labradors as puppies
First and foremost, you want to give your dog or puppy something safe. Otherwise, it can be unhealthy for them or even worse, dangerous. If you follow the tips listed below, it should help you find something perfect for them in the end. As tempting as it may be, never give your dog bones that are cooked. When considering store-bought bones for your dog, you should check with your vet first to make sure they are the right ones after all. If you choose rawhide bones, make sure there are no additives, preservatives, gelatin, or artificial sweeteners. Make sure the bones are all-natural. Feel free to give your dogs raw bones made of chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef. You should always give your dog a bone only after a meal, and your dog should never be given pork or rib bones. Finally, always give your dog a bone that is longer than its muzzle to make extra-sure your dog is safe. These bones are perfect for German shepherds because they are durable, safe, and last a long time. They also come in a variety of flavors that will keep your dog coming back for more. Related Questions 1. Can German Shepherds Chew on Bones? Yes, and the best bones for German shepherd dogs and puppies are either natural or synthetic bone chews. Can Dogs Digest Cooked Bones? Not really. Only give dogs raw bones and not cooked because they are both easier to swallow and easier to digest. Ideally, dogs should not get more than one to two bones per week, and you should always allow a few days in between each feeding just to be extra-safe. If you have any questions or concerns, always feel free to consult with your vet before providing bones to your dog. Why Trust Us? At TrainYourGsd. Related posts:. German Shepherds love to chew on bones but there are some dangers associated with this popular canine pastime. Giving your dog the right bone will lead to many happy hours of chewing. Make sure you know the differences so you can avoid any possible mishaps. The Best Bones For German Shepherd are large uncooked beef or lamb shank bones that are bigger than their mouth so that they are unable to swallow it whole. Because of their softness, they have a tendency to splinter while your dog is chewing on them. This can cause serious injuries to the digestive tract, mouth and throat. This article will answer some common questions people have about bones, some misconceptions and of course a list of our favorite bones for your German Shepherd. We will also tell you what to do if the worst case scenario happens and your precious pup swallows a bone. Is it safe to give your German Shepherd bones? Giving your German Shepherd a bone can be safe if you take the proper precautions. However anytime you give a dog a bone there is a risk involved. Here are the risks of giving your German Shepherd a bone: Blockage Fragments of bone can become stuck in the small intestines resulting in a blockage. Surgery may be required to remove them. They can also pierce the wall of the intestine causing Peritonitis. Parts of the bone can also make there way all the way down the GI tract to the large colon. They can collect there, causing constipation and severe discomfort. The resulting trauma can cause bleeding in the rectal area. The vet may have to use an enema or manipulate the bowel to remove the fragments. Bone stuck in the stomach If a piece of bone is too large, it may be unable to make its way out of the stomach. This can result in abdominal surgery or an endoscopy to remove the bone fragment. This can cause an infection referred to as Peritonitis which can be fatal. Cracked Teeth Dogs can crack their teeth chewing on a hard bone such as a store bought cooked bone. This can lead to costly dental bills from the resulting extraction or even possible root canal needed to fix the tooth. Not to mention the pain it will cause your dog. Mouth and tongue injuries When a piece of the bone breaks off into the dogs mouth, it can be super sharp, cutting the roof of the mouth or piercing the tongue and cheek. Obstruction of the airway A bone that is too small can get lodged or stuck in the dogs esophagus causing them to choke. Pieces or shards of the bone can also get stuck in the trachea making it hard for your dog to breathe. Raw bones can be contaminated While raw bones are by far the safest choice, they can be contaminated with certain dangerous pathogens. When it gets stuck behind the lower canine teeth, it is very tough to get dislodged. Sometimes the only remedy is a trip to the Emergency Vet where your dog might need to be sedated or anesthetized to remove it. What are the benefits of giving my German Shepherd a raw bone? Although this topic is highly debated in the dog world, there are benefits to giving your dog a raw bone. You must decide for yourself if the benefits outweigh the risks. I personally think they do. Here are some of the benefits that your dog will get from a raw bone. Clean Teeth A raw bone is a great substitute for brushing your pooches toothy trains. Chewing on the bone helps stimulate the saliva enzymes and helps get rid of any food trapped in your dogs teeth. It also prevents the build up of tarter and keeps the teeth healthy and clean. This will help to avoid any trips to the vet for extractions or scaling of the teeth. Ten to twenty minutes of chewing after a meal should do the trick. Helps dog avoid bad chewing habits A nice raw bone can be a great way to distract your dog from any bad or unwanted chewing habits. Some dogs have a habit of chewing on clothing, furniture, socks. A bone will keep there attention and hopefully prevent them from any negative chewing habits. They contain calcium phosphate which can be up to four times easier for your dog to digest verses other common calcium supplements. Raw bones are excellent for larger breed dogs such as the German Shepherd. Because of their quick growth, they need the extra calcium for their large skeletal system. The best types of raw bones to give your dog: Frozen raw bones Freezing bones before giving them to your dog is a great way to slow down their chewing and digestion. Large raw bones The size of the bone will depend on the size of the dog but in general you want to give your dog large raw bones that are bigger than their head and a greater length than their muzzle. A German Shepherd for example, will require something large such as a lamb breast or a turkey neck. Meaty raw bones Raw bones with plenty of meat on them are the best for your dog. You want to have a good balance of meat to bone. Excess bone without the meat can cause constipation. If the bone is a little bare, some additional meat on the side will help even things out. Bones to avoid giving your dog: Antlers Avoid any types of antlers. They are too hard for your dog and can wreak havoc on their teeth causing injuries. Bones that are cut up into small pieces This would include knuckle bones and ox-tail bones that have been cut. Cooked bones Cooked bones that you buy from the store are the worst choice. The softness of these bones can lead to splintering which can cause injuries. Rawhide Bones Stay away from these bones as they are a choking risk. The rawhide can get soft after your dog chews on it for awhile. Because of this, your dog can easily tear off big chunks which can be swallowed if unsupervised. Small bones Smaller bones are a choking hazard. Stay away from chicken, pork or rib bones which are common but unfortunately dangerous. They are more prone to splinter causing damage to your dogs mouth. Tips for giving your dog a bone: Avoid bones that have been cut the length of the bone. Bones that have been cute the entire length of the bone are more likely to splinter and have sharp edges. Avoid giving bones with marrow to dogs with Pancreatitis. Instead try giving them an alternative. Avoid giving bones to dogs with previous dental work. Dogs that have had any teeth restored are in danger of braking those teeth. You are better off not giving them a bone. Instead give them a safe alternative. Freeze bones when they are not being used. Keep the bones in the freezer when they are not being used. It will help avoid contamination and help slow down the time it takes for your dog to chew a bone. Give your dog a bone following a meal. Let your dog finish their dinner. Then throw them their favorite bone. It should slow down the aggressiveness of their chewing lessening the chance of them swallowing part of the bone. Never leave your dog unsupervised with any bone. They can chew for too long and the bone can become small enough for your dog to swallow. They can also bite off pieces that can become stuck in their throat or pierce the inside of their mouth. Ten to twenty minutes is a sufficient amount of time for your dog to chew its bone. Throw away bones when they get old or worn down. Once a dog chews on a bone for a long period, it becomes more brittle with more chance of splintering. Throw it out and get a new bone. Bone powder as an alternative: If you are concerned about the repercussions of giving your dog a raw bone, you can grind them down into a powder and sprinkle it on their food. They will get the benefits of the minerals and nutrients without the risks we discussed earlier in the article. The calcium phosphate alone is enough to make the whole process worth it. Keep in mind, your dog will miss the benefits of chewing which can include healthier teeth and less anxiety and stress. Best coarse of action if your German Shepherd swallows a bone: Dogs love to chew and they love to eat. This can often times lead to your dog swallowing part of a bone and sometimes even the whole bone if is too small. You will definitely want to keep a close eye on your pooch when they are chewing on their favorite bone. According to Dr. Most of the time, the bone simply dissolves. He recommends staying away from large beef vertebrae especially from the butcher. Dogs have a tendency to want to swallow it since it is hard to break into smaller bits. It then can become stuck in the lower esophagus in the chest resulting in possible surgery to remove the bone. If he is and you can locate the bone in his mouth, try to safely remove the bone and clear the airway. If you cannot do this safely, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. The second step to take, if your dog swallows a bone and seems fine, is to contact your veterinarian and ask them what to do. The size of the bone swallowed will determine the best course of action. On rare occasions your vet may decide that surgery is necessary to remove the bone. Step three is to wait and monitor your dog. If your dog becomes sick after swallowing the bone and starts to vomit, call the veterinarian immediately and try to take them in as soon as possible to get checked. Symptoms to look out for: Abnormal movements Blood in their stool or diarrhea Constipation. After all, bones provide numerous benefits including providing calcium and phosphorus, help to keep teeth and jaws healthy, and are good to relieve boredom, stress, and anxiety. Check out the list below to see the common misconceptions that people have about dogs eating bones. Never feed your dog sharp, small, cooked, pork, or rib bones. Only bones from home are safe, in most cases. In any case, bones should be disposed of after a couple of days as bacteria will form. Not all dogs can chew on bones. Many German Shepherds have poor or weakened teeth. Whether they have tooth decay, exposed enamel, or gum disease, chewing on a bone can cause instant sharp pain for your dog. Rubber or plastic bones are a safe alternative for dogs to chew on. They can be equally as dangerous as splintered bones, so choose wisely. You can see below my recommendations. Now that you know what to avoid, you can find good bones that fit within the healthy parameters from the previous section. Here are the five risks of feeding cooked bones to your German Shepherd: When bones splinter, it acts like glass. Choking is another common risk of eating cooked bones. If your German Shepherd is chewing on a bone, a piece can easily break off and go down his throat. Bones are incredibly dense, which is why they can lead to blockages when consumed. If your German Shepherd manages to swallow a piece of a cooked bone, it can get lodged in their digestive tract and cause a blockage. Sometimes, the only way to remove it is to pay for surgery. Some German Shepherds are sensitive to bone marrow, which becomes easily exposed from chewing on cooked bones. If your GSD has a sensitive stomach , then ingesting too much bone marrow could cause sickness and diarrhea as it is too rich and high in fat. Loose teeth can become shattered or ripped from their roots. Raw Bones vs. Chew Toys for German Shepherds Large raw bones are typically a safe choice for your German Shepherd to chew on, as are most chew store-bought bones. If you pulled them from a large animal, most big bones are the perfect size for German Shepherds. Raw bones should be big enough to prevent your dog from swallowing them whole. On the contrary, your GSD will get a nutritional boost from the raw bone from the calcium and phosphorus. Cons of Raw Bones You have to be very precise when choosing a raw bone for your dog. Bone marrow can cause all sorts of stomach issues if your dog is prone to tummy upsets. Supervision is necessary. Pros of Chew Toys Bones Convenient and easy to find. They allow you to continue to provide bones for your dog without requiring you to buy raw meat. Plastic bones last much longer than raw bones. If you choose a heavy-duty plastic bone, such as the Nylabone mentioned above, then your German Shepherd will be able to enjoy it for quite some time, and they also come in a range of flavors. Your dog will have to enjoy the task of chewing without being able to gnaw away at delicious raw meaty bits. Choose a flavored chew bone for your dog. The Benebone Real Flavor Wishbone is a hot choice for thousands of pet owners. The wishbone shape is ideal for dogs to grip and hold. It lasts seemingly forever, and the flavor stays around, unlike some chew toys. You can choose from chicken, bacon, or peanut. They can cause cracked teeth and other dental injuries. When the rawhide becomes soft it becomes easy for your GSD to break chunks off and swallow them. Puppies have delicate teeth and jaws, so they need softer bones that are easier to chew and digest. Here are some good options for German Shepherd puppies: Raw chicken necks or wings: These bones are small, soft, and easy to chew. They also contain cartilage and connective tissue, which can be beneficial for joint health. Raw beef marrow bones: These bones are larger and harder than chicken necks or ribs, but they contain a lot of nutrients and can be a good option for teething puppies. Additionally, any bone should be given under supervision and taken away once it becomes small enough to swallow whole. In this case, you will need to monitor them and keep an eye on their stools. However, if your GSD has accidentally eaten a cooked bone such as a rib or small chicken bone and they swallow a splinter, then you should take your dog to the vet immediately. Signs of intestinal obstruction include vomiting, lethargy, a painful tummy, and having no desire to eat. The sooner you can have your vet take a look, the sooner your dog will be safe. Note: Always watch puppies when they chew bones. They might literally bite off more than they can chew, so you need to be there to remove anything sharp or too small for their mouth. Final Thoughts German Shepherds love meaty bones just as much as any dog. As long as you follow the safety suggestions found in this post you can safely let them enjoy a good chew. Choose large raw bones bigger than their muzzle. Raw beef or lamb shank bones are a good choice. Supervise your dog at all times. There are many good alternative chew bones. Related Posts You May Like:. Buy on Amazon Rawhide bones are another popular type of chew bone, and they offer several advantages over natural bone. First and foremost, rawhide is a lot cheaper. When we compare that to our winner a natural bone product , we see that it only offers 8 bones for about the same price. Thus, this product offers good value. Rawhide also tends to last a lot longer than natural bone, as it cannot be so easily crunched and swallowed. That makes it great for those times when you have to be gone for a while. These bones are not exactly edible, but they can be digested with little trouble. We like the fact that this product contains no additives or chemicals. If the advertising is to be believed, this is just pure rawhide and nothing else. Without any kind of binding agent, these rolls tend to come unrolled pretty easily. The dog can still chew them at that point, but there is a much bigger chance of choking when all those thin shreds come into the picture. Alternate Product 2: Devil Dog Antler Chew Pros Harder and stronger than ordinary bones No mess or odor Sourced from wild elk with no cruelty Perfect for aggressive chewers Rough texture helps to naturally clean teeth Cons Kind of expensive A lot of natural variation Buy on Amazon At this point, you might be wondering why we included an antler on our list. You may not know this, but antlers are made of bone. Antlers and other horns are a little different from structural bones, being harder and stronger than most. If you are dealing with a dedicated chewer who shreds normal toys in a matter of hours, this might be just the solution you need. FAQ Dog bones are not a particularly complex subject, so you should now have a good grasp of the things you need to know. Selecting the right bone is just a matter of balancing all the relevant factors and choosing the product that suits your needs. The answer to this question will depend on what you mean. If you mean a literal bone from an animal, then the answer is yes. In the wild, it is perfectly natural for canines to eat bones. It represents an important source of calcium, and the marrow provides all kinds of nourishment. None of that applies to bones made of synthetic materials like nylon or plastic. Treat bones, of course, are meant to be eaten. If you can afford to get your dog natural chew bones, that is probably the best option. While there is nothing wrong with the other choices on our list, natural bones are the safest bet. Dogs have been gnawing on these things since the dawn of time, so why try to change them now? At the same time, you should realize that natural chew bones are a lot more expensive. To be honest, all chew toys present at least some hazard of choking. If a dog swallows large pieces of rawhide, it can create an intestinal blockage that might require surgery to remove. We will discuss their pros and cons and give general recommendations about each type. Natural Bones This is the ideal choice, but a lot of people cannot afford them. On the upside, not all of them are so expensive. We might look at our best value product as an example of a low-cost natural bone. The main benefit of natural bones is the fact that they provide extra nutrition to your dog. Between the calcium in the bone itself and the nutrients in the marrow, this is almost as nourishing as a meal. Of course, there are some issues here. Natural bones are usually roasted before being put on sale, and this can make them very brittle. In some cases, this can lead to splintering as the dog chews, and that can be dangerous. Thus, we would recommend that you avoid natural bone products that seem excessively dry and brittle. Nylon Bones Nylon bones offer some definite advantages, but they do have one big problem: They are non-digestible. Because of that fact, nylon bones will always present the danger of intestinal blockage. These bones also tend to be harder than most, meaning that they are best suited for large dogs. On the upside, nylon bones will usually last a lot longer than most others. When they do break, they tend to break into large pieces. Still, we would recommend that you not allow your dog to use nylon bones unless you are there to supervise. These are generally molded from a mix of substances that dogs like. Meat by-products make up the majority of their bulk, but vegetable material is also usually present. Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not strict carnivores but are more like omnivores who prefer meat. Like all treats, these are not designed to serve as a primary food source. They are a lot richer in fat than most kibble, so they could cause your dog to gain weight after too many of them. Rawhide Bones These are probably the cheapest and most common chew bones, and there are reasons that many people prefer them. Rawhide is a relatively safe material, as dogs can eat a fairly large amount of it without issue. We have already talked about the dangers of this material, as it can cause various problems if your dog eats too big of a piece. Statistically, the chance of your dog being harmed by rawhide is pretty small. That being said, we would recommend that you stick with the small chews, just to stay on the safe side. Dog bones are generally not complicated, but we have tried our best to educate you as to the finer points of the subject. Even if you use natural bone, this risk is still present. If we have succeeded in that goal, we hope that you will leave a comment below. Recommended reading. They are filled with natural marrow with no added additives. The natural marrow bones are bacteria-free and safe to consume. The bones are handpicked and inspected, to enhance quality and consistency. They are odor-free, have a perfect texture and thickness. They keep the teeth clean and effectively remove tartar build-up and plaque. Pros They are sourced from grass-fed free-range cattle Made from one natural ingredient Effectively removes tartar build-up and plaque They have a perfect thickness Cons Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Bones If you are looking for grain-free bones for your German Shepherd, the Blue Buffalo wilderness wild bones are a great option. These bones are great for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach. They contain zero poultry by-products, and they are formulated to strengthen the canine. They are perfectly roasted for your German Shepherd to enjoy a rich meaty taste. They are natural and have no artificial ingredients or additives. The bones are gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free. For a large breed like a german shepherd, these bones last long and can withstand aggressive chewing. They are stuffed with beneficial ingredients to keep your dog healthy. The bones are formulated to give your dog a healthy jaw. The rich taste makes the dog want to chew throughout, therefore strengthening the jaw. Pros They have a rich beef taste They are slow-roasted to preserve the taste They are natural. Bonus points go to treats who also freshen puppy breath, have all natural ingredients, and are soft to chew. So with all of this information what are the best bones for German Shepherd puppies? These treats are all natural and contain no artificial colors or preservatives. The soft texture also ease these pains by massaging the areas when chewed on. Because of their affordability, natural ingredients, soft texture, and thin design N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats are one of the best bones for German Shepherd puppies. Like N-Bone, Nylabone also has no artificial preservatives, no artificial colors, and does not include added sugar or salt. Anything above that will be too big and increase their risk of choking, and anything to small will be eaten too quickly. Because of their affordability, long lasting formula, and the added benefits of the Omega-3 Nylabone is one of the best bones for German Shepherd puppies. These are less of a bone like treat and more of a bone shaped treat, but they contain some of the same benefits as the other bones listed on this list. This product gives your dogs the same gum and mental stimulation as a normal bone with its rubbery texture. Put treats in the middle of this bone to keep your puppy interested in the bone. If you really want to spoil your pup you can put peanut butter in the middle of the bone and stick it in the freezer until frozen. The harden texture will make chewing it more fun and satisfying for your dog and watching them lick all the peanut butter off is guaranteed to give you a good laugh and some priceless photos. Conclusion Feeding your puppy bones can be dangerous, but with proper supervision and if given the right size it can be fine. From being reusable, thin, natural, and having extra supplements like Omega-3, these products are sure to wow your German Shepherd while keeping them healthy and strong at the same time. If you decide to use some other bones for your puppy make sure you ask yourself the following questions: Can this break into sharp pieces that can cut my puppy? Is this too hard? Is this item too big? Can my puppy choke on it? With these 3 questions in mind you can rest assured that you now know how to pick the best bones for German Shepherd puppies.
If neither of those options is for you, then you can also look at ads in local newspapers, as well as online. They can be found in shelters, dog breeders, and even on the Internet. You can find your pup at any one of these locations, but you should understand that it is not always a good idea to get a puppy from a shelter. Breeders and shelters have their advantages and disadvantages. You can find a great Boston Terrier pug mix puppy for sale that way, but you need to weigh them against the costs involved. You need to be sure you can afford the pup and that you will be able to provide the love and care that your puppy needs. Boston Terrier pug mix puppies for sale can be found in virtually any city, town, or county in the United States. You can even find some in Canada, and several Canadian breeders sell puppies. There are even some American and Canadian breeders that sell pups. It is a good idea to get your pup from a reputable breeder or shelter. Why would you want to buy pups from someone who is not reputable? Well, in many cases, it is not that reputable. Some of the most reputable breeders will get their pups from rescue shelters, not from dealers. They also purchase only purebred pups, never mixes. That is why you should look for a shelter or breeder that has purebred pups. In many cases, it is much better to buy pups from a breeder than from a dealer. Finding pug mix puppies for sale is not difficult. Many places sell purebred pups, so if you want a Boston Terrier pug mix puppy, you will need to know where to look. The Internet can also be a good place to find bugs, but be sure to do some research before buying pugs from an online store. Litter types also vary between pugs. One type is a black pug , another is a mocha pug and the third is a golden pug. All of the pugs are very similar, but some have a coat that is lighter in color. You should ask about the pugs you are interested in to find out if they have a color other than the standard color or the black and tan variety. Buying pugs can be a lot of fun, but it is also a lot of work. It is important to find the right pug and the right litter type for you. If you do your homework and make sure you are getting the best pug for the right litter, you will be happy with your purchase. If you are looking for Boston Terrier characteristics in your next dog purchase, there are many options available for you to select from. A Boston Terrier may be the right type of dog for you but there are several things that you should consider before deciding on a dog. You can also use this information to determine if this dog breed is right for you. The breed that has the strongest intelligence and obedience usually tends to be the most popular with buyers. They are also known for being loyal and hard-working. This makes them ideal companions and best friends, but they also make wonderful pets. There are a few Boston Terrier characteristics that are specific to the mix that you get with a pup. The larger pups usually have a more mellow temperament, while the smaller ones tend to be more lively and active. They also tend to be a little bit larger than their purebred counterparts. If you plan on getting a puppy, your best bet is to look for a mixed breed. Another Boston Terrier characteristic that you can look for in a puppy is the coat. Long hair coats are sometimes even preferred by dog owners who prefer to own a larger dog. Just remember that no matter what type of coat you choose to have, you will need to groom it often and at least once every week or two. Any Boston Terrier mix will have a very similar history when it comes to breeding. While there are many purebred Boston Terriers that are still in use today, you can find some of these dogs for sale but you can also find Boston Terrier characteristics in your local area. You can look for one that is easily trained and friendly. You can also find dogs that have been bred in many different lines and you can choose one that will suit your lifestyle. You can find cute little puppies for sale and dogs that are medium-sized and perfect for your home or apartment. When you are ready to buy puppies for sale, you will want to consider the type of Boston Terrier traits that you like and what you think is best for your family. A good breeder is likely to have many dogs for sale in various shapes and sizes so you should get a list of potential dogs from them. They are a popular kind of dog, loved for their sweet disposition and cute face. However, you might also know that they are quite expensive, which makes it difficult to buy one for yourself or even to adopt one. Fortunately, there are several places where you can look to find these puppies for sale. All you have to do is remember a few important pointers. The first place you can look for Boston Terrier pugs is a breeder. Most pet stores have both male and female pups in their stocks, so you can choose which you want to buy. Plus, most pet stores have adoption fees, so the money you save on the purebred pups can be quite a lot. There are other places too where you can buy Boston Terrier puppies for sale. A good example would be your local newspaper ads. So these dogs need special care and someone who can take care of them. Adoption fees are still applicable though, so you can always pay the fee to register your dog and be able to take care of it legally. You can also go to Craigslist and see if any Boston Terrier mixes puppies are for sale there. The best place to look for a purebred pug mix is at an animal shelter or rescue group. One good thing about adopting a dog from the shelter is that you can usually visit the animal shelter and see if the puppies are already housetrained and have been for a while. Most people who do this are doing so because their pet is sick or injured, so they want to get them off their hands as soon as possible. Sometimes breeders will advertise their purebred puppies for sale in the newspaper hoping that people will scoop them up when they show up at the shelter or rescue. When I was looking for Boston Terrier puppies for sale, I found that one purebred puppy was advertised for sale in the newspaper by the owner of a local dog training center. The ad stated that the puppy had been neutered and the breeder was seeking an adult male. That was my best resource for locating purebred Boston Terrier puppies for sale, as I had no idea what types I wanted to own, and there were so many different types of terriers! But, I did find out that I had a true Boston Terrier fan when I discovered that the guy who was selling the pup had taken a dog breeder class and trained dogs before making his purebred Boston Terrier mix. So that cleared things up for me, and I was able to choose my dog and get him home with me much sooner! Share this:. Life Span Did You Know? A Bugg is a cross between a Boston Terrier and Pug. These dogs tend to be small and are known for their adorable faces and gentle, fun, and comedic personalities. As a designer breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. Buggs are a great fit for single owners as well as families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to be sweet, affectionate, and love to cuddle. They also tend to have an upbeat, fun-loving, and sometimes clownish personality. If left untrained or not socialized properly, barking can become a nuisance behavior and they can also become territorial. Although they are very sensitive to heat, the Bugg is a highly adaptable dog. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with yards. They also do well in most climates, aside from heat. But, they have a short coat, so they may need some winter dog products to stay warm in colder temperatures. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time because they are devoted to their families. Potential health conditions to be aware of in the Bugg breed include luxating patella , cataracts, deafness, hip dysplasia, and encephalitis. As a brachycephalic dog breed, they will be prone to breathing problems, allergies, and will be very sensitive to heat. Their protruding eyes can also become irritated in the cold and you need to be careful to keep them clear of debris. As a small dog breed, they are also more prone to developing dental disease. So, practicing good dental care for dogs is also important. Buggs are intelligent dogs that are eager to please even though they can be stubborn at times. This tends to make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they strengthen the bond you have with your puppy and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. As a small dog breed, house training can be a challenge. But, with consistency, some house training tips , and a lot of patience, you can get through it. Bugg puppies are also quite curious and energetic. They also tend to be prone to jumping up and climbing over people and furniture. The Bugg has a short coat that will shed a little year-round and potentially a little more as the seasons change. Monthly nail trimming can be enough to keep nails from growing too long. Floppy ears are more prone to ear infections than ears that stick straight up all the time, but all ears need to be checked regularly. Many dog owners overlook dental care, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. But, gum disease in dogs is serious and can lead to many other health issues. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. The Bugg tends to have a moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime or other activity are usually enough for this dog. Although they may have bursts of energy, they are small dogs and can wear themselves out quickly. They love being around you, so they will likely be up for more activity if you are. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overdoing it. As a brachycephalic dog, they are more sensitive to heat and can easily become overheated. But, there are safe ways to exercise brachycephalic dogs to help your Bugg get the movement they need to stay healthy. A fully-grown Bugg usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Bugg generally lives for years. Bugg Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Bugg page! Currently, we do not have any Bugg puppies available, but we can alert you when new Bugg puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.
