of all used needles and syringes. As always, if you have any questions about administering your own GSD Vaccinations yourself, contact your veterinarian or your German Shepherd breeder. They will be happy to answer your questions and to show you the proper way to give your German Shepherd the vaccines that it needs to prevent it from getting many horrible diseases. For more detailed information about puppy vaccinations and the diseases that these vaccines prevent, please read on. I said to him "There now you're done. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Your German Shepherd puppies health should be of utmost concern to you. You want a healthy German Shepherd puppy that is free of parasites and on good food. Nutrition is very important - especially in the first year of life - but so are vaccinations. There are many diseases that the GSD puppy may come in contact with and it is these puppy vaccinations that helps your puppy to build resistance to these viral attacks. Keep in mind, a little prevention can go a long way to keep your dog healthy. It is also suggested that all puppies be vaccinated for rabies at six months and then to be repeated annually. Although your German Shepherd puppy may squirm or even cry when getting its puppy vaccinations, it is just as important for your GSD puppy as it is for your children to receive these "annual shots". In fact, by carefully keeping up to date on all your puppies vaccinations, you could be saving its life. Though there are multiple ailments, bacterias and viruses your dog may come in contact with, I will attempt to briefly list and describe only a few of the more common ones in this GSD puppy article that can be prevented with puppy vaccinations. As always, German Shepherd puppy vaccinations are the best preventive method - a little prevention can go a long way to keep your puppy healthy. Parvovirus parvo. This is a very serious disease. It attacks the intestinal system and is a viral disease in dogs. Parvo is characterized by severe, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, high fever and lethargy. The diarrhea is particularly foul smelling and is sometimes yellow in color. Parvo can also attack a dog's heart causing congestive heart failure. Remember, without medical treatment, most puppies will die from Parvo. Distemper : This disease attacks every tissue in the body and may occur through inhalation of the virus in a contaminated area. Death is common and dogs and who recover may have future nervous damage. Again, simple puppy vaccinations are the best prevention. Spread through contact with contaminated urine or feces. Often affected animals will have chronic health problems and recovered dogs will pass infected urine for months after infection. Again, vaccinations are the best preventive method. Leptospirosis Lepto. Affect the liver and kidneys and can be transmitted to man via contact with the urine of an infected dog. Signs such as vomiting and thirst, bloody diarrhea, depression, and jaundice may occur. Antiobiotic treatment is important though the best prevention is through vaccination. Transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, rabies is another disease that may be spread to humans. The disease affects the nervous tissues and causes paralysis and death always. Again, vaccinations are your best weapon against this disease. Below find a brief listing of other common problems of which you should be aware. Kennel cough. Symptoms of kennel cough are a constant wheezing cough. Highly contagious as well! Other symptoms to watch for in your German Shepherd puppy: Vomiting. Occasional vomiting is not uncommon but consult your vet if the problem persists or if blood, diarrhea or pain accompany the vomiting. Can be caused by a number of things- viruses, food, internal parasites, and bacteria to name a few. Contact the vet if the stool is bloody, continues for an excessive amount of time, or if dehydration occurs. Once your pup has recovered, return it to its food slowly and in decreased but frequent portions. Can be caused by multiple factors also such as insufficient water intake, disease or ingestion of a foreign substance. While your vet may have to take blood tests to find the cause, usually a diet high in fiber and exercise will help prevent this problem. Not to scare you in any way, I do hope this information will assure you of just how important those puppy vaccinations are to your German Shepherd puppies and your health. Proper immunizations are the best prevention in the endless war on disease and may save your puppy, and yourself, a lot of discomfort, grief and pain- and possibly even death. Here's to healthy and happy puppy owning. Return from Puppy Vaccinations to Puppy Information "Children and dogs are as necessary to the welfare of the country as Wall Street and the railroads. FYI German Shepherds Puppy Immunization Schedule The vaccines, treatments, and tests listed below are the current protocols we follow here at Gunbil German Shepherds to provide optimum health care for our dogs. Newborn puppies acquire immunities against many diseases by nursing from their mother. During the first two days of life, a puppy that nurses takes in the colostrum that is present in the milk that is first produced. These antibodies prevent the puppy from being infected by diseases like Canine Distemper and Parvo virus. These same antibodies are also the reason veterinarians suggest vaccinations to be given after six weeks of age. It is highly recommended that new puppies visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian will then educate the owner on the needs of the new puppy, look for congenital defects as well as look for signs of parasitic or viral infections. Those for the rest of these diseases are freeze-dried living virus that have been grown in tissue culture in a way that makes them non-pathogenic i. Actually, a single injection, at the right time, of all these live products imparts good, long lasting immunity to all of these diseases. The problem is that puppies absorb antibodies against these diseases from their mothers. In some puppies, parental immunity is low enough that by weeks the vaccination to work. In others, parental immunity interferes with the action of the vaccine for up to 18 weeks. The tests that determine parental immunity levels in puppies are expensive and rarely run. So because we do not know just when to vaccinate we give a series of three or four injections so that at least one of them will work. We only give Coronavirus vaccine to puppies because it is a disease of puppies. For subcutaneous vaccination of healthy dogs 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus type 2, canine coronavirus, canine parainfluenza and canine parvovirus. Administer one 1 mL dose subcutaneously. Primary Vaccination: A recommended vaccination schedule should start at or about 6 weeks of age. The presence of maternal antibody is known to interfere with the development of active immunity. Puppies should be revaccinated every 2 to 3 weeks until 12 weeks of age. All dogs over 12 weeks of age should initially receive one dose of Duramune Max 5-CvK and a second dose 2 to 3 weeks later. Leptospira Canicola-Grippotyphosa-Icterohaemorrhagiae-Pomona Bacterial Extract For subcutaneous vaccination of healthy dogs 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in the prevention of disease caused by canine distemper, infectious canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus type 2, canine coronavirus, canine parainfluenza and canine parvovirus. Annual Vaccination: Annual revaccination with one dose is recommended. Where we live we are not required to have our dogs on Heartworm preventive medication as the disease is not in our geographical location. Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet.

Definitely a recipe for a soaked house. Step 2: Brush your golden Getting as much dead fur out of their coat by brushing them before you wash them will help them get extra clean and soft. Step 3: Get the water ready You want the water to be lukewarm when you give your golden a bath. Scrub their muzzles, cheeks, butt, belly… everything! Step 6: Brush them again While the shampoo is soaking in their coat, brush your dog again. We use a slicker brush again here, but the groomer in the video below used a comb instead of a brush for this step. We use this ear cleaner for Oliver. Step Dry them Start drying them off by using towels, then the blow dryer. If you want to see how a groomer professionally bathes a golden retriever, check out the video below. She also incorporates conditioning, a facial scrub, and trimming, which are not listed in the steps above. Tip 2: Exercise your golden before bathtime If your golden is full of energy, bath time will be much harder. Tip 4: Place a bath mat in the tub If you bathe them in a tub, placing a rubber bath mat on the floor will help them get some traction and not slip and slide all over the place. They have natural oils that protect their skin and coats, so bathing them too often can strip them of these oils and leave their skin prone to drying out or getting infections. It also depends on their lifestyle and their environment. Golden Retriever Bathtime FAQ Here are some common questions golden retriever owners have about giving their dog a bath: How do you dry your golden retriever? The best way to dry your golden retriever is to use a combination of towels and a blow dryer. First, use towels to get as much of the water off as you can. Then, once the towels have done their job, bring out the blow dryer to finish getting all of the water off. Do golden retrievers like baths? Every golden is different — some golden retrievers love baths, while others hate them. You can give your puppy a bath as soon as you get them assuming you get them at 8 weeks old or older. Like I said in the above question, starting them young will make things a lot easier down the road. Where should you give your golden retriever a bath? Puppies are usually small enough where they can get baths in the sink or a large bin. But when they get bigger they grow so fast! Conclusion Bathing your golden retriever should be a fun bonding experience that you and your pup enjoy together. Have any questions about giving your golden retriever a bath? Let me know down in the comments. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Related articles:. Regular bathing plays a vital role in their grooming routine, ensuring a shiny coat, healthy skin, and preventing filth, odor, and skin conditions. In this article, we will explore the optimal bathing frequency, the importance of a bathing schedule, tips for bathing your Golden Retriever, considerations for different seasons, and the potential side effects of bathing too frequently or infrequently. Bathing frequency is an important aspect of caring for your beloved Golden Retriever. While humans may wash their hair daily, bathing a Golden Retriever requires a different approach due to their unique coats. So, how often should you bathe your furry friend to keep them clean and healthy? You can bathe golden retrievers every weeks or as often as necessary. Bathing them too often could inflict major harm on their double coat. Instead, focus on regular brushing and grooming to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris. This not only helps keep their coat clean but also stimulates their skin and promotes healthy hair growth. Bathing them too frequently, especially in the winter, would most likely cause more harm than good. Because dogs are often good at keeping themselves clean, the primary goal of the bath is to clean their coats. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a successful and enjoyable bathing session for both you and your furry friend: Prepare the bathing area: Choose a suitable location for bathing, such as a bathtub or a designated area with warm water access. Place a non-slip mat or towel to prevent your Golden Retriever from slipping. Gather necessary supplies: Collect all the essential bathing supplies beforehand. This includes dog-specific shampoo and conditioner, towels, a brush or comb, and any other grooming tools you may need. This will make the bathing process easier and prevent excessive matting. Adjust water temperature: Fill the bathing area with lukewarm water. Ensure the water is neither too hot nor too cold, as extreme temperatures can make your dog uncomfortable. Start from their neck and work your way down, ensuring the entire coat is thoroughly wet. Ensure that no residue remains, as it can cause skin irritation. Massage it into the coat, paying attention to any dry or tangled areas. Repeat the rinsing process until no traces of conditioner remain. Pat them dry rather than rubbing vigorously to avoid tangling or damaging the fur. If your dog tolerates it, you can also use a pet dryer on a low, warm setting to speed up the drying process. Post-bath grooming: Once your Golden Retriever is dry, take the opportunity to brush their coat again. This helps remove any remaining loose hair and prevents matting. Reward and praise: After the bath, reward your Golden Retriever with treats, praise, and affection. This positive reinforcement helps create a pleasant association with bathing and strengthens your bond. Dog shampoos and conditioners are available that are specifically made for their skin and coat. Remember to use a conditioner after shampooing to untangle and moisturize their fur. Just be careful not to get water in their ears or eyes, and properly rinse them off to avoid skin irritation. Your pet will emerge from the bath feeling refreshed and clean! The Benefits of a Bathing Schedule A bathing schedule for your Golden Retriever is not necessary, but it can be a beneficial method to keep your beloved friend looking and feeling their best. You can keep your dog clean and well-groomed regularly by arranging regular bathing. This can assist in keeping their coat and skin healthy. However, keep in mind that each dog is unique, and their demands may differ. If your dog is very active or spends a lot of time outside, he or she may require more regular bathing. During shedding season, for example, your Golden Retriever may require more frequent bathing. Dogs that spend a significant amount of time outdoors or engage in activities that result in dirt, mud, or debris accumulation may require more frequent baths. Coat Type: The type of coat your Golden Retriever has plays a role in bathing frequency. Dogs with longer or denser coats may need more frequent baths to prevent matting, while those with shorter coats may require less frequent bathing. Skin Conditions: If your dog has specific skin conditions, such as allergies or dermatitis , they may require more frequent baths with specialized shampoos or medicated products. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate bathing frequency and products for managing skin conditions. Seasonal Factors: Bathing frequency can vary depending on the season. During summer, when dogs are more likely to get dirty or sweaty, more frequent baths may be necessary. In contrast, bathing too often in winter can strip the coat of natural oils, leading to dryness. Adjust the bathing frequency accordingly to maintain a healthy coat throughout the year. Individual Needs: Each dog is unique, and their bathing requirements may differ. Some dogs may naturally have oilier skin and require more frequent baths, while others may have more sensitive skin and need less frequent bathing. By considering these factors, you can determine the appropriate bathing frequency for your Golden Retriever and ensure their coat and skin remain healthy and comfortable. Here are a few ideas to make bath time more peaceful and exciting: Begin small and gradually progress to bath time. Give them a little attention every day, and make it a pleasant experience. Use a non-slip mat or towel in the bathtub or shower to prevent slips and falls. Use lukewarm water to keep them from becoming too chilly or heated. Speak in a soothing and quiet tone to help them stay comfortable. To avoid skin irritation, thoroughly rinse them off. Give them a good towel to dry on, and then brush their coat to remove any tangles and leave them bright and smooth. After the bath, reward them with a treat or toy; this will help them develop a pleasant relationship with bath time. Bath time can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience for your Golden Retriever if you follow these suggestions. Bathing in Summer vs. Winter: Considerations and Tips Bathing a Golden Retriever in the summer and winter can be challenging, but with a few simple tips, you can keep them comfortable and happy. During the summer: Give them a bath in the early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler. Keep an eye on the humidity and keep them hydrated. During the winter: Bathe them in a warm room with lukewarm water rather than cold water. To prevent them from becoming cold, properly dry them after the bath. During the dry winter months, use a dog-specific conditioner to help keep their coat and skin hydrated. To avoid skin irritation, always use dog-specific shampoo and conditioner that is pH balanced for their skin and coat, and completely rinse them off. If your Golden Retriever has a thick coat, brush them before and after bathing to reduce tangling and matting. You can keep your furry friend comfy and happy all year long with a little extra care! As a general guideline, bathe your Golden Retriever every weeks. Again, the frequency may vary according to their lifestyle, coat type, and skin issues. Too Many Baths Side Effects Bathing them too frequently can remove the natural oils from their skin and coat, causing them to become dry and uncomfortable. It can also cause skin irritation and allergic responses in dogs with sensitive skin. Too Few Baths Side Effects On the other side, not bathing your dog frequently enough can result in the accumulation of dirt, debris, and bacteria on their skin and coat, which can cause skin irritation and odor. Also, not brushing their coat regularly can lead to matting and tangling, which can be painful for your dog. Furthermore, if a dog is not bathed regularly, it may result in behavioral issues because they are not accustomed to how to act during bathing. Conclusion When it comes to bathing and grooming your Golden Retriever, finding the correct balance between too much and too little bathing is important. Depending on their lifestyle, coat type, and skin issues, the frequency may vary. Shampoos and conditioners for dogs are carefully made for their skin and coat. Bath time can be an enjoyable and soothing experience for your Golden Retriever if you follow these suggestions. Always make sure that after the bath, you give them lots of kisses and love; your wonderful furry companion deserves it! If your Golden Retriever has sensitive skin, be especially cautious when bathing and brushing them. Here are a few pointers to remember: For sensitive skin, use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner. Avoid anything that has scents or harsh chemicals. Before using the shampoo on your entire body, test it on a tiny area first. If you observe any signs of irritation or if the condition persists, consult a veterinarian or professional groomer. Bathing your Golden Retriever every day is not suggested. Bathing daily might remove their natural oils, causing dryness and discomfort. As a general rule, bathe them every weeks; however, this may depend on their lifestyle and coat type. First and foremost, regular brushing is essential, especially if your dog has a longer coat. Finally, make sure your dog is consuming a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as this can help keep their skin and coat in good condition. Yes, your golden retriever can bathe outside. Just make sure that the outdoor temperature is neither too cold nor too hot, as this can cause your dog discomfort. Also, keep an eye out for any potential risks, such as slick surfaces or sharp items, that could endanger your golden retriever. Certainly, you can bathe your 2-month-old Golden Retriever puppy. The water temperature should be comfortably warm, never hot, to prevent any discomfort. Aim to make the experience as stress-free as possible, laying the foundation for easy and enjoyable bath times in the future. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. This is necessary to keep it clean and healthy because it is constantly exposed to the elements. Your Golden Retriever has far more hair than you do, and not only is it always exposed, it is also frequently in contact with the ground and other surfaces. So, how often should you bathe your Golden to keep it healthy and looking its best? Do Golden Retrievers Need to be Bathed? A Golden Retriever is blessed with a warm and durable double coat of fur. This is a common characteristic of water dogs. The natural oils a Golden secretes help to keep the coat water-repellant and dirt resistant. Regular brushing will keep the oils well spread, and help prevent matting and tangling. Nevertheless, your Golden will require bathing from time to time. How often will depend on certain lifestyle and environmental factors including: Frequency of swimming excursions Amount of time spent outdoors Rural vs. This is especially true if your Golden has a penchant for algae-filled ponds and other less-than-pristine bodies of water. Naturally, a dog that spends a lot of time indoors is going to pick up less dirt and debris than one that is regularly outdoors. And whether or not those outdoor romps are in the country or in the city can also make a big difference to how quickly a Retriever gets dirty. If you are aware of a parasite problem in your area check local websites or ask your vet , it is important to be on high alert, and more frequent baths and grooming may be in order. How Often Is Often Enough? The answer to the question is: there is no definitively right or wrong answer. It is very important to not wash your dog too often. This can be just as detrimental as not washing often enough. Too frequent bathing may strip away the natural oils I mentioned earlier. Losing this protective coating can leave your Golden with a dull coat, which is disappointingly unattractive. More importantly, it will leave the skin unprotected and prone to dandruff and infections. On the other hand, not bathing often enough can cause obvious problems. Though Goldens tend not to emit strong odors like many other breeds do yes, Goldens are superior! Plan on giving your Retriever a bath about once every six weeks. Depending on circumstances like those listed above you may need to hit the suds once each month. However, some dogs, especially older, less active ones, can get by with scrub downs as infrequently as every 8 weeks, or possibly longer. By Depending on circumstances like those listed above you may need to hit the suds once each month. Unscheduled Baths No matter your schedule, you should bathe as soon as possible in the event of an unexpected occurrence. Serious mud can sometimes require a haircut; much better to take a free bath than to pay a groomer. And speaking of parasites, if your dog has been in contact with another dog that is found to have an infestation, even a mild one, a good, thorough bath is highly recommended. Better to rinse any eggs, larvae or parasites down the drain than to let them establish a home on your Golden. Whatever side you land on, it is important to neither overdo it, nor neglect it unduly. A clean Retriever is a happy Retriever, and a happy Retriever makes a happy owner. You May Also Like.

