long hair labrador retriever puppies

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 Goldador Overview The idea was to create a working dog with the sensitivity of the Golden Retriever and the tolerance of the Labrador Retriever. It worked. Cross them, and the result is the unequivocally genial Goldador. Thanks to their easygoing nature and keen intelligence, Goldadors have proven outstanding guide dogs, service dogs, search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and bomb detection dogs. But like their parent breeds, Goldadors are happiest simply working alongside a person they love. Goldadors are active and require at least half an hour of daily exercise — most enjoy retrieving games as well as hiking and swimming. Training the eager-to-please Goldador is relatively easy — they come from a long line of dogs who work closely and willingly with people. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time owners, provided they get the exercise, structure, and positive reinforcement they crave. Goldadors are also a good option for families with children though they can be a bit rambunctious for toddlers , as they want nothing more than to be part of family activities. The ideal residence for a Goldador is a home with a fenced yard, but with regular exercise and companionship they can live and thrive in apartments and condos. Whatever his home, a Goldador should live indoors with his people. Goldadors are good family dogs and generally do well with children of all ages. The Goldador sheds moderately and requires weekly brushing. Goldadors require about 30 minutes of exercise per day. They enjoy being outdoors and can make excellent jogging companions. Although a house with a fenced yard is the ideal home for a Goldador, he can do well in an apartment or condo with proper exercise. Goldadors can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. Goldador History The Goldador was first developed more than a decade ago: the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever were crossed with the hopes of creating a sensitive, tolerant working dog. The effort proved successful. At this time, there are no breed clubs or any efforts to create a breed standard for the Goldador. Goldador Size The Goldador is one of the few designer breeds with a fairly predictable size, as both parent breeds are large and similar in size and shape. The Goldador is usually 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 60 to 80 pounds. Goldador Personality The Goldador is affectionate and loyal, alert enough to make an excellent watchdog, but too friendly to be an effective guard dog. His intelligence and desire to please render him highly trainable, and he responds best to positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization helps ensure that your Goldador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Goldador Health Goldadors are prone to certain health conditions. 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. Elbow Dysplasia is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem, or medication and weight loss to control the pain. Cataracts are an opacity on the lens of the eye that causes difficulty in seeing. The eye s of the dog will have a cloudy appearance. Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels are regulated in part by insulin, which is produced in the pancreas. Glucose sugar is needed by the cells of the body to burn for energy; insulin is the key that lets the glucose into the cell. Without insulin, the glucose cannot enter the cell, so the cells are hungry even though there are high levels of glucose circulating in the blood. A diabetic dog will eat more food to try to compensate, but he will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Signs of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and daily insulin injections. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can live a full and happy life. Both parents should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips, elbows, heart, and thyroid and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certifying that the eyes are normal. Goldador Care The ideal home for a Goldador is a house with a fenced yard where he can play safely; however, he can do well in an apartment or condo if he gets daily walks or runs. Interested in dog sports? Goldadors make formidable competitors in agility and flyball. Mental stimulation is crucial as well. Teach your Goldador to fetch the paper or your slippers, practice obedience training regularly with him, and put his mind to work from time to time with an interactive dog toy. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement techniques praise, play, and food rewards work best with the Goldador. Goldador Feeding Recommended daily amount: 3. Note: 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. For more on feeding your Goldador, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Goldador Coat Color And Grooming A Goldador should have the same double coat as a Labrador Retriever, with a short, thick, straight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat some have a slight wave down the back. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush will remove dead hair, helping to keep it off your clothes and furniture. During seasonal shedding periods, however, daily brushing is recommended. Bathe your Goldador as needed, and be sure to give him a thorough freshwater rinse any time he goes swimming. The Goldador can be prone to ear infections, so check and clean the ears weekly. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. 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. Goldador Children And Other Pets Goldadors are an ideal family companion and are generally gentle and loving toward children of all ages. As puppies, they can be a bit rambunctious and may knock over smaller children unintentionally, so close supervision is important. Social and easy-going, Goldadors do well with other dogs and pets, especially when raised together. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how good-natured, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Goldador Rescue Groups There are no official rescue groups for the Goldador, but this cross is frequently available at private and municipal animal shelters. More Info For You. Finding black Lab Golden Retriever puppies for sale? The black Lab Golden Retriever mix is still a Goldador. But, by using a black Lab parent, many breeders aim to get puppies with a black coat. A black Lab Golden Retriever mix will have the same general traits as any other Goldador. They will be friendly, energetic, and playful. Black Lab Golden Retriever mix dogs are also great with kids and other animals. Especially when they are socialized and trained well from a young age. This dog is simply a puppy with one Golden Retriever parent and one black Labrador Retriever parent. Since the genes for a black dog coat are dominant, many breeders hope that they will get black Goldador puppies when they breed with a black Labrador parent. But, first generation mixes like this are quite unpredictable. A Goldador with a black Lab parent will usually have a black coat. But, in some instances, puppies may have lighter, or golden coats. Other than their coat color, their traits will vary as much as any other Goldador dog. It will depend which parent they take after the most. Generally, you will have a medium to large dog. Typically, a Goldador will grow between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds as adults. Females are often smaller than males. In terms of coat type, this mix will have a double layered coat that sheds all year round, and more heavily during shedding seasons. Their coat may be slightly longer if they take after their Golden Retriever parent, with some feathering around their legs and chest. However, a puppy must receive two recessive genes one from each parent to have a non-black coat color. So, it is much less likely that your puppies will have golden or chocolate coats if they have a black Lab parent. If your heart is set on a black Goldador puppy, let your breeder know. They may be able to give you first pick of the litter to ensure you get the shade you want. Both parents of this Goldador mix are known to be friendly, energetic, and loving. Especially toward their close families. Generally, when they are well socialized as puppies, they will get along very well with everyone they meet. This includes other pets and even young children. However, since they are quite large dogs, they can accidentally bump and hurt young kids during play. Socialization is Proven to Help Studies into dog behavior have shown that socialization from a young age helps to prevent behavioral issues in older dogs. This includes aggression and fearfulness. So, you should train and socialize your black Goldador mix well from a young age to get the best of their temperament. You should also meet the parent dogs to see what traits your puppy may inherit. If its parents are friendly and keen to meet you, your puppy will often be similar! Most families get on well with a black Lab Golden Retriever mix. They tend to love everyone they meet, especially when socialized and trained from a young age. These dogs need families that have plenty of time to dedicate, and who can take their dog with them everywhere. Plenty of Energy On top of this, a black Goldador is a very energetic dog, that comes from two hardworking, athletic parents. A black Lab Golden Retriever mix will usually be as healthy as its parents. Mixed breed puppies like this are vulnerable to the same health issues as their parent breeds. Common problems to look out for include: Cancer big issue for Golden Retrievers Hip dysplasia. Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor Grapes or raisins Golden Retriever Crossed with Labrador Exercise Requirements The Lab Golden Retriever Mix has an active temperament so they might get destructive if they get bored. It is recommended to exercise them at least 2 hours daily. Getting them to do physical activities every day will help keep him happy and healthy. Here are some outdoor activities that you can try with your Golden Retriever Lab Mix: Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog. Swimming: Utilize your private pool and do a swimming exercise with your dog companion. Swimming does not only serve as an exercise activity to yourself and to your companion dog, but it is also a great bonding experience. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. Make sure you supervise your dog all the time while doing this activity. Dock Diving: This is a fun sports activity to enjoy with your dog. All you have to do is throw a floating toy and encourage your dog to jump and swim out to retrieve it. If you and your Golden Retriever Lab Mix want to upgrade the challenge, you can try joining a Dock Diving Club and compete with other dogs. Play Fetch: This is a classic outdoor game that is great to do in summer. Challenge your dog by putting a twist to the activity, you can either use a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to make the object travel farther for your Golden Labrador to retrieve and return back to you. However, you should not be working them too much because when it comes to recovering objects, both parent breeds of Golden Retriever Lab Mix can be overly enthusiastic. However, even though they are intelligent dogs and has a friendly nature, you still need to put time and effort to train them better. Both parent breeds were bred to carry things. The best way to teach your Goldador not to bark is to socialize them frequently with strangers. Use Positive Reinforcement The Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever is a sensitive type of dog, so training them using positive reinforcement will be very helpful. Make sure to avoid negative punishment-based training since this hybrid dog may end up fearing you rather than respecting you as their leader. Make it a regular routine to reward your puppy whenever they do something right. Training your Goldador consistently in a positive method will give you pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Do Mental Exercise The Golden Retriever mixed with Lab is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing any aggressive behaviors, such as nuisance barking and chewing. Without proper mental exercise, Goldador puppies will grow into a passive, timid and uninspired dog. Labrador Golden Retriever Mix and Families Despite its large size, the Labrador mixed with Golden Retriever is a great family dog because of its easy-going personality. It is extremely friendly and affectionate. The Goldador is the type of dog that goes well in a loving and active family — one that considers him as a family member. The Golden Labradors cherish the company with children. They are naturally gentle, but they can play tirelessly as long as your kids can keep up. However, due to their sheer size, supervision is still needed around toddlers and infants. The Goldadors makes an excellent therapy and companion dog. Because of their affectionate nature, they generally do well when given lots of attention and affection. These hybrid dogs love to be with people, and hence it is tough for them to cope with solitude. So give love lots of love and affection to your Goldador Lab Retriever Mix and expect that it will shower you back with love. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article. The double coat has a soft undercoat below a rough top coat that is water resistant. Either way, their coat will be fairly high maintenance. Shedding and Grooming Your new friend is going to shed, sometimes a lot. Both parent breeds heavily shed their coats with the change of seasons twice a year. For the rest of the year, expect a moderate level of shedding. Increased brushing during transitional times can help catch the loose hairs and stop them from spreading everywhere. Golden Retriever Labrador mixes will need weekly brushing, likely more during shedding season. Their nails should be trimmed regularly as well. Are They Hypoallergenic? The Goldador dog will not be hypoallergenic. They are high shedders, spreading dander from skin and saliva liberally around your home! With designer breeds like the Golden Retriever Lab, you can only make an educated guess about their temperament based on the general demeanor of their parents as well as the temperament of the parent breeds as a whole. If they are left alone a lot, they may become very destructive to your home. They will chew out of boredom or anxiety. As many Lab lovers know, these dogs do not know a stranger. Generally, the Goldador will get on well with children and other pets. Socialization Socialization from an early age is important for any breed, including the Golden Retriever Lab. Even though it hails from overly friendly and sociable breeds, there are still no guarantees to the temperament of your dog. Since training and socialization are both best started early on, puppy training classes can be a great way to both train and socialize your puppy at the same time. Training Tips The Goldador has an easygoing and eager to please temperament that helps make them highly trainable. Owners should start training early, from the time their puppy comes home. The parent breeds have a long history as service dogs, bomb detection dogs, hunting dogs, and now therapy dogs. Obedience classes will help create a well-mannered dog but also strengthens the bond between the dog and owner. Since Goldadors grow to be large dogs, obedience is also important to prevent them from jumping up at your guests! Energy Levels Golden Retriever Labrador puppies will grow into high-energy adults with a love for playing and a passion for retrieving! A Labrador Golden Retriever Mix makes a great companion for jogging, hiking, or cycling. This is a breed that also loves to swim. Canine sports, like agility, obedience trials, and tracking, are also a great way to keep your dog physically active, mentally stimulated, and out of trouble. As a very social breed, they do best as indoor dogs, but with a large, fenced in yard to run around. In addition to self-exercise, they need walks or other forms of daily activity with their owners. Exercise is especially important for the health of your Goldador since both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers have a tendency to develop elbow and hip dysplasia. Weight management is one way of combating these joint problems. Health and Care All pedigree dog breeds are inbred to some extent. The measure of this is called the coefficient of inbreeding COI. The higher the COI, the greater the risks of health issues arising specifically from inbreeding. In a crossbreed such as the Goldador, the COI is usually much lower than it is in a purebred dog, and this is a good thing. To begin to look at the health and care of a Goldador we first need to consider the inherited health risks from both parent breeds Labrador and Golden Retriever. Labrador Health Labrador Retrievers are prone to a few hereditary health conditions and joint problems, as well as some health issues common to most dogs. To help minimize the likelihood of hereditary health issues in your new Goldador pup, check that your breeder has followed the recommended testing for the Labrador Retriever breed: Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis HNKP. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article.