Parents imported from Serbia and Montenegro. Sire is 4 time Champions in Montenegro. All puppies are sold on contract with 3 years health guarantee by breeder. Buy Now Boxer puppies available now Boxer puppies available now very playful For more info and pics please text us at: xxx xxx-xxx8for faster response. They are not registered. They will be vet checked and cleared and ready for their new home. Shipping is also available at your own expense. If you or anyone you know are interested please reach out to Nathan or Ivet xxx. Questions, let us know! Puppies for sale!!! Seeking a good home for my puppies. They have great temperament towards people and gets along with big dogs and pets at home. They are registered. Contact through my website at xxx. My puppies are well socialized, up to date on all age appropriate shots. I have excellent references and would be happy to give them to you at your request. Excellent bloodlines behind my dogs. I have a one girl and three boys available at this time. They are very socialized with kids and other home pets around them. These puppies very intelligent and will adapt easily in a new environment. Contact for more information. Sweet boxer puppies ready. Give us a call or text at xxx xxx-xxx3 View Detail Need help? Please contact contact petzlover. Raising quality puppies since ! We strive to raise the highest quality puppies and to provide them and their parents with the best care possible. Our puppies are raised with lots of TLC from us, our children, and our grandchildren so you can be sure they have been pre-spoiled and very socialized before leaving us. We believe a puppy should be a member of your family and should live inside your home with you. Puppies should be given every opportunity to have a healthy and happy life. We try to make sure our puppies are placed in loving homes where they will receive the best life has to offer them! If you are looking to add a puppy to your family, please browse our site and check out our available puppies. You may contact us by phone or email to discuss the adoption process. We have always passed our inspections and have never had any non compliant issues. We are always praised by our inspectors for having a top quality kennel. Our licensed veterinarian comes to our home to see all of our dogs on a regular basis so he can inspect them and provide them with a thorough, hands on well check up in addition to all regular veterinarian care. As members of these organizations, we receive the most up to date news, education, and veterinarian tips that help us take the best possible care of our dogs. We take great pride in our kennel and our dogs. If you are looking to add a new puppy to your family, please contact us for a complete list of available puppies. We would love to help you find your new family member! We offer a one year health guarantee with every puppy we sell and a lifetime of breeder support. Please review our health guarantee and contact us if you have any questions. Being a member of AKC's Bred with Heart program means we provide our dogs with important genetic health testing that can rule out health problems with our puppies. For the complete list please see our Listings of Breeders page. In the case of boxers from a reputable breeder, you will usually pay more than what an owner is charging since these breeders usually have to pay higher licensing and insurance fees as well as build kennels and other facilities that would be suitable for breeding dogs. In addition, reputable breeders will allow you to take the boxer home with a signed contract that prevents them from breeding their dog or selling it to other people. However, there are usually people who breed boxers as a side hobby and will be quite willing to make a deal with you. Although it is not recommended that you buy from these people, they usually give the dog away for free or for a very low price because they are trying to get rid of their dogs. In addition, buying from someone who breeds boxers as a side hobby may be cheaper. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Missouri To find a responsible boxers breeder in Missouri, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Since there are many reputable breeders in this state, asking people who live nearby would be advisable as well. If you cannot ask anyone locally for help, then using the Internet will also allow you to look up lists of accredited dog breeders which may give you some leads on finding reputable breeders. Another important factor to consider if you want to buy a boxer puppy in Missouri is where the dog will live. Although Missouri does not have any requirements for the living conditions of dogs, it is always best to find out how big the kennel or barn will be and what the weather conditions are like in order to make sure that your boxer puppy can adapt to its new environment. Visit Your Missouri Boxer Breeder in Person In order to find boxers for sale in Missouri from a reputable breeder, it is important that you visit their kennel or farm. Although there are many breeders who advertise through the Internet and will ship a boxer puppy to your home, it is always best to buy a dog from a local breeder since they can ensure you good customer service. Visiting your Boxer breeder in person will also give you a chance to see the kind of environment your boxer is living in. This will allow you to determine if their breeding practices help promote good health and temperament as well as how they treat the dogs. It also allows you to connect with the breeder and makes it easier for you both to establish a strong relationship. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Missouri When you are searching for a Missouri boxer breeder, making sure that the boxing breeders in your area are trustworthy is just one of the most important factors to consider. You must know that not all reputable boxer breeders would be aware of how to raise their puppies correctly. References will be of great help in making sure that you will only be dealing with the most reliable boxer breeders in Missouri. For these reasons, asking for references is one of the best ways to ensure that they are professional Missouri boxer breeders. Ask Your Missouri Boxer Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Asking your Missouri boxer breeder to introduce you to their past clients is one of the most effective ways in order to determine if they are professional or not. If possible, you can also ask for referrals at this time. If these references and referrals are promising, then it basically means that they are reliable boxing breeders in Missouri. However, always keep in mind that not all reputable boxing breeders would provide these things right away especially when it comes to the safety of their puppies. Take note that responsible and trustworthy boxers breeders would look out for the welfare of their pets before anything else. This is why you must always make it a point to trust the boxer breeder in Missouri only when they are willing to hand over these things. Does the boxer breeder in Missouri that you are considering working with have a good relationship with their veterinarian? This basically means that they are responsible when it comes to taking care of their pets and not just looking at them as a source of income. You just need to remember that not all reputable boxer dog breeders would be easy to work with. In fact, you should already know this when looking for boxers in Missouri since not everyone has the same standards and expectations. This is one of the most common signs which point out that you might be dealing with an unethical Missouri boxer breeder at this time. They ask for payment during the process of the transaction. Before getting to work with Missouri boxer breeders, they must first know what kind of payment they are looking forward to accepting. If they immediately ask for payment even before doing anything, then this is one discouraging sign that points out that you might be dealing with an unethical boxer breeder at this present time. To them, money comes first and not the welfare of their pets. What good does a verbal agreement do? There are a lot of people who would prefer written contracts since these things hold both sides accountable. This is the kind of question which you should ask your breeder even before anything else. If they keep on telling you that nothing is wrong with them, this is yet another discouraging sign which points out that there might be something wrong with their facilities right now. So make sure to ask this question before agreeing to any contract. Remember that this is not just another pet since they are known to be quite destructive. So if you want them to do this somewhere else, make sure that you give them something which they could use for this purpose like chew toys and bones. But at the same time, it will also depend upon their age. If they are still young, then it might take some time before they would chew on things other than their own toys and bones. Just keep in mind that these pets would eventually grow up one day, and they will start exploring your house. This is the only way for them to learn what kinds of things are appropriate or not. You must never forget about this since this would have a long-term effect on their behavior later on in life. Just be patient when it comes to training them so everything would go according to plan. If these pets go to the bathroom inside your house, then this can lead to a lot of serious problems for both you and them. Remember that training your pet is essential because it helps strengthen your relationship with each other over time. They need enclosure crate training:Crate training works hand-in-hand with potty training which is why you should not forget about this one thing above all else. They would give you some good advice which will help improve the overall relationship that you have with your pet. Just have patience with them since they will eventually learn what you want them to do regardless of how long it may take. Enjoy your brand new Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter.
Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. This means they are not considered a purebred dog or a designer dog breed. Border Collies are athletic, loyal dogs with a high energy level. They love to move and work with their families. You can also meet the mother dog in-person for an idea about what to expect regarding general size and temperament. On the Border Collie side, you have a highly intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dog that loves to be active and loves to work. Border Collies get along well with other dogs and children, but can be reserved or slightly suspicious towards strangers. Otherwise, they will find their own entertainment, which might result in them herding your children or a flock of sheep into your kitchen. The Border Collie Mix could take all of its characteristics from the Border Collie, from the other parent dog breed in the mix, or be any combination of characteristics from both. Before bringing a Border Collie Mix home, make sure you take some time to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed of the litter. This will give you a good idea of what possibilities to prepare for in your Border Collie Mix puppy. The Border Collie is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They may be a high-energy dog breed that prefers wide open spaces, but they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get plenty of mental stimulation and exercise. A well-exercised, mentally engaged Border Collie is also okay with being alone. In terms of climate, this dog breed does best in a moderate climate as they do not do well in hot or cold climates. With a Border Collie Mix, you could end up with a dog that is moderately adaptable like the Border Collie. Or, you could end up with a dog more similar to the other parent breed. This could result in a more adaptable or less adaptable dog depending on the cross. Having a conversation with the breeder about the other parent breed can clear up some of the confusion and give you a better idea of what to expect. Border Collies are generally healthy, but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. You can also ask about the genetic history of the parents and check out health screenings and health clearances to rule out some conditions. On the Border Collie side, you have a dog that is highly intelligent and eager to learn. They are generally difficult for the average person to train, so you will want to enroll in obedience and training classes with your Border Collie Mix puppy regardless of the other parent breed. Even if the dog breed in the cross is highly trainable for novice dog owners, there is the possibility the puppy will pick up Border Collie characteristics and be more difficult to train. A well-trained and properly socialized puppy is more likely to grow into a well-rounded dog, so make sure you start training and socialization early. Border Collies have a weather-resistant double coat that requires weekly brushing. They also have heavier shedding sessions as the seasons change and need to be brushed more frequently during this time. Depending on the other parent breed in your Border Collie Mix, their coat could require more or less grooming. Finding out about the other parent breed from the breeder will give you an idea of what you could expect when it comes to coat. Regardless of the coat, all dogs need to have their nails trimmed, teeth brushed, and ears checked regularly. For most dogs, trimming nails once a month is sufficient. When it comes to dental care for your dog , brushing their teeth daily is recommended. This will help prevent the tartar and plaque buildup that leads to dental disease. If your Border Collie Mix has ears that drop down, they are more prone to moisture and developing an infection. Regularly checking them and cleaning as needed helps reduce the risk of ear infections in your dog. Border Collies have a lot of energy and never seem to get tired. They love to be moving and working. Plus, they were originally bred to run several miles a day and they still have the energy to do so. It is important that you are prepared to handle a high energy working dog when you choose a Border Collie Mix puppy. If the other parent breed is a couch potato, your puppy could end up having a lower energy level. A Border Collie tends to weigh between 30 and 50 pounds and usually stands 18 to 22 inches tall. The other parent breed could cause this to vary. So, be sure to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in your Border Collie Mix. Also, make sure you stop by to meet the mother dog. There are always exceptions, but the size of the mother will at least give you something to work with. A Border Collie typically lives 12 to 15 years. You could expect a similar range in your Border Collie Mix with the understanding that the other parent breed could affect the range one way or the other. Featured Border Collie Mix Article. Showing 1 - 40 of 63 resultsPage 1 - 63 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Jacobs and Heidelberg. Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.No shots provided located in Drayton Valley, will deliver. Puppies are super lovey and are great with kids and other dogs See all Border collie Australian Shepherd cross pups Stratford Adorable and snuggly little puppies for sale! Their mother is pure border collie and father is pure Australian shepherd final pics are of them. There are 6 males and 2 females for sale. They are.This gentle yet excitable young dog can't wait to start his new life with you. Lucky looks for every opportunity to make new dog friends to run around and.The pups come from very good temperament and sane parents. Both parents are very social and friendly. Puppies are very social, friendly.Has all her shots and in good health. Comes with xl crate, bedding and toys. Located in Edmonton, willing to.Come have a look: Messages are coming in a bit late on my computer kijiji glitch so if I don't get back to you right away, I appreciate your patience and will respond as soon as it.The older one is a female named Lily, born February, .The younger one is a male named Max, born December 28, .It would be nice.Jacobs Mixed large breed puppies for sale. Call or text us to get a quick reply. Gorgeous colors and beautiful temperaments. If you are looking for the perfect family dog, then this is a great.Puppies are Born and raised in our home. Ready To Go! The proud parents had a litter of 7 to choose from. Dad is a.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.All 1st year shots, Ready for their new home. Mom is 50Lbs, Dad 70Lbs, light brown puppy is larger than black puppy who has her.I brought these.Dad is a Border Collie. Looking for long term homes. Trained for pee pad, working on training to go outside. Have had shots and will have booster shot. There are 3 females and 1 male. The male is now sold. Absolutely adorable and sweet. These dogs are very loyal, smart, and a great medium size family dog. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Puppies are super lovey and are great with kids and other dogs Please Contact 8 Month old puppy Oshawa Through no fault of his own Kaitoe is looking for his new, forever home. He is an unaltered male, 8 months old born December 28th and his dad, the white dog in the photos and on-site, is a Bull.He is house trained and would not be a problem in a new environment. Reason for selling are serious.Yellow male intact. They are siblings, a mix of everything but looks like mainly shepherd and border collie. About 8 months old. They will come with their first set of shots, deworming and microchipped! Mom is purebred.Albert 2 adorable little pups looking for new homes! Born July 18, 1 female 1 male. Femalea is short haired with no tail. Male is long haired with full tail. Affectionate, intelligent and cute as buttons, we have three male and one female. Mom is a smooth.If interested in choosing a pup early. Very healthy litter. Mom is border collie with some shepherd and Dad is purebred German
She was pretty shut down, as she had no human interaction at all. It has taken her a while to come out of her shell and trust people, which is understandable. Through a lot of work with our wonderful volunteers, Shanti is now ready to find her forever home. She is a sweet, loving girl and may be just a bit shy when first meeting you! Shanti's perfect family would be a household on the quieter side with humans who will allow her time to gain their trust and understands that it may take a bit for her to show her true personality. She gets along with other dogs, and a dog friend in the house may help her get comfortable in her new environment even quicker. Shanti tested positive for heartworm, but treatment is underway and easy to continue. Heartworm disease is NOT contagious. GOFAR will pay for treatment until she tests negative. Shanti is just under 2 years old and weights about 30 pounds. We're not sure what kind of mix she is but she looks like she has some shepherd, maybe cattle dog, and who knows what else. Her fee covers up-to-date vaccines, vet check, spay, microchip, deworming and heartworm test and treatment until she tests negative. If you would like to adopt Shanti, please go to www. A little extra patience with this girl will pay off in the end! If you have questions, email my rescue at adoptions gofar. German Shepherd Puppies are lovingly home raised and socialized at our modern 5 acre park like Kennel Facility in Florida Jacksonville. These are just a few words that describe our German shepherds. Life with a German Shepherd is a joy that one must experience to appreciate and understand, and the intelligence of these great dogs must be seen to be believed. AKC Registered Puppies In Fort Myers Our dogs have provided countless individuals and families with a loyal pet that has a high aptitude, as well as the ability to provide protection. Each of the German shepherd puppies we have for sale are AKC registered and come from a superior lineage. Notably, our German Shepherds go through rigorous testing to qualify for breeding, as our dogs are bred with top sires that have at least a V or VA show rating. German Shepherds are well known for their character and temperament. Poised and confident, our pups are faithful and intelligent companions. They are also great protection dogs, as many safeguard homes, property or livestock. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. All of our German Shepherds come with a written guarantee and have been vet-checked, socialized, vaccinated to date, temperament-tested by a professional dog trainer, and above all, have been very much loved. Our German Shepherds are gorgeous Black and Red color, big boned, and correct structure. This price is determined by the size of the puppy, and includes the flight ticket, pre-flight vet exam, a crate the perfect size for your puppy, and travel to the airport. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. Breeding top producing west German Sieger show Line German Shepherds is number one in producing quality German Shepherd puppies for sale. Being a German Shepherd dog breeder requires breeding high quality German Shepherds from some of the top rated German Shepherds in Germany They are superior in health with parents being x-rayed with clear hips and elbows by the OFA or the SV. These German shepherd litters of puppies for sale will make great companion dogs as well as excellent conformation, show and working dogs. Their inclination towards making their masters happy, their mental soundness and their high degree of intelligence have made this dog a successful working dog and masterpiece companion for their owners. Our breeding male shepherds are from top pedigrees. You can also visit us on our Facebook page to see recent news. Visit our website, at any moment you may feel you need more information than what we supply here feel free to Contact Us. Our main goal is to produce dogs that will become very special to you. Contact Us with any questions you have about our puppies or anything else. Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. How fast can German Shepherds run? An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Do they shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Why do German shepherd ears stand up? During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Are you interested in purchasing a German Shepherd? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?