Shop All Cat Food If your dog's eye is swollen and runny, he may have a condition called conjunctivitis. If that sounds alarming, don't panic. The chances that your pooch has caught dog this condition, also called "pink eye" are actually quite slim. To get the lowdown on conjunctivitis in dogs, including what causes it and what you should do to help your pet, keep reading. What Is Conjunctivitis aka Pink Eye? Conjunctivitis refers to a condition in which the pink tissue inside the eyelid, which is called the conjunctiva, becomes inflamed. There are two types of conjunctivitis in dogs. Infectious conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye, is caused by a viral or bacterial infection and is rare, says the veterinary science magazine dvm.More commonly seen in dogs is non-infectious conjunctivitis, which can have a number of possible causes. Typically, these fall along the lines of allergies, an irritating substance getting in the eye, injury or trauma to the eye or a congenital abnormality. Tufts University's Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine adds that conjunctivitis may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as canine distemper. Is It Contagious? Non-infectious conjunctivitis in dogs is not contagious. If a case of dog pink eye is caused by a rare bacterial infection or a virus, however, the ASPCA warns that the condition can be transmitted by your dog to other dogs. If you suspect your dog might have pink eye, it's a good idea to keep your pup separated from other dogs and to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling him to prevent the infection from spreading to other animals. If your pooch normally shares food and water dishes or bedding with other pets, he should have his own dishes and bedding until his conjunctivitis clears up, and they should be washed thoroughly. You should let any additional caregivers, such as dog walkers, dog daycare attendants or pet sitters, know about your dog's condition and the precautions that you're taking to contain it. Breed Predisposition While conjunctivitis can occur in any breed of dog or mutt, certain breeds are prone to conditions that can place them at a higher risk of conjunctivitis, says Tufts. Cocker spaniels, bulldogs and miniature schnauzers, for example, are prone to dry eye, which is a condition that commonly leads to non-infectious conjunctivitis. A condition called entropion, which is when the edge of the eyelid rolls inward, may also cause the conjunctiva to become inflamed. This condition is common to shar-peis and chow chows , among other breeds. Signs of a Problem As a vigilant pet parent, these are the signs you'll want to keep an eye out for to recognize conjunctivitis in dogs: Red or puffy eyes Eyelids sticking together or squinting Swelling of the eyelid lining the conjunctiva Rubbing or pawing at the eye due to itchiness or discomfort Should Your Pup See a Vet? If you notice any of these signs, you should have your pup checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet will determine whether your dog actually has dog pink eye or a non-infectious case of conjunctivitis. While non-infectious conjunctivitis is not a serious condition in and of itself, it won't clear up on its own without treatment, and it may point to a more serious health problem that needs to be addressed. Additionally, if left untreated, your dog could sustain a permanent eye injury or even vision loss. Diagnosing Conjunctivitis in Dogs In addition to performing a thorough examination of your dog's eye and eyelids, your vet will want to perform a general physical to determine his overall condition, says Tufts. Diagnostic tests your vet might run include bacterial cultures, a fluorescein eye stain test to check for corneal ulcers or abrasions, a Schirmer's tear test to check your pup's tear production, and a test for glaucoma. They may also perform several blood tests to screen for underlying illnesses. Treating Conjunctivitis The course of treatment your vet prescribes ultimately depends on what is causing the conjunctivitis. If they determine that your dog does indeed have pink eye, he'll likely be prescribed a bactericidal or fungicidal ointment to be applied to the eye topically. Your dog might also be given anti-inflammatory medication to help with swelling and discomfort. If a foreign object is responsible for the irritation and swelling, your pup may need to be placed under general anesthesia in order for the vet to remove it without risking further eye injury. Of course, if your dog's conjunctivitis turns out to be a sign of a more serious illness, your vet will work with you to take steps to treat the underlying condition. Helping Your Dog at Home Natural and home remedies may be helpful in providing relief to your pet, although they should never be a replacement for veterinary care. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching his eyes and face to avoid causing more irritation. You should always check with your vet before applying any herbal or homeopathic remedies to be sure the ingredients are safe and won't interact harmfully with any of his prescribed medications or interfere with treatment of his underlying conditions. Non-infections conjunctivitis, while uncomfortable for your dog may only be an irritant to your dog, but that doesn't mean the signs should be taken lightly. Now that you're armed with knowledge of what to watch for, you'll be able to take prompt action to get your pup a proper diagnosis and treatment to protect his vision and overall health. Contributor Bio Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of furbabies. As a lifelong pet lover, they are always excited to learn more about animals and help make information and resources more accessible to new and experienced pet owners alike. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on May 10, Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, presents similarly in dogs as it does in people. Characterized by red or pink irritated eyes and often accompanied by discharge , this common eye infection is not a pleasant experience for dogs or owners but is luckily treatable in most circumstances. Conjunctivitis in dogs can have many different causes, many of which require specific treatments, so it's a good idea to see your veterinarian if you begin to notice symptoms of pink eye in your pooch. Because of this, it is helpful to know the basics of the disease so you can keep an eye out literally for anything concerning. She says, "They can get it from inhalant allergies, such as pollen or grass, or from a secondary bacterial infection from a topical irritant, like smoke, sand, or wind from hanging their heads out the car window. Pink eye can be a condition on its own, or it can be a symptom of a different eye disease. In addition to physical irritants in the eye, abnormal eyelids or eyelashes, dry eye, and allergies, other possible causes of conjunctivitis in dogs include certain parasites , tumors , and trauma. In most cases, the cause of pink eye will determine the treatment, so it's important to consult your veterinarian before attempting to treat your dog's pink eye on your own. These symptoms are very similar to the symptoms we associate with pink eye in humans, including: Redness Discharge that can appear clear or a mucous texture Inflammation Swelling around the eyes If you notice your dog rubbing or pawing at their eyes, or squinting or blinking more than usual, this can also be a sign that they are experiencing irritation that might not yet be visible to you. These symptoms can appear in both eyes or in just one, and are sometimes accompanied by other symptoms, such as nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing. Is Conjunctivitis Contagious in Dogs? Pink eye is notoriously contagious in humans, but luckily, Graham says most cases in dogs are not contagious to people or other dogs. However, as always, it's best to consult your veterinarian about your dog's specific case to determine how careful you should be until their conjunctivitis clears up. Graham adds that this is not usually the case for conjunctivitis in cats , which she says is "usually caused by a virus herpesvirus or other infectious agent that can be contagious between cats and can occasionally be spread to humans. Your vet will likely perform a variety of diagnostic tests to determine and develop the treatment plan that is best for your dog. Eye drops are one of the most common treatments for pink eye in both dogs and humans, but the specific drops may differ depending on your dog's case. Your vet can determine what eye drops are best for your dog and show you how to safely apply them. Certain causes of pink eye may require other treatments, such as medications or surgical procedures. While it might be tempting to try home remedies to treat your dog's conjunctivitis at home, this is not a good idea, and it is absolutely worth it to take your dog to a veterinarian to get a diagnosis first. How to Prevent Pink Eye in Dogs While some causes of pink eye in dogs are nearly impossible to prevent, such as dry eye or entropion, many conjunctivitis cases can be prevented. According to Graham, one of the easiest actions you can take to reduce the chances of your dog developing pink eye is to avoid letting your dog hang their head out of a moving car's window. Not only can your dog's eyes be struck by flying debris, but even the wind itself can irritate your dog's eyes. Ensuring your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations can also help reduce the likelihood of viral causes of conjunctivitis. It is also a good idea to supervise your dog while they play to discourage play that might result in eye injuries. However, in terms of preventing pink eye, the absolute best thing you can do for your dog is to take them to the vet as soon as you notice eye symptoms or discomfort. Catching conjunctivitis early can greatly reduce the severity of the condition, making it much easier to treat. Was this page helpful? Schirmer tear test2 Is canine conjunctivitis contagious? Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious among canines as well as humans. If you suspect your dog has pink eye, keep him or her isolated from other animals and people in the house. Be sure to wash your hands well after handling the affected dog to prevent the infection from spreading. While the chances of a human contracting canine conjunctivitis from their dog are minimal, the odds of a dog getting it from their pet parent are much higher. Note that dogs can also get conjunctivitis from humans, so if anyone in the household has pink eye, take precautions to prevent its spread, such as washing hands regularly, avoiding contact with the face, and sterilizing shared spaces within the home. Are certain breeds more at risk? Pink eye can occur in any breed, but some dog breeds are prone to hereditary conditions that may increase their risk of conjunctivitis. For instance, English Bulldogs , Miniature Schnauzers , and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are genetically predisposed to dry eye, which commonly leads to conjunctivitis in dogs. Irish Setters and Norweigan Elkhounds are prone to entropion 3, an abnormality of the eyelids in which the eyelid rolls inward, which can also cause inflammation of the conjunctiva. Alternatively, dogs with protruding eyes like the Pug are at greater risk of infection caused by foreign substances in the bloodstream. How to treat conjunctivitis in dogs You'll need to see a vet for a specific answer on how to treat conjunctivitis in dogs, as every case is unique. The approach they recommend will largely depend on the particular cause of canine conjunctivitis, as well as the dog's individual medical history. For example, vets will likely prescribe antibiotics to dogs with bacterial eye infections. The medication might come in the form of eye droplets, pills, or ointments. Irritants are the primary cause of pink eye in dogs, and treatment typically involves flushing the eyes and alleviating inflammation with ointments and eye drops. In the case of allergic conjunctivitis, your vet might recommend Benadryl for dogs. Other vet-approved treatments for conjunctivitis could include antihistamines, steroid eye drops, NSAID pain relievers, and artificial tears. They'll likely advise you to clean the pup's eye and apply a cold compress to relieve the irritation. Treatment for secondary conjunctivitis must address the underlying dog health issue responsible for the pink eye symptoms. Some triggers, including eye tumors and eyelid deformities, may require surgery. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to see how much money you could save on diagnsotic testing, prescription drugs, recommended surgeries. How long does conjunctivitis last in dogs? It depends; anywhere from a couple of days for mild irritations to three weeks with viral conjunctivitis. Most dogs with pink eye will make a full recovery, but others may experience secondary symptoms for the rest of their life, leading to a permanent loss of vision in rare cases. Depending on the cause of the condition, your dog may require lifelong therapy. How to prevent conjunctivitis in dogs Viral conjunctivitis may be challenging to prevent. Try boosting your dog's immune system with vitamins and regular physical activity to maintain a strong defense against viruses. Also, ensure your pet stays up-to-date on all the routine vaccinations to protect them from illnesses spread through unvaccinated schedules. Bacterial conjunctivitis can also be tricky to prevent, but keep your pup's area clean and sterile to kill bacteria and keep them from spreading. If your canine companion has allergies, try to ensure the environment is free of mold, dust, and dander. Key Takeaways Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball. The symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs can include discharge from the eye, redness, swelling, squinting or blinking more than usual, excessive pawing at the face, and sensitivity to the touch. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to take your pet to the veterinarian. Your vet will be able to determine the type of conjunctivitis and how to treat it. Dogs typically make a full recovery, but they can be left with permanent eye damage in rare cases. 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. Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is a common condition in dogs just like it is in humans. The term conjunctivitis means inflammation swelling of the conjunctiva, which is the tissue covering the eyeball and eyelids. This tissue is a mucous membrane, which is a layer of cells that make mucus. Dogs have a nictitating membrane often called a third eyelid , which is located at the inner corner of each eye and is made of conjunctiva. Normal, healthy conjunctiva is usually pink in color, though it can be pigmented in some dog breeds. When inflammation of this tissue conjunctivitis occurs, the mucous membranes swell, become itchy, and turn brighter pink or red. This occurs most often in young adults, but it can occur at any age. Frequent contributors include environmental allergens, such as dust, pollen, molds, mites, perfumes, and shampoos; food allergens usually certain proteins ; and atopy a genetic tendency to develop allergies. Viral Conjunctivitis Any breed of dog may develop viral conjunctivitis if they encounter viruses that cause inflammation in the eye membranes. These viruses are usually quite contagious and can take 3 to 4 weeks to fully resolve. Examples of viruses that can cause these signs in dogs include canine distemper virus and canine herpesvirus. Bacterial Conjunctivitis Primary bacterial conjunctivitis is uncommon in dogs, and there are no known age, gender, or breed predispositions for it. More commonly, secondary bacterial infections occur in the eyes because of underlying medical issues. These medical conditions include chronic dry eye, eyelid abnormalities, and corneal ulceration scrapes to the outer layer. The most common types of bacteria that cause conjunctivitis are Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, which are both very contagious for dogs. Other medical conditions that can make a dog more prone to conjunctivitis include: Immune-mediated conditions Tumors of the eyelid or conjunctiva Keratoconjunctivitis sicca dry eye Eyelid abnormalities such as entropion rolling in of the lower eyelid , ectropion rolling out of the lower eyelid , or abnormal eyelash growth Blocked tear ducts Trauma to the eye from smoke, foreign objects, or pollutants Glaucoma high pressure in the eye Uveitis low pressure in the eye from inflammation Breed-associated conditions such as nodular episcleritis in Collies Parasites uncommon Symptoms of Conjunctivitis in Dogs When your dog has pink eye, the membranes of the eye become red and swollen. Often, they are itching, burning, or painful, causing dogs to rub their faces on rugs or with their paws. Squinting or excessive blinking is often noted because of discomfort in the eye. Normally, there is a cloudy white, yellow, or green tinged mucus-like discharge from the affected eye s. Usually both eyes are affected or will become affected unless the inflammation is secondary to trauma, eyelid abnormalities, blocked tear ducts, or tumors. Other clinical signs such as generalized itching, hair loss around the eyes, nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, and lethargy may also occur. Often, the same clinical signs are the same no matter what the underlying cause. Usually, the cause requires investigation with your veterinarian through a routine exam. How Veterinarians Diagnose Conjunctivitis in Dogs Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination as well as a thorough ophthalmic eye examination to look for any medical problems that may be causing the conjunctivitis. The ophthalmic examination consists of: A full examination of the surrounding eye structures, including the eyelids, fur around the eye, eyelashes, third eyelid, and tear ducts. Tear production testing called Schirmer tear testing , which is a non-invasive test that checks the amount of tears produced by both eyes. Corneal stain testing called Fluorescein stain testing , which is a non-invasive test used to check the outer layer of the eye, called the cornea, for any damage such as scrapes and cuts. A yellowish stain is put in the eye, and a special light in a dark room is used to show any underlying damage. Intraocular pressure testing measures the pressure in both eyes, which is helpful in diagnosing glaucoma and uveitis. Additional testing—such as bacterial culture and sensitivity, conjunctival scraping or biopsy, allergy testing, viral testing, and ultrasound of the eyeball—and procedures like tear duct flushing are performed when needed. Treatment of Conjunctivitis in Dogs Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is most commonly treated with eye drops or ointments containing steroids. Sometimes oral steroids and antihistamines are also recommended if there is systemic inflammation. Prevention is most important with allergic conjunctivitis, so you must avoid the underlying allergens affecting your dog. Allergic skin testing, flea preventatives, environmental changes, and food trials may be recommended by your veterinarian. Bacterial conjunctivitis is often treated with topical antibiotics, though sometimes oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications may also be used depending on the severity of infection. Viral conjunctivitis is often treated with time and oral antioxidants to boost the immune system, and sometimes with either oral or topical anti-viral medications. Dogs diagnosed with eyelid or eyelash abnormalities will require surgical correction to avoid chronic issues. Dogs diagnosed with chronic dry eye will require lifelong medications to stimulate tear production. Dogs with immune-mediated medical issues will require immunomodulatory medications those that affect the immune system both orally and topically, often for their lifetime. Prevention of Conjunctivitis in Dogs In general, preventing further damage to the eye while treating the underlying issue is most important for healing. An Elizabethan collar or pet cone is helpful to avoid your dog rubbing their face or scratching their eyes, which can cause abrasions scrapes or even perforations holes in the cornea. Frequent veterinary rechecks are often recommended to check healing and to change treatment if necessary. Your veterinarian may recommend a referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist eye doctor or dermatologist if clinical signs do not improve, quickly worsen, or recur and become chronic issues. Dogs diagnosed with chronic dry eye will require medications such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus to encourage tear production. Terramycin is an over-the-counter antibacterial ophthalmic ointment that may be recommended, although it is not always the recommended or correct therapy for conjunctivitis in dogs. This is found to be helpful in many cases of feline conjunctivitis, including viral and bacterial, but it is not used as frequently for canine conjunctivitis. Home Remedies for Conjunctivitis in Dogs Home remedies can be used to help with discomfort and to keep the eye clean but will usually not treat the underlying medical issue. Do not perform an eye flush at home without first consulting your veterinary team to ensure no further injury is made to the eye. There are some holistic products that can be administered topically around the eye or orally to avoid tear duct blockage, which can cause conjunctivitis in some dogs. Recovery and Management of Conjunctivitis in Dogs Most dogs have an excellent prognosis when recovering from conjunctivitis. Chronic, recurrent, or severe cases may have a guarded uncertain prognosis depending on the cause. Many chronic or