Written by Dr. Their mean-looking flattened face, which includes a strong jaw, is perceived by many as a sign of aggressive behavior. Now the question is, are these perceptions justified? English Bulldogs are not aggressive but obedient, affectionate, and kind-hearted. This medium-sized breed has a considerate disposition and calm temperament, making them a lovely family pet. Despite their laid-back attitude, English bulldogs are courageous and thus, make an excellent guard dog. Keep reading to learn more about how English Bulldogs interact with other people and animals. Are English Bulldogs Aggressive to Humans? English Bulldogs are not aggressive to humans. These bulldogs are people-friendly and love human attention. However, English Bulldogs may act ferociously if they feel threatened or act distant towards strangers. Family Members English Bulldogs are people-friendly, so they make a great family pet. These dogs are affectionate and can get along well with most people, be it small children, adults, and older adults. Read on as we look at how English Bulldogs behave around people of different age categories. Babies English Bulldogs are very compassionate and patient with babies. Toddlers English Bulldogs are equally playful with toddlers and young children. They can be a great and vigilant companion to your little kid. Older Kids Older kids can bond with English Bulldogs by taking them on regular walks and spending time together. Typically, this breed gets along with older kids better than some other breeds do. Adults These warm-hearted pooches hardly ever show a sign of aggressiveness with adults. However, if your bulldog ever shows attacking behavior, you should not let this go unchecked. Strangers How English Bulldogs react when they see a stranger has to do with their upbringing. Guests A well-socialized bulldog might act shy or reserved if they see a guest. Intruders These bulldogs are incredibly loyal pets and will defend their family if they sense a threat from an outsider. Their tenacious attitude and protective nature will help them deal with any danger. That will change if your dog feels a threat to them or your family. English Bulldogs tend to be more aggressive to other animals than to strangers. Part of the reason is their history as bull-baiting dogs. However, selective breeding over the years has reduced their attacking tendencies. Other Animals in Your Household A bulldog brought up in a caring environment with decent adequate will not endanger other pets in your household. However, even a trained dog may seldomly show hostility to other dogs in the house, especially the males. However, the level of aggression is toned down if the two dogs have a history of positive encounters. English Bulldogs generally get along well with cats as well. Some canines may occasionally get less friendly if provoked by the other pets. Overall, their accepting nature helps them make good bonds with the other animals in the house. Animals They Encounter Outside English Bulldogs display a more aggressive behavior if they encounter an unfamiliar male dog outside their house. Depending on their upbringing, they may bark a few times or attack the other dog. However, if you notice your bulldog getting agitated without any provocation from other dogs, you should spend some time helping them navigate through such situations. Male English bulldogs are more aggressive than females, provided they both received the same environment growing up. However, female English Bulldogs tend to be more territorial. Both males and females are relentlessly stubborn, yet males are more challenging to train. A retrospective study in Spain by the Barcelona School of Veterinary Medicine in analyzed 1, dog aggression cases. In terms of temperament, both males and females are not much different. Males are more playful and energetic and are more welcoming towards others. Females are comparatively less jolly and are not eager to socialize. As mentioned earlier, even though male English Bulldogs have aggressive tendencies, female bulldogs tend to be more territorial. Due to their stronger territorial instincts, female English Bulldogs can attack more viciously if someone evokes these impulses. Give them the care and love they require, along with the necessary training. Their approval rate would not be high if they were naturally aggressive to others. Moreover, an opinion ranking from veterinarians was published in the New Zealand Veterinary Journal about aggressive behavior in different breeds of dogs. The vets ranked bulldogs with an average Aggression Ratio score of 0. Most causes of aggressive behavior in English Bulldogs are due to their dominance and territorial instincts. Possessive English Bulldogs may display aggression, especially regarding food or toys. Here are some common reasons an English Bulldog may act aggressively: English Bulldogs want to assert their dominance over their pet parent. However, dominance-related aggression is not as concerning as other causes. English Bulldogs may get furious if their territorial senses are triggered. English Bulldogs can act angrily due to their possessive tendencies, especially regarding their food or toys. Possessive bulldogs will not be happy if they see someone approaching their food bowl while eating or picking their favorite toys. English Bulldogs can get violent in stressful circumstances. If English Bulldogs are in danger and need to protect themselves, they may take a defensive position. English Bulldogs can act aggressively out of frustration. They may use that energy to attack the person holding the leash. Your English Bulldog is being aggressive if they try to attack when you or a stranger gets near it. Conversely, your English Bulldog is being protective when they guard their space and belongings without showing attacking behaviors. Suppose your dog is always on their perfect behavior but starts showing some extra energy when they see a stranger approaching them or a family member. You should be worried when your pet displays rough reactions without any provocations. Moreover, female bulldogs have their maternal instinct triggered if a stranger comes near their puppies. In addition, they may get ticked off if the other pets in the house try to eat their food. These instances are cases of a dog being overprotective and not angry. However, being overly protective is also not favorable. Your dog may inflict an injury in a situation that did not demand it. We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Pretend To Be Injured Whenever your English bulldog puppy biting and growling at you, pretend to be injured by his bites. When the puppy bites, you yell loudly and pretend like you are hurt a lot. This will shock your puppy, and he will release the hurt immediately. You can continue doing this until he retrains himself from biting you or growling at you. By repeatedly exercising, your puppy will learn that it is hazardous to bite their friends and humans. As time passes, your puppy will learn to become gentle during playtime and get to know that skin is a sensitive part and must not be pressed. Avoid Your Puppy If your puppy bites you while you are playing with him, stop playing at that very moment. When you stop playing immediately, he will realize that he has done something bad. We were playing on the couch, and he bit me. After repeating this every time he bit me, he finally understood that biting is bad. What will happen is he will suddenly become defensive and will become aggressive in the future. These small things are very important and must be kept in mind while training your puppy. Never forget to praise him for his good behavior. Socialize Your Puppy Socialization is very important for the English bulldog puppy to get comfortable with everyone. Your puppy should feel comfortable around friends and strangers. Socialization helps your English bulldog puppy biting and growling not to bite visitors. These etiquettes are necessary, especially when you take your puppy to parks and public places. Save Yourself from Puppy Attacks Puppies are very curious about everything happening around them. They get excited when they see some movements happening around them. You may have noticed your puppy walking moving around your feet whenever you walk around them. If they see any sudden movements, they will immediately attack. When this happens, stop right there and let your puppy settle down. When the puppies watch the children running around, they get very excited and start running and playing. There are chances that your puppy may bite the kids or anyone they are playing with. To avoid this, whenever you see your puppy come running towards you, give him his chewy toy to play with. Never forget to motivate your puppy by giving him his favorite treats. Always keep the treats in your hand while training. When I was training my puppy, I used to have these soft puppy treats all the time. These were his favorite treats, and due to them, he used to perform all the tasks that I gave. Everyone must follow one more important thing , all these exercises, and recommendations in the house. The puppy needs to be comfortable with everyone in the family. So everyone must spend some time with the puppy to become familiar with him. There will be times when the puppy will have to spend the whole day with other family members, and then it will be easier for both dog and the family member. These tips and recommendations are really helpful if you follow them thoroughly. Training your puppy at the correct time is the key to stopping him from doing bad behavior. Adult Bulldog Biting and Growling Sometimes adult bulldogs are also seen biting and growling at humans. I will give you some normal tips about training your adult bulldog. The tips are as follows: Teach your adult bulldog the same discipline you would teach your puppy bulldog. This will make him realize that you are hurting. Leave him alone for a while to get him in the discipline. With correct and appropriate training, you can stop your English bulldog puppy from biting and growling. It would help if you acted properly around your puppy in order to teach him. As the training will continue, he will definitely learn the difference between harming and playing. Training your adult bulldogs can be quite a difficult job but not impossible. So, have patience and train your English bulldog puppy will love and compassion. You will surely have positive results. Related Articles:. Bulldog aggression is sometimes a concern among English Bulldog owners. Bulldogs attack for the same reasons any dog feels forced to react—fear, frustration, protection, and pain. Bulldog aggression stems from their breeding. People sometimes misinterpret dominant and animated behaviors as bulldog aggression. Although bulldog attacks are rare, always set your dog up for success to prevent any mishaps. Establish acceptable behaviors at an early age. This curbs bulldog aggression and the potential for a bulldog attack. What Causes English Bulldog Aggression? Built to withstand intimidating bulls , they stand their ground and make no bones about it! Their stocky bodies and antagonistic attitudes were perfect for herding livestock. Hunters and ranchers needed fearless, aggressive bulldogs to hold their own against wild boars and cornered bulls. Wrinkled coats give them a fighting advantage to slip away without major injuries. Over time, dog baiting lost popularity, and bulldog aggression is no longer a common trait. Modern bulldogs are loving companions. You can find videos all over the internet of pouty, sensitive, affectionate bulldogs. Like any dog, bulldogs need to know what behaviors are acceptable. All bulldogs have different tolerances and triggers for aggression. Knowing your bulldog is the best way to understand their levels of tolerance. Every dog is different and your patience is key to fostering their trust. Enrolling your bulldog in obedience classes, understanding their behavioral cues, and giving your dog the space they need are the best methods to prevent bulldog aggression. Establish good habits and encourage behaviors you want from your bulldog. This will help get ahead of most instances of bulldog aggression. Bulldogs were bred to work with large livestock, but have always been beloved. All dogs act on instinct and learned behaviors. After your bulldog learns what behaviors are acceptable, they might test boundaries. Some behaviors of bulldog aggression are: Possessive Aggression: Guarding high valued items, people, and food are instinct for dogs. Some are more tolerant than others, but protecting what they want is not uncommon. Again, some of these cues are very subtle depending on the dog. Bulldog aggression becomes dangerous when you reinforce guarding. Immediately addressing guarding behaviors decreases the chances of potential bulldog attacks or scuffles. Remove high value toys and desensitization cut the chances of bulldog aggression. Being picked up, entering their personal space, startling them, or sustained eye contact can trigger bulldog aggression. Redirected Aggression: Bulldog aggression can emerge in moments your pup feels frustrated. High energy situations like many dogs playing at once can make them feel aggravated. Unfortunately, the closest creature or person can be the target of a bulldog attack. Territorial Aggression: Protecting territory is instinctual for many dogs stemming from ancient times. Before dogs became domesticated, they defended their territory out of survival. An aggressive bulldog may feel threatened when people step into their territory. In fact, many dog parents confuse fear and guarding for dominant aggression. Bulldogs attack when they feel forced to protect, but are otherwise docile and affectionate. If the root of bulldog aggression is not corrected, it puts your pup and family in danger. Handle the first signs of aggression quickly and with patience. The Surprising Truth Revealed! Cues like avoiding eye contact and growling are ways of communicating discomfort. Hitting or scaring them reinforces bulldog aggression. If someone continues to threaten their boundaries, they feel the need to protect them. The same situation can happen to dogs. Ignoring boundaries will likely end in a bulldog attack. Socializing your dog early is vital to their safety, comfort, and quality of life. Safely and slowly introducing your dog to new people, environments, and other dogs desensitizes them. Decrease bulldog aggression by taking your pup to obedience training. Professional help gives you guidance to support your dog through their learning process. Bulldog aggression can be subtle, but there are cues to spot before a situation escalates. Signs of a potential bulldog attack: Avoiding eye contact and turning their head away Snapping at other dogs. TonkaTruck28 said: Hey everyone, I have been reading here for awhile, but am brand new to posting. I just got my new bully a couple weeks ago and need some help! I have a 10 week old bully who will not respond to any sort of discipline, especially when he is "zoned out". I feel he has made progress with the normal puppy biting of the feet and hands and he doesn't really chew on our stuff, mostly his toys and our physical selves but sometimes he gets so wound up that nothing works. We try to redirect him to his toys when he bites us and he tries to force his way through the the toy to us, if we try to remove him from the situation or from anything he wants to do he growls aggressively not a playful puppy growl and tries to get at our hands. If we say NO or no bite or yelp he snaps and growls and bites as if we're just egging him on. Putting him in timeout in another room for 5 minutes and ignoring him when he comes out until he does something we can praise him for seems to get him out of his "zoned out" state of mind but I would like to learn another method to deal with him. We try to praise him for everything he does right or well in hopes that he would prefer that but it's seeming he prefers trying to assert his dominance. Any help is much appreciated! Click to expand.But I would recommend every time he is naughty biting and the attitude he gets put in the kennel. I know some say not to dicispline with the kennel but no bully likes or want to be locked in there. He bites you put him in there, Also when Coop would bite or be going going after my son I would clap really loud sometimes a few times. For some reason clapping get their attention and they don't care so much for it. When Gracie and Coop are playing and they get a little rough I do my normal yell or a weird ahhh ahhh or no no or knock it off in my loud dominant yell or I will clap and they both stop right away and look at me like "what we weren't doing anything wrong" Just gotta nip it in the but now and from what you are saying I think the kennel is needed. I would kennel coop and just get him out of the situtation when he would bite my son and it lasted for a couple months. The puppy biting is hard to stop but around months they start losing puppy teeth and calming down. Coop bit all the time and now at 8 months he is such a lover!! Cuddles and loves his family. My 2 year old got the brunt of the biting and now him and coop are best friends. My son can't walk past him with out giving him a big kiss!! Just hang in there and show him who is boss. I think the kennel thing will help you though!! Putting in the kennel is just simply defusing and getting him away from the situation. This is what I did with Cooper and he is great now.SO putting him in there as a disciplined did not make him hate the kennel! Radar was not happy with my arrival and made it clear with a lot of barking and some posturing. I had expected this so I had adopted an assertive body posture, made sure I kept him in front of me and did not back away or react to his barking. At first I simply stood my ground at the back door while I stood in the kitchen and observed Radar. His head was lowered and he was making a lot of intermittent eye contact, but he consistently moved backwards each time he barked at me. It was a slight movement, but enough for me to see and indicated that he had some insecurity. I moved forward in a confident and deliberate movement making sure that I kept my hips and shoulders squared up. This lack of practice at the proper way to greet a human was glaringly apparent. I continued to move forward after each bark, pausing between each step to gauge his reaction and behavior. Radar consistently moved backward this way one bark and step at a time. Everything is ok. While he acknowledged that things were not alright, the fact that he kept saying it was ok underscored a part of the problem. We cannot rationalize with a dog when its in an unbalanced state of mind, and often humans unconsciously attempt to convince themselves things are better than they are. As I had this discussion with his owner I kept my eyes fixed on Radar as the best chance to get bitten from an insecure dog in this type of situation is when you drop your attention from them while they are all worked up. Radar continued to bark at me so I continued to step towards him which caused him to continue to back away. After I got a few feet into the living room, Radars barks took on a less intense tone. He continued to bark, but eventually recused himself from the situation — walking around a couch and standing under an end table on the far side of the room. Only after Radar turned away and walked away did I come into the room and introduce myself to the members of the family. After discussing the situation with his owners for a few minutes, it was clear that their lack of rules, boundaries and structure combined with an abundance of attention and affection for no reason had given the dog the idea that he was in a leadership position. His owners had been yelling at him to be quiet with little success. I explained that when a dog is barking and we yell at them, they often interpret that as our agreeing with their barking. Then I went on to show them some non verbal modes of communication using body language, eye contact, movement and timing. Within a few moments they were successfully using these new forms of communication to disagree with his behavior and barking. He was still clearly not happy I was there, but his stiffness, barking and eye contact all improved dramatically as the session went on. It will be important that they continue to uses these new communication methods and apply them as soon as Radar starts to bark, protest or engage in unwanted activities or behavior. Its much easier to get a dog to stop or calm down if you disagree with them as soon as they start. The fact that it worked so effectively combined with their desire to curb this aggressive behavior was already paying dividends. I went over some new ways of petting the dog that will help change the leader follower dynamic as well as some rules that will help Radar start to assume more of a follower position in the home. I also suggested that they practice a leadership exercise to help accelerate the transformation in the leadership dynamic in the home. This exercise is easy to master and affords the family the ability to gradually make it more challenging. This gives the dog the ability to practice deferring to their authority. It will take regular enforcement of the new rules and complete adoption of the new communication methods before they are able to eradicate this behavior for good. But based on how quickly the members of the family adopted the new methods, they should see a gradual change in his attitude, behavior and respect for their commands and authority. Share this:. Are English Bulldogs Aggressive? Are English bulldogs aggressive? Anyone considering the laidback English bulldog for their next family pet needs to know: Are English bulldogs aggressive? But there are a few factors we can consider to determine the likelihood of aggression in purebred dogs. The job the breed was originally bred to do, its inherited health issues, and the statistics surrounding breed-related aggression can all help us determine the risk of aggression in a specific breed. Breeding, Health Risks, and Data The best way to determine whether a purebred dog is predisposed to aggression is to look at its breeding and health problems. If a dog was bred for a job that requires aggression, like fighting or guarding, then you may see more signs of aggression. And if a breed inherits health issues like rage syndrome , cognitive dysfunction , or hypothyroidism , they may be at higher risk for aggressive behavior. Dog breeders will often point out the different personalities of puppies from the same litter. So, to a great extent, personalities will vary from one bulldog to the next. However, you can get a sense of bulldogs' most hard-wired personality traits based on what they were bred for. In order to succeed in this sport, dogs needed to be strong, fearless, and willing to lead an attack. Now you're starting to see where concerns about bulldog aggression are coming from. But over years ago, bull baiting was banned, and breeders worked hard to save bulldogs from near extinction — transitioning them from fighters to family pets by selectively breeding the friendliest and most devoted dogs. So, years of breeding adds up to about generations of bulldogs bred specifically as cuddle companions. This length of time is longer than the entire history of the golden retriever. And like goldens, the bulldog breed are reliable family members that are gentle with children. Bulldog Health Issues That Can Lead to Aggression English bulldogs are considered one of the least physically healthy dog breeds in existence — to the extent that some have questioned the ethics of breeding bulldogs and Norway has banned their breeding entirely. The majority of their health problems — from bulldog skin bumps to hip dysplasia — do not cause aggression. However, bulldogs are prone to hypothyroidism, a condition where their thyroid doesn't produce enough of the thyroid hormone. If your previously well-behaved bulldog starts showing signs of aggression, take them to your vet. It could be a sign of hypothyroidism. Aggression could also be a sign that your dog is in pain and needs an examination, treatment, and pain relief for dogs. Bulldog Aggression Data English bulldogs are rarely mentioned in studies on aggressive dogs or reports on dog bites, which is surprising when you consider that bulldogs are the fifth most popular dog breed in America. A study by the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA found a strong link between the popularity of a dog breed and the number of bite incidents. In the AVMA study, as a breed got more popular, more bites were reported by that breed. However, the only reputable report we could find that mentioned English bulldogs was a local report from Denver, Colorado , where bulldogs ranked 13th in dog bites — much lower than you would expect given their popularity. So, based on the data, English bulldogs appear to be at a lower-than-expected risk for aggression. Dog owners have a bigger impact on aggression than dog breed. Here are the most important steps English bulldog owners can take to prevent aggression: 1. Raising well-socialized pets starts at a young age, and any socialization the breeder provides will set you up for success when you take your English bulldog puppy home. To get the healthiest possible bulldog, you may also want to consider a hybrid bulldog, like the Olde English Bulldogge. While not considered purebred dogs by the AKC, Olde English Bulldogges have been mixed with other bully breeds to preserve the health of the breed. Seeking out an Olde English breeder is one way for concerned bulldog lovers to champion this friendly breed. Start Socialization Early As soon as your puppy is fully vaccinated, sign them up for a puppy socialization class. In your spare time, head to parks or outdoor cafes, and make it your mission to introduce your English Bulldog puppy to as many different types of people as possible, including children, the elderly, the handicapped, and people of different sizes and skin tones. Use Positivity-Based Dog Training Train your puppy using positive reinforcement training , rather than dominance-based training , which has been shown to increase aggressive behavior in some dogs. Nipping is common when puppies are young and teething. Make sure to teach bite inhibition early, and prevent food aggression by hand feeding your puppy or placing your hand in their food bowl while they eat. Remove Your Dog From Stressful Situations If your dog shows signs of stress , like tucking their ears and tail, whining, pacing, panting, or hiding, you should remove them from the stressful situation, give them a time out in a quiet room, and offer a calming dog chew to help decrease their stress levels. A stressed or scared dog is more likely to act aggressively against a perceived threat. By removing them from the situation early and helping them regain their sense of calm, you can keep their behavior from escalating to lunging or biting. Bulldogs are involved in fewer bite incidents than you would expect, given their popularity, so the breed appears to be at low risk for aggressive behavior. As a bulldog owner, you can raise a well-adjusted dog by getting your puppy from a responsible breeder and providing consistent, positivity-based training. Read more.