According to the registration statistics compiled by the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular pure bred dog in the Seattle metropolitan area. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Our Labs can be found across the country in forty 40 states from the great Southwest to historic New England, from frigid Alaska to the Sunshine state. Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we have shipped more than 8, world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily ship our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Vancouver. For details, Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Labrador Retrievers Make Good Therapists In recent articles, a licensed professional counselor with thirty years of experience, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children and seniors. Furthermore, telling a dog to sit, and then watching the dog do what he was told, provides children with tons of confidence. Having that furry pooch sit down at our feet and nuzzle close to us makes us feel important and needed. These are just simple things that occur on a daily basis. Medical professionals have done research to show that all pets, but especially dogs, have notably positive affects on senior citizens. Scientists have started to explore the complex way animals affect human emotions and physiology. The resulting studies have shown that owning and handling dogs significantly benefits health. In fact, pets may help elderly owners live longer, healthier, and more enjoyable lives. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! I know that once I'm settled in to my new home, I'll come out of my shell. Transitions can be a little stressful, but all I need is a little time and I'll have so much love to give. I'd love to meet you. Here's what I need in my new home: I can be nervous around new people, and it can take me a while to get comfortable. I need a home where I can take it slow. I would do best in a home with kids over age .I would like to meet any kids I might be living with. I need to meet any other dogs I might be living with. I have experience living with small dogs and cats. I would love a yard where I can run and play, but I'm flexible! I could be a good fit for a home without a yard as long as my family is active and will take me out on adventures. I'm sensitive about how and where I'm handled. I need a family who will respect my space. I'm on a special training and enrichment plan. If you're interested in meeting, please ask a staff member or volunteer so they can tell you more about me! Primary Color: Blonde Weight: 72 Age: 2yrs 1mths 2wks.
Cherry eye Collapsed lungs A full-grown Pug can reach a height of 10 — 12 inches 25 — 30 cm and a weight of 14 — 18 pounds 6 — 8 kg. Their life expectancy ranges from 10 — 14 years. The Beagle is recognized for its floppy ears and tri-colored coat in brown, black, and white. This dog also has an independent streak that allows it to think for itself, follow its own nose, and ignore your commands. A full-grown Beagle can reach a height of 13 — 15 inches 33 — 41 cm and a weight of 20 — 24 pounds 9 — 11 kg. In comparison to the Pug, the Beagle is a much healthier dog, but it stills has some illnesses to watch out for. The most common ones are the cherry eye, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and patellar luxation bad kneecaps. The Beagle can live to 12 — 15 years. Drum roll, please…now we can finally talk about the Puggle! Keep in mind that all predictions and expectations about Puggle are based on its parent breeds, so nothing should come as too big of a surprise. This breed typically carries the floppy ears of a Beagle, and the black muzzle and curled tail of the Pug. Floppy ears seem to be a common feature among Beagle mixes. Take a look at the Beabull. Some owners have noticed that their Puggle has an overbite or an underbite. Its coat color is a blend of black, brown, and white. Maybe Husky. As mentioned above a full-grown Puggle weighs between 18 — 30 pounds and reaches a height of 13 — 15 inches. If you need help picking the right crate size for your dog, check out this page for useful tips and information. As pointed out in the first paragraph the Pug-Beagle mix can live between 12 — 14 years. During this time, your female Puggle will go into heat. The average cycle of a female Pug is 2 — 3 weeks and begins as early as 4 — 6 months. If you want to see what Puggle puppies look and sound like right after birth, check out this video! Realize that the Puggle is slightly bigger in height and weight than the Pug by a couple of inches due to the Beagle genes. Another thing to consider is your stance on designer dogs and intentional cross-breeding. On the other hand, the main purpose of cross-breeding is to eliminate certain health issues, which may suggest that the Puggle can live longer than the Pug. It is not a bullet-proof fact that crossbreeds are healthier than purebreds, and vice versa. Each case should be analyzed independently. Think of it as a Mini Puggle with a maximum height of 13 inches 8 cm and a weight range of 8 — 17 pounds 4- 8 kg. Be careful when shopping for Pocket Puggles, though, as many stem from irresponsible breeding habits such as using small and unhealthy dogs in the gene pool. Pocket Puggles may also be a gimmick dog sellers use to bring in more money at puppy mills. It was shortly after that Puggle was registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club, and by the early s, Puggles were being sold commercially. Most designer dogs have a purpose; a reason for being bred. And just in case you needed an additional holiday to celebrate, October 15 is National Pug Day. From what we know about the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is predicted to have a fun-loving, affectionate, and intelligent temperament. Like the Beagle, it should be a great family dog that gets along well with kids, strangers, and adults. The Puggle is adaptable, which means it can live in a small apartment or big mansion in most climates. Many owners say this breed is a great option for first-time dog buyers thanks to its resilient personality and forgiving attitude. Another bonus: the Puggle hardly drools. I also noticed many people were interested in using Puggle as a service dog and wondered if it were possible. Technically speaking, any dog can be trained to help humans. The likelihood of a top service dog depends on six main things and how well it can meet in the middle of all of them. If this mix sounds too good to be true, then keep on reading. There are some downsides to owning a Puggle. Firstly, it may enjoy excessive barking, yapping, or howling out of boredom or separation anxiety , which comes from the Beagle side and being a Hound dog. Crying all the time. It may snore and wheeze, so consider keeping its bed away from yours at night if you want proper rest. Bred to be a companion dog, the Puggle does not do well on its own for long periods of time as it may result in anxiety or sadness. It craves human attention and would much rather be inside with you than playing outdoors all day. Beagles also have a high prey-drive that cannot be unlearned. As for Pugs, they have been known to show signs of aggression if not socialized properly. This includes biting and acting territorial. You may want to invest in a muzzle if this occurs. The Puggle can do well with other dogs as long as you take the time to introduce them and monitor their behavior. Not just the Puggle. For example, some owners noticed their dog has urinary problems, itchy skin, arthritis, or joint pain. These are common issues, especially in old age, that are not limited to Puggles. I could write out a whole list of medical concerns your Puggle may experience in its lifetime, but it would save us a lot of time to only focus on the serious and breed-specific ones. As mentioned before, Pug Dog Encephalitis is a big concern as it causes brain seizures and uncontrollable shaking that may lead to death. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease requires immediate attention and in most cases surgery as it reduces the blood flow to the thigh bone. I hate the C-word, but Pugs are prone to cancer. They can grow mast cell tumors that affect the immune system. Beagles, unfortunately, also rank in the top four breeds that are sensitive to cancer. For these life-threatening illnesses, consider pet insurance for cheaper medical bills. It may have diabetes, hypothyroidism, or internal parasites. Your Puggle may have momentary digestive issues and feel the need to throw up to feel better. Lastly, what about all that licking? Dogs often lick to relieve themselves from stress, anxiety, or boredom when their owners are away for a long time. Many owners give their Puggles haircuts in the summer by shaving them or cutting the fur close to the body. This should keep the shedding under control. Its skin folds and wrinkles need to be checked regularly for allergies, infections, and bad odors that come from natural body oils and the humidity. If you Puggle skinks, it needs a bath. Brush its teeth 2 — 3 times a week and check the eyes for redness and discharge. As for training, the stubbornness of the Pug and the independence of the Beagle could give you a hard time in this department. To help keep the attention of your Puggle, use treats as positive reinforcement and maintain a consistent training schedule. The Puggle is a relatively low-energy dog that only requires 15 minute walks twice a day. That being said, it may have sudden bursts of hyperactivity. You know, the zoomies. The Pug Beagle mix requires more mental stimulation than physical, so provide it with lots of toys and a fenced yard for when the zoomies kick in. Fair warning: do not leave your Puggle outside for long periods of time in the summer. The Pug is prone to overheat and is sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Swimming is another hot topic that came up during my research. Meanwhile, purebred Pugs cannot swim. At all. The Pug is prone to obesity so measure each scoop exactly. If you want to check for signs of being overweight, place your thumbs against its spine and feel for ribs. You should be able to feel them easily without pressing down — but you should never be able to see them. If you sense your Puggle is overweight, put it on a diet. Pocket Puggles While Puggles are small-sized mixes of the Beagle and Pug, Pocket Puggles are the miniature versions of the latter, weighing below 15 pounds and having a height less than 10 inches. Pocket Puggles are however undesirable as they have higher chances of inheriting a lot of genetic defects. History Originating in the s, Wallace Havens, a Wisconsin breeder was said to be officially responsible for its creation. However, much before Havens, some other breeders had also experimented in developing this unique breed. Temperament and Personality Gentle, friendly, smart, sweet, and affectionate— these are the traits that define a Puggle, which it rightly inherits from its Beagle and Pug parents. This trait could perhaps trigger separation anxiety in them as they cannot withstand being left alone for prolonged periods. However, they do not excel to be effective watchdogs as their Beagle parent. Puggles are friendly with babies and even older children, emerging as the perfect playmate the little ones could ask for. Care Exercise They have moderate exercise needs, requiring a brisk walk, alongside sufficient playtime. However, make sure you leash them when you take them out on a walk. Grooming A rubber curry brush is needed to comb their short coat on a bi-weekly basis. However, during the shedding seasons, they need to be brushed on a regular basis for dead hair removal. Health Problems There are chances of the Pug-Beagle mix to develop respiratory problems like the Pug, particularly if they have short snouts like the latter. They could even develop eye problems like cherry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy, that both their parents suffer from. Hip dysplasia and environmental allergies are the other common conditions the Beagle and Pug mix could get afflicted with. Training Despite their cute disposition and high intelligence level, their stubborn nature could pose challenges while training. The master should be firm and even introduce positive reinforcement techniques. Giving obedience training to the Puggle puppies is of utmost importance since they tend to display certain destructive habits of both their parents like incessant barking, digging, chewing and wandering around. Engaging them in some activity or the other would keep them busy, preventing them from resorting to destructive behaviors. Crate training your Puggle is essential to help it get over its separation anxiety. Accustom it to stay in the crate at least for sometimes in a day since its puppyhood. First keep it inside for a short span and then increase the time. Housetraining the Puggles would regularize their toilet schedule. First, you need to select a particular area where your Puggle would eliminate every day. Take it out to that designated place every morning and then in two hours for the whole day. Once he does his business reward and encourage him so that he housebreaks every day without showing any stubbornness. Feeding While selecting a dog food for the Puggle, make sure you go for the ones that contain essential nutrients like Vitamin C, E, fats, and amino acids. Blue Buffalo, Tate of the Wild and Royal Canin are few of the good brands of dog food that you can select for your pet Puggle. A homemade diet comprising of boiled vegetables and meat may also be added to its dog food in measured amounts, but always speak to the veterinarian before doing so. How much to feed You should feed a full-grown Puggle about one to one and a half cup of dry dog food regularly, twice or thrice in a day. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Puggle Overview Puggles are a cross breed of the Pug and Beagle. They have the wrinkles of their Pug parents and the longer muzzle, ears, and tail of a Beagle — a look that draws comparisons to miniature Mastiffs. This unique appearance and his friendly nature has driven a rapid rise in popularity since the first Puggle was bred in the s. Puggles are active. Not content to laze around the house, they play energetically indoors and out, racing around the dining room table and down the hall. Some enjoy digging outdoors. Expect to give them at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. Puggles are smart, but they may or may not be eager to please. Neither the Pug nor the Beagle is especially known for ease of training , and both breeds can be stubborn. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as food rewards, play, and praise, and keep training sessions short and sweet. Being a social dog, the Puggle gets along well with everyone. Some are howlers, a trait inherited from their Beagle parent. The Puggle can be a cute and cuddly lovebug. Puggle Highlights Small to medium size: Puggles are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 15 and 30 pounds and standing 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them a good size for apartments or small homes. Friendly and outgoing: Puggles are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family companions. Easy to train: Puggles are intelligent dogs and are relatively easy to train. However, they can be stubborn at times, so it is important to be patient and consistent with training. Low-maintenance coat: Puggles have short, smooth coats that are easy to groom. They also need to have their teeth brushed regularly and their nails trimmed as needed. Overall, Puggles are great pets for people who are looking for a friendly, outgoing, and low-maintenance dog. They are a good size for apartments or small homes, and they are relatively easy to train. If you are thinking about getting a dog, a Puggle may be a great breed for you! Puggle History The Puggle is the result of an accidental cross breeding between a Pug and a Beagle , probably sometime in the s. The breed has become very popular, thanks to their novelty, sweet nature, and cute looks. Most litters are the result of first generation breedings between Beagles and Pugs, but there have been a few breedings of Puggles to Puggles. Puggle Size Most Puggles are 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 18 to 30 pounds. Toy-size Puggles are usually less than 13 inches tall and weigh 8 to 17 pounds. Puggle Personality The Puggle is a sweet, intelligent dog who can fit easily into family life. They can be playful and cuddly and enjoy spending time with the people in their lives. Puggles usually get along well with everyone, including kids and other pets. Potential behavior problems include howling, barking , digging , or wandering. Socialization helps ensure that your Puggle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Stenotic Nares , also known as pinched nostrils, is a congenital disorder meaning the dog is born with it. It affects dogs with short muzzles and makes it difficult for them to breathe. Signs include noisy breathing and exercise intolerance. Mild cases can be managed by preventing obesity, limiting exercise during hot or humid weather, and using a harness instead of a neck collar. More severe cases may require surgical repair. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. Hypothyroidism is caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone and may produce signs that include infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. Hypothyroidism can be managed very well with daily medication. A dog that is being treated for hypothyroidism can live a full and happy life. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts-the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf -is not properly lined up. This causes lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. It is a condition that is present at birth although the actual misalignment or luxation does not always occur until much later. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation, ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. Epilepsy is a disorder that causes seizures. Epilepsy can be managed with medication, but it cannot be cured. A dog can live a full and healthy life with the proper management of epilepsy, which can be either hereditary or of unknown cause. It looks like a reddened mass at the inner corner of the eye. Cherry eye can be repaired surgically. Both parents should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips, patellas knees , and thyroid and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certifying that the eyes are normal. Puggle Care Puggles are people-lovers and should live indoors with the family, not outside. Some even have a tendency to howl, a trait they inherit from their Beagle parent. Puggles are intelligent but can be stubborn. Ample exercise will help keep them from becoming unruly. Give your Puggle a couple of minute walks or playtimes every day. Be sure to always walk your Puggle on leash or play with him in a securely fenced area. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age , build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Like their parent breeds, Puggles enjoy their meals and are prone to obesity. Keep your Puggle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Puggle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The undercoat is short and dense, covered by a slightly longer topcoat. Colors include fawn, red, tan, lemon, black, or any of those colors with white known as particolor. Some Puggles have black masks on the face. Puggles shed, like both their parent breeds. Brush your Puggle weekly to get rid of excess hair. Bathe him only as needed, but be sure to keep the folds on his skin and around his muzzle and eyes free of dirt, debris, and moisture to prevent infections. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Daily is better. Trim his nails once or twice a month, as needed. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Puggle Children And Other Pets The Puggle is generally a sweet-tempered dog who gets along well with children of all ages. Puggles are sociable and generally do well with other dogs and pets. Proper training , plus lots of exposure to small pets, beginning in puppyhood , can minimize this trait. Puggle Rescue Groups This cross is often available at local animal shelters. You may also find Puggles through the rescue group below:. At 10—15 inches tall and weighing 14—30 pounds, they're also apartment-sized—but be forewarned, puggles are not lapdogs. The puggle temperament is pretty high energy and go-go-go. They love to stretch their legs and play, and need numerous energy outlets to stay happy. Puggles make wonderful companions for active families and enjoy being around other dogs. Appearance As with all mixed-breed dogs, what you get with a puggle is a bit of a grab bag. You might have a puggle with a more smooshed, puggish nose or a puggle with a more beagle-y build. But in general, puggles tend to have a medium-short snout, tawny coloring, longer legs than a pug, and floppy, forward-folding ears. They have large, dark eyes that can often have the pug's globular prominence, and can also inherit the pug's underbite. A puggle will typically have fewer wrinkles than a pug, but maybe keep some folds around the face, giving them adorably exaggerated expressions. A note for those with allergies: This breed does shed , so he's not considered hypoallergenic. Puggle size will vary, but they fall within the range of 10—15 inches tall and weigh 14—30 pounds. Temperament There's a reason people who love pugs might opt for a puggle. Like their beagle forebears, puggles love to run and play, and they get along with other dogs well. This pup tends to be very affectionate to his owners and greets new people with tail wags and face licks. He loves children , though it's important to teach children how to be gentle with dogs. Puggles can be trained with patience and positivity, especially if you start when your puggle puppy is young. One trait Bloom has noticed in this mix is a kind of single-mindedness, in which they become obsessed with something and tune their humans out—a tendency that comes from their beagle side. Living Needs A puggle will be very happy in a home with a fenced-in yard he can run around in, though be ready for some digging and barking. They can also live in apartments with an owner who's dedicated to giving them regular, thorough exercise. Bored dogs might go after your sofa or curtains, and you'll come home to find them in pieces throughout the house. Because of their energy level, puggles make great exercise buddies. You can take them on walks , as well as moderate jogs and easy hikes no mountainsides. Puggles aren't very happy being left alone for long stretches of time, but they do love the company of other dogs—especially if their canine pal is ready for an exuberant BFF who loves to play. Care The puggle's coat is short, soft, and sheds seasonally with some regular shedding between seasons. Brush him weekly with a medium bristle brush or a rubber grooming mitt to remove loose hair, and give him a bath if he gets into something messy. If your puggle is particularly wrinkly, make sure to clean his wrinkles daily with pet wipes, baby wipes, or a damp cotton ball, and clean his ears , too. Your puggle needs plenty of exercise— some sources say at least an hour a day. Provide him with walks, jogs, hiking, games of tug-of-war or fetch, and playtime with other dogs at a dog park. Puggles can inherit a mischievous streak from their pug parent and can be a bit distracted because of their beagle side, so patient, positive reinforcement training is key—and treats help a lot! They can also be susceptible to heatstroke , so make sure your puggle has plenty of water, cool places to rest, and shade when he's outdoors in hot weather. Both the beagle and the pug are prone to patellar luxation or slip knee , hip dysplasia , and eye conditions. The best way to avoid these problems is to work with a breeder who screens both parents for health conditions before breeding them. This mixed breed can be prone to overeating, so be sure to watch your puggle's weight and give him plenty of exercise so he doesn't become obese. History While there's no official record of when the first offspring between a pug and a beagle came into this world, we do know the puggle became popular in the U. The New York Times suggests that during this time people sought out smaller dogs for their smaller, urban homes, and many of those would-be dog owners wanted small pups that weren't frilly lap dogs. Enter the puggle. This athletic little pup has an illustrious background. Pugs were developed over thousands of years as cherished companions at the Chinese Imperial Court, and outsiders could only receive one as a gift. Later, they became the mascot for the Dutch royal court and became popular in England when William and Mary of Orange, proud pug owners , assumed the British throne. Beagles, on the other hand, were bred in England as hunting dogs—unlike other hounds developed for the nobility, beagles could hunt on foot, meaning that common folks who didn't have horses could use the dogs. Beagles were imported to the U. Thanks to both of these unique backgrounds, the puggle has both an aristocratic and a working dog heritage. Meet Earl the Grump , a highly meme-able puggle with an adorably furrowed brow. Bentley is a puggle with a charming underbite and a French bulldog little bro. Riley is a sweet-faced puggle with huge, soft brown eyes and a puggle squad. Was this page helpful? Lifespan Sociability Though Puggles have a frowning, serious expression, nothing could be farther from the truth! These pups are exceptionally playful and affectionate. Puggles make wonderful family dogs and companions, and they love being around people. Before going to a breeder or shelter it would be wise to seriously consider if you have the finances, time, and energy to dedicate to a dog for the next 15 years. A knowledgeable breeder will be able to tell you all about food choices, toys and games, socialization techniques, and even health care. Beagles Used to Be Tiny Too When the Beagle breed was in the beginnings of being established, there was a larger differentiation in size than there is now. According to the 18th-century poet, Gervase Markham, some Beagles were bred to be so tiny that they could sit in the palm of your hand, or be tucked inside a ladies kirtle! Though they were small for a hound, they are no less capable than their bigger cousins. Pugs Are Tiny Mastiffs It is a commonly accepted theory that Pugs were initially bred as miniature mastiffs. All the genial personality and goodwill towards family, and none of the slobber or crushed furniture! In ancient times Pugs were kept by Chinese royalty, but as the breed spread in popularity, they found a home with the Buddhist monks in temples all across Tibet. Though they started out as a longer, leaner breed they have slowly been guided to their current pudgy and adorable shape. The longer snout of the Beagle effectively cuts out any of the common brachycephalic issues that Pugs are prone to. On the flip side, the Pug also brings amazing befits to this mixed breed. Pugs are some of the friendliest, most easy-going dogs around and this predominate personality trait smooths out the often nervous and anxious Beagle. Puggles are a charming mix of good-natured, independent, loving, and inquisitive. They are total people-pleasers and love playing with children and other animals. Puggles will flourish in an environment where they can be close to people and do best with couples or families with children. They love to follow family members around and get their noses into everything that you do! Busy body, or best friend? Are These Dogs Good for Families? Socializing your Puggle and children with each other early on is sensible, though these pups are naturally friendly. Puggles are genial and kind dogs with other animals, making them a great choice for a multi-pet home. The only thing to keep in mind when letting your pets interact is that Puggles may inherit a little hunting instinct from their Beagle parent. Look for food designed for smaller breeds and avoid questionable by-product ingredients and excessive grains. Whole foods are great for dogs — animal proteins, healthy fats, and fruits and veggies too! Lean proteins like fish and fowl will serve these little adventurers well, giving them plenty of energy to burn without weighing them down. We recommend giving your Puggle at least one long walk a day, as well as providing indoor activities. Puggles deeply enjoy a good outdoor adventure where they can smell absolutely everything. But they are also conveniently sized, of moderate energy levels, and social enough that city living with sufficient exercise will suit them fine. The Beagle and Pug mixed dog can be very sensitive to heat, however, so avoid taking your Puggle out during the hottest parts of the day. And if they spend much time outdoors make sure they have a shady, cool area to relax. A gentle and treat generous hand is needed to train these pups, as well as plenty of patience. And do give them lots of praise and snacks when they follow directions. With a low-key routine, their short hair is simple to maintain. All pups need to have their ears, teeth, and nails checked to keep them healthy. Ears should be swabbed of excess dirt and wax, and teeth ought to be brushed on a weekly basis. And the relaxed temperament of the Pug mellows the sometimes-anxious Beagle. Though very healthy and unlikely to be prone to serious conditions, it is possible for a Puggle to inherit any of the common ailments of their parent breeds. To be as thorough as possible, here is a list of the health concerns that could be pertinent for a Puggle. Minor Conditions Deformities of the eye, nose, mouth Legg-Perthes disease. In addition, they tend to wander and howl though they are sweet and playful, so they will most often capture your heart. However, the dogs shed a lot, so they require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Like their Beagle parent, they are extremely intelligent dogs, though sometimes they can become stubborn. Due to their intelligence, they will have the ability to socialize, but they will need constant positive enforcement training from a young age. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Plus, their smaller size means their upkeep expenses will be lower. It is crucial to do much research to determine how much you are willing to spend and if this will cover the costs of a Puggle. In addition, you need to explore the background of any breeder you are considering. This process consumes time and effort, but it will all be worth it for a happy and healthy new Puggle. They are a perfect choice for those that already have kids and pets at home and for the first-time dog owner since they are good with kids and other animals. In addition, Puggles are extremely friendly, charming, always ready to play, and known for their tendency to cuddle. Puggles inherited their land speed and their sweet, friendly nature from their Pug parent. From their Beagle parent, they inherited the love for sniffing, the ability to jump, and their playful and inquisitive nature. The Puggle is quite an adaptable dog, but it may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period. It is truly a family dog that likes to be close to its loved ones. Although they require minimal exercise, Puggles tend to need a lot of water during their walks since they become thirsty very fast due to their high internal temperatures. Puggles can exhibit respiratory issues known to occur in Pugs, the tendency to wander and howl attributed to the Beagle, or the stubbornness of both. A stubborn Puggle can be more difficult to train, requiring more patience and consistency. Even if they are not guarding dogs, Puggles tends to back and howl, which could be a downside if you leave in a condo or apartment. However, Puggles are lovable lap pups that will make the wonder of everyone around them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Puggles are generally good-tempered dogs who get along well with kids of all ages. However, it is crucial always to teach your kids how to approach and touch your Puggle. In addition, make sure to supervise any interactions between young kids and dogs to prevent ear pulling and biting from either party. To minimize this trait, give your dog proper training and lots of exposure to small pets from an early age. Things to Know When Owning a Puggle: Here is a basic walkthrough of the day-to-day care and upkeep of this little adorable dog breed. Canines have no nutrition understanding, and they will eat anything that you put in front of their faces. For Puggles, the best diet should include high-quality dry food that suits their unique requirements. Alternatively, you can go for cooked meals or a raw food diet for your dog at home. Dog nutrition is complex, and only a vet can tell what your Puggle requires to stay healthy. Unfortunately, if you allow them, they will eat so much food that they will easily become overweight or unhealthy. So, make sure to feed them high-quality dry kibble with the amount suggested on the package. You can break down the meals into two or three smaller parts, so you Puggle can eat several times throughout the day. Vets recommend 1. In addition, always ensure there is continuous availability of clean, fresh water. They like going on brisk walks through the neighborhood to look for the sights and sounds around them. A fenced yard will give your Puggle a space to run and play without getting hurt. When the weather is chilly, your Puggle will enjoy playing a game of fetch in the living room to burn off their energy. Without proper exercise, this dog breed tends to howl and do so loudly. That can be an issue for you or your neighbors and may end with a local animal control agency visit. Ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercises will help you avoid paying fines or be known as the family with the annoying dog. However, they tend to be stubborn, so you must make their training session fun and interesting. Be consistent with your training techniques but try to mix things up as well. For example, look for a few shorter sessions mixed with a bit of playtime. Keep them entertained, and they will not have a chance to be stubborn. Early socialization is the key to ensuring that your Puggle grows up into a well-behaved dog. As with every other canine, reward-based positive reinforcement training is the most effective way to train. Puggles are obsessed with everything edible, so make sure to use this to your advantage. You will quickly have a new great friend when you reward your Puggle with small treats during training sessions. Negative reinforcement or punishment-based training is closer to abuse than training and should be avoided at all costs. Puggles have a double coat, meaning they will shed more during the winter and in the summer. Puggles grooming needs are quite lower. Brushing their hair twice a week will keep their short shiny coat healthy. It will also ensure that any dead furs will be picked up rather than find themselves on your clothes or carpet. Due to their proneness to skin allergies, it is good to use grooming products specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. If your dog has a wrinkly face, then ensure to clean its folds with a cotton wool ball and specialized Pug products. Make sure to keep their eyes clean too and wash them with water if you can see any dirt in them. In addition, it is crucial to regularly check their large floppy ears since they may often become infected with wax build-up and dirt. Other grooming requirements include nails care and dental hygiene. Begin grooming your Puggle at an early age to get them used to it. Handle their paws gently since dogs are sensitive about their feet and look inside their ears and mouth. Make grooming a positive experience filled with rewards and praise, and you will lay the base for easy vet exams and any other handling when your Puggle is an adult. The Beagle is a healthier breed than the Pug, so the Puggle is a healthy alternative to the Pug dog. The best way to find out what your Puggle may be prone to is by looking at the recommended health tests for both parents. Both their parents suffer from Hip Dysplasia, the abnormal formation of the hip joint, so make sure to look out for signs of painful walking. In addition, both their parents suffer from several eye conditions, particularly the Pug. That means cleaning and monitoring their eyes are essential. Epilepsy is also common in Puggles, and so when you suspect they are having a seizure, take them to your vet immediately. The Puggle is likely to inherit the Brachycephalic face of the Pug, resulting in several health problems. It can leave your dog with difficulties in breathing or cause difficulty for their heat regulation. Therefore, on a hot day, make sure to monitor your Puggle closely. If they appear to be struggling, calm and cool them down immediately with a cold, moist towel placed over your dog. However, the symptoms will be slightly alleviated since they will have a slightly longer muzzle than the average Pug due to the Beagle influence. Minor Conditions. What is a Pocket Puggle? Settle in for a great read on every aspect of life with a Puggle. From what Puggles look like to which parent they most take after. And how to find one to buy or adopt. And give you an honest review of the pros and cons of the Puggle breed. What is a Puggle? Until not long ago, Puggle was the cute name that scientist gave to a baby echidna. Then in the s, the hybrid offspring of Pugs and Beagles started to gain popularity as pets. After a bit of to-ing and fro-ing over names Buggle? Puggles have inspired countless grumpy Puggle memes. And they have even mingled with the rich and famous. Celebrity Puggles! They could hardly be more fashionable! Where do Puggles come from? Pugs are pretty much the first and last word in canine cuteness. In China they have been keeping dog lovers company since BC. By the 16th century Pugs had settled in Europe. They migrated to America with the earliest European settlers. Beagles have a noble history which easily rivals that of the Pug. But Beagle enthusiasts bred their dogs for a very different purpose. In ancient Greece, men trained hound-type dogs to hunt together in packs. These were the likely forefathers of the modern Beagle A Pet with Powerful Instincts Beagles today still have their great sense of smell and endless reserves of stamina. And were widely used for pack hunting until quite recently Most of us no longer use Beagles for hunting. He was a Puggle breeder from Wisconsin. In fact, Pug and Beagle mix dogs had probably existed before that. But Havens was the first to realize their potential as part of the new trend for designer cross-breeds. Puggle Popularity! What else do you need to know before you take the plunge? Puggle Profile When dogs of two different pedigrees breed, their puppies can take after strongly after one parent. Or they can inherit a mix of traits from each parent. They can even get a little bit of everything. An Unpredictable Mix Puggle puppies can vary widely from one puppy to another. Puggle Size Pugs are toy dogs, weighing a petite lb kg. Beagles are still compact, but tip the scales a little higher, between 22lb and 35lb kg. A Puggle can be very small like their Pug parent, or keep growing to 30lb or more. Pugs and Beagles are both popular for being small-scale dogs, who do well in small-scale homes. Pugs stand a mighty inches cm tall at the shoulder, and Beagles rarely exceed 15 inches 38cm. Also known as Miniature Puggles and Teacup Puggles. This demand has led to breeders scaling-down the Puggle breed by breeding very small dogs together. Even sickly or malnourished pups are sometimes advertised as special varieties. Sadly, very many others have been the victim of greedy, unethical breeders. Miniaturization of toy breeds can be really bad for their health. Think carefully before seeking out a Pocket Puggle. Characteristics Pugs are famous for their baby-like faces, large eyes and deep set wrinkles. Puggle Colors Pugs and Beagles are very smart little dogs, with short tidy coats and handsome markings. Puggles can inherit the classic black and tan colors of the Pug. Or they may inherit one of the rich brown colors associated with Beagles. Puggle Shedding Pugs and Beagles both molt, so with Puggles, shedding is pretty much a given. Interestingly, owners of all three breeds vary in their opinion of how badly they shed. This is partly because some dogs from the same breed shed more than others. I suspect it is also because we are more forgiving of annoying habits in small dogs! Are Puggles Hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, your Puggle puppy will not be hypoallergenic. Beagles are pack animals. Their loud howl belies their small size when they want to talk to their family. Pugs are known for barking, so Puggles might bark AND howl. But this sometimes turns to jealousy if they think they have to compete for your attention. Many Beagle owners describe their pets as happy dogs. They are easy going and smart, but their curiosity can get the better of them when they get carried away by an exciting new scent. Puggles tend to be curious little explorers, and very devoted and affectionate to their human family. Fans of Puggles describe them as playful, determined and happy. Their detractors say that where their Pug and Beagle sides clash, they can become confused and naughty. Puggle Training All dogs benefit from good training from an early age. Pugs have a reputation for being difficult to toilet train. Luckily, both breeds are quite greedy. Which is great news as modern training methods all use food to motivate dogs. But the pursuit of a that cute appearance has left them fighting a worrying number of health problems. This means that Pugs are prone to respiratory problems and to overheating during exercise. These Pugs are more likely to scratch and damage the surface of their eyes, and to pick up eye infections. A Puggle can inherit any of them. Joint Problems Beagles seem blessed with robust good health in comparison. However, they can suffer hip dysplasia — a joint problem common in many pedigree dog breeds — and canine epilepsy. There are some other more uncommon disorders Beagles are prone to. We cover them in more detail in our Beagle breed review. Puggle Mix Health The good news for a Puggle is that some of the Pug features that can lead to health problems are likely to be less severe than purebred Pugs. Those Beagle genes are helping them out here. So their muzzle is likely to be less short, and their eyes might not stick out of their skulls so much. That means the Puggle is less likely to scratch their eyes than a Pug. And their spine may not twist so severely at the end as to cause pain. You might have a better chance of a puppy that has no breathing problems if you buy a Puggle, than you would if you were to buy a pug. Healthier than a Pug but less healthy than a Beagle? This is great in the sense that it avoids some of the health problems of the Pug. But on the other hand, you may wonder if it causes problems for the Beagle, who could otherwise have expected better health? Puggle Lifespan Puggle life span is between 10 and 15 years, in line with their parents. And the effects of health problems on quality of life A long life does not necessarily mean a happy one. Either of these combinations can be distressing and frustrating for a Puggle, as they try to make sense of two conflicting instincts. Pugs and Beagles are both notable for getting on with all kinds of people. This could be a problem in an apartment or a crowded neighborhood. Remember that every Puggle is an unknown quantity. Ask yourself if you and your family are ready for the uncertainty. And if you have the time to figure out a Puggle and provide the right games and training to suit their needs. Puggle Puppies Whenever a new type dog becomes fashionable, some breeders will rush to produce puppies as quickly and cheaply as possible. But somewhere in the middle, there are loving dog owners who commit to rearing a litter of puppies and do so as responsibly as possible. The Puggle market is crowded, but we have some tips for finding those good breeders. Puggle Price So, how much does it cost to buy a Puggle? The answer is not as much as some other designer dogs. Beware of Puppy Mill Puggles Sadly, many of these puppies are born on puppy farms. A puppy from a responsible breeder could cost more. They will also have raised their puppies with love and care. Knowing that your puppy has had the best start in life is very important. Far more valuable than the saving you could make on the purchase price of a puppy from a puppy mill. A well cared for puppy should provide you with years of good company Puggle Rescue Sadly some Puggle owners abandon their pets or relinquish them to animal shelters. On the bright side this means that there may be a Puggle waiting for you in a shelter nearby. Finding Puggles for adoption is a great way to meet the newest member of your family. There are advantages of adopting a Puggle from a shelter They are likely to be a bit older, so the shelter will be able to give you an indication of which features they have inherited from each parent. Are Puggles Good Family Pets? They pack a lot of appeal into a small package. But cute Puggles are right in the thick of the controversy over designer dogs. Puggles can have wonderful personalities. If your first choice of dog was Pug, then choosing a Pug crossbreed is a great alternative. One which side steps unhealthy breeding practices within the Pug pedigree. Puggle Breeders The key to finding a healthy, happy Puggle is finding a caring breeder. One who plans their matings responsibly. And who is happy to discuss all the potential issues of the Puggle breed with you. They will choose a Pug parent with a longer than average muzzle, and no history of respiratory problems. The Beagle parent will be friendly and affectionate, as well as health tested. The most important thing is that you take on your baby Puggle or Puggle adult! And understanding the care and training that they will need. Do you have a Puggle? What has your experience been of this unique hybrid? Tell us and our readers about them in the comments section below! References and further reading. What Is A Puggle? Nov 5, Jun 4, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. A puggle is the result of cross breeding a pug and a beagle. Generally speaking, the puggle ends up being healthier than either of its parents as it has greater genetic diversity at play. When two dog breeds are crossed, they each add their own physical and temperamental characteristics to their offspring in varying degrees. This means that not all puggles look the same or even behave the same way. Pug The pug dog breed stands at 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder and weighs 14 to 18 pounds on average. They have a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, although their overall health can play a serious role in shortening their lifespan. Although they look rather funny and are treated as cute and dopey pets, pugs are actually an ancient dog breed dating back to BCE China. They were originally bred to be companion dogs for the rich and wealthy, and were even the companion dogs of several Chinese Emperors. Pugs have a brachycephalic face. This means their snouts are severely shortened to give their face a flat appearance a sought-after look by the ancient Chinese. This plays havoc with their eyes, sinuses, soft palate, and breathing ability. Beagle The beagle dog breed as we know it today was refined around the s from the small foot hounds of the s. However, this breed also has ancient ties to the small pack hounds of Britain when the Roman legions landed in 55 BCE. Beagles were bred, have been used, and are still used today as small hunting dogs that can be followed on foot by their human companions. Beagles have excellent noses that sniff out large and small prey, track them, and chase them down with their distinctive baying bark. There are two variations of the beagle breed, one slightly smaller than the other. The larger beagle variation stands at 13 to 15 inches in height and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. The smaller beagle variation stands under 13 inches and weighs less than 20 pounds. Puggle Puggles are the result of breeding a pug and beagle together. They have been called a designer breed as people intentionally breed the two to hopefully get the best of both in one dog. Unfortunately, when the breeder is not happy with the outcome, these dogs are often abandoned, surrendered, or given to animal shelters instead of being cherished for the balls of joy they are. However, there are some generalizations we can make, so read on to find out what these are. However, this may vary depending on the color of the pug parent. If the pug parent was black or silver, then the puggle offspring may be a lighter or darker tan color. This coloration comes from the pug parent. This helps the puggle avoid certain health issues that other brachycephalic dogs breeds face, such as severe sinus and breathing issues. Temperament Characteristics Of The Puggle Beagles and pugs both love having a family around them—they are both excellent with children and play well with other animals. So, how do these traits transfer to the puggle? Is The Puggle Friendly? The puggle is an incredibly friendly dog. They love being around people and other animals because they love having a pack. This pack mentality comes from the beagle genetics. When they want some alone time, they will simply leave and not make a big fuss about it. The puggle is a wonderful companion for children. They are medium to small-sized dogs, which means they are not intimidating to younger children. They are also stronger and more densely built than other small dog breeds, which can be hurt easily during playtime. Puggles are an intelligent cross-breed owing to the fact that pugs and beagles are intelligent too. This means you can teach them tricks and train them effectively through kind words and positive reinforcement. Common Health Concerns Of The Puggle As a mixed dog breed, the puggle enjoys genetic variety and will not be plagued with serious genetic issues the same way purebred dogs are. However, they are still prone to certain conditions, which means you will need to keep a careful eye out for them. Luxating Patella A luxating patella happens when the knee cap moves around or dislocates, causing pain and discomfort when your dog tries to move. If you notice your puggle running around, suddenly shift to hopping on three legs and then back to all fours, it may be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their kneecaps checked out. Cherry Eye Cherry eye is an unfortunate occurrence in brachycephalic dog breeds. The nictitans the small red blob in the inner corner of their eyes becomes prolapsed pushed out and this looks like little cherries. If your dog has a cherry eye, take them straight to the vet. If left untreated, conjunctivitis, scratching, and serious infection can occur. Proper grooming for puggles includes weekly brushing, weekly cleaning of the ears, brushing teeth every second day, and keeping wrinkles and other skin folds clean and dry. Puggles require an hour of exercise a day, broken down into three to four sessions. While they are small to medium-sized dogs, they need plenty of space to roll around, explore, and stimulate their senses. Puggles are very intelligent and require mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Mental exercise can be provided to them by giving them puzzles, treats they need to work for, or running through their training and list of commands. It is essential that their physical and mental exercise is kept up. A regular exercise routine helps build and maintain strong muscles and muscle attachments, which can help to avoid certain health issues. Mental stimulation is key to prevent intelligent dogs from becoming destructive and a nuisance. Puggles are known to bark and howl quite a bit. Both the beagle and pug parents are known to be noisy dogs—the pug is known for their high-pitched bark and the beagle for their baying. Puggles get the best of both worlds and are very chatty dogs. If your apartment or condo home has noise restrictions in place, the puggle may be too noisy for you. Puggles live for 10 to 15 years on average. As a small to medium mixed breed dog, puggles live longer than a medium-sized dog and slightly less than a small dog breed due to their mixed heritage. Can puggles be used as service dogs? Beagles are sometimes used as service dogs; therefore, the logic may go that puggles could be used as service dogs, too, right? However, owing to their mixed breed nature, their temperaments are not predictable enough for them to be used as service dogs. Additionally, puggles do not always have the need to please their humans, which is an essential trait in dogs that are trained to be service dogs. My puggle puppy looks like a Mastiff! Did the breeder give me the wrong dog? Puggles have a very similar appearance to Mastiffs, except they are about a quarter of the size. They have a very similar tan coloring, a darkening of the muzzle and ears, a straight tail thanks to the beagle parent , and are full of energy. This may be because pugs were bred from Mastiffs a couple thousand years ago. Therefore, the coloring and physical similarities they share are genetic in nature. If you think you may have a Mastiff instead of a puggle, look at the paws. Puggles are slightly larger than a pug and slightly smaller than the large beagle, and sport a tan coat with black muzzle and ears. Although they are small, they are strong and full of energy. Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.