recurrent cases require lifelong therapy by controlling underlying allergies, stimulating tear production, or treating systemic or ophthalmic immune-mediated diseases. Frequent veterinary visits may be necessary to determine the best course of action and to assess response to therapy. Conjunctivitis in dogs is often very contagious if viral or bacterial. If your dog is fully vaccinated, then viral transmission is less likely. Viral conjunctivitis is not contagious to humans. Always check with your veterinary to discuss what vaccines are recommended for your pet. Though primary bacterial conjunctivitis is rare in dogs, it is possible to spread to humans by direct contact. It is important to wash your hands before and after touching your dog if bacterial conjunctivitis is diagnosed. Allergic, cancerous, immune-mediated, and chronic dry eye conditions are not directly contagious to other dogs but can be if bacteria invade the eye. Will conjunctivitis in dogs go away by itself? Some forms of canine conjunctivitis can resolve on their own in dogs with otherwise healthy immune systems, but dogs usually require therapy to avoid chronic changes to the eyes and full resolution of the squinting, redness, pain, and discharge. What happens if conjunctivitis in dogs is left untreated? Besides being painful, this can set up your dog for lifelong chronic infections. How long does conjunctivitis in dogs last? The duration of clinical signs depends on the underlying cause. With appropriate treatment, bacterial conjunctivitis is usually fully resolved within 5 to 7 days. Viral conjunctivitis can take up to 3 to 4 weeks for full resolution. Allergic conjunctivitis will persist until the underlying allergen is discovered and eliminated. Chronic dry eye and immune-mediated conditions are often lifelong and require continued therapy. Featured Image: iStock. She continued her clinical training at.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Today our Charlotte vets share some of the causes, symptoms and treatments for this relatively common condition in dogs. What is conjunctivitis in dogs? This mucous membrane is very similar to the lining of the nose or mouth and the purpose of the conjunctiva is to act as the eye's protective barrier against infections and foreign objects. When this membrane becomes infected or inflamed the condition is called conjunctivitis, or more commonly known as 'pink eye'. What causes conjunctivitis in dogs? This condition in dogs can be caused by a number of issues including: allergies, irritation from foreign bodies, viral infections, tumors in the eye region, breed specific conditions such as nodular episcleritis in Collies, tear film deficiency, abnormalities of the eye, obstructed tear ducts, parasitic infections, injury to the eye, or an underlying eye condition such as glaucoma, ulcerative keratitis, or anterior uveitis. What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs? Conjunctivitis is an uncomfortable condition that may cause your dog to paw at their eye, blink or squint. You may also notice clear or green discharge from the eye or that the white of the eyes, eyelids or area surrounding your dogs eye are red and swollen. Often conjunctivitis will start in one eye then quickly spread to the other through contamination, although in cases where allergies or or viral infection are the cause both eyes can be affected right from the start. If your dog is showing signs of conjunctivitis, even if symptoms seem very mild, contact your vet as soon as possible. Left untreated conjunctivitis can lead to permanent eye damage. What is the treatment for conjunctivitis in dogs? The best treatment for your dog's conjunctivitis will depend upon the underlying cause of the condition. Following a thorough eye examination your vet will determine the cause and the best treatment for your dog. In cases where bacterial infection is causing your dog's conjunctivitis, antibiotics and eyedrops are typically prescribed. If allergies are the suspected cause your vet may prescribe an antihistamine to help make your dog's eyes more comfortable, or if there is a foreign body irritating your dog's eye your vet will remove it while your dog is under sedation or local anesthetic. Some dog's suffer from conjunctivitis caused by a blocked tear duct in which case surgery followed by eye drops and antibiotics will be required. If your dog is persistently pawing at their eyes while being treated it may be necessary to have them wear a cone or Elizabethan collar to prevent rubbing and allow the eye to heal. Can I get conjunctivitis from my dog? While it's unlikely that you will catch conjunctivitis from your canine companion it is possible if the cause of your dog's eye condition is a parasite such as roundworms. Will my dog completely recover from conjunctivitis? Most dogs will make a full recovery from conjunctivitis however it's important to note that early treatment is essential for avoiding complications due to conjunctivitis. If your dog is showing signs of conjunctivitis contact your primary vet to make an appointment for an examination as soon as possible. If your dog is experiencing an emergency eye issue, contact Carolina Veterinary Specialists in Charlotte. Our board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist specializes in treating eye diseases and disorders in pets. Happy Tails from Clients "Can't say enough good things about this practice. Between my two dogs, they have undergone three surgeries, with the most recent being a pretty risky liver lobectomy. Every time, my dogs have recovered flawlessly. The doctors are phenomenal. The staff is terribly accommodating, and obviously care immensely about the animals. Our specialty services accepts new clients by referral only. The Ultimate Labradoodle Guide As an owner of 2 Labradoodles myself, I know how tough it can be to find good information. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Eye discharge is usually more in a liquid form almost like tears. Boogers are usually eyes crusts. There are various types of discharge, and different things often cause them. A Little Crust or Goop — Tears are an important part of good eye care for your dog. Tears provide nourishment and oxygen to the cornea and help get rid of debris and dust that can be become trapped in the eye. Sometimes the tears that naturally flow tend to become crusted around the eyes particularly in the morning or after a long daytime nap. It should be easily removed. This happens because these tears have a pigment that turns dark when exposed to air for any length of time. This can also be caused by a yeast infection on the face. Wiping the eyes and surrounding area with a warm damp cloth or eye cleaner should take care of the stains. If not, or the eyes become painful, see a vet. Watery and clear — Various conditions can cause excessive eye-watering, including blocked tear ducts, irritants, allergies, corneal wounds, anatomical abnormalities or glaucoma. The dog should be seen by a vet to prevent eventual blindness. What starts as a small eye infection can develop into something more serious, so have a vet examine your dog. They have to just deal with allergens, dirt, dust or what have you and hope that we keep their eyes clean. As much of an effort as they make to clean themselves, their eyes are one part of their bodies they cannot clean themselves. Here are a few ways you can prevent eye discharge and boogers in your Labradoodle puppy. Observe your dog and his surroundings to see if there are things that are bothering his eyes on a regular basis. If so, try to avoid these things. Make sure the dog is eating a healthy diet in clean non-plastic dishes and receives fresh water daily. As an owner, you should make it a regular routine to give them a good once-over. Check their mouth for sore or abnormalities, check their body for lumps or pests like ticks, look in their eyes, and examine their paws for cuts or abrasions. Many things can cause eye staining. As mentioned above, the type or color of discharge can often be a good indication of the cause or what can be developing. Eye staining is usually caused by excessive tear production, but it can also be an indication of a serious eye problem. Certain dogs are more prone to tear staining, and poodles are one of those dog breeds. Unsanitary conditions can also cause eye staining as can eating out of plastic bowls. Here are some medical causes of tear staining. Unusually large tear glands Unusually small tear duct openings Stress Glaucoma or another eye disease Inverted eyelid. Could it be pink eye? This common childhood condition, also known as red eye or conjunctivitis, affects people, cats, and our canine companions. If caused by bacteria or viruses, it can be infectious. Noninfectious conjunctivitis can be caused by allergic reactions, irritants, or trauma injuries. While contagious conjunctivitis is common among cats and schoolchildren, most canine cases involve seasonal allergies or pollen exposure, injuries like cuts or scratches, or the presence of a small foreign object — anything from a grain of sand to a sliver of bark, piece of grass, tiny leaf, or small insect. In those cases, secondary bacterial infections may develop. According to veterinary ophthalmologist David T. In contrast to canine conjunctivitis, feline conjunctivitis is almost always primary and attributable to infectious pathogens viral, chlamydial, or bacterial. Bacterial conjunctivitis in dogs almost always occurs secondary to an underlying disease that alters normal resident conjunctival flora and favors bacterial proliferation. If you think your dog might have conjunctivitis, see your veterinarian. An eye exam can rule out corneal diseases, disorders of the tear ducts or tear production, eyelid abnormalities, or parasites of the conjunctiva or eyelids. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis because what works for simple conjunctivitis will not treat these more serious underlying problems. Your veterinarian may perform certain tests, such as fluorescein staining to detect corneal ulcers or superficial abrasions, the Schirmer tear test to determine whether your dog is producing sufficient tears, and a thorough exam of the external eyelids, third eyelid, and conjunctiva. If needed, additional tests can check for specific bacteria, the distemper virus, glaucoma, and other illnesses. Treatment may include thorough rinsing or irrigation to remove foreign objects or irritating substances, medication to correct insufficient tear production or eyelid infections, antibacterial eye ointments for secondary bacterial infections, or anti-inflammatory eye medications to help reduce swelling. Types of conjunctivis include: -Serous conjunctivitis, which is a mild not serious condition, causes membranes to look pink and swollen, with a clear, watery discharge. This condition is usually caused by irritants such as dust, allergens, and cold or windy weather. Household chemicals, lawn and garden sprays, and smoke from cigarettes or wood-burning stoves or fireplaces are potential causes of serous conjunctivitis. While foreign objects tend to affect a single eye, environmental factors that cause allergic conjunctivitis often affect both eyes. The conjunctiva is usually red and inflamed, and symptoms may include squinting; a thick, ropey, mucous-like discharge; and corneal scarring. The resulting discharge resembles mucus, and if the problem persists, the rough surface can be a chronic irritant. Puppies and young dogs are typical follicular conjunctivitis patients, and the illness usually subsides with age. Thick secretions of pus and mucus may form a crust on the eyelids. During or shortly after birth, bacteria may move behind the eyelid. Prompt veterinary treatment is important because untreated neonatal conjunctivitis can result in corneal damage and blindness. Eyeworms, as they are commonly called, are transmitted to dogs by insects. Both adult and larval eyeworms can produce symptoms ranging from mild tearing or discharge to conjunctivitis, keratitis inflammation of the cornea , or corneal ulcers. Other causes In addition to injurious conditions like corneal ulcers and keratitis, blepharitis inflammation of the eyelids and skin diseases that affect the eyelids can all contribute to conjunctivitis. Some upper respiratory diseases, including kennel cough, involve viruses and bacteria that can produce conjunctivitis in one or both eyes along with coughing, sneezing, lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, and nasal discharge. In some dogs, conjunctivitis is caused by anatomical irregularities, such as loose or drooping eyelids that cannot close completely, or eyelids that roll inward, or lashes that grow in the wrong direction, any of which can cause lashes to rub against the cornea. An irritating foreign object can create serious eye problems if left untreated, especially if the dog is doing her best to dislodge it. Underlying problems that result in conjunctivitis should always be treated. For example, artificial tears and lubricants help dogs with keraconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, along with topical antibiotics to resolve bacterial infections or concurrent corneal ulcers. Abnormal eyelids or eyelashes can be treated surgically. Conjunctivitis accompanying upper respiratory infections is typically treated with topical antibacterial medication and supportive care. Allergic reactions can be challenging because dogs, like people, can be allergic to all kinds of things. Change furnace and air-conditioner filters frequently, and experiment with air purifiers or humidifiers to see if they help prevent symptoms. Parasitic conjunctivitis requires the physical removal of eyeworms or larvae, which can be accomplished by flushing the conjunctival sac with sterilized saline or by removing them with a fine forceps or cotton swab while the dog is sedated. Treatment with a parasiticide such as moxidectin is reported to be even more effective than mechanical removal, especially where eyeworms are endemic. Home First Aid Sterile saline solutions are widely available, and the same products can be used to rinse foreign objects or irritants from the eyes of both canine and human patients. For general first aid, keep a sterile eye rinse on hand. Most natural food markets and some pharmacies sell eye washes for pets. This solution should be freshly made and stored in the refrigerator for no more than a day or two before use. To be sure the solution is completely clear, strain it through a paper coffee filter before applying. To make your own, simply saturate cotton balls or a cotton pad and dab around the eye. Solution released from the cotton will rinse the eye. A sterile spray bottle can also be used as well. Simply spray a fine mist of solution over the eye area. Treating Conjunctivitis at Home The easiest form of this disease to treat at home is serous conjunctivitis. Infection-fighting ophthalmic gels and rinses, such as Vetericyn products, are sold through veterinary clinics and pet supply stores. Some come with a cone-shaped applicator that helps control delivery. Herbal eye drops, which can be made at home or purchased at most pet supply or natural food stores, can help in many cases. Halo Cloud Nine Herbal Eye Wash contains eyebright extract, goldenseal extract, boric acid, and sea salt. NHV Ey-Eas eye drops contain chamomile, eyebright, goldenseal, and rosemary in a base of purified water and glycerine. Several eye-friendly herbs are effective, gentle, and well tolerated by most canine patients. To brew any of these herbs as a tea called an infusion , add 1 teaspoon dried herb to 1 cup boiling water, cover, and let stand until cool. Add 1 teaspoon unrefined sea salt, if available, or any table salt. Alternatively, dilute the tea with any over-the-counter saline solution labeled for eye use. You want the result to be slightly salty, like tears. Strain the mixture through paper coffee filter to remove any plant parts or undissolved salt. Apply with an eye dropper, cotton balls, or spray bottle every two to three hours as needed. A broad array of medicinal compounds in the flowers of the plant, including various essential oils, flavonoids, saponins, triterpene alcohols, and carotenes, combine to help speed cell reproduction and inhibit bacteria and fungi at the site of injury. Cool calendula tea works well as an eye wash for conjunctivitis, where its mild but predictable astringency combines with bacteria-fighting properties to reduce irritation and infection. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile is often recommended as an eye wash ingredient. Follow the tea-brewing instructions above and apply when cool. Best known as a uterine relaxant and whelping aid, red raspberry leaf is an astringent herb containing polypeptides, flavonoids, and tannins. Its tea works well as a first-aid rinse for cuts and abrasions. This makes it especially appropriate for conjunctivitis that is secondary to bacterial or fungal infections. Goldenseal quickly reduces inflammation and redness. Because the plant part used is the root rather than leaves, goldenseal tea should be brewed as a decoction rather than an infusion. Combine 1 cup water with 1 teaspoon chopped dried root, cover, bring to a boil, and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, then remove from heat with cover in place and let cool to room temperature. Prepare as a decoction, like goldenseal. Because the berberine in this solution can irritate the eyes, dilute this tea with an equal or greater part of chamomile or raspberry leaf tea, some other soothing infusion, or a saline solution. Its mild astringent and antiseptic qualities make it effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis and inflammation. In addition, eyebright is considered an at-risk herb because of over-harvesting. Most herbalists agree that eyebright can safely be eliminated from herbal eye formulas. Another widely recommended product that has not been shown to be effective against conjunctivitis is colloidal silver. This solution, in which minute particles of silver are suspended in water, has been marketed for decades as a natural infection-fighter and as a treatment for conjunctivitis. In , the Journal of Wound Care published a study in which three different colloidal silver solutions had no effect on the growth of test organisms. Support Therapies In addition to treatments that address conjunctivitis directly, consider some with a less obvious healing connection. When Chloe, my eight-year-old Labrador Retriever, developed a bright red left eye with an oozing white discharge, her veterinarian, Tia Nelson, DVM, diagnosed conjunctivitis. Because Dr. Acupuncture is another supportive therapy. Keratitis, chronic conjunctivitis, and all sorts of eye irritations typically respond favorably to acupuncture, and cataracts or even blindness may respond. Acupuncture needles positioned to bring the liver back into balance would then restore the body to a state of harmony. Various energy healing therapies, such as Reiki and Jin Shin Jyutsu, are also used to restore balance and health to the body. Freelance writer CJ Puotinen lives in Montana.

The Labradoodle is one of the most popular, well-known Doodle breeds and for many reasons. Thank you, Poodle genes! Since the Labradoodle comes in both Standard and Mini sizes , almost anyone can expand their family with this adorable Dood. This includes extensive health and genetic testing to rule out any hereditary illnesses that the offspring may inherit. As a result, their puppies are much less likely to inherit any genetic conditions that could seriously alter their quality of life, or even lifespan. In addition to that, pay attention to what type of health guarantees the breeders offer. Generally, responsible breeders offer one or two-year health guarantees that cover any serious genetic conditions that the parents have been tested for. Of course, make sure that the health warranty comes in written form with your puppy purchase documentation. All of these organizations require their members to adhere to their highest standards of health testing and ethical breeding practices. In addition to that, they provide their members plenty of resources on responsible breeding, and help share the best and newest breeding practices amongst their members. Moreover, if you know anyone who has recently adopted a Labradoodle in Minnesota, you can always ask around to hear more about their own personal experiences with various Labradoodle breeders in the area. Choosing a breeder is a time-consuming task that requires a fair amount of work and research on your end. At Grace Kennel, their dogs and puppies are their number one priority. Their goal is to raise puppies with excellent conformation and temperament. They raise their puppies in a loving home environment, where their pups receive lots of love and attention from birth and up until adoption. As you would expect from an ethical breeder, they rigorously test all of their parent dogs. In fact, many of them do therapy work as well. Their puppies sure come from great bloodlines in terms of health and temperament! What Makes This Breeder Unique? They socialize and train the puppies as early as possible. This includes early potty training, basic manners and obedience, and regular grooming. Our doodles live a 'dog's life'. Originally bred to be allergy friendly service dogs they are smart, calm and love to be with people. Whether it's laying by the pool in the summer or bounding along snow covered paths in the winter conveniently snow blown by their human dad , running through the woods or barking at the deer passing through the yard it's all about the fun! On any given day you can watch the doodle parade with at least 3 puffy tails wagging and noses to the ground as we wind our way through the neighborhood. Our dogs are allergy friendly, sweet with just the right