We have answers. The average cost of San Francisco Bulldog puppies for sale depends on a range of different factors, including coat color, breeder experience, and more. Fortunately, when you use Uptown to help find your Bulldog for sale San Francisco, you'll see a great range of competitive and fair prices from proven, trusted breeders and businesses. What if there are no Bulldog breeders near me? No worries! When we connect you with a vetted business or breeder in the Uptown network, your selected breeder will be able to make travel arrangements for your new pup, flying it over to any major airport of your choosing in the Lower .So even if you can't any pups from local Bulldog breeders in San Francisco, your dream dog is still never too far away. How do you screen Bulldog breeders? Well, the simple truth is that we only want to connect our customers to the very best providers of Bulldogs for sale in San Francisco. Check out our in-depth Breeder Pledge to learn more about the high standards we aim to uphold. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other networks with Bulldog puppies for sale? You've got a lot of options when looking for a San Francisco Bulldog puppy for sale, but the truth is that there are some amazing breeders out there, along with plenty of bad ones. Sadly, a lot of breeders and businesses are only interested in profits, and their puppies pay the price. Uptown has created a haven for the most ethical breeders to succeed, a place where finding a happy and healthy Bulldog San Francisco couldn't be easier. What is a puppy mill like? In simple terms, Puppy mills are essentially like factories where dogs are forced to produce litter after litter, and the owners only care about profits, rather than the well-being of their pups. Bulldog puppies for sale San Francisco from mills are often very sickly due to their mistreatment, with some even suffering life-threatening issues that require thousands of dollars of vet treatment. Are there any Bulldog puppies for sale right now? The Bulldog is a very popular breed in the United States, so the chances are always in your favor that your perfect pup is out there waiting for you right now. There are many litters being born all the time and we're here to help you connect with trusted providers of Bulldog puppies San Francisco. Begin your search today and find your perfect Bulldog for sale San Francisco. What kind of dog is a Bulldog? English Bulldogs were first bred mostly for use in cattle-driving, as well as for use in a violent sport called bull-baiting. Their strong and stocky nature helped the breed succeed in these roles, but over time, with bull-baiting being outlawed and more effective breeds used for cattle-driving, Bulldogs began to be kept more commonly as family pets. These days, a typical San Francisco Bulldog for sale will be more than happy curled up on your couch or playing with the kids. How big does a Bulldog get? What is Bulldog temperament like? Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs that are instantly recognizable with their broad chests and stocky bodies. Even though they can seem quite big, Bulldog puppies in San Francisco are a good choice for apartment-dwellers due to their low exercise requirements. In terms of temperament, Bulldogs are quite passive, docile, and very friendly too. Are Bulldogs suitable for apartment life? If you live in an apartment and would like to find a dog that can thrive in that kind of smaller space, a Bulldog for sale in San Francisco could be a terrific choice for you. Bulldogs are relatively big dogs, but they have low energy needs, so they don't need big backyards to run around in. Just be sure to take your pup out for regular walks so it doesn't gain too much weight. Looking for a low-shedding pup due to allergy issues in the home? San Francisco Bulldogs for sale might not be the best option. Bulldogs, like a lot of other breeds, do shed some hair throughout the year. They don't shed anywhere near as much as other breeds and have shorthaired coats, but still aren't recommended for severe allergy sufferers. We offer frenchie puppies with colors such as lilac, merle, blue,black and tan, blue and tan, chocolate and tan, and lilac tri French Bulldog puppies. Impeccabullz was featured in Pottery Barn magazine for their winter catalog! Here are a few of the photos that made it into the magazine. Our pups were very excited to be apart of Pottery Barn! More Do you have more questions about Impeccabullz? For more information about our French Bulldog puppies for sale, how to purchase, delivery, our guarantee, etc please visit our FAQ page. Welcome to Impeccabullz French Bulldogs! We have been breeding for over 14 years, and with experience comes knowledge for us to provide you! Our goal is to produce breed-type structured French Bulldogs with excellent temperaments and life-long overall healthy dogs. We pride ourselves on being available to our puppy owners for any questions or concerns over the lifetime of owning an Impeccabull puppy. We health test all of our dogs to help prevent any known hereditary diseases from being passed down to our puppies and follow a strict vaccinating schedule to help you keep your new puppy protected. Take a look around our site or give us a call with any questions .We currently have french bulldog puppies for sale! Purchase Options Media Getting your new Impeccabull puppy home to you as soon as possible is our goal. Puppies are able to go home at 8 weeks old. Please review your shipping options by clicking below.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. He loves to be sleeping on top of his person, belly rubs and tummy scratches. He enjoys riding in the car and has good manners doing so. He also is crate trained and will sleep well in the crate at night. He will be best suited in a household with no other dogs as he enjoys being "the man of the house. Rufus will need a strong grip on his lead while on leash as he is powerful, a bit willful, and curious, and he is still working on his leash etiquette. He can be lazy, but also ready to roll! Rufus is a very sweet and sometimes silly dog, and will be happy to be a cuddly couch buddy and walking buddy for a lucky person or family! Come check out this handsome chunk of love! A note from his foster: "Rufus is the best pup. His favorite thing to do is cuddle on the couch with his people he makes a great little spoon! He is incredibly sweet, loves belly rubs, and very goofy! He loves food and is incredibly smart. He learns commands quickly, and already knows Sit, Crate runs to his crate , Stay, and Wait. We are working on 'Down' - Rufus always rolls over, which makes us laugh. We're working on leash walking - a front harness helps! Rufus is such a good boy, and deserves the best home where he is showered with as much love as he gives. Rufus' favorite activity is cuddling on the couch with his humans. Rufus is starting to enjoy toys. He is an excellent napper. He loves walks, though doesn't love his harness. He is fine when its on, and is easy to handle so can easily put it on him. Ever wonder who cares for the seniors or unwanted bulldogs when a family no longer has time for the bulldog that has been a family member for a number of years? These senior Bulldogs depend on other people that take the time, to show concern and open their hearts for these Bulldogs that are no longer puppies — but just as adorable nonetheless. The need for help with senior Bulldogs and unwanted bulldogs far outstrip homes that can take them in or be willing to accept them as part of their families. Help is needed for seniors: Foster homes to care for them and not have them in kennels. Rethink your relationship with your bulldog. It is a choice when you got your bulldog and a choice when you give them up. NorCal Bulldog Rescue is in desperate need of foster homes! If you can help out, even if only for a short time, please contact us. The Bulldogs do not have to be integrated into your family of dogs, many of them need to be placed as only dogs so they need to be kept separate. If you have the ability to gate them off, this would be a tremendous help. You shop. Amazon Gives. Amazon donates 0. AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service. Pacifica, CA .If your dog has a specific medical condition, we recommend you consult with your veterinarian before booking a swim at The Rex Center Donate your vehicle to help Northern California Bulldog Rescue. Please call or click here to donate now. In most cases, they are able to pickup your vehicle within 48 hours. Vehicles For Charity will make your donation experience a pleasant one. Through no fault of their own, more than four million dogs end up in shelters and rescue organizations every year, and nearly half of them never find a place to call home. The foundation provides grants to c 3 shelters and dog rescue organizations nationwide and encourages dog lovers to adopt, volunteer, and donate to support the cause. For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation online, visitwww. Each year, we help animal-welfare organizations find lifelong, loving homes for millions of orphaned pets, as well as fund spay and neuter efforts, animal-assisted therapy programs, and humane education.

The physical features of these canine hybrids widely vary. While some will adopt the more docile appearance of their domestic dog parent — the German Shepherd, others will inherit the wilder look of the Coyote. That said, there are still some telltale features that are present on most German Shepherd Coyote mixes. The first one is a lean, athletic, and rectangular-shaped body. The body of this hybrid canine should have well-defined muscles covered by a double shaggy coat. Their possible coat colors are black , brown, white, sable , or a combination of these. These hybrids will also have a bushy tail that rests downward when stationary. Their muzzles are always long and well-defined. Additionally, they will have pointy ears and their eyes are always dark shades of brown. In terms of size, Coyote Shepherds are medium-to-large canines. When fully grown, this hybrid will be about the same height as a standard GSD. However, they are typically leaner than German Shepherd Dogs. The full-grown size of a German Shepherd Coyote mix is 21 to 25 inches in height and 60 to pounds in weight. On average, such hybrid canids are about the same height as Coyotes, if not slightly taller. One thing to know regarding the size of Coyote Shepherds is that it is not typically linked to gender. It is possible for female Coyote Shepherds to outgrow their male counterparts. A good way to approximate the full-grown size of these hybrids is by looking at the size of their parents. Unpredictable is the best word to describe the temperament of Coyote German Shepherd mixes. While some will exhibit similar behavior to their German Shepherd parent, others will surely show the wild nature of the adult Coyote. Some Coyote Shepherd owners claim that their pets are just as easily trainable as any other dog breed. On the other hand, some owners are certain that Coydogs are not for the faint of heart. All of these mean one thing, that the temperament of Coyote Shepherds is indeed a mixed bag. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to tell whether a particular German Shepherd Coyote dog breed will be as docile as other dogs. Otherwise, expect its temperament to be unpredictable. All things considered, the temperament of a German Shepherd Coyote mix is the main reason it is not recommended for new pet owners. However, if you have years of experience in training dogs, then taming a Coyote Shepherd will be an exciting challenge for you! This is about the same as the life expectancy of a German Shepherd dog. However, this is a few years shorter compared to the average lifespan of a Coyote in captivity — 14 years. Coyote dog mixes are not known for their health just like other dogs that were crossed with wild animals. In fact, their health is average at best. These hybrids will be at risk of a few health conditions that are also common to their parent animals throughout their life. Most of these conditions are inherited from both the German Shepherd and Coyote. Here are the common health issues in Coyote German Shepherd mixes: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a health issue characterized by the misalignment of the ball and socket joint. Similar to German Shepherds, Coyote Shepherds are also prone to this health issue. When left untreated, hip dysplasia in Coydogs will worsen and may cause inactivity. Heartworm: Heartworm is a serious health condition that is caused by a parasitic worm known as Dirofilaria. This parasite is commonly transmitted through a mosquito bite. Unfortunately, there is no approved prevention medicine for heartworms in Coydogs. However, many Coydogs owners use heartworm medicine for dogs. Mange: Sarcoptic mange in dogs is a contagious skin condition. In fact, it can be transmitted from canines to humans or vice versa. Treatment for mange in Coydogs comes in the form of dips and topical creams. A Coydog diagnosed with mange will experience extreme itch on different parts of its body. Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Autoimmune thyroiditis occurs when the immune system of a canine attacks the thyroid gland. Since many German Shepherds are affected by this disease, unfortunately, there is a decent chance it can also occur in Coydogs. Some symptoms of this condition include weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, increased appetite, and heart murmurs. The German Shepherd Coyote mix can be unpredictable when it comes to their health. The only surefire way to keep it in its best shape is by giving it the right kind of food, exercising it frequently, and taking it on regular vet checkups. Advantages and Disadvantages of Breeding Coyotes and German Shepherds Together There are plenty of reasons why interspecific hybrids are bred. Some breeders may be looking for domestic dogs with specific sets of characters. On the other hand, some breeders may just be pushing the boundaries of breeding. That said, the goal varies from one breeder to another. However, regardless of why Coyote Shepherds are bred, it is useful to know the advantages and disadvantages of cross-breeding. This is a good thing if you are looking for a pet with a unique appearance. Possibility for Better Health: In many cases, crossbred puppies exhibit fewer congenital issues and fewer genetic conditions. Crossbreeding is known to minimize or eliminate inheritable diseases from parent canines. High Work Drive: Coydogs typically have a higher work drive than the average dog. This makes them better suited for some types of work such as hunting. And here are some disadvantages of breeding Coyotes and German Shepherds together: Unpredictable Temperament: Coydogs can be very unpredictable when it comes to their temperament. While others will be docile or great guard dogs, some will be naturally stubborn. Hard to Predict Their Size: If you are looking for a particular size in a pet, Coydogs may not be the best option. Crossbreeding Coyotes and GSDs often results in unique-looking canines that vary widely in size. The important takeaway here is that breeding Coyotes and German Shepherds is safe and ethical. After all, this mix has been around for ages. However, whether or not you should get a Coyote Shepherd depends entirely on what you need in a pet. It is important to realize that most of your experience in caring for a Coyote Shepherd will be unique. You will need to experiment a bit from time to time, especially when it comes to their nutrition and exercise. Feeding and Diet The feeding instructions on the backside of dog food packs are designed for every popular dog breed and not for Coydogs. Since they are more active than most dogs, Coydogs will often require more food intake compared to the average dog. So what should the diet of Coyote Shepherds look like? While it is safe to give dog food to your Coyote Shepherd, it may not have the complete nutrition they need. One way to supplement their food is by putting them on a raw meat diet and giving them vegetables every now and then. This will provide them the extra calories they need. Cleaning and Grooming Coyote Shepherds are fairly easy to groom. Their hair is usually straight and manageable, so brushing once every two days will often do the trick. However, when they are shedding heavily, you should brush their hair daily to minimize cluttered hair fall. In terms of bathing, it is recommended to bathe your Coyote Shepherd at least once every month. You can also use an organic shampoo with a pleasant scent to keep your dog smelling fresh! One thing to watch out for is their nails. Coydogs are prone to skin irritations due to their sharp nails. Make sure to check their nail length from time to time and trim as often as necessary. Training and Exercise Due to their high work drive and energy level attributed to their wild animal DNA, a Coyote German Shepherd mix will need at least two to three hours of physical activities per day. These activities can range in intensity since they are medium to large dogs. Low-intensity exercises can consist of walking and doing a bit of dog training. On the other hand, high-intensity exercises can consist of sprinting, playing catch, hiking, and swimming. You should throw in a few variations of these common exercises to keep your Coydog in tip-top shape! Apart from all these, it would be better to start crate training when they are already a few weeks old. This will prevent them from soiling your furniture and other house items. Coydogs such as Coyote German Shepherd mixes are relatively rare pooches. Aside from the price of a Coydog Shepherd itself, you should also prepare for a few other expenses. These are things like a crate, toys, feeding bowls, and more. Lifespan Sociability It can be difficult to find a breeder that keeps Coyotes and can create the breed, so you may need to get on a waiting list or pay quite a lot of money. Besides finding the breeder and purchasing the puppy, there are also other expenses you will need to consider. Your new puppy will likely need to be spayed or neutered, and it will require a series of vaccinations to protect it from serious diseases like rabies. Many owners also choose to purchase a professional trainer because the German Shepherd Coyote Mix can be challenging for someone without experience. You will also need to purchase food , treats, toys, and other items to keep your dog healthy and happy. The Coyote parent is native to the United States, and you can find it throughout the mainland and much of Canada. The German Shepherd parent is one of the smartest dog breeds and often works with the military to find bombs, missing people, drugs, and more. However, you can expect your pet to be highly intelligent and extremely protective. It will also likely be calm, alert, and observant. Most dogs look like large coyotes, and many people that see them for the first-time comment on their wolf-like appearance. Your German Shepherd Coyote Mix will have the intelligence to learn complex tasks, but its wild side will often have it pursuing its own interests. It can get quite crafty when it wants something, setting traps and hatching elaborate plans, usually to get out of the house. It can also learn how to open doors and navigate barriers. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It usually forms a strong bond with one family member and can become extremely protective. However, it makes a good watchdog and is affectionate and loving towards family members it accepts and can make a great companion for an active owner. It will also likely chase and kill any rabbits it finds sneaking through your yard. As the name suggests, this blend is due to the development of a German shepherd along with a coyote. The mixture of such a dog, a German Shepherd and a coyote, is called a coydog. When it comes to mixing Coyotes and Shepherds, many people will say that the pairing sounds quite unusual. If you want an intelligent and loyal companion, then it may be worth looking into this breed. The Coyote German Shepherd Mix is an active and wild breed of dog. They require a fenced-in yard to thrive, as they are known for running away if left on their own too long or Unleashed i. Those who live in warmer climates will need access to swimming spots because these pups love the water! The best way to deal with this type of dog for individuals who want them around their kids or other animals needs strong leadership because they can get aggressive sometimes if someone does not have enough confidence in themselves as the alpha males. As we look at some basic facts about German Shepherd Coyote Mix: — Coyotes are predators like wolves or foxes; their prey is anything smaller than themselves in general. Coyotes are one of the most persecuted mammals in North America. Coyotes are proving to be intriguing problem-solver. Coyotes have proven themselves to really thrive when they reside together with individuals just like any other animal does! They can hunt down prey by smell or sight- whichever works best for them at the time with all these different abilities. German Shepherd Coyote Mix DNA tests show that despite having many similarities such as: 1 Lapping up water with their tongues by dipping it into streams or ponds. Coydog hybrids have been known to be loyal friends at heart too; some say it takes one brave soul that can handle an unpredictable mix like this is worth his weight in gold or even more. The following five points can be helpful for you if you are willing to adopt this breed: 1-German Shepherd Coyote Mix cannot happen by nature. The German Shepherd Coyote Mix is a unique dog in many ways. For starters, they are the product of artificial breeding even though they belong to the same canine family! If you are thinking about getting this breed, it is important to know the different breeds of dogs and their compatibility. If you have a dog and want to breed, then this should be an easy process. You can produce offspring with other Coyotes or dogs just as easily! The German Shepherd Coyote Mix is an energetic and highly active animal. As such, it requires more intense exercise than a standard German Shepherd dog to maintain its physical condition. This means that if you are not already physically fit or have the time for frequent walks with your pup then owning one can be difficult at first due to their high energy levels. Despite their active nature, coyote shepherds are not recommended for first-time dog owners. One of the most active dogs, the German Shepherd Coyote Mix, is always on their feet. This means that they need a lot more energy to keep up with everything going around them — especially during an exercise session. For those of you wanting to get an unusual pet, Coydogs offer different coat colors. German Shepherd Coyote Mix comes in brown, white, or black with sable being the most popular option for these unique dogs! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a dog that has multiple colors? You may think this sounds intriguing, but the truth of the matter is there are many different breeds out in Coydog dogs. They come in black coats and browns as well! A typical color for coyotes or American Bobtails can range from sable pups all over their bodies down to white paws on occasion too; while some individuals will possess one dominant color throughout most everything about themselves such at solid gold furring up top around the head area plus back again lower torso region. Coyotes and shepherds share a common ancestry, but the latter is rare due to several reasons. The primary reason for the German Shepherd Coyote Mix rarity can be attributed in part to its difficult training which many breed owners do not bother with given they cannot predict how their pup will react. At any moment during playtime or while traveling through areas where other Coyotes may live; additionally, coyotes seem aloof when compared to land mammals such as dogs who often get excited over little things like food bowls that would never faze them one bit! Scientists are excited about the prospect of cross-breeding dogs with Coyotes because they believe it could help us better understand this elusive creature. They also hope that more information on coydog genealogy will be available in order to study both wild populations and domestic canines who share similar ancestry. In this passage about dog breeds, I have been talking mainly about how different breeds can present differently based on their traits but in some cases, there are similarities between them too. When it comes to appearance, coyote German Shepherd mixes have a wide range of actual characteristics that vary greatly. One dog parent will lend more tame characteristics while another takes on the wilder side from its ancestor roots. Height and Weight: Coyotes are cute, furry creatures that can grow up to be as big and strong as Golden Retrievers. They weigh anywhere from 20 pounds for males or 50 pounds max! On average, they can range from years old but some individuals have been documented with up to year life spans under captivity conditions. German Shepherd Coyote Mix can vary in appearance. Some will take on a more docile look from their domestic dog parent — the german shepherds, while others inherit the wilder side of coyotes and have an exterior that is much rougher or bark-like with longer hair than what you would expect for such a small animal. The first thing you will notice about these dogs is their eyes. The second feature of this hybrid canine is its lean muscular body covered with long hair; well-defined muscles surrounded by a shaggy coat make up most other characteristics of German Shepherd Coyotes. This German Shepherd Mix is one of the best qualities of both parent breeds. From the look of it, you might think that a hybrid between Coyotes and German Shepherds would be skinnier than your average breed. But in reality, they can have just as much mass. German Shepherd Coyote Mix can range from the size of a small dog to larger than average. Some owners claim that they can easily train any other dog breed just like yours is doing now — slowly adapting its nature into something domesticated without losing what makes him special in between those times when he behaves more typically. A German Shepherd Coyote Mix has unpredictable behavior because of its wild parentage but a manageable temperament when trained properly by someone who understands this animal type well enough. German Shepherd Coyotes are known for their loyalty and protectiveness. If you have an experienced trainer, your new pup may be able to behave in ways that would surprise even the most perceptive pet owner. They love to play and will require plenty of socialization as well. German Shepherd Coyote Mix is one of the most intelligent breeds out there, which means they have an incredible amount of energy to burn. The key is that this breed mix often has a natural intelligence and can learn quickly. The temperament trait is difficult to forecast because the parent dogs have an effect on their offspring. Proper socialization will help shape your pup into an intelligent dog with great utility skills at his disposal for whatever you need him to do from hunting wildlife or protecting livestock alike. A coyote German shepherd mix is a high-energy, wild animal. The physical activity can range anywhere from walking around the block with you or doing some dog training exercises which are low intensity but will keep them happy. One of the most important aspects of keeping your dog healthy and happy is exercise. High-intensity exercises can include jogging, playing catch, or hitchhiking while low-intensity workout routines should be focused on long walks with plenty of time for sniffing along the way! Training the German Shepherd Coyote Mix sounds like a rewarding experience. The best way to succeed is by being patient and understanding what your dog needs from you in order to succeed, which will ultimately lead them back into their loyal position as protectors. Effective boosting makes coaching exercises productive. This makes both parents dogs happy and less likely to get into trouble in future interactions with their pup siblings which saves time on correcting them during playtime too. The best way to keep your dog safe is by keeping them on a leash. A German Shepherd Coyote Mix may be one of the most energetic dogs out there. Expect this pup to need hours worth of playtime each day. Coyotes are usually straight and manageable — brushing once every two days will often do the trick. But when German Shepherd Coyote Mix experiences major shedding during this time of year there may be some tangles in close trimming or handling, if this happens make sure not only your fingers feel clean before touching another section of fur, but also that all tools used for grooming purposes have been cleaned with hot water between different areas on an individual basis as well. The longer the hair, the worse it becomes at collecting all that extra luscious fur in clumps and tangles so daily brushing is optimal for minimizing this problem. Bathing your Coyote Shepherd is an important part of keeping him clean and healthy. You should bathe them once a month, or use organic shampoo with a pleasant scent that will help you keep the smell great! They are usually more active than other breeds and require a bit more calories in their diets compared with an average poochie who likes sitting down after lunchtime snack time. A way to give your dog some extra nutrients is by putting them on a fresh foodstuff and giving them the occasional vegetable. Commercial foods are not always the best option for your dog. Make sure you check out some of these commercial food brands and read reviews from fellow pet parents before purchasing one of their products, as they may have had experience with this particular brand themselves. A coyote-dog mix is not a healthy animal. In fact, the health of these hybrids will likely suffer from conditions common in both parent animals throughout their lifetime. Remember that your dog needs to be vaccinated for rabies, kennel cough, and other diseases. Make sure they are up-to-date with all the necessary shots every year or risk infection. If you need high energy, this dog may be the perfect fit for you. However, consider evaluating whether or not quenching all needs in an active way with just one purebred can satisfy them completely. Consider checking out other moderate breeds before deciding on adding another mixed breed into household life if they are already full of different types. If you need high energy, this might be the breed for you. Post navigation. These animals are highly active, very smart, but cannot be trusted around small children. The person that suits the coyote shepherd is highly active, patient, and knowledgeable. These wild pets are not suitable for first-time dog owners. Are You Active Enough? Both of these animals are extremely athletic, and to keep the coydog from getting destructive, it will need a lot of exercise. Long runs, mental stimulation, and a spacious yard with a high fence are all necessities with this mix and will make for a happy and secure coydog. Not only are coydogs extremely active, but they are also challenging animals to control. You should be well versed in animal body language, training, and handling. You need to know how to recognize the signals of both dogs and coyotes. Going into owning one of these dogs without the requisite knowledge is simply asking for trouble. German Shepherd and Coyote Basic Facts German Shepherd coyote mixes are not extremely common, and as such, suit a very unique owner. Someone who is prepared for an intelligent and extremely active dog will stand the best chance of successfully raising one of these peculiar mixes. They are part of the herding group , which makes them naturally inclined to try and control other animals. They were used in Germany to herd sheep, guiding them through the fields, and protecting them from predators, like foxes, wolves, and yes, coyotes. German Shepherds are a medium to large-sized dog, with the females weighing in between pounds and the males being pounds. Some German Shepherds can be bigger than this, though, and the larger dogs are quite intimidating. This breed found its way over to the US in the early 20th century. They were first exhibited in in Philadelphia and Newcastle, where they were entered in the open class. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and take well to training. The German army used the dogs heavily in World War 1, and word of their loyalty and courage spread. Americans have looked to German shepherds as guardians of their property and families for decades, with there being many stories of these dogs saving the lives of their humans. These dogs are easily recognized by their tall, pointy ears, long snouts, and shaggy coat. They tend to shed a lot , and mud sticks well to their fur. For more on German Shepherd shedding and training, be sure to check out these two excellent articles linked below: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Coyote Basic Facts Coyotes are part of the canine family, but unlike dogs, the coyote is a wild animal whose traits reflect that. These mammals are extremely smart, like their cousins: foxes, wolves, and jackals. They use many forms of communication to speak with other members of their pack, though they mostly travel alone. Throughout much of North America, you can hear the mournful howl of a coyote at night. They often howl at the moon, and their yips and calls echo throughout canyons and mountainsides. This trademark sound is often passed on to the coydog offspring. Coyotes are smaller than German Shepherds, but only slightly. They usually weigh between 20 and 50 pounds, which lands them in between foxes and wolves for size. Coyotes can be white, tan, brown, or grey, with the warmer colors being found down south. These canines are highly adaptable to different living situations, which is why they have been established so successfully in so many different climates. From desert plain to deciduous forests and even urban sprawls, coyotes can reside and survive. When it comes to their young, both male and female coyotes are involved in caretaking. Males fetch food and bring it to the females who guard the babies. The gestation period for females is similar to that of dogs; around 60 days. While the animals are together, they are quite affectionate with one another. What to Expect With the Coyote German Shepherd Mix Now that we know what these animals are like on their own, we can begin to see how the characteristics would influence each other as they mix. Active German Shepherds need at least two hours of exercise every day, while coyotes travel about 14 miles 24 kilometers every day. You can count on putting in hours of work to exercise your coydog seven days a week. Be sure that this is something you can commit to before getting a coyote shepherd. Loving Even though coyotes are wild animals, they are highly affectionate. A coydog is usually very fond of affection and will want to be near you all the time. If you let a coydog, they would happily sit on the couch or sleep in your bed. While your coydog might seem to ignore you and want to roam around outdoors, they will be very affectionate at home. Coat With both parents having similar fur, coyote shepherds are a thick-furred pet that can withstand very low temperatures. They are a good choice for someone who lives in the northern US and wants their dog to be comfortable in the winter. These dogs do shed a lot, though, so you may want to invest in a new vacuum before you bring your fur baby home. As far as color goes, the coyote shepherd can have almost any variation in color or markings. Some of these dogs could have a lighter colored chest or a mask around the face as a result of this peculiar mix of genes. Health Concerns As with any dog, there are some health concerns that are specific to this breed. Coyote shepherds are unique in that they are a cross-species animal, which can potentially make them a hardier mix. Hip Dysplasia The top issue when it comes to German shepherds is hip dysplasia. Like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia is a congenital disorder where the joints are too loose, and the movement of the bones causes damage. To understand all about hip dysplasia and other joint problems in German Shepherds, make sure that you read the article linked below to give you an idea of what you may be dealing with if you choose this mixed breed: German Shepherd Joint Problems: All You Need to Know Elbow Dysplasia This is a hereditary disease that affects the front legs of many large breeds of dogs. Overweight dogs, over-exercised dogs, and injured dogs are at risk of developing this faster than other pups in their litter. With a coydog, you are unlikely to over exercise it, but you could easily overfeed it. Make sure you feed your coydog a lean, nutritional diet full of protein and vitamins. Arthritis The result of hip or elbow dysplasia is arthritis. Just like with humans, arthritis is an inflammation of the joint, which causes a loss of cartilage. As the joint is used and the cartilage wears away, movement becomes painful and stiff. Coydogs who are affected with dysplasia will get this eventually, though sometimes arthritis comes separately. Make sure that you read 10 Caring Ways to Help a German Shepherd With Arthritis to get a better idea what a diagnosis of arthritis really means to your dog. Bloat Another health risk passed down to coydogs from their dog parents is bloat. Bloat or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a condition that happens in many large dogs. It usually occurs when a dog is not very active and gulps its food down at high speeds. This fast-eating can allow an excess amount of air to enter the stomach, and the stomach twists on itself, restricting blood flow to the organs. If bloat occurs, a coydog must be rushed to a vet immediately. You can reduce the chance of bloat by feeding your dog two or three smaller meals per day instead of one. Heartworms Some breeds of dogs are more prone to heartworms than others, and coydogs are one of them. This disease is exactly how it sounds: worms infect the heart and restrict blood flow. Oral medication can be given regularly to diminish the likelihood of heartworm infection in coydogs. We also find it very convenient that you only need to apply it once every 30 days. Trainability To properly train a coyote shepherd, you will need a lot of patience, knowledge, and a firm tone. These animals are extremely clever, and therefore can learn many commands, but they are also wild. These wild dogs are food motivated, so a combination of treats and clicker training will be effective. Even with a well-trained coydog, you are never going to be guaranteed that they will choose to listen to you rather than their instincts, though. You should never leave a coyote shepherd unattended with a child and never let them off-leash in an area where they could get into trouble. Your coydog will love to run around in the woods, so make sure you instill them with good recall; otherwise, they may run farther than you could ever catch them. These dogs are also very observant. They will stand on alert, constantly watching for prey and potential dangers. Coyote shepherds will be quick to react if something good or bad happens, so sudden movements around these dogs should be kept to a minimum in case they get spooked or snap. Since these dogs are half of a wild animal, they will have unpredictable tendencies. You will need to take your coydog puppy everywhere with you to get them used to all sorts of people and places. Keep your puppy on a leash, but encourage them to explore and meet strangers. They are made with real chicken and whole food berries, so they are quite nutritious. At home, your coydog will be very cuddly. They love to nest and would appreciate a warm bed with a blanket. Your coyote shepherd will enjoy getting pets from you, though they may be a bit standoffish with strangers. They should get along well with other dogs, as long as you have socialized them sufficiently as a puppy. Other canines might not enjoy this, though, so keep an eye out when meeting new dogs. Nutritional Requirements A German Shepherd coyote mix would benefit greatly from a high protein diet. Coyotes are not picky eaters, but they do need a lot of meat, and your coydog will too. Prepare to take up hiking or running as part of your daily routine. You should aim for two to three hours of physical exercise per day for your coydog. For example, check out the iCrate from Midwest Homes. This will give you a blueprint on just how much money, time, and effort will be required for the coydog. Final Thoughts A coyote shepherd is a unique dog that would be a good fit for a very experienced and active owner. The ideal dog of this breed will be intelligent, loyal, and adventurous. But a less than ideal coydog can be unruly, unpredictable, and sensitive. You should expect to work hard with your dog and open to getting a trainer at the first sign of aggression. Keep these pointers in mind should you choose to pursue getting one of these mixes. These dogs require a lot of work — training, exercise, and proper nutrition are a must. Rather, this unique canine has inherited genes from all three species. However, the exact percentages can vary quite a bit based on where the hybrid canine lives geographically. All domestic dogs are now thought to be descended from wild wolves. This means that all dogs, including the German Shepherd dog breed, already share a genetic link to their wild cousins. But what is the connection that dogs and wolves share with coyotes? As Scholastic researchers explain, coyotes and wolves also share a great deal of DNA. This means that, in addition to the coydog, the coywolf is actually a similar but separate crossbreeding. What is most important to remember here is that the coyote, the wild wolf, and the domestic dog are all closely related from a genetic basis. This means that all three can potentially crossbreed with each other to produce viable offspring. Recall the coywolf example from the introduction — biologists determined it contains genetic influence from wild wolves, coyotes, and domestic dogs. But for technical purposes, the terms coydog and coywolf are used to describe two different cross breeding outcomes as follows: Coydog: Coyote German Shepherd mix dog breed. Coywolf: Coyote wild wolf mix breed. This simply means that the dog has received genetic influence from different canid canine species. The best way to start learning about these unique hybrid dog breeds is to examine the history of each parent species. Coyotes have a signature howling call and a history of near-continual persecution. The coyote has a cartoon character, Wile E. Coyote, to thank for the grudging public support it has since received. In direct contrast to how settlers have traditionally viewed coyotes, much of Native American culture sees coyotes as a positive force and even a deity. Coyotes are related quite closely to another canid species, the golden jackal. The golden jackal hails from Africa and the two species began to evolve separately as recently as 80, years ago. Today, coyotes have proven they can thrive in both their natural wild setting and in urban areas while living alongside people. The German Shepherd dog: a brief history The German Shepherd, in contrast, is one of the most popular pet dogs in America — the second most popular to be exact. The GSD, as fans often nickname this dog breed, has a long and distinguished history that dates back to the 19th century. These dogs are famous for serving as herding and livestock guarding dogs. These dogs can do it all — run, jump, swim, track, hunt, herd, and, of course, protect, and guard. What does this tell us about the Coyote German Shepherd mix? It tells us that this canine is going to be smart, resilient, athletic, tireless, and strong. For that information, we need to dig deeper into aspects like personality and temperament, trainability, and exercise needs. Even if the breeding itself happens without your knowledge, it may still be illegal to keep such hybrid canids in captive settings as companion canines or pets. If you wish to live with a hybrid canid, you should check with your local city, county, and state regulations regarding wild animals before making this commitment. As well, be aware that no ethical dog breeder should enter into a hybrid breeding program where one canine parent is a wild species. Any breeder advertising the sale of coywolfdogs or similar hybrid canid puppies should be dealt with cautiously. Coyote German Shepherd Mix: Personality and Temperament As with any hybrid canid, whether a fully domestic dog or mix-species, it can be challenging to correctly predict adult temperament in advance. This is just the nature of the hybrid breeding process. The earliest generations F1 of crossbred puppies will each inherit an unpredictable mix of genes from each parent canine. Coyotes are mostly solitary in the wild, according to Live Science. Packs form and hunt in relay teams so they can outlast fleet prey like deer. A coyote will mark their territory by urinating. Their trademark vocalization, a haunting howl, helps solitary coyotes communicate with one another over very long distances. German Shepherds really need and want to be with their human families. They have no concept of training or life as human pets. In rare cases, coyote kits babies have been hand-reared and tamed by humans. They may even be a danger to their human caregivers and domestic animal species. What does this mean for a coyote German Shepherd mix living in captivity? Coyote German Shepherd Mix: Size, Height, and Weight Of the two canids, the German Shepherd domestic dog is always going to have the advantage in size, height, and weight. However, what the coyote lacks in size this canid will more than make up for in energy and prey drive. An adult coyote can weigh anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds. The California Wolf Center states that an adult coyote typically stands anywhere from 21 to 24 inches from paw pads to shoulders. As with many domestic dog breeds, wild coyotes will