We start the weaning process around weeks of age depending on the litter. Puppies are usually fully weaned by the time they are weeks old. Even if puppies are fully weaned younger than 8 weeks they should stay with their litter mates until they are 8 weeks old. The mother dog has so much to teach the new puppy; lessons that will affect him all his life, and his littermates teach important lessons as well. Puppies who leave their canine family too early will show immediate behavior problems. They will be fearful of many things and show a lack of confidence. They can also be slow to bond to people or will go the other direction, attaching so strongly to their new owners that they will panic when left alone. The ability to soothe himself, to relax when left alone, is missing with most puppies taken away from mom and litter mates to young. Biting is common in puppies that are taken away from mom and litter mates to early. When puppies go to their new home, some biting is to be expected, as all puppies experiment. But when deprived of these early lessons, the puppy will bite more and harder, and teaching him that biting is not allowed is more difficult. House training problems are also more common with puppies taken away from mom and litter mates before 8 weeks. However, a three-, four-, or even six-week-old puppy is not yet ready for these lessons. In 26 states, the age at which puppies may be separated from the mother dog or sold is defined by law. Of those, 22 say that puppies must be eight weeks old before they can be sold. Three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that puppies must be seven weeks old. Some states focus on the age that a puppy can be separated from his mother. Illinois, for example, requires that a puppy be at least eight weeks old before he can be taken from his mother. Before buying any puppy, the more you know the better. If an unscrupulous person produces puppies and knows that he can sell them early at six to seven weeks or earlier and avoid paying for food, veterinary care, or other costs, then that cycle will continue. But if more people say no, then perhaps that cycle of human behavior can be changed. I know everyone is excited to bring their new puppy home but for the health of your puppy please do not bring your puppy home before they are 8 weeks old. If you are buying from a breeder and they will not keep the puppy until they are 8 weeks old RUN!! An ethical breeder wants what is best for all of their puppies and will keep them until they are old enough to go home even though there are extra cost associated with food, vetting, etc… Why is the age a Mini Bernedoodle goes home different than the age a standard Bernedoodle goes home? The reason we like to keep our Mini Bernedoodles longer than our standard Bernedoodles is because our Mini Bernedoodles are smaller than our standards. We do not let puppies go home until they are over 5 pounds. During the extra week they are with us, we continue to socialize the puppies. This extra week gives us time to put extra fat on your puppy so when your puppy goes home they have enough fat reserve to handle the stress of moving without skipping a beat. Why should Bernedoodle puppies stay with mom and litter mates until 8 weeks? The short answer for a Mini Bernedoodle is 9 weeks. We do not take our Mini Bernedoodle Puppies away from their litter before 8 weeks of age. We like to keep our Mini Bernedoodle puppies with their litter until they are 9 weeks old. When puppies are taken from their litter too early, it could very likely affect their behavior and personality. The odds of displaying fearfulness, destructiveness, excessive barking, food possessiveness and attention-seeking are greater for dogs that are removed from their litter too early during the socialization period. Because we want the very best for our puppies and for you as you start to form your new relationship, your puppy must stay with us for at least 8 weeks. We ask that all families take their puppy home by or before 10 weeks. Utah Bernedoodles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bernedoodle Overview The Bernedoodle is a companion dog, through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits, and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. That said, fans of Bernedoodles adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They also tend to be more hypoallergenic, which is a blessing for allergy sufferers. In addition to their personalities, Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight and come in a variety of colors. They come in three sizes; tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk. Bernedoodle Highlights Gentle and loving: Bernedoodles are known for their gentle and loving personalities. They are good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable: Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to perform more complex tasks. Hypoallergenic: Bernedoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to shed and cause allergies in people. Active but adaptable: Bernedoodles are active dogs that need a moderate amount of exercise. However, they are also adaptable and can do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Loyal and devoted: Bernedoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and love to cuddle. If you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle may be the right breed for you. Here are some additional details about the Bernedoodle breed: Size: Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 90 pounds. Lifespan: Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Coat: Bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat that can be either single- or double-coated. Colors: Bernedoodles can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. Bernedoodles are a relatively new breed, so there is still some debate about their exact origins. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the early s. The goal was to create a dog that was hypoallergenic and had the best qualities of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Bernedoodles are becoming increasingly popular dogs. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They are also a good choice for people with allergies. If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Bernedoodle History The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. While this is considered a designer breed, they do appear in shelters, and rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs will sometimes work with mixes of those breeds. There is no reason that you have to rely on a breeder for a Bernedoodle, and you should always adopt before shopping. Bernedoodle Size There are three sizes of Bernedoodle: tiny, miniature, and standard. These result from the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard size. The Tiny Bernedoodle stands at 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs about 10 to 24 pounds. The Miniature Bernedoodle stands at 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 pounds. The Standard Bernedoodle stands at 23 to 29 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. Bernedoodle Personality Bernedoodles seem to get many of the best personality traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. Exactly which traits they inherit from their parents can differ a bit, though, and individual personalities of dogs within the breed vary. Bernedoodles tend to be highly intelligent, hardworking when necessary, loyal, and just a bit goofy. They are good with children and other dogs, provided they have been well socialized. Once they begin training, their intelligence helps them pick up commands more easily than other dogs. Bernedoodles can have high energy levels and crave attention and at least moderate exercise. They do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles do better with apartment and city life than Standard Bernedoodles. Generally, they want nothing more than to be with their humans and are just as ready to go outside and play with them as they are to join them on the couch for cuddles. Bernedoodle Health Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, including: Hip dysplasia : This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia : This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. Hereditary cataracts : These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Demodex mange : This is a skin condition caused by mites. Inflammatory bowel disease IBD : This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Hypothyroidism : This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is important to take your Bernedoodle to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these health problems so that you can seek treatment promptly if necessary. Here are some tips for keeping your Bernedoodle healthy: Feed them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. Keep them at a healthy weight. Brush their teeth regularly. Take them to the vet for regular checkups. By following these tips, you can help your Bernedoodle live a long and healthy life. Bernedoodle Care Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. They love being around their humans, so the less time they spend alone, the better. Like Poodles, Bernedoodles are quite intelligent, which means they can learn bad habits just as easily as good ones. It is important to keep up with training. Early socialization and exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea and will help keep them well-behaved when meeting new people or pets. Bernedoodle Feeding The appropriate amount to feed a Bernedoodle depends on their size, age, and activity level, which means it is highly individualized. You should ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that suit your particular dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well. The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Bernedoodle Children And Other Pets Bernedoodles are excellent for families with children, though it is always important to make sure children are instructed on how to properly treat animals, especially with Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles that may be injured more easily. This breed is affectionate and loves to play, and they absolutely adore spending time with their families. Bernedoodles usually do well with other dogs, but it is important to begin socialization at an early age and keep up with it to make sure they are comfortable around new animals. Bernedoodle Rescue Groups Please search your local area for Bernedoodle up for adoption. Bernedoodle Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues More Info For You. February 7, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? When it comes to having the best of both worlds, Bernedoodles are it! These mixed breed designers pups were bred to be the perfect companion dog and quickly rose up in the ranks of popular puppy breeds over the last two decades! How do you know if a Bernedoodle is a right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Bernedoodles! Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels claims to be the very first breeder that purposely cross-bred two purebreeds: Standard Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog. Since this breed is only approximately two decades old, the American Kennel Club still does not consider the Bernedoodle a purebred. Nevertheless, the rise in popularity has also led to many more breeders producing these pups. If you were interested in bringing a Bernedoodle home, while there are many reputable breeders that specialize in these pups, you can also find these pups in shelters or rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs, to potentially find these mixed pups! What are Bernedoodle Breed Characteristics? When it comes to range, few breeds can beat the Bernedoodle! These pups come in a variety of sizes and coat colors. Bernedoodles come in a few different sizes: tiny, miniature, medium, and standard. They can range in weight from ten pounds in the tiny category all the way to ninety pounds in the standard category. Along with variety in sizes, their coats can be within a range from completely black, black and white, black and brown, or tri-colored with patches of either black, white, or brown. Probably the most common coat and markings people seek when looking for a Bernedoodle puppy is the tri-color variety that is in closer resemblance to the Bernese Mountain Dog. Depending on which side of their genetic makeup your pup takes after, some Bernedoodle pups coats can be curly, or wavy like the Standard Poodle and not shed as much making them a good candidate for parents who suffer from allergies. Other Bernedoodle pups can have straighter coats that have a tendency to shed more and are not hypoallergenic. What are Bernedoodles Personalities like? The Puppy Academy student, Hamilton! Goofy, smart, loyal to their families, and friendly, these pups have the best personality traits from both sides! Most Bernedoodles parents pick these pups because of their good demeanors and temperaments. Your puppy may lean toward the Standard Poodle side, depicting traits of high intelligence, hard-working, and loyal. Or your puppy can lean toward the Bernese Mountain Dog which is good-natured, confident, and affectionate. Some Bernese Mountain Dogs can be stubborn, in particular during their adolescent phase, and a bit aloof or standoffish toward strangers. With good basic obedience and early socialization, any Bernedoodle can make a great fit for a family and develop friendly demeanors toward new people. While these pups are considered to be working dogs and do require daily exercise, they are also content with hanging out with you at home. Moderate exercises such as one to two longer walks, with play sessions in between, a day is sufficient to burn off energy and keep your pup content! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles are better equipment for urban environment living whereas Medium to Standard sized Bernedoodles would need more space to exercise and play. No matter the size of your Bernedoodle puppy, they are going to need adequate exercise, which is why they do really well with active families! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles will require a bit less activity and can adapt to tighter living spaces that come with urban environments such as apartments or condos. As for Medium to Standard-sized Bernedoodles which are taller and wider and can grow upwards of ninety pounds, they may be bumping into more coffee tables and have trouble fitting in the same hallway as you in smaller dwellings! For all sizes, access to either a fenced-in yard or a nearby park you can take them to is ideal for this breed! How to Care for Your Bernedoodle Puppy! When it comes to caring for your new Bernedoodle puppy, start off by scheduling a first veterinarian visit within the first week of bringing your puppy home! Like many large breed working dogs, Bernedoodle may suffer from joint dysplasia. Bernese Mountain Dogs have been known to suffer blood disorders, some cancers, and progressive retinal atrophy. Generally, Bernedoodles are healthy and sturdy especially if they come from a reputable breeder. General care for your Bernedoodle puppy will include brushing their teeth to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Floppy ears means they may be susceptible to ear infections so regularly check and clean them to avoid these from happening. Because their coat types can vary, depending on your puppy, if they have a curly coat you may need to frequently brush them to avoid matting. We recommend that you take your puppy to a professional groomer every few months to get their fur trimmed. The Puppy Academy student, Cali! Create a Daily Puppy Training Schedule Bernedoodle puppies are smart and easily trained but they can have a stubborn streak as they get into their adolescence. Creating early structure at home can help mitigate this stubbornness by establishing daily routines your puppy can expect and also establish you as leader. Since Bernedoodles are made up of two intelligent hard-working breeds, basic obedience training with food positive reinforcement will benefit their behavioral growth! Socialize Your Bernedoodle Puppy with People, Children, and Other Pets Bernedoodles have friendly dispositions and make great family dogs, however, they can be standoffish to new people as they get older. Use Play to Help Train Them Tap into their playful nature and use your playtime sessions together to teach good manners! For example, use Fetch to teach your Bernedoodle how to come to you, Drop-it to give the toy back, then ask them to sit to teach polite manners as they learn to wait until you toss the toy again for them to get. Although Bernedoodles love to work, they sometimes need a bit more motivation! This can come with the aid of food rewards, and providing variation to their training routines to keep them engaged. Enrolling your puppy in training classes, or working with them by yourself at home using a program like our online puppy school will give you a plan to follow with basic training routines to teach your Bernedoodle good manners, as well as keep challenging them along the way so they never get bored, and advance their skillset! Did you recently bring home a Bernedoodle 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! They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful? Bernedoodle Temperament Conceived in the early s, the Bernedoodle is one of the youngest doodle dog breeds out there. Also known as a Bernepoo, Bernesedoodle, Bernesepoo, and Bernese mountain poo, these super easygoing dogs were bred to be calm and even-tempered. While Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are wonderful family pets, their high-energy temperament can make them a handful for more laid-back households. Enter the Bernedoodle, with the placid, loyal nature of its Bernese mountain dog mother and the intellect and low-shedding coat of its poodle father. Click the link to see all of the beautiful Bernedoodle puppies for sale we have ready to adopt today! Bernedoodle Dog Breed Overview Bernedoodles are loyal, smart