amount of spunk and scrupulously health tested. Labradoodle puppies come with a 2 year genetic health guarantee and we will be available as a guide throughout the life of your puppy. Please visit our puppy page to learn about our current litter and plans for future puppies. You can also contact us today by using the button below. Our promise to raise healthy, happy puppies We take every step to ensure that your puppy has a great beginning. A high-quality diet, vet checks, daily exercise and a happy home life in our home or forever family give our parents a great head start. Prenatal checkups, ultrasounds and x-rays ensure that moms and puppies are safe and ready for the big day! Some experts believe that days are a period of rapid neurological growth and development. We stimulate the puppy's nervous system with position exercises ENS and jumpstart their sense of smell ESI by introducing distinct smells. Our play areas challenge the puppies physically and mentally to overcome fears and obstacles during problem solving playtime. There are wobble boards, climbing steps, boxes to explore, tunnels to run through, agility sections, toys and balls to chase. Sound desensitization begins at three weeks. Before puppies go home, they are exposed to our regular home environment. Most master the stairs. Outside, we wander our several fenced acres, encouraging them to be dogs while learning valuable skills. Follow the leader, coming when called, hiding in the woods and playing with mom are the most fun! Your puppy is carefully handled from birth to provide loving human contact while respecting the bond between momma and puppy. In the critical first 8 weeks we strive to help the puppies become well- adjusted little doodles who easily transition to their new homes. We take special pride in knowing each puppy individually. Before puppy selection we provide a detailed description of each puppy. We know who is frisky, who loves to play 'keep away' and who's the charmer. Your puppy is hugged and loved by grandchildren and selected visitors to begin their socialization. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The Labradoodle is a fantastic home dog. They have a super affectionate personality and love to be in the center of the action. They are incredibly smart and enjoy playing but are often not pushy. Their keenness and intuition allows them to judge when it is play time and when it cuddle time. It is important that these dogs are introduced to the world, other people, and canines early on. We choose to socialize our puppies by playing with them throughout the day, going to a Assisted Living facility, and occasionally to daycares and schools. Mini Labradoodles are generally a great choice for a first-time dog owner, a family, a service dog, a school program dog, or a guide dog. At Puppies Up North, we began holding, loving, cuddling, and socializing our puppies from day one. Training a Labradoodle is an easier task than most dogs. Their eager-to-please personalities and intelligence make them both attentive and happy in learning. Their overt friendliness, intuition, and slight sensitivity mean they respond best to positive reinforcement. This means teaching tricks and games. Crate training is exceptionally successful with this breed. Labradoodles are exceptional with all families, young and old. They have a fun-loving personality, eager-to-please attitude, with the adaptability to match your lifestyle, makes them the perfect family companion. Here are the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Minnesota. With their rigorous screening process for breeders, PuppySpot ensures that all puppies are bred in trustworthy and ethical conditions. Additionally, they offer a health guarantee for all puppies and provide ongoing support to buyers to help ensure that the puppies are well taken care of. This support includes helpful information on training, nutrition, and other important aspects of pet ownership. PuppySpot also offers transportation options for buyers, making it easier for them to receive their new puppies, regardless of their location. With these services and their commitment to responsible breeding practices, PuppySpot is a fantastic choice for those looking for Labradoodle breeders in Minnesota. Heather, who spends time with the furry kids, is originally from Connecticut and has been in Minnesota since .Heather places a premium on the health of Labradoodle puppies and offers a three-day general health warranty. Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles, Minnesota, will give you a full refund if your furry pet develops any of the problems mentioned above after you take them home! They are dedicated to creating healthy, attractive dogs with decent temperaments. They hope to find a loving home for their Labradoodle puppies , where they are well-fed and never have to see a shelter. Hidden Valley Doodles are bred primarily for health and temperament. Thus their parent breeds are examined before crossing. Because of their great temperaments, their canines are prospering as fantastic therapy and service dogs. Their Labradoodle pups come with the following features. Age-appropriate vaccinations Examined by a veterinarian and backed by a two-year health guarantee Microchipped Vitamins and a package of dog food a package stuffed with unique delights This breeder has been growing great service and companion dogs for more than a decade, as well as grooming dogs and cats for over 30 years. For more than 15 years, the owner also worked as a horse trainer. The dewclaws will be removed, but this breeder will not dock the tails. All Labradoodle puppies will be vet checked, dewormed, and have their first set of shots before going to their new homes. Labradoodles on the Lake only plan to breed a specific amount of litter per year to keep the lines healthy and give each puppy the attention they deserve. This breeder raises mini Labradoodles and mini Goldendoodles, mini golden Cockerdoodles, and Cockapoo. Their miniature Labradoodles are renowned for their intellect, calm demeanor, devotion, and graceful walk. They have affectionate personalities and enjoy being in the middle of things. They are extremely intelligent and enjoy playing, although they are rarely demanding. They chose to socialize our puppies by playing with them all day, taking them to an Assisted Living facility, and occasionally taking them to daycares and schools. Mini Labradoodles are often a fantastic choice for a first-time dog owner, a family, a service dog, a school program dog, or a guide dog. All puppies are super healthy, joyful, and confident and are provided with: All immunizations as well as all boosters. We have TWO puppies looking for loving homes as soon as possible. Our F1 Labradoodles want to be your friend! Our latest F1 Labradoodle puppies will soon become one of your "friends! Phoebe is Mom, a silver Labrador Retriever, who weighs around pounds. Augie, our cream-apricot stand Poodle, is the Dad and weighs about 70 pounds. All our puppies received their first shots and a vet exam. He likes to run and play fetch in the field or splash in the water. Lots of Labradoodle to love! He wants to play and simply show you lots of love. I'll be there for you! To ensure our females have the best possible care and attention they deserve in a family of their own, the Guardian Family Program is an opportunity for selected families to welcome one of our dogs into your family at no initial cost. Guardian family is responsible for any other vet care, as needed. A successful litter is four or more healthy puppies. During her first heat cycle after turning two years old, she returns to the farm to breed. She stays on the farm for days. The gestation period is between 58 — 68 days. About days prior to her estimated due date, she returns to the farm to whelp and nurse her puppies. This is for about weeks. Northern Pine Doodles and our veterinarian, with the input of the family, determine the health and timing of breeding. If we determine the female is unable to successfully breed, she is spayed and becomes the family's pet at no cost. Interested in learning more about our Guardian Family Program? Contact Joe at for more information. Available Females for Guardian Program Call or text Joe at to learn more about becoming a guardian family for a female first-generation chocolate Labradoodle. The parents weigh between pounds and we estimate the puppies will be a similar size. We currently do not breed mini-doodles. Labradoodles, especially F1b, are great for families that may experience allergic reactions from pet dander. The dogs will lose hair, like you and I, but won't shed like other dogs. They are great with kids, friendly, and loving companions. Feel free to read more about our puppies from current owners on our Facebook page. Family-raised, our dogs love people and aim to please. Our owners rave about our puppies' temperament, which are friendly, smart, and loving companions. Because they are three-quarter Poodle, the puppies also are hypoallergenic and low shed. We specialize in Poodle-hybrids, or Doodles. Stud services are also available with a cream or chocolate Standard Poodle. Joe Francis and Sue Brague Wagner are the owners and have a great love for dogs. I am interested in more information about available puppies or would like to be added your litter announcement email list. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Forest Lake Minnesota and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Minnesota? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Minnesota. Many dogs are said to be good for allergy sufferers, but our Aussie Labradoodles are truly hypoallergenic and non-shedding. Friendliest Dispositions Labradoodles have a reputation for friendliness, and these dogs simply love doing whatever their families love doing. Perfect Family Pet Doodles adapt and thrive in so many different living situations, from big families with a lot of kids to retirees and everyone in between. Labradoodles are famous for getting along with everyone, especially kids! Premium Network of Labradoodle Breeders in Minnesota To meet the sky-high demand for our Labradoodles without sacrificing the wellbeing of our dogs, we decided to form an elite network of Doodle breeders who share our love of dogs, as well as our vision. Better for our customers, better for our dogs. Highest Minnesota Labradoodle Breeder Standards For maximum health and happiness, we have strict guidelines for limitations on both the age and number of litters for our mommy Doodles before retiring them from breeding. Plus, both our puppies and parent dogs live in the absolute BEST conditions possible. Elite Minnesota Labradoodle Genetic Lines Uptown Labradoodles are known for being healthy and even-tempered, from litter to litter and puppy to puppy. We put a lot of effort into minimizing the risk of illnesses and genetic diseases while simultaneously bringing out that awesome Doodle personality.