often differ in size, height, and weight in adulthood. Adult males will weigh more and stand slightly taller than adult females. The German Shepherd dog in adulthood may stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches paw pads to shoulders and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. Typically the adult male German Shepherd dog will stand up to four inches taller and weigh 15 to 20 pounds more than the adult female GSD. The coyote is sized more like a medium domestic dog. In contrast, the German Shepherd dog is clearly in the large dog category for both height and weight. A coyote German shepherd mix will most likely weigh between 30 and 70 pounds, but this will depend to a great degree on the size, height, and weight of each canine parent. A small coyote and a small GSD will produce much smaller kits puppies than would the pairing of a large coyote and a large German Shepherd. These are both very active, energetic canids. However, where there is a marked difference is when it comes to active hours. The German Shepherd has been bred to be highly attuned to and protective of both people and livestock. In contrast, the coyote is known to be largely nocturnal — hunting, patrolling their territory and moving about at night, and sleeping during the day. A full-grown adult coyote can easily run up to 30 miles per hour. However, there are cases where hand-reared coyote kits pups have been trained to some degree by human carers. German Shepherds have an abnormally strong herding and guarding drive. Due to this, they benefit greatly from early and ongoing socialization — around both strange people and new animals. This early and ongoing training will ensure the adult GSD is able to adjust well to living in a family and community. GSDs are bred to work tirelessly and with single-minded intensity and focus. A bored German Shepherd is very likely to become a destructive dog. For pet GSDs, getting involved in agility or services can be a great outlet for their energy. This can cause GSDs pain in bones and ligaments, and even lead to skeletal injury in some cases. A coyote German Shepherd mix is guaranteed to be extremely high energy, driven, and athletic. Although it may not be feasible given personal situations, training will be most productive for this mixed breed dog in puppyhood. Coyote German Shepherd Mix: Shedding, Coat, and Grooming Needs Both coyotes and German Shepherds have protective coats that consist of two layers: a water-resistant, thick outer layer and a soft, downy insulating underlayer. You can expect an adult coyote German shepherd dog hybrid to need at least weekly brushing and the occasional bath to stay healthy. Coyote German Shepherd Mix: Longevity and Health Issues Coyote longevity and health A wild coyote has a life expectancy in the teens, but the average lifespan of wild coyotes is only around three years. Life in the wild can be very hard! In captivity, a coyote may live up to 14 years. Coyotes can be susceptible to a wide range of health issues and diseases, including some that are zoonotic transmissible to humans. The Urban Coyote Research Project cites these particular health issues that coyotes are known to develop: Heartworm Rabies German Shepherd longevity and health As with many large dog breeds, the German Shepherd has a shorter overall life expectancy than their smaller breed peers. The typical GSD life expectancy ranges from seven to 10 years. German Shepherds can inherit certain serious health conditions that may be life-limiting. They fall under the herding group, which means they are naturally inclined to herd or control livestock and other animals. They were commonly used in Germany for herding sheep, controlling them in the fields and protecting them from foxes, wolves and coyotes yes, you read that right! German Shepherds are medium-to-large-sized dogs, with males weighing around 65 to 90 pounds and females being 50 to 70 pounds. However, some of these dogs can be larger than this. The breed made its way to the United States in the early 20th century. German Shepherds are very intelligent and easy to train. The German army relied heavily on these dogs during the First World War, thanks to their loyalty and courage. Americans have kept German Shepherds as guard dogs for decades. German Shepherds are recognized by their shaggy coat, long muzzles and pointy ears. These dogs shed heavily and mud tends to stick well to their hair. So, what about the Coyote? Coyotes are considered to be canines, but unlike dogs, coyotes are wild animals with traits that reflect that. They are very clever, just like their cousins: jackals, foxes and wolves. They use several forms of communication to talk to other pack members, though they tend to travel separately. They usually howl at the moon. Their trademark howl is usually passed on to their offspring. The coyote is slightly smaller than a German Shepherd. They generally weigh around 20 to 50 pounds, putting them in between wolves and foxes when it comes to size. Both are noticeably similar to wolves in terms of appearance. In fact, the German Shepherd is said to be the closest breed of dogs to coyotes when it comes to appearance. So, what does a German Shepherd and coyote mix look like? Generally, the most recognizable feature of a German Shepherd Coyote Mix is a face mask, which is usually white in color. They also have a downward-bent shaggy tail, piercing eyes and long, triangular ears. Coyote German Shepherd Mix Size. Height and Weight The Coyote German Shepherd Mix is generally a medium to large dog that weighs around 60 to pounds. The height of a full grown Coydog also varies, with most of these dogs being around inches tall. Coat and Coat Colors German Shepherd coyote mixes are thick-coated dogs that can tolerate very cold conditions. This makes them a good choice for anyone who lives in northern America and wants their pet to be comfortable during the winter. Coyote Shepherds will have different color variations. Some Coyote Shepherds can have a light-colored chest or a face mask due to this strange combination of genes. This trait is often passed on to the Coydog, and the coyote Shepherd is often unpredictable. These dogs have unpredictable behaviors because they are half German Shepherd and half coyote, a wild animal. Therefore, owners should know that the personality traits of this breed will vary even within the same litter. Their unpredictable tendencies also make them unsuitable for first time owners. Coyote Shepherds tend to be more aggressive and less cooperative compared to other dog breeds. With German Shepherds being generally even-tempered, however, chances are your coyote Shepherd will be calm most of the time. These pups are also very alert. They are always observant, constantly looking for potential threats. Coyote Shepherds also tend to react very quickly, so quick movements around them should be avoided. Coyote Shepherds tend to be one-person dogs, since they crave attention. If socialized and trained early , however, they can become calm and loving family pets. Anyone interested in owning this dog must be a confident, firm and a patient pack leader. They should do well with other dogs provided they have been sufficiently socialized as puppies. However, their interactions with kids, cats and other pets should be supervised because of their size and wild instincts. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Living Conditions The coyote German Shepherd is not suitable for apartment living. These dogs require a fenced-in yard to play and exercise. Coydogs generally tend to be territorial and aggressive. Their wild instincts can cause them to wander. This makes them dangerous in urban areas or apartments. Rural homes are best suited to these dogs. Training Your German Shepherd coyote mix will require proper training from puppyhood to get them used to people, children and other pets. Socialization is a must at a young age since these dogs are sometimes shy and quite aggressive towards unfamiliar people or other family pets. You should be firm yet patient when training these dogs since coydogs are some of the most difficult dogs to train and control. If you intend to adopt a coyote Shepherd, be sure to set the rules first and use positive training methods. Avoid leaving a German Shepherd coyote mix unattended with small kids and avoid leaving them off leash in places where they could cause trouble or get themselves into trouble. Exercise Needs Both parent animals are agile, and to prevent your coyote Shepherd from becoming destructive, he needs plenty of exercise. To be compatible with your coyote Shepherd dog, you need to be someone who jogs or runs for at least 2 hours each day. Physical activity, mental stimulation and a fenced-in yard are also necessary for this crossbreed to be a happy and healthy dog. Shedding and Grooming Needs Both parent animals have a thick coat and they shed a lot. A coyote Shepherd should be brushed like other pups of the same size and coat type. You should also trim their nails at least once a month. They tend to do well on dry kibble, but do better on a raw diet comprising a lot of raw meat. Therefore, you should choose a dog food brand with meat as one of its main ingredients. Or you can consider feeding them a raw meat diet. You should feed them two to three times each day, with easy access to raw bones throughout the day. You should also offer them fresh water throughout the day. Proper care and attention can help prolong their life span. Health Issues Coydogs are very hardy dogs, just like their wild counterparts, strong and fit enough to do well in the wilderness. Therefore, there are a few health problems that can affect these dogs. The German Shepherd coyote mix is unique because it is a cross-species creature, which might make this a sturdier hybrid. Some of the health issues that are specific to the coyote Shepherd include: Hip Dysplasia.

We have answers. All you need to do is find one you love the look of, and then message their breeder for more information. We put plenty of time and effort into checking that the El Paso German Shepherd breeders that we partner with are the best. Leaving you more time to find that perfect pup! Are there any El Paso German Shepherd puppies for sale right now? Do you have the cheapest German Shepherds for sale El Paso? Looking for the cheapest puppies will often put you in contact with puppy mills or backyard breeders, who are more interested in turning a profit than raising happy, healthy puppies. We absolutely love shelter dogs, and they can make the most amazing pets. Whether or not you choose a shelter dog or a puppy from one of our partners is a decision that only you and your family can make. One of the first things we look at is their healthcare practices. We expect puppies to have regular checks, and you can ask for a copy of their records. When your new puppy arrives home, you should also take them to your own vet for a follow-up. Is it enough to walk German Shepherd puppies El Paso, or do they need more exercise? The German Shepherd breed is well-known for their intelligence and energy. All this will make sure your puppy stays active in both mind and body. Would a German Shepherd for sale El Paso make a good family pet? They also have a great sense of fun, so will be more than happy to spend plenty of time playing with everyone. What will a El Paso German Shepherd for sale be like to train? There are many German Shepherds all over the world who excel at being working dogs. This breed is intelligent, and picks up new commands very quickly. They also love the challenge of training sessions, so signing your new puppy up for some obedience classes is an excellent way to see exactly how smart they are. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter 3. There is only one breed of Maltese for sale in El Paso and it belongs to the bichon canine family - meaning it's small and incredibly adorable. Find your puppy for sale in El Paso, TX. Adorable purebred Poodle puppy available for sale. If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. Premier Pups is committed to providing four-legged dog lovers with happy, healthy Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale near El Paso, Texas. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. He is potty trained love to play with kids and other home pets. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Plott Hound puppies in El Paso, Texas. Maltese breeders El Paso once bred. Their huge upright ears, wrinkly little noses and top-heavy bodies means a Frenchie can never be. Browse these Plott Hound rescues and shelters below. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Schnauzer Standard near you. French Bulldog Puppies For Sale in .Keeshond Location Age Any Keeshond puppies and dogs in nearby cities. The El Paso Labrador Retriever puppies for sale on our network are the descendants of the original Labrador Retrievers from Newfoundland. Search for a Schnauzer Standard puppy or dog. Follow on FB for pics and more. French Bulldog Puppies fluffy. Keeshond puppies and dogs in El Paso, Texas. Tibetan Terrier puppies and dogs in El Paso, Texas. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location. El Paso Times Classifieds Listings. Up to date on shots and fully registered. Despite her young age, Rene has already been through a lot, having been surrendered along with her sister when their previous owner p… more 1 week ago on Adopt-a-Pet. There are often many great Tibetan Terriers for adoption at local animal shelters or rescues. Plott Hound puppies and dogs in El Paso, Texas. They instantly became a huge hit, and everybody wanted one - a Golden Retriever and Poodle in one! These dogs have become more and more popular by the day, and flood goldendoodlesofinstagram with millions of posts! Sweet little babies poodle available they are now weeks old and ready for their new homes. Boxers for Sale in El Paso. Medium and miniature Labradoodle puppies for sale El Paso are smaller, ranging from inches and pounds for medium, and inches and pounds for a mini. These hardworking and tough dogs. Our Frenchies are cared for by passionate Puppy Agents from the moment. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. German Shepherds for Sale in El Paso. Click below to find a shelter or rescue in your area! Find an Animal Shelter. For many dog-lovers, Maltipoos are downright perfect—and we're not one to argue with them! Boxer puppies for sale in El Paso, TX from trusted breeders. El Paso Goldendoodle puppies for sale were first bred a few decades ago in the s in America. These loyal, trusting, obedient and affectionate pooches embody all the values we look for in a companion and lifelong friend. I bought this dog for my son but hes too rough for the pup. She is adorable and always eating. Poodles for Sale in El Paso. The Maltese can serve as a lapdog but it loves to play with humans of all ages. Pug puppies for sale in El Paso, TX from trusted breeders. Partnered with the nation's most trusted and reputable breeders, we aim to deliver the cutest, happiest, and finest Yorkies to our Premier family members. Labrador Retrievers for Sale in El Paso. I am looking for there forever home The puppies are now weeks old eati more Over 4 weeks ago on Advertigo. Chihuahuas for Sale in El Paso. The Labrador El Paso puppies on Uptown have an easier life than that, thankfully! Here are a few organizations closest to you:. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Maltese breeders El Paso once bred them in a wide range of colors, but today they are exclusively available with white coats of fur. El Paso Find Boxer puppies for sale Near El Paso, TX Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Search for a Tibetan Terrier puppy or dog. They're highly trainable, intelligent, docile, and become. As a buyer, it is within your rights. Despite her young age, Rene has already been through. There, a fella with the fancy title of Lord Tweedmouth. Bulldog puppies for sale in El Paso, TX from trusted breeders. Rottweilers for Sale in El Paso. Intelligent, gentle and affectionate, these cuddly little teddy bears have been stealing hearts all across the country. Puppies for Sale in El Paso, Texas. There, a fella with the fancy title of Lord Tweedmouth really! Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. If you are unable to find your Rottweiler puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider. He's 2 years old and is in need o. Intelligent, gentle and affectionate, these cuddly little teddy bears have been stealing hearts all. Maltese puppies for sale in El Paso, TX from trusted breeders. These hardworking and tough dogs were used on fishing boats to retrieve lost nets or fish. They're highly trainable, intelligent, docile, and become extremely bonded to their human companions. Poodle puppies Available. The adorable French Bulldog puppies for sale El Paso you'll find here at Uptown are sweet yet sassy little pups who will never fail to make you smile. Schnauzer Standard puppies and dogs in El Paso, Texas. Starting Off Right We go beyond simply breeding dogs. Our German Shepherds receive the benefits of emotionally sensitive yet consistently firm training that instills traits that owners and families value. Our protection dogs are selected for their intelligence, loyalty and strength, and we take great pains to help them learn to trust and obey the right people. At our North Carolina farm, we provide our canine friends with world-class obedience education conducted by trainers who understand the right way to teach animals. Transitioning Properly Dogs require stability to adjust properly. Unfortunately, many trainers simply hand new owners a leash and wish them luck. Such practices make things extremely difficult for animals and their new owners alike. Our goal is to help your new protection dog become a member of your family in the healthiest manner possible. We firmly believe that this transitioning strategy is essential to the success of your new relationship with your German Shepherd. Why German Shepherds? When treated well, these animals are unfailingly loyal to their owners, and the companionship they offer provides serious peace of mind and emotional contentment. What can make you feel safer in your El Paso, TX home than a security system you can hug?

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. This is especially true with dogs like German Shepherds because they have a strong prey drive, but this nipping and biting can also quickly get out of hand. This often comes out as biting and nipping, but puppies will also bite when they are teething and to taste the world around them. This can, of course, quickly get out of hand if not taken care of swiftly. In this article, we look at the reasons behind German Shepherd puppies biting and seven steps to help stop the behavior. Training The first and most important step in stopping your puppy from biting is early and focused training. Beginning training at an early age is vital for powerful dogs like GSDs, as without it, they can easily develop problematic behaviors and even become aggressive. An important part of training is socialization, and getting your GSD to interact with other dogs will help teach them boundaries, as any biting too hard will have instant consequences for them. Image Credit: AnjaGh, Pixabay 2. Toys Toys are ideal for your GSD puppy to exercise their teething. There is a massive variety of suitable chew toys available, and whenever you notice your pooch getting the urge to chew, you can gently offer them a chew toy instead. Commands Basic and simple commands should be taught to your GSD from a young age. Whenever they get overexcited and bite down too hard, you can then simply issue a verbal command that catches their attention. After you issue the commands, leave your puppy alone for a few minutes so they learn that this behavior is unacceptable. Image Credit: Jim Sluder, Pixabay 4. Redirection Redirection is a useful tool in training and can work well with biting too. This method is simple and works by keeping your pup from unwanted behavior and offering them appropriate behavior instead. Whenever your pooch bites or nips, try to offer them a chew toy of some kind instead, and this will gradually lead them to chew toys as opposed to your hands. Squeak toys are great for this type of redirection, as the noise is enticing to most puppies and dogs. Reward good behavior Positive reinforcement training methods are best for leading your puppy toward desired behaviors and away from unwanted ones. These methods involve no scolding or harsh treatment, so they are ideal for cementing the bond between you and your pup. When you offer your dog a chew toy instead of biting and they take it or you issue a command that they instantly follow, you simply reward that behavior with either a treat or praise. You ignore any bad behavior. They will swiftly associate treats with good behavior and stop the bad behavior that gets them no attention. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 6. Games Since GSDs are such powerful and athletic animals, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated through games and interactive play. Games are also the best time to engage and enforce training techniques and get your GSD accustomed to them before biting gets out of hand. Stick to simple games like fetch or frisbee, where you can train your pooch to give the ball back when you tell them to. Harsh treatments like hitting or shouting are highly unlikely to solve the problem and will probably just make it worse, as your dog will simply become nervous and wary of you. With a powerful dog like German Shepherds, trust is vital. They are highly intelligent and aware animals, and the smallest of sounds or movements are enough to set them off. There are several reasons for this, including: GSD puppies will begin teething as early as 2 weeks old, and this can be uncomfortable and even painful for them. This behavior can go on until your puppy is 6 months old, and they will chew on almost anything that they can find — including your hand — in an attempt to try and soothe their discomfort. Separated too young. The first 2 months of your GSDs life is vital to their socialization and learning, and if they are taken away from their mother and litter too young, this may cause a lack of understanding of boundaries. Puppies will play and learn with the rest of their littermates, where they learn to control the force of their bite. GSDs should be at least 8 weeks old before they are re-homed. Fear or overstimulation. Fear, anxiety, and overstimulation are common reasons for puppies to lose control of their bite because this can cause them to become irritable or defensive and lead them into the habit of biting. Conclusion Since German Shepherds are such powerful dogs, proper training is vital, and bite inhibition is an essential part of that training. Proper training is the vital first step and will set the tone for all other methods. With time, consistency, patience, and gentle leadership, your German Shepherd puppy should kick the biting habit in no time. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share!

Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. If you were thinking about purchasing one of these wonderful pets for your home but would like to know how to find the best breeder, keep reading while we answer that question and several more to help you make an informed decision. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in the United States Finding a Labrador Retriever breeder in the United States should not be difficult, and with a little research, you should be able to find one near you. The only problem you might run into is the long waiting list you might need to get on due to the high demand for this breed. Waiting lists not only increase the time you need to wait for your puppy, they can also bump up the price significantly. It will also help you find any other kind of dog just by putting in your zip code. This site can be a pain because it requires you to download a browser extension, but it is easy to use after that. Labrador Puppies Village Labrador Puppies Village will be happy to ship your pet to you, and they have a wide selection. All puppies come with a health guarantee and have a complete checkup before you purchase them. Windsor Kennels English Labs Check waddelldogbreeding. They produce several litters per year, and they have a waiting list you can get on and they will notify you when new puppies arrive. The Labrador Retriever Rescue Check humanesociety. Many people can no longer take care of their pets for one reason or another and turn to the shelter for help to rehome their pets. Some dogs will even have their vaccination shots. Adopting a puppy from a shelter also frees resources so the shelter can use them for other pets in need. Skye Labradors Skye Labradors is an authenticated breeder who has been creating puppies for more than 25 years and produces several litters per year. Tonmar Labradors Tonmar Labradors are officially sanctioned breeders that produce several litters each year using numerous queens. The current demand can produce a waiting list which might drive up costs, and if you want breeding rights, you need to pay more. If you do not get breathing rights, you will need to get the dog spayed or neutered, and it will require several vaccinations over the first few years, which will require visits to your vet. You will also need to regularly buy food, treats, and toys to keep your dog healthy and happy. We recommend asking to see the health certificate of the parents as well as the puppies to rule out any hidden issues. We recommend asking if you can see the whole litter to make sure the rest of the dogs are healthy and happier. We recommend asking if the puppies had any vaccinations and if they take deworming medication. We recommend asking the breeder about their experience breeding these dogs. Laboratory Retrievers like to run, and since they are fairly large dogs, they will need plenty of space to move around without knocking things over or getting into trouble. Labrador Retrievers are clumsy animals, and since they can weigh as much as 80 pounds, they may not be suitable to have around small children. Laboratory Retrievers have a long lifespan with many specimens lasting 15 years or more, so you need to be committed to the long haul before purchasing one of these dogs. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent animals and are easy to train once you get them into a routine and stick with it. Next on your reading list: Labany Conclusion Labrador Retrievers make great pets. They are affectionate, intelligent, and relatively healthy with long lifespans. Finding a breeder is not difficult, and there are many high-quality ones spread across the United States that can create the perfect dog for you. We recommend checking the animal shelter first because you can usually get your dog at a much lower cost, and these animals tend to be grateful and better behaved. However, there are plenty of options if there are no dogs in the shelter. Related read:. See our labrador bitches here. Started Labrador Retrievers Visit our contact page for more information on trained dog availability! Finished Labrador Retrievers Visit our contact page for more information on finished dog availability! See our stud dogs here. Private Gundog Handling Seminars Contact us for more information on visiting our kennel! SOK Campuses house multiple dams as well as have a full training program. SOK Outposts host only one or two dams and just a handful of training dogs. While we are spread out across the country, we operate as one team and one family. They are bad to the bone in the field and will leave your friends in awe. SOK labradors are carefully selected to produce the highest quality British labradors. The support we provide beyond puppy pick-up day will lead to success with your new labrador and almost assuredly new friends too! Join us on Facebook! He has dedicated the last decade to improving the lines of British Labradors available here in the US. Barton is dedicated to keeping SOK a traditional, family-run kennel that focuses on gundogs who excel both in the field and at home. British Labradors How we select our British Labradors.When selecting our Labradors for our breeding program, we carefully examine every aspect of the dog. If a Labrador has an undesirable trait, their offspring likely will, too. There are several non-negotiable evaluations that take place before considering a dog for our program, such as sound hips and elbows, a clear eye test, size within the breed standard, a proven pedigree, etc. Once we have checked all of those boxes, we look at the overall personality of the dog. We want dogs who have great social skills, good drive and style in the field, and a true off-switch when not working. This off-switch extends beyond napping in the kennel. Once we know a Labrador meets these standards, we evaluate several aspects of field work. We want to breed Labrador retrievers who love the water, have a natural delivery to hand, charge hard going out and coming back for a retrieve, and are able to use their noses to work heavy cover. Labradors who are in our breeding program are team players who love to work together with their handler in the field. Essentially, we only want to breed the type of Labrador that enhances the hunting experience. Thank you David for all the joy you have given us. We love our beautiful dogs! He is just perfect! My vet said he has never seen a better put together Lab. He is the hit of our community and has to say hello to everyone he meets. Hidden Ponds is just the best place to purchase a Lab. David is so kind and informative. His dogs are gorgeous and well mannered. They treat their dogs with kindness and it shows. They are smart, their costs are beautiful! He has a great personality and is wonderful with the kids! He is lbs and thinks he is a lap dog. We would definitely buy from Dave again!! Lindie is an incredible athlete, as you can see by the photo. Lindie also volunteers at our local hospital in Glens Falls, NY comforting anyone that needs fur therapy! She is an amazing ambassador for the Labrador breed! Thank you! He hiked his first mountains this weekend in the Adirondacks. He is such a wonderful addition to our family and we will be back for a companion for him next year. Read more testimonials Bentley Bentley is almost 4 years old and is absolutely amazing! She is the happiest, cuddliest, wiggliest ball of fur, and I love her more than I can say. She is super smart, very curious, and a little mischievous. She has already learned to walk very well with my wheelchair. Thank you, Hidden Pond! At 9weeks she has accomplished stairs,swimming learned to sit and give paw. Play time and eating remain 1 LOL but,she is full of kisses and love all the time too. My sweet service dog, Rhett, came home in October of and has been the biggest blessing in my life. This breeder not only breeds for confirmation and health but for perfect personality and temperament. They are perfect in every sense of the term responsible breeder. I cannot imagine life without my Labs. And not to mention how welcoming everyone was when we went to pick Rhett up. They care about each puppy they welcome into their home. And they strongly support several forms of care to keep the puppies happy and healthy in their new homes like food and supplements! I cannot thank them enough or recommend them enough!! Savannah Stevens Read more testimonials Chip Chip is a crazy, funny, lovable gem. He is the most gorgeous dog. He has the most regal head. Everyone who sees him stops to tell us what a handsome dog he is. Thank you to Hidden Pond for letting him be ours. We picked her up in early July , and she made our family complete! She is such an amazing dog: sweet, gentle, loving, and playful. It is wonderful to see how much she loves our three young boys. We love how much she loves being outside — especially swimming and playing in the snow. Thank you Dave and your family for bringing her into our lives. She was exactly what our family needed to be complete. She is the sweetest, spunkiest and most wonderful dog we could have asked for. We picked him up this past September. He is a joy, fully housebroken, and so very funny. Everyone who meets him always comment on how handsome he is. He is really beginning to look like his dad, Thunder. He loves walking and meeting all his dog friends in our community. Thanks, David, for this wonderful dog! He has made our house a home again!! She brings so much joy to our home. She is loyal, smart and a lot of fun. She loves going on walks or long hikes in the woods and is a big snuggler in the house. Scout has a very sweet disposition and people comment on what a beautiful girl she is. She enjoys people and dogs of all ages. Thank you Dave, we are enjoying every day with one of your Hidden Pond pups! Courtney Hundley Read more testimonials Raemo This Lab is truly a best friend to everyone that comes his way. Very kind and affectionate. Raemo is now 6 months old and is great with the family, friends and the neighborhood. He is great with other dogs too! David and his Labs are simply the best and worth the wait! Rob Amurao Read more testimonials Daisy We got Daisy in June , but Dave introduced us to her the day she was born; it was love at first sight!!! Dave kept us updated with pictures and short videos as we anxiously awaited the day we could pick her up. She has been an absolute joy in our lives! She is incredibly smart, a sweetheart along with being an active puppy. She was swimming at 10 weeks with our other dogs. She is now 10 months old; everyone she meets loves her. Thank you, Dave, for such an awesome new family member!!! Marilyn Morey Read more testimonials Mabel Mabel is 6 months and we thank you for this blessing. She is a wonderful addition to our family. We love going on adventures with our little girl. Highly recommend and reasonable pricing! He has an amazing temperament, his favorite activities are long walks and swimming! Marlana Broderick Read more testimonials Chip Chip is the best dog we have ever had. He is funny, silly, smart and so handsome. We get stopped on the street every 5 feet. Everyone asks where he is from and tells us how gorgeous he is. Thank you Dave. This photo is with his sister Cocoa. Chip on the left Cocoa on the right. She has such a great personality. Gets along so well with the grandkids ,and so adaptable she took to the crate and house breaking so easily. Accepts new experiences so calmly. Dave has been great to work with a fountain of info. We also went with the dog food he recommended an love the results that we switched our cat to it as well. She is the most beautiful, sweet tempered, smart lab. We could not be happier having her as part of our family. Romy Ziegler. This is an exciting phase for both owners and puppies alike! At two weeks old, puppies should have their ears open, be alert, and start opening their eyes. At this stage, puppies start to stand, walk, and sit without falling over. With this rapid increase in function, puppies can begin to socialize with each other and their mother. Puppies begin to explore the world around them. They can hear, smell, and see and their canine teeth are growing in next to their incisors. When they play, four week old puppies will begin to exhibit distinctive body language such as play bows, as well as growling. Four week old puppies are much more independent. At this age, puppies begin the weaning process, transitioning from milk to Life Abundance All Stage Dog food. Week 5 WEEK 5 A five week old puppy continues to learn from and socialize with their mother and litter mates. During this time, puppies learn more bite inhibition through play. The weaning process also continues at five weeks. Your five week old puppy should gradually be moving on to solid food instead of nursing from their mother. They have freedom out in the play yard through a dog door. Start learning to go outside to potty. Week 6 WEEK 6 Mom usually will not let puppies nurse at this stage and wants to be away from the pups. Some puppies complete the weaning process by 6 weeks old. At this age, they are still socially developing and learning how to be dogs. Because they are so keen to learn, we work more on potty training and no bite. We also start socializing them with other dogs and or older puppies. In addition, at 7 weeks old, your puppy is noticing it can get frightened. Proper socialization can prevent your puppy from becoming timid. Week 8 WEEK 8 When puppies are 8 weeks old, most are independent, fully weaned, and usually ready for their new homes. Puppies for Adopting Our goal is for the original intent for the breed, the all versatile dog. All of our adult dogs at Graves Labradors have been health tested and we guarantee that we do not produce affected pups to known disorders that are common in labradors! Life's Abundance is required by Graves Labradors for your new puppy's extended health guarantee. We feed all our dogs Life's Abundance. Our Prices: Our base prices are listed below, according to current demand for colors and genders. Note: Sales tax is due on any pups or merchandise sold in California. By request, and for an additional fee, we often transport puppies to Davis. We used to be able to ship puppies via airplane all over the continental United States, but more restrictions apply at this time, due to Covid, extreme heat, or extreme cold. Unfortunately, we no longer ship puppies to Hawaii, due to their quarantine restrictions. Can I pick out my Labrador Retriever puppy before the designated adoption date? Sorry, but no. Most people will not know which puppy they are choosing until puppy adoption day. What supplies do we need for our new puppy? So many people ask us this question, we wrote a blog giving our advice. You can read our blog here. Do you raise American or English Labs? Both, actually, but mainly American. Only a few of our dogs are pure English; some are a blend of American and English. Litters are usually pure American or a blend of American and English. None, so far, are pure English. If you scroll down to the bottom of the videos page you can also view links to past litters of Labrador puppies for your viewing pleasure. We may, however, be able to refer you to hunting dog trainers, so feel free to shoot us an email asking us about that. Marble Mountain Kennels.

Though they may get into trouble at times, Pugs tend to be good-natured dogs. Pugs are usually not aggressive dogs. However, if your Pug is not properly socialized and trained, they can easily develop aggressive tendencies such as nipping, barking or growling due to their headstrong and stubborn temperaments. According to Hills Pet , Pugs are cheerful, laid back dogs and we tend agree with them. But despite their playful attitude, they can be serious dogs. My pug sun bathes outside for hours every day. Pug owner As easy-going as these dogs are, expect them to lounge around and nap for many hours throughout the day. In fact, Pugs are infamously known for their mischievous side. In addition, Pugs can be a little headstrong at times with the occasional stubborn streak. If you have already have a dog, cat or other animal, we have good news for you! Pugs get along great with other dogs. These dogs are all about devotion to the pack. However, there is a caveat. Without proper socialization, Pugs may be aggressive towards the unfamiliar. My pug hates other dogs but tolerates and protects her little Siberian Husky sister only. This may mean meeting on neutral grounds first, such as a dog park or even in the front yard. One thing to keep in mind is that you should never introduce the puppy to your dog while holding the pup in your arms. This can make them feel vulnerable. Instead, let them do their thing, such as sniffing, licking or whatever they decide to do to get to know each other. Can Pugs be Aggressive Towards Humans? Like with other animals, Pugs are not usually aggressive towards other people, including seniors and kids. However, some Pugs do show aggression towards kids by nipping their feet, lunging towards them or just barking at them. Even so, these behaviors are rarely malicious. But it really depends on how they were raised and socialized as a puppy. Planes flying overhead. Neighbors taking out the trash. As a result, there can be a lot of scary things in this world, at least to them. Although this may sound silly, it happens more often than you think. Ever hear of the small dog syndrome? Everyone else is a stranger and potentially a threat. Otis our pug got used to the baby and is now super protective. The possessive nature is not unique to Pugs. Many dogs of all kinds can develop this type of behavior. However, there are many other potential reasons why your dog may be acting out. Pugs are no exception. These signs can be snapping, growling or outright biting. Whether from a medical condition or not, pain can also elicit this type of unnatural behavior from your Pug. Many times the pain comes from injuries while playing too hard, as Pugs tend to do. Other times, pain or discomfort can come from tumors, arthritis, fractures or whatever internal injuries. Never give your Pug medication without the consent of your vet. A mistake most owners make is trying to take matters into their own hands. Please, leave it to the professionals. Not only can it happen with other dogs, but also with humans. Dogs that suffer from this internal desire to become the alpha of the pack can show aggression in the form of growling, biting, snapping and lunging. Of course, not all Pugs even want to be the alpha of the pack. In my 11 years of raising my pug with my other dogs, I have never had this problem with my pug. For example, this Pug owner describes her dominant Pug, saying: My pug thinks she is the alpha. She pulls pillows off the couch and uses them as her toys. She constantly stands at my top of the couch and looks out the window and barks. An owner told me that her female dog will hump her leg and toys all the time. This is a clear sign of a dog establishing dominance over the owner. The best way to combat this is for you to establish yourself as the clear-cut leader of the pack. There should be no struggle for the alpha spot. Food Aggression in Pugs Food aggression can vary quite a bit among individual dogs within a breed. And according to the AKC, Pugs are one of the 10 dog breeds that love to eat the most. But food aggression has three tiers to it: The dog can just growl, which is the first tier. The next level would be the dog snapping at a person or animal when they get too close. Of course, the final tier is biting. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with this. Still, she was protective of the snacks. Socializing the Pug One of, if not, the most important things you can do is to socialize your Pug. The best window of learning for a puppy starts around week 3 and closes sometime between week 16 and .Fortunately, there are many options for socializing a dog. The best and my recommended option is the dog park. If you have time, take your Pug to the dog park after work where there will be plenty of kids, adults and dogs. Dog parks are really the perfect place to socialize a dog. The Pug will be able to interact with all different breeds of dogs and the humans that take care of them! Having an obedient Pug means that you may be able to control aggressive behaviors better. Because Pugs are food-driven dogs, it can help a lot with obedience training since you already know what their main motivator is. However, I want to warn that Pugs are prone to obesity, especially with their lazy and relaxed temperaments. Do you own an aggressive Pug? What have you done that works? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. How to Discipline a Pug Overview It would be nice if our Pug puppies and dogs would automatically listen well at all times, however this certainly is not usually the case. While there are some things that a dog can instinctively know, many things do need to be taught. And part of teaching a puppy or older dog is the chosen method that is used for discipline. Whether your Pug is biting, nipping, destructively chewing, barking, excessively licking you or having bathroom accidents… the way that you correct your Pug will play a huge role in how well you can teach him right from wrong. In this section we are going to cover: Commonly used methods of disciplining a dog and exactly why these techniques do not work The 3 things that a Pug needs to truly learn something The most effective way to discipline your Pug for fast success Discipline Methods that do NOT Work and Why There are many ways to discipline a dog; however the problem is that many of the commonly used methods rarely work. If you use any of these techniques, things can backfire. In addition, new issues can arise. Timothy Photo courtesy of Diane Darch Never do physical intervention, slapping the Pug's bum or tapping the nose- Some owners will slap a puppy's rear end or thump a dog's nose as a way to 'spank' a dog and let them know that they did something wrong. Whether you use your hand, a newspaper or another item that you deem 'safe' this is a form of physical abuse since there is no clear line of what hurts and what does not. Having the intention of hurting a dog is a cruelty to animals. And if your intention is to simply startle the dog into listening, this will not solve that the original issue that you are trying to correct. In addition, dogs that are hit in any fashion may have eventually have increased aggression. Never yell - When things seem out of control, it's easy to lose your cool. Yelling at a Pug will often scare him and this may appear to work at first. After all, a dog that is screamed at will stop what he is doing…however he will have no idea why you are yelling or what you are saying. Being shouted at will increase his anxiety and stress level, which decreases his ability to focus and learn. Never give timeouts in severe isolation - There are two types of isolation discipline methods: physical and social. Physical isolation involves placing the Pug into a small area such as a crate that is away from other family members both human and animals. This does not work, because when a dog is punished in this way, he will often become scared and anxious. He will have no clue as to why he has been 'locked away'. A Pug will be under duress during this time and will only be focused on getting free, not on learning what was expected of him. Social isolation is a different type of discipline and we will go into that ahead. Never take away a toy - Dogs have very few possessions in comparison to us humans. They have their beds, their food and water bowls and their toys. Beds are for comfort, food and water of course is for survival and toys are a dog's most prized possessions as they can become very attached to them. Can you make a Pug listen by taking away a favorite toy? This does not work because one of two things will happen: 1 If the Pug cares about what just happened, it moves the dog into a mindset of wanting to have his toy back, when this time could be better spent actually teaching the Pug what he did wrong and what he should be doing instead or 2 Some Pugs will take this in stride because there are other toys to play with and if you take away all of his toys, he may very well think you are just playing some sort of odd game. Again, there are better ways to discipline your Pug that actually work well. Never rub a Pug's nose in his feces or urine - Far too many people think that this works when a dog has a bathroom accident and this may be due to copying what they saw their parents or grandparents doing in the past. Before the wonderful invention of computers and the transition of having them everywhere yeah, there was a time like that! Sure, some dog owners would purchase training books, however the majority of them just did what they saw others do due to a lack of knowledge regarding proper training methods. This is an old-fashioned punishment that can scare the heck out of a dog or confused him and it does not work. While it may make perfect sense to you that your Pug should only pee or poo in a designated outdoor area, your puppy or dog will not know the difference between that spot of grass and the carpeting in your living room unless he is clearly taught. And while it may seem logical to you that your Pug should not chew on the leg of the kitchen table, he has no idea why that is wrong, but chewing on a toy is okay, unless it is clearly taught to him. The reason why all of the above listed punishments do not work, is because while they may startle a dog, or scare him or even make him know that he misbehaved, they do not show him what he should do instead. Bubloo, 9 months old Photo courtesy of The Krish's Family In addition, for a Pug to be well-behaved, he needs to respect his leader, which will cause him to want to listen. If a dog is punished in a way that causes fear, he will be afraid of his leader which is not the same as respecting him. If a Pug has full run of a house and access to everything in it, he will have so many choices that he's bound to do things wrong. With 4, 5 or 6 rooms to possibly pee or poo in, if he has to go, surely he will not automatically wait until he is taken out or go right over to pee pads. If he has access to laundry piles thrown on the floor, how will he know that those are not 'toys' left out for him? This should be placed in well-lit room that is commonly used by the family such as the kitchen or living room. In cases of a Pug moving the pad onto his bed some do this as if it is a blanket or chewing it up, it can help to 1 duct tape the pad securely in place works with hardwood or linoleum floors or 2 forgo the pad and simply place the gates in the kitchen where the floor is easy to clean or on top of an appropriately sized cut-out piece of linoleum this can be purchased at a home supply store. Keep in mind that housebreaking is a temporary phase and by the age of 9 months or so, a puppy can hold his needs for 8 hours or so while you are at work. If not, how else is he to learn right from wrong? However, this should be done with the owner as his guide and along with discipline methods as shown ahead. An email from an owner comes to mind that let us know that his young Pug puppy that was in his teething phase, kept chewing his shoes. He had a collection of running shoes that he liked to place in a row near the front door for easy access when he'd leave the house. Any time that he turned his back on his Pug, the puppy would scamper over to the shoes and start chewing on them. The question was: how to discipline the puppy to stop doing that. While he could have put a lot of effort into teaching the lesson between those shoes and toys and it would have eventually worked… it was a lot easier to simply move the shoes to a shelf or onto a stand-up shoe rack where they were no longer accessible. The lesson here is to choose your battles wisely, especially with a teething puppy. Not only should the house be puppy-proofed, all objects that can be tucked away, should be. Leaving a Pug with tons of chewing options aside from toys is the canine equivalent of letting a child loose in a candy store. Non-movable objects such as furniture legs, that dogs for some reason love chewing on, can be sprayed with a safe deterrent spray; apple bitter works well for this. Velvet, 10 months old Photo courtesy of Abby 2 Stop. You do want a method to stop your Pug from doing an action that is wrong. There are 2 ways to do this. In some cases, an effective discipline method is to clap loudly. This works well for house training and chewing issues. Clapping is usually enough to startle a Pug momentarily, which is all that you need as long as you are ready for the next discipline step. You can add a firm 'No! For nipping and other such behavior , if a clap does not work, simply standing up from a sitting position may be enough to stop a Pug, since you are limiting his ability to reach you. If the puppy is really out of control, this would be the time to instill the social isolation discipline that we touched on above. This involves placing him in his playpen for a short while. In either case of standing or putting him in his pen, part of this will involve ignoring him. You may wonder how in the world ignoring a dog will teach him anything. To a dog, his humans and any other animals in the house are his 'pack' and being part of the pack is everything… It is his safety, his security and his family. When a dog is ignored, he will start to worry that he is being banned from his pack and this will cause him to rethink his behavior. You do not need to do this for very long… some Pugs notice right away and others take much longer to figure out that they are not being spoken to, etc…. A dog will never learn what he is supposed to do, unless it is shown to him. While words such as 'No' can cause a Pug to pause, the most important part of discipline is to clearly show your Pug what you expect. Just as important, a dog needs to understand why he should do it. Give a Pug motivation and a reason to follow the rules, and you'll find success every time. It's really that easy: Show what to do and why to do it. Once he has noticed that he is being 'temporarily banned from the pack' as described earlier, and you let 5 minutes go by, allow him access to you again. If he nips again right away, he is ignored again and this time for the maximum of 10 minutes. If he behaves well, after just one minute of good behavior reward him with praise and a small treat if he needs extra motivation. Say a word that he can learn to associate the action with such as "Bathroom"… and as he is peeing, give praise that includes the affirmation of what he is doing by saying "Good, bathroom. Good boy, you're going to the bathroom! Immediately offer him a tempting chew toy. As soon as he mouths it, praise him in a happy voice as if he is doing the most wonderful thing in the world. While it may seem a bit silly to act so happy that a dog is playing with a toy, when you are teaching right from wrong, Pugs learn best if an appropriate action is met with tons of enthusiasm and delight. Once the dog has had a few weeks to learn what is expected, you can tone things down and give 'normal' positive reinforcement with a simple 'Good boy' or 'Good girl'. Do make a note to apply apple bitter spray or other safe deterrent on any non-movable item that seems to be too tempting to your Pug for him to leave alone. Pugs are sweet. Many call them their babies. Phrases like aggressive Pugs or Pug fighting seems like oxymoron. Pugs are so friendly, and the most lovable, easy-going dog on the planet, the idea of them fighting or being aggressive just seems absurd! Pugs do fight more than we want to admit. Fortunately, underneath that bad behavior is still a sweet Pug baby. So, the success rate of getting them to stop them fighting is high. And they will go back to being your sweet, lovable Pugs as were meant to be. Pug puppies and even Pug dogs can get pretty rough and tumble. Some say Pug puppies can be aggressive. When they are very, very young, they spend most of the time that they are awake, wrestling with their littermates. Playing like this at a young age is a good thing, and part of their social development. Mom and their littermates teach them to not to be aggressive Pugs. Front end down and back end up in the air. Sometimes your Pug baby will slap her front legs on the floor repeatedly. There are no winners or losers. One minute Mimi is chasing Lulu, and the next minute, Lulu has turned around and is after Mimi. They are not being aggressive Pugs. The larger or stronger dog may self-handicap. He may put himself at a disadvantage like lying down, rolling over, or letting the Pug puppy walk on him. Play-growling can sound very serious. Growling is loud and exaggerated, but not aggressive. Their mouths may be wide open while attempting to growl, but no one is clamping down on the other one. This is not aggressive Pug behavior. They keep going back for more. They have a wide-open mouth and a big goofy grin. There is no bouncing; no taking turns, just one Pug going in to make the strike. The hackles stand up on her back. Her body is stiff. Has your Pug ever turned into pure muscle? She may be on the verge of becoming an aggressive Pug. There are no big funny smiles or bouncing up and down. One Pug dog has disengaged and trying to get away from the other. Pugs with flat back ears and curled lips tell you they are not playing. They are being aggressive Pugs. Why You May have an Aggressive Pug Lack of Socialization and Training Although socialization and training are two entirely different things, I believe they go hand in hand or paw in paw. Socializing your Pug or Pug puppy dog at the dog park may or may not be the best thing for her. It is best to socialize your Pug in a dog training class. Generally speaking, everyone has their entire focus on their dogs. The dogs are well-behaved or at least kept in check until they become well-behaved. There is no room for aggressive Pugs in dog training classes. It is best to talk to some dog trainers to see if they incorporate proper socialization into their lessons, such as owners taking turns walking up to other owners while both dogs remain on leash. It is a good way for all dogs to get close to each other while respecting boundaries. Taking your Pug dog or puppy to the dog park has a lot of variables that you cannot control. If your Pug dog is the lone Pug at home and never been around other dogs, it may be overwhelming for him to go to the dog park on a busy Saturday. Bullying at the Dog Park Bullying can take place, and other owners may not understand how traumatizing it can be for a small Pug. The first time I took Mimi to a dog park, she was very young and also the lone Pug in the house at that time. There was a Pug meetup at the dog park, so I thought this would be a great time to introduce her to other dogs. Only friendly Pugs were going to be there. Mimi was timid with the other dogs, and the other Pugs quickly picked up on this. Before I knew it, about 5 to 6 Pugs were chasing Mimi around. She was scared, with her ears pulled back. Some of the owners half-heartedly called their aggressive Pugs away, although the Pug dogs did not comply. Immediately, I picked Mimi up and got her to settle down in my arms. I attempted to put her back down on the ground, but I could see she was scared, and that was it for her that day. Fortunately, we did go to this group when she was older, and there were no long-lasting adverse effects. But there can be. A Pug can become traumatized and always be afraid of other dogs. It has affected their nervous system and, once triggered, can not talk themselves out of the emotional reactions. The same goes for our Pug dogs. Taking them back to the dog park after an event like that is okay sometimes. Sometimes not. If your Pug has been traumatized by aggressive Pugs or other dogs, they may be triggered by being there. Helping your Pug dog work through trauma can be a long process that requires a lot of patience on your part. Later I got Mimi and Lulu involved in training that built their confidence around other dogs, and no bullying was allowed. The message is that this rough behavior is a standard way to act with other dogs. Likewise, your Pug starts giving harsh treatment to other dogs. Raise your standards and keep your Pug safe and sweet. Otherwise, your Pug may think this is normal and act this way with other dogs. Or your Pug may be traumatized and out of their fear response, become aggressive with other dogs. Their fear may push them into a place where they think all dogs are aggressive. When Pugs or any dogs get overly excited, they may forget the social rules and fights starts. Another time of increased excitement is territorial barking. When two dogs see something on the other side of their fence or the mailman comes to the door, they may redirect the Pug aggression onto the other. These situations can trigger even the sweetest Pug to bite. It is crucial if there is something on the other side of the fence that is causing your Pug dogs distress to bring him inside. Bring your Pug inside if this happens. Firstly, our Pugs can not tolerate that type of heavy breathing for long periods. And it is not good for our Pugs or anyone to be left in a high distress situation for long periods of time. As already mentioned, dog parks can offer a lot of excitement in the environment. Also, other dogs may be protective of their ball or owner. He may aggressively approach your Pug dog or puppy. Uncrowded dog parks are better times to take your Pug, whether he is territorial and possessive or a sweet Baby Pug. Family vacations are a lot of fun. Family, friends, and their dogs that you and your Pug have not seen in a while can be stressful for your Pug. Make sure your Pug and all the dogs are safe, and no one needs a break. Be certain no dogs are showing beginning signs of aggression. You may be navigating your relationships, getting reacquainted with relatives and friends. The dogs may be figuring out their relationships with a lot of instincts about territory and protecting their owners. This could result in aggressive Pugs. Their fear response can result in their own aggression. Their fear response can look like barking, growling, lunging, and nipping. Given the opportunity to reach that other dog, they may become aggressive. Change in Routine We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. It tells us the world is a safe place, and we can expect what is going to occur next. This give build stress. We all like routine, even our Pug dogs. The stress has built up over time. You get that taken care of, get to work, and spill coffee on yourself before the meeting. There is too much going on at work, so we skip lunch. And it goes on like this until we get home and our child asks us to help him with his homework. This is how it can go with our Pug dogs also. Their owner skips their morning walk because she is in a hurry to get to work. The Fed-Ex person drops off a package and knocks on the door. That night there is a thunderstorm, and your Pug dog hides behind the couch. She ends up growling at you and backs up. She is exhibiting aggressive behavior. You conclude that your Pug dog is afraid of the thunderstorm, which is true. But throughout the day, many events increased her stress level, which you are not aware of. Pug Dogs Love Food, Bones, Toys, Sleeping Areas Dogs live in social groups, and if you have multiple dogs in the home, this hierarchy does exist and can change throughout the day or situation. This is my bone! Not exactly what you might call an aggressive move, but she is letting her know, using the least amount of energy that she can, that it is her toy. Here are some resources that your Pug dog may feel he or she needs to protect: Food Although Mimi and Lulu never had any fights over food, I put Lulu in her playpen when they eat. Before Lulu ate in her playpen, I would put both food bowls down on opposite sides of the room. They would start eating, and Mimi would run over towards Lulu to get her food. About halfway over, I believe Mimi realized that she just left her own bowl unattended and would go back. That seemed like a rather stressful meal for Mimi, so I began putting Lulu in her playpen. Now there are no running back and forth problems. Toys Toys are also a limited resource. Sometimes I buy a new toy, and it becomes the prized item. Both will do anything to get their teeth on that toy. Pug dogs may just play back and forth with the toy, but you never know. Watch for aggression. Bed Sleeping areas can be a problem. Sometimes there is a favorite bed or blanket that is the coveted position. Generally speaking, I go to bed about 20 minutes before the time I actually want to go to sleep. It is the same routine. Everyone has to get settled in. However, I feel like it is more than just getting comfortable. It has to do with who gets the prime spot with Mom that night. There is a lot of walking around, walking on top of me, and switching positions. Finally, everyone is settled in and feels content with their spot. Bones Bones are considered a high-value resource. I am speaking about the high-value bully stick or deer antler. Even dogs that get along great may show some signs of aggression when these are around. Attention Attention from Mom or Dad can feel like something a Pug needs to protect and get more of. Coming home from work can be a time to look for aggressive behavior. Do your Pugs greet you equally, or is one always pushing the other out of the way? Does one stare at the other Pug baby when you are giving her attention? Believe it or not, this is aggressive Pug behavior. We have an unusual situation in our house. When I give Mimi attention and kisses, if Lulu is nearby, she can not enjoy it. Comment below if this happens in your house. Changes in the Grumble Your Pug grumble has a ranking order, although it may be more challenging to see with Pugs as compared to Pitbulls. The higher-ranking Pug tolerates the lower-ranking members. That action reinforces that the higher-ranking Pug dog is at the top. When a higher-ranking Pug starts to become old and weak, a younger dog may step in. There are displays the younger-ranking dog will engage in to get the older higher-ranking dog to back down. It may be a form of mild aggression. The older Pug dog may get hurt as she is now weaker, may have medical issues. And those aches and pains of the older dog may lead her to be more aggressive. Sometimes dogs will strike out early in an attempt to get other dogs away. Getting romped on by Pug puppies or younger Pugs can be painful to an older Pug with stiff joints. However, the older dog may want to give up her top position and automatically defer. A mid-day afternoon nap followed by a cocktail sound much more pleasant. New Pug to the Grumble A new Pug added to the grumble makes changes in the social group. In such a scenario, the dogs will require some adjustments. The new Pug must find his place in the social hierarchy of the Pug grumble. Or he may be a Pug puppy without a care in the world, jumping all over everyone, oblivious to the signs the other Pug dogs are giving to respect their boundaries. If the new Pug is too assertive or the new Pug puppy is too carefree, there could be scuffles until everyone understands their place. Humans Owners can inadvertently fuel the fire of Pug problems. The owner may give too much attention to the new Pug baby in the grumble, making others jealous. The owner may intervene by trying to protect a lower-ranking dog. The Pug needs to learn to back off. If the owner intervenes by defending the lower-ranking Pug and correcting the higher-ranking Pug, this could escalate problems to aggressive Pug behaviors. We all do this type of behavior. You have school tomorrow. Same-Sex Pug Aggression Some breeds are more likely to engage in same-sex aggression than others. If you own two female or two male dogs, fighting is not unusual at all. Protective behavior or aggressiveness are not standard Pug traits. Therefore, there is a decreased likeliness for behavioral conflicts, but any breed may have this problem In nature, back in the day when wild Pugs roamed the land in grumbles, foraging for kibbles on their own, two males or two females of the same age would not be in the same social group. Once they matured, they leave the group to form groups of their own. Also, in the Pug pack, there were two separate hierarchies; one for males and one for females. It is also vital as hormonal changes in males and females can lead to same-sex Pug aggression or fighting. Dogs become socially mature between the ages of 12 to 36 months. Hormonal changes during heat cycles and pregnancy can increase the likelihood of