and utterly adorable. Everything from their size, hypoallergenic potential, color, weight and demeanor can vary, but they always retain some characteristics from each parent. For example, a dog might inherit the curious, energetic nature from the poodle or be more stubborn and calm like the Bernedoodle parent. Smart, goofy and dedicated are just a few words that Bernedoodle owners regularly use to describe their beloved pets. Bernedoodle Designer Breed History Unlike many dogs on the designer breed registry, Bernedoodles have a well-known history. Originally developed by Bernedoodle breeder Sherry Rupke at SwissRidge Kennels, the first litter of two was born in .In addition to poodles and Bernese mountain parent dogs of various sizes, Rupke has added the Australian Labradoodle to her lines, resulting in the Australian Bernedoodle. These dogs have more consistent litters and tend to be somewhat hypoallergenic, even with straight or wavy coats. Where a dog like a golden retriever is bred to have a trusting, friendly temperament, Bernese dogs are reserved and suspicious of new people, making them slightly better guard dogs. Due to their history as herders and cart pullers, they might have a tendency to herd family members or other pets. Because of their intelligence, they require lots of stimulation and prefer to be with people rather than spending long periods of time alone. As working dogs, they were primarily duck hunters. They tend to favor one person and are very loyal and defensive of their owners. Poodles are one of the most popular choices for crossing purebred dogs because of their low- to no-shedding coat, which is more manageable than traditional dog fur. However, many pet owners prefer that their dog is less trusting and disinclined to approach unfamiliar people. Bernedoodles get very attached to their pet parents and require lots of attention and stimulation. A trip to the shops or an appointment should be fine, but no more than a few hours at a time or the dog may get anxious and fearful. Separation anxiety can result in unwanted behaviors such as accidents, barking, chewing and hyperactivity. Of course, this devotion is what makes them such wonderful companions for dog lovers. Second-generation F2 and multigenerational Bernedoodles might be smaller when a larger percentage of poodle is added into the mix. They usually measure between 12 and 17 inches and weigh between 10 and 24 pounds. Standard Bernedoodle Standard Bernedoodles take longer to mature than mini Bernedoodles and tiny Bernedoodles, which take 12 months each. On average, standard Bernedoodles weigh approximately 70 to 90 pounds. Appearance The Bernedoodle is a beautiful dog with a luscious coat and a teddy bear-like aesthetic. It has some adorable quirks when it comes to appearance. For instance, a Bernedoodle puppy often has a pink nose that turns black once the dog is fully matured. Straight Coat vs Wavy Coat vs Curly Coat In addition to different sizes of Bernedoodles, there are also different coat types: straight, wavy and curly. The latter is the most popular for many people, whether they have a family with mild allergies or simply want to minimize the amount of fur that makes its way onto their furniture. Doodles with curly fur shed less than their wavy or straight counterparts, but they have more stringent grooming needs. Straight coats are the easiest to manage grooming-wise but tend to shed more than wavy or curly coats. Because of their relatively normal shedding, this type of doodle is the least common. Wavy-coated Bernedoodles fall somewhere in the middle. Colors Bernedoodles coats can display in any combination of black, brown and white. All black is common, as is black and white or black and brown. In recent years, an even rarer gem has materialized: the merle Bernedoodle. These dogs have marbled grey coats with white and sometimes brown too. The Bernedoodle Breed and Family Life Bernedoodles are particularly well-suited to family life, even for first-time dog owners. They love being near people and are gentle and caring when it comes to small kids, but they also adore running around the backyard with older children and adults. Because they bond so closely with their loved ones, they make excellent companions and protectors. Training Your Bernadoodle Young Bernadoodles tend to inherit the stubbornness characteristic of both their poodle and Bernese mountain dog parents. Provided they have the right input, doodles are highly responsive to training because of their calm, eager-to-please and intelligent personality. You should still expect them to be mischievous, cheeky and headstrong, but just remember that patience, consistency and positive reinforcement will always deliver the best results. Bernedoodles are highly sensitive dogs, so losing patience or getting upset with them can be entirely counterproductive. Treats, playtime and effusive verbal praise when your dog gets it right will always be infinitely more effective than shouting at them or telling them off when they do something wrong. By doing this, you prevent them from getting anxious or overexcited when met with new experiences. Feed your pet the best-quality food you can afford and be diligent about sticking to a regular routine with feeding. There are four main types of food: wet, kibble, cooked and raw. A combination of dry and wet is often the most healthful and practical choice. When used alone, kibble can lead to dental issues and wet food can lead to digestive issues. Be sure to give a standard Bernedoodle food for larger dogs and miniature and toy Bernedoodles food for smaller dogs. Exercise While activity levels can vary depending on a variety of factors, Bernedoodles are generally considered to be moderately active. Miniature or toy doodles can be excellent apartment pets, but even these little guys will need at least one long walk per day and plenty of space to move around. Because of their intelligence, mental stimulation is just as important as physical stimulation. Grooming Requirements Take bathing cues from how your dog smells, but generally Bernedoodles need a bath every four to eight weeks. Clean its eyes and ears once per week, and give its nails a trim every time you bathe your dog. Brushing it two to three times a week staves off mats and tangles, and a trip to the groomer every three to five months helps your Bernedoodle look and feel its best. Dogs love getting pampered almost as much as we do! Doing it any earlier could result in its fur not growing properly for the rest of its life. Like many larger dog breeds, hip and elbow dysplasia are possible. With these conditions, the hips and elbows weaken and become arthritic. Some of the other potential health issues Bernedoodles potentially face include: Heart disease. It could be the difference between having a more secure, healthier dog or an unhealthy dog with behavioral issues. Below are the top questions for pet parents when visiting Bernedoodle puppy breeders. The best dog breeders have been in business for a long time and have gained a detailed understanding of Bernedoodles. Like with many specialties, learning to breed Bernedoodles like an expert takes time. It also gives them time to develop a reputation, with plenty of reviews available for you to research online. Puppies should be held and fussed over regularly by a range of qualified people. When inquiring about your new puppy, a legitimate breeder would ideally offer you the chance to come and meet the entire litter on-site long before you bring a pup home. Initially, you should stand back and analyze how the puppies interact with each other. Ensure the puppy and the mother is interacting playfully and happily. Look out for any signs of aggression or mismatched sizes and coloration. The best Bernedoodle breeders will ensure all vaccinations and worming treatments are up to date. Additionally, a great breeder will work with a qualified vet to ensure all pups are checked before moving into a new home. Health care standards and guarantees are essential elements to check before buying a Bernedoodle from a breeder. They should care deeply that each puppy grows into a healthy dog. Do You Have References and Reviews? Ask if you can contact previous buyers personally to get a reference. A reputable breeder will care about more than just selling you a Bernedoodle puppy. Puppies need to spend at least eight weeks with their mother and littermates. Few breeders, if any, should contradict this. If a breeder offers to sell you a puppy younger than eight weeks old — decline and move on to find a respectable breeder. View our Testimonials to see what others have said… Our customers love us as much as we love our Bernedoodle pups testimonials 9. Find out how many people interact with the puppies to understand how the pups are treated daily. The best puppy breeders will also offer some other items to make the transition as smooth and enjoyable for the Bernedoodle puppy as possible. What Is the Bernedoodle Breed Like? Bernedoodles are loving, fast-learning and playful dogs that make excellent family pets. They have such gentle and kind temperaments that they make exceptional service dogs and companion dogs. But you should also ensure the breeder is feeding them top-quality dog food. Diet, exercise and a loving, attentive home are the cornerstones of raising a healthy dog with the longest possible life span. All reputable dog breeders will understand this. Can I Meet the Parent Dogs? Top breeders are entirely transparent and have nothing to hide. You can also compare them to Bernedoodle breed standards to ensure the breeders follow the guidelines. Breeders should conduct genetic testing for coat type, coat color and diseases and readily make this information available to you. The best doodle breeders also conduct temperament screening to ensure the best outcomes for each litter and the health of the overall breed. Your breeder should be brimming with advice about how to give your dog the best possible future. Be very wary of anyone who suggests you use Google or limits the amount of time you have to ask questions or seek advice. The entire team here at our Illinois family-home is dedicated to promoting the future health of doodles and ensuring each puppy goes to a happy, loving home. Reserve yours today and know we cover all above! Ready to Reserve your Bernedoodle? Get In Touch with.
labradors as puppies - Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Over the years, this breed of dog has consistently ranked in the top five for most popular dog breeds. In fact, for nearly 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was ranked as the number one most popular dog before getting knocked out of the number one spot this year by the French Bulldog. And with this breed, often referred to as simple the Lab, remaining high on the list for most searched for and most loved dog, we want to know how much it costs to own one. What are the costs associated with these dogs, from actually getting the puppy to feeding them and beyond. How much does it cost to own a Labrador Retriever? Crufts returns this year after it was cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic. And we should also point out that a Chocolate Lab is going to cost more than a Black Lab or a Yellow Lab since this color of fur is rarer. Next, we have to talk about feeding your Lab. Considering the Labrador Retriever is medium to large breed dog and often on the larger side of things , you are looking at a diet that may cost a bit more. Now we have to talk about those vet visits. That being said, there are some health concerns that all Labrador Retrievers may face over the course of their lives our pup was lucky enough to not have to deal with these issues, although he did have to have his eyelids fixed as a puppy and that can significantly increase their vet bills. Finally, you will absolutely want to consider grooming when it comes to your Lab as they are another breed that has a double coat. Of course, dog toys, beds and other supplies are also a must for your pup, so these are added expenses that should also be considered. However, if you have ever owned a Lab, you know they are absolutely worth the cost. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs.
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labradors as puppies - Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization 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 those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever 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! As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Aside from forcing you to get more active, having a canine friend can reduce stress for people of all ages. For starters, vaccinations start at weeks old and should be spaced out every two weeks. Golden retrievers have a reputation for being some of the best dog breeds for families. Are you looking to bring home a golden retriever puppy? Read on for an in-depth golden retriever guide to prepare you for your new best friend for life. Are Golden Retrievers Good Dogs? Of course, all dogs are the best boys and girls and deserve all the belly rubs in the world! However, when people ask if a golden retriever is a good dog, they want to know if the breed is a good fit for them. Some dogs also require extensive maintenance and can be too much for a beginner dog handler. For people wanting to make sure a golden is good for their lifestyle, the quick answer is yes. Golden retrievers are an all-around versatile breed for all kinds of people and are the best dogs you could ask for. Golden retrievers are amazing with kids and make for great family dogs. Goldens are a gentle bunch, and their intelligence and patience are often under-appreciated. They can handle household noise and curious toddlers with the patience of a saint. As a breed, they are well known for their loving, patient, gentle, and fun-loving nature. This is largely a result of upbringing and conditioning, as any dog can become aggressive if mistreated. If you want a friendly golden retriever, do your part and give them the love and care they need. Golden Retrievers Are Affectionate Goldens are affectionate and are sure to get along with any dog or person they meet. This is why you often see them excelling as therapy, comfort, and emotional support dogs. Golden Retrievers Have Wonderful Personalities There is nothing to not like about the personalities of this breed. They love to have fun, but they also like going with the flow. Given their history as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are curious and will go often go exploring if you let them. They also have plenty of courage and work ethic, making them great working dogs. Golden retrievers will always want to greet strangers and sneak a chance at some playtime. This makes them a poor choice to defend your home, as they might befriend the intruder instead. If you want a guard dog, a golden retriever may fall short of its responsibilities. They Can Be Mischievous This one should be obvious for anyone scrolling social media. Goldens have a penchant for tomfoolery and mischief, which can often be hilarious. Golden retriever puppies are particularly notorious for this. Part of this stems from their natural curiosity but also their relaxed and loving nature. While temperament is often a genetic arch-type and can differ from dog to dog, most of it is solid. This is a huge factor for families with multiple dogs or a cat. They May Have Trouble Behaving in Public Because goldens are so friendly, they sometimes have trouble behaving in public. Their temperament naturally pulls them toward new potential friends. You can work on these through socialization and by going slow. Take them to less crowded or busy places first, and work your way up until they get the hang of it. Keep an eye out for body language and physical contact. As we said, some of this comes built in, but you also have to work on it. There are two major things you need to do. If you want to ensure your golden has that loveable personality, start socializing them at a young age. Training is a must, and golden retrievers are usually eager to please. It also helps to get a puppy from a reputable breeder, not from any pet store or puppy mill. At My Golden Retriever Puppies , we breed and raise our puppies with the love and attention they deserve. Golden Retriever Traits Aside from personality and temperament, goldens have great traits. These include their trainability, intelligence, and energy levels. It also includes behaviors to watch out for, like chewing. For a quick dive, keep reading. Golden Retrievers Are Smart Golden retrievers are much more intelligent than people give them credit for. A great example is how the police love using them as sniffers and tracking dogs. As long as you put in the work, your golden will be able to flex its stuff. This has a lot to do with their intelligence and obedient and loving personality. Golden Retrievers Need Exercise Despite being pretty flexible with their energy levels, Goldens still need to exercise. Examples of this include frequent zoomies around the house or getting into messes. They Can Be Chewers Goldens can be chewers, and this stems from adolescence. Teething golden puppies will chew anything they can get their hands on. A great way to handle this is training and exercise. Goldens need stimulation. Playing tug of war or fetch is a great way to address that bad chewing habit. They are cute and smart, easy to train and grow up to be fantastic family dogs. Visit us today to bring the newest addition to your family home. A golden retriever is happy, loyal, affectionate, non-aggressive, and almost always friendly. They get along with almost everyone, including kids, strangers, and other animals. Do Golden Retrievers Bark a lot? For example, your puppy may boop things with their nose or use their paws to communicate. Are Golden Retrievers Well Behaved? Golden retrievers are some of the most well-behaved dogs out there. 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. Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since .However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!