Key Takeaways Pro Tip: In rare cases, hiccups can be an indication of a serious underlying condition, and the longer you wait to see the vet, the more damage that can occur. With pet insurance, owners may feel empowered to get the fast answers they need for peace of mind about their pet's health, with protection against the financial risk of incurred vet costs. Can dogs get hiccups? Yes, dogs can get hiccups. In fact, they're quite common, and in most cases, nothing to worry about. Dog hiccups are very similar to human hiccups. They occur when the diaphragm the muscle between the abdomen and the chest cavity contracts involuntarily. When your canine companion gets the hiccups, their inhaling breathe is followed by abrupt stops, which might shake their belly and chest, causing them to make a "hic" sound. As a dog ages, the frequency of hiccup bouts usually decreases. Why do dogs get hiccups? Dogs get hiccups when their diaphragm is irritated, causing it to contract then relax in involuntary spasms. The most common cause of dog hiccups is eating or drinking too quickly because it forces them to swallow air along with the food or water. Food intolerance is another possible cause of hiccups in dogs. The stomach is close to the diaphragm, which can potentially cause spasms if their tummy is uncomfortable. Other explanations for why dogs get hiccups include stress, excitement, and energetic play. In some cases, the cause of dog hiccups may be due to an upset stomach or gas. Do puppies get hiccups? Puppies of all ages — from newborns to 6-month-olds — can get hiccups. Hiccups are far more common in small puppies than in grown-up dogs, with almost all puppies exhibiting hiccups at some point during their development. In fact, puppies experience hiccups even before they're born, while they're still in their mother's womb. Fun Fact: This also occurs in humans and other mammals, and although the reason is still unknown, the theory is that hiccups are a result of the body testing the muscles associated with breathing. Why do puppies get hiccups? There are several reasons why puppies get hiccups far more often than older dogs, including: Puppies tend to be more excitable and more energetic than adult dogs. Rapid bursts of energy can easily impact their breathing causing hiccups. Puppies are also more likely to eat or drink too fast. Puppies have weaker organs, and their digestive system is less mature than those of adult dogs. Being too tired or cold can also trigger puppy hiccups. That's why sleeping pups are much more prone to bouts of hiccups than awake ones. How to get rid of dog hiccups If your dog has hiccups, there are several methods you can try to get rid of them. Many of the same cures used by humans also work well for dogs. A sip of water might help, just make sure they drink it slowly. Otherwise, they might gulp down air and end up with another bout of hiccups. You can try to give them something sweet preferably in a liquid form , such as water mixed with a little bit of sugar. The sweetness might help distract them and hopefully relax their breathing pattern. These can coat the throat to soothe the irritation and slow down the breathing process. Just be sure that anything you give your pet doesn't contain Xylitol. This artificial sweetener is used in many human products, but it is toxic to dogs. Light exercise, like a mellow walk, may also do the trick by changing your pet's breathing patterns Keep in mind, the chest contractions can be somewhat violent, so avoid giving your pet foods that require a lot of chewing, as this might present a choking hazard. Prevention is always better than reaction. If your furry friend is prone to hiccups, try to figure out what causes them. If your dog is very eager to gobble up his food or water, consider getting them a slow dog feeder. Another option is to feed your pup several smaller portions throughout the day instead of two large meals. You should also consider the size of their water bowl. There are bowls with different heights or levels that can help the water go down slower and with less air intake. When should you be concerned about your dog's hiccups? Occasional hiccups are a perfectly normal occurrence in dogs and should not be a cause for concern. However, if your pup's hiccups occur very often, if they last for longer than a couple of hours at a time, or they begin to interfere with their daily activities, you should get in touch with your veterinarian. Here are a few potentially serious causes of dog hiccups: Respiratory issues. If hiccups are accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, discharge from the nose, or wheezing, it could be a sign of respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Heatstroke in dogs can also trigger hiccups. Any dog can experience this life-threatening condition, but brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs and Bulldogs are especially susceptible due to their restricted airways and short muzzles. The list of potentially serious causes of dog hiccups also includes pericarditis inflammation of the heart sac, the pericardium, which causes fluid to accumulate between the layers and hypothermia extreme lowering of the body temperature resulting from exposure to frigid temperatures for too long. Gastric issues. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, vomiting, and bloody stools on top of prolonged hiccups, it might be an indication of a gastrointestinal GI problem. The same symptoms, along with overall lethargy and exercise intolerance, can be a sign of a parasitic infection. Parasites such as roundworms and hookworms can also attack your pet's respiratory system. If your dog is still a puppy, make sure to have them on a de-worming schedule. They should be de-wormed at two, four, six, eight, and weeks as a puppy, and then every three months. When you take your pup to the vet, the vet will likely start with a physical exam, bloodwork, and urinalysis. Depending on the initial results and the clinical signs your furry friend is showing, an abdominal ultrasound, chest X-rays, CT scan, and an MRI might be recommended in order to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal hiccups. Key Takeaways Dog hiccups occur when the diaphragm involuntarily contracts and might result from eating or drinking too fast, over-excitement, or stress. Puppy hiccups are quite common, and these hiccups typically become less frequent as your pet gets older. Feeding smaller meals and slow-feeding dog bowls can help prevent hiccups in dogs. Occasional hiccups in dogs are normal and are nothing to worry about. However, if hiccups last more than a couple of hours, if they're accompanied by other symptoms, or if they start affecting your pet's life, it is best to speak to your vet. 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. In this article, we are going to dig deeper into this topic and find out how hiccups really occur in bulldogs and how you can cure them. Why do bulldogs get hiccups? Hiccups are common in both humans and dogs, and this is something that is not a serious concern. So, what are hiccups in bulldogs exactly? Hiccups are a sudden involuntary contradiction of the diaphragm. The hiccups can be a single event or a sequence of multiple hiccups that last a few minutes. The most common cause of your bulldog getting hiccups is eating or drinking water too fast. The fast pace of swallowing lets excess air get in along with their food and water. This irritates the diaphragm and ultimately disturbs the normal breathing pattern of your bulldog, resulting in hiccups. Another reason for the hiccups can be caused their excitement because dogs are very playful and have very little control over their positive emotions. During moments of excess emotions showing their enjoyment, their breathing pattern can change, and they can get hiccups. Finally, stress and or external factors can cause hiccups in bulldogs, such as inhaling any sort of irritant or when they feel too cold, too hot or tired. Which is more likely to get hiccups, puppies or adult bulldogs? Hiccups are more common in puppies than in adult dogs. When dogs grow older, they get very few hiccups or no hiccups at all. Puppies, on the other hand, are much more prone to hiccups, this is because they are very active and have a very high excitement level. Are the hiccups painful for bulldogs, should owners be worried? As we know, hiccups are something that occurs due to the contraction of diaphragm muscles but is it painful or cause for concern? Hiccups are not a very serious concern in fact, they can be useful. Some experts believe that hiccups help small puppies to get rid of gas or other irritation in the stomach. How long do hiccups last? Hiccups are temporary. Our bulldog puppy gets the hiccups daily, but they tend to go away after a few minutes. These include — pulling out tongue and scaring your dog. These are just not the way to get rid of hiccups. The idea here is to steady the breathings. Give some water to your bulldog. Check on their diet and eating patterns. If they eat quickly, you must give them the food in smaller portions. When they finish a portion, you can then give them the next. Exercise can also cure hiccups, as the heart rate and breathing pattern can change and then bring the condition to normal. You want to avoid over-exercising, especially when it is too hot out there. Foods to avoid preventing hiccups Strictly avoid giving food in bulk if you have seen your dog frequently getting hiccups. Though honey, sugar or other sweet stuff can be useful for blood sugar regulation, you must avoid giving it on a regular basis. Startling your dog can backfire. Though it works on humans sometimes, not suggested to try on dogs. Because it can create behavioral issues. What causes hiccups in dogs? Eating too fast The first and most obvious sign or symptom is your dog eats too fast and drinks too quickly. Due to fast eating, the air along with food travels inside and disturbs the diaphragm which causes irritation or muscle contraction, which ultimately gives hiccups to your dog. Excitement or Sadness These emotions are common in dogs, which can change the normal breathing pattern and dogs can get hiccups. Overheating Dogs, especially bulldogs are very prone to heat strokes, which again disturbs their heart rate and breathing, and they start hiccupping. While dog or puppy hiccups can be endearing to us, they can be annoying for your dog. What Are Dog and Puppy Hiccups? Hiccups in dogs and puppies are caused by rapid contraction of the diaphragm. When a dog breathes in, their diaphragm contracts and moves downward, making space in the chest cavity for their lungs to expand. When a dog breathes out, their diaphragm relaxes and moves up into their chest cavity as their lungs contract. Diaphragm movements are usually smooth and regular, but when the diaphragm suddenly spasms, the result is a hiccup. Hiccups are involuntary, and once triggered, this reflex causes a contraction of the diaphragm followed quickly by closure of the vocal cords specifically the glottis , which results in the "hic" sound. This contraction or myoclonic jerk of the diaphragm may repeat several times per minute. Do Hiccups Hurt Dogs? They can be annoying when they last for long periods, but dogs tend to remain calm during these contractions, with no signs of stress, anxiety , or pain. Hiccups can last for only a few seconds to hours in rare instances, but they normally do not require any treatment. Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups? One theory is that hiccups are leftover mechanisms from when we were developing in the uterus. Fetal hiccups have been documented in many species. Some scientists believe that hiccuping in the womb could be a passive test of breathing muscles. Dog hiccups are thought to be caused when a dog swallows too much air. Why Do Puppies Get Hiccups? Puppies are much more prone to hiccups than adult dogs. This is because they tend to ingest more air due to their higher levels of exertion and excitement. Puppies can also start hiccuping when they are tired, cold , or excited. Sometimes the swallowing reflex can interrupt the hiccups. If your dog likes tummy rubs, you can place them on their back and give a loving belly rub to try to stop the hiccups. Do not offer your dog food or water when they are lying on their back, as this can lead to aspiration of unwanted material into the lungs. Do not give your dog large meals or solid meals during violent hiccups, as this can lead to choking and aspiration pneumonia. Offer small amounts of water in frequent sessions. Also, offer small amounts of food and then wait a couple of minutes before offering more food so they swallow less air while eating. You can also try one of the many slow feeder options that are designed to slow down fast eaters. Dog hiccups usually go away on their own. In rare cases, they can be a sign of a more serious medical problem such as:.