fights, even between sweet Pug. However, when two females are close in age, there is a lot of competition. These fights occur, especially if the owner is around. Fights may occur over who gets in or out of the door first. I have to be very aware when I let my two females inside. There have been numerous times when I have had to tell everyone to calm down, going through the door. There can be squabbles over toys, food, treats, or the primo sleep location in bed. How to Prevent a Fight with Aggressive Pugs It is always better to prevent a fight, rather than try to break one up. Even two Pug babies can get pretty out of control. You must be willing to dedicate time and money to show your Pug baby the world and teach them how to live in it peacefully. Many people get Pugs because they are so easy going and lovable. However, our Pug dogs still need to learn to socialize with others. As I pointed out earlier in this article, a training arena may be the best place for that. If your Pug does not have problems with aggression, a proper training group will keep him safe while learning to navigate the world of dog socialization. And on the off chance your Pug dog is aggressive, regardless of the reason, we need to step in with socialization and proper training. Your Pug needs to be involved with different people, dogs, children, noises, other things, so if any problem arises, you can teach your Pug dog how to respond to it differently if she is aggressive or timid. Basic obedience training will help your Pug to listen to you better. Therefore, if your Pug is in a potentially volatile situation, you will be able to call him out of the situation or change his focus. Recognize Signals of Possible Fights One of the best ways to prevent fights is to pay attention and recognize subtle signs of conflict. Being watchful gives you an early on chance to separate the Pug dogs quickly and calm everyone down. Pay extra attention while at dog parks and other events where there are numerous dogs and people. Look for signals if there is a high-value item, such as a favorite toy or chew bone. Treats can lead to aggressiveness in Pugs. Watch for signals when they are having their extra rambunctious playtime. Also, if it has ever turned into a real fight, what happened just before it occurred. Look for the signs such as flat back ears, hackles standing up, and uneven winner and loser outcomes. If one Pug is always running and trying to get away, it is time to intervene. Intervene in a way that catches their attention, but is not aggressive. Yelling just adds to the arousal level and may increase the probability they will fight. That spit second lets me redirect them or call them to come to me. I also use a spray bottle. I used to use a long stream of water and spray it directly on them. Somewhere along the line, Lulu chewed on the end, and it only shoots a mist. So, I walk over and either just shake the bottle or shoot the mist. They stop and shake off. If your Pugs are outside and running back and forth with the dog on the other side of the fence, they may turn to their Pug pal on their side and direct their hostility on him. Give your Pugs some alone time is a family gathering or party with a lot of activity. If kids are rambunctiously running around, keep an eye on your Pugs. They may become overly excited, and a switch may flip that the kids are fighting, not playing. This in turn could create aggressiveness in your Pugs. You may notice that dogs rarely fight when then is no human in the room or area. Avoid dog parks if you have a dog that has a possessive demeanor. Not every dog is right for the dog park. Unfortunately, not everyone at a dog park has the same consideration, and even a docile dog can become involved in a fight. Even with this combination, they should be a few years apart. Like I said before, rarely are two dogs around the same age in a pack in the wild. Their wiring is for packs where males and females of different ages coexist. If you do have two females, the situation is not impossible. I think you have a better chance of creating natural harmony with Pugs as our Pugs are breed to be companion, loving dogs, as opposed to hunters, guardians, or aggressive types. Intervene if something looks like more than a minor squabble. You may need to spend more time in training sessions in a group setting. If you own two females or males and they are prone to fighting, never leave them alone together. They should be in separate rooms or crated. In our family, when I leave for work or the store, Lulu goes to her playpen. When I come out of my bedroom, dressed in work clothes, she runs into her playpen area. She has water, some toys, and a blanket. Separate will stop any aggressiveness with Pugs. As always, spaying and neutering your Pug dogs for other reasons is still a good idea. Same for Pugs. It could be their favorite toy, chew bones, high-value bones, like bully bones, treats, or their food bowl. They are more likely to be hyper-alert just as you are when some little kid tries to grab a handful of your Godiva chocolates. Feed your Pugs separately. I think this is always a good idea with Pugs. Most pugs, not all, are chowhounds. They love their dinner and breakfast. They love their food and are going to be more possessive than other dogs. Having two Pugs around food can lead to aggressive Pugs. Once finished, pick up their food bowls, clean them, and put them away. The sight of the other getting near their food bowl can be a trigger to defend what is rightfully theirs. Most dogs will hoard and become extremely possessive of bones and chew toys. If you need to take a bone away and are concerned your Pug dog is so possessive, he may nip you, distract him with something else and then remove it. Do not attempt to separate the aggressive Pugs by grabbing them. I have never known a Pug baby to bite anyone, but it could happen. Usually, I can get away with just shaking my water bottle near my Pugs, and they stop immediately. Overall, they are lovers, not aggressive fighters, so something like this should break them up. If more is needed, grab a baby gate or broom and put it between them. Make sure your loud noise is not you yelling. Your excitement can add to their excitement, escalating the entire situation, and make them more aggressive. The loud noise could be an air horn, door slam, or hitting a spoon on a pan lid. Generally, one loud, startling noise. Not a lot of yelling that is stimulating. I generally knock on the door or wall as if somone is coming over. They stop and look at the door. Once separated, put your Pug dogs in separate rooms. They will assess and evaluate what triggers the fights, who starts the fights, assesses their environment, and much more. These are not trainers. They are concerned with animals who are having behavior problems and set up programs to address and correct the issues. If this does not work, you will want to talk to your CAAB about dividing your home so your dogs can live separately or re-homing your Pug dog. If the dogs still live in a constant state of arousal even though they are separated, re-homing might be the best solution for the Pug dog, although heartbreaking for you. I have never heard of a Pug being re-homed due to aggressiveness. Work with your Veterinary and your Behaviorist to find the right option for your Pug. Hopefully, you will never have to take this route as Pugs are such a gentle breed, but if it does happen, you want to be sure to do what is in the best interest of your Pug dog. Although you can be hopeful, this does not mean it will be easy. Most likely, you will need to involve your Pug dog in group training and keep a watchful eye on their behaviors. Often they will exhibit a signal, sometimes slight, that they are getting annoyed or possessive and are about to lash out on another dog. Get your Pug dog spayed or neutered. Bringing another Pug into the grumble can take some thought on your part regarding sex and age of the new member. These are all life skills we teach our Pugs that do last a lifetime, and as an added bonus, we get to spend more time with our Pugs when training! Post navigation.

Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. By Pups Central Team What to Look For When Buying a Labrador Puppy These past few months, you may have been drooling over adorable puppy photos over on Facebook and Instagram, even became a loyal follower of their social media accounts. With this cuteness overload, you are now thinking of buying a Labrador Retriever puppy. Remember that you are not buying a toy. You are buying a living being, whose growth, training, and care will be your responsibility for the length of its life. Have no clue on what to look for when buying a Labrador puppy? Let us enumerate the steps. Figuring out the Labrador puppy that you want is not as easy as it looks. You need to determine your reason for buying a pup in the first place. Do you want a gorgeous Labrador that you can flaunt in dog shows? Do you want a competitive dog that can participate in field trials? Or maybe you just want a loyal and dedicated pet for the whole family? Knowing the type of Labrador you want is important because it will give you an idea of its overall temperament and if it matches your lifestyle, and help you in finding the right breeder. Aside from type, you should also determine the color of the Lab puppy that you want to own. Labrador experts have observed that the three main colors of the breed also present with different levels of intelligence and temperament. STEP 2: Come up with a list of reputable Labrador breeders Now that you know the type of Labrador that you want, the next step is to look for reputable breeders in your area. The Club has a search directory for club-registered breeders. If you have no particular breeder in mind, scroll down to the bottom of the directory for the breeder listings by state, last name, and kennel name. This list helps you to further narrow down your choice for a Labrador type. STEP 3: Contact the breeder. Having come up with your list, the next step is to contact the breeder through email or phone. Make sure that you have your notes on the Labrador puppy you are interested in as well as the questions that you would want to ask the breeder. Some good initial questions that you can ask are the following: 1 Do you have a litter of puppies available? Most breeders would have all the puppies reserved for early buyers before they are even born. If there is a new litter on the way, you can book an early reservation for a puppy as well. STEP 4: Visit the breeder. Once you have determined the breeders that have puppies available, schedule an on-site visit with them. Check out the stud dog and bitch and verify their credentials. If the stud mated with a bitch outside the kennel, consider tracking them down. The reason why you need to see the parents is that their temperaments can be passed on to their puppies. STEP 5: Check credentials. Aside from knowing the credentials of the breeder, you also need to check out the credentials of the stud dog and bitch. The three main standards that you should keep in mind are temperament, ability, and especially health. When it comes to health, both parents should possess the following health certificates : A Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certificated dated within the past year that the dog is free from eye diseases An Orthopedic Foundation of America OFA or PennHip certificate that the dog has normal hips An Orthopedic Foundation of America OFA certificate that the dog has normal elbows An Optigen testing certificate that the dog is free from inherited progressive blindness. STEP 6: Prepare to be assessed by the breeder. Reputable and responsible breeders would like to be sure that their puppies will go to good homes. In most cases, they will also interview you, asking questions on why you have chosen to get a Lab, the type of Lab that you are interested in, and the readiness of your home and family to take in a puppy. Some breeders may choose to visit your home and talk with family members. They may also offer recommendations to ensure the best living environment for their puppies. However, if you are given free rein to choose a puppy, these are the things you should take note of: A healthy Lab should be solid and well-proportioned. Thin puppies with visible ribs may be signs of malnutrition or illness. Inspect the coat, which should be soft and luxurious. There should be no bald patches. It should be clean with no signs of diarrhea or white flaky matter which is indicative of tapeworms. Its gums should be a healthy bright pink. The ears should be clean with no signs of infection, inflammation, or discharge. Observe the puppy while moving. It should be walking or running around with no limping or lameness. These steps will help ensure that you will be buying the Labrador puppy that you are looking for. Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. By Tom Massey Oct 09, It may seem counterintuitive, but the more popular and in-demand a puppy breed is, the more likely it is that these dogs will be sold to families without the proper health clearances. Greater scrutiny makes it seem like breeders will conform to high standards and practices of breeding, but the reality is that popular breeds tend to attract pseudo-breeders looking to make a quick buck. While some health issues for Labs are genetic, others are developed through their lifetime. Even if your Labrador is predisposed for particular genetic conditions, there are ways that you, as a responsible owner, can make decisions that will positively affect the long-term health of your Labrador Retriever. In other words, what an individual breeder does or fails to do affects the health of all future generations and stock of dams and sires from other breeders. Health guarantees are not synonymous with health clearances, so make sure to ask for records of health certificates and pre-breeding examinations. Every breed of dog is more prone to a particular set of diseases and less likely to develop some others. Breeders who do genetic testing pre-breeding can ensure that their puppy is at a lower risk of developing these genetically-predisposed diseases. What Is a Health Clearance? While the results of pre-breeding examinations are strictly confidential, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals does post clear results from the OFA tests. Pre-breeding exams for dams and sires typically include the following tests: Dams: General physical examination, checking for vaginal abnormalities or strictures, as well as testing for brucellosis Sires: Checking the testicles, prostate, and penis for abnormalities, a general physical examination, and brucellosis testing Health clearance tests differ from breed to breed. Labrador Retrievers, for example, benefit from further genetic health screening tests. Dominant and recessive genes in Labrador Retrievers play a role in everything from behavior, coat color, and ear length, to more serious issues like PRA blindness which an Optigen test looks for. They could just be a carrier for the gene, which remains unexpressed, and it tells the breeder that some portion of their offspring may inherit this gene — either expressed or not. These first years of their life should not be bogged down with health issues. These documents will guarantee that the puppy is healthy and free of any serious infectious diseases. Families should take their puppy to the vet within hours of bringing their new bundle home and double-check these assurances and vaccinations with their family vet. These are the most common issues Labradors may face as they age. Any large breed of dogs can present with an abnormal formation of the hip joint and socket. Both the dam and sire must have excellent hip scores, and this is where OFA tests and certifications can tell you whether this is truly the case or not. It presents in a variety of ways, including lameness, abnormal gait, holding the elbow at odd angles, and a reticence to play and move. Your dog could become easily tired, experience stiffness when standing, and may experience inflammation of the joint. The tricuspid valve in a dog with TVD is malformed and, as a result, the heart cannot pump blood as effectively as in healthy dogs. A Labrador with TVD will experience fluid or swelling, stunted growth, and loud breathing. Tests include a urinalysis, a complete blood count, and a chemical blood profile. Dogs with CNM experience weight loss, gradual loss of tendon reflexes, an awkward gait, and eventually display exercise intolerance. Known as EIC, exercise intolerance is a gradual weakness and decline in Labradors because of related diseases. Labradors with NARC issues could fall asleep suddenly or experience sudden shaking that resembles a seizure. Like previous diseases, narcolepsy in Labradors is a recessive condition. Depending on the severity of the issue or the genetic dominance, these tests provide awareness and information for both the buyer and the breeder. That way, if any related health issue comes up in the future, owners who buy Labrador puppies from reliable breeders have a clear family history. Conclusion Health guarantees and health clearances should give you, as a potential owner, more than just peace of mind. Health clearances help to ensure that all future generations of puppies are healthy, happy, and a part of a diverse genetic pool. At Snowy Pines White Labs, we encourage our families to look for health clearances based on two guarantees: Firstly, that your chosen puppy is currently healthy and is without any infectious diseases. Secondly, breeders should also offer a clearance that guarantees against the presence of major congenital defects and other genetic issues for quite some time after bringing your puppy home. Snowy Pines White Labrador puppies are a special part of our family and we treat them as such. Dogs from our dams and sires have produced generations of healthy, happy, and high-quality puppies with a formidable family history. Learn more about the lineage of our Labrador puppies or about how one-on-one care and individual attention for our puppies makes all the difference. Tweet on Twitter Getting a healthy, pedigree Labrador puppy requires planning. In this article we are going to share with you 8 steps that you can follow to ensure that you are buying a healthy Labrador puppy. There are potential problems that many new puppy buyers are not aware of. The litter of puppies next door, or in your local newspaper, might not be the right one for you. So you need to be cautious as you set out on this exciting journey! Plan in advance Good breeders do not usually struggle to get puppy buyers. On the contrary, they often have waiting lists. So, if a litter of eight week old puppies is still unsold, be wary. It pays to plan in advance. Six to twelve months ahead of when you want your puppy is not too soon. The structured approach below is designed to help those with no contacts in the dog breeding world, find the right puppy. Step 1. Those bred for the show ring or as pets, and those bred for work as gundogs. You can read about these two types of Labrador, and their characteristics in this article: which Labrador is right for you? In the UK we call these two strains working type or field type and show type. They look and are, very different dogs. In the USA, working bred Labradors are often referred to as field type or American and show bred gun dogs as bench type or English. The split is the same in both countries, whatever they are called. And you need to know which is which and which you prefer. Step 2. This article looks at all the different places and ways in which you can buy puppies and explains the pros and cons of each. Finding a reputable breeder if you have no contacts in the doggy world, is not as easy as walking into a pet shop, but it is worth every bit of the effort that goes into it. One way to start your search, is by looking at your local Labrador breed club. This will lead you to some experienced breeders. You will then need to do some further checks to find out whether or not the breeders meets the standards you are looking for. Many people that are involved in the committee of their breed club are themselves breeders. If they no longer breed, they will be able to put you in touch with someone that does. One will be labelled FT secretary. The FT stands for Field Trial and suggests that this person is involved with working type labradors. If someone is showing their dogs, the dogs themselves are more likely to be show type rather than true working type. Step 3. Contact some Labrador breeders Make a list of contacts to approach, you can then phone them or email them. Let them know that you found them on the Kennel Club website, and are looking for a pedigree Labrador puppy. Tell them which type work or show you are interested in. Have a separate list ready, to enter details of any litters. So the second question is often the best way of getting a puppy from one of her dogs. If you have a colour preference, let the breeder know. He or she will ask you plenty of questions later if you want one of their puppies. Step 4. For several reasons. They may not have any puppies at the moment, or they may not meet the criteria you have set for the breeder of your puppy. They will however, be able to give you more contacts to add to your list. What you are aiming to do, is to make a list of half a dozen or so litters of puppies that you can then check out and narrow down. One of the best ways to find a litter of puppies, either before or after they are born, is to find a nice stud dog, and track down all the female dogs he has been mated to over the last month or two. A reputable breeder will be happy to email you photos and may even let you visit her stud dog, so that you can decide if you like him. This trail will also lead you to some smaller, less experienced breeders so you will need to do your homework carefully to make sure that the mother of your puppies has the right credentials. Checking those out is our next step Step 5. Checking credentials It is up to you to check the credentials of the litter. This is something that people are often unaware of. A pedigree does not guarantee very much at all. The Kennel Club pedigree is simply a statement of ancestry and contrary to popular belief, does not imply that the puppy it belongs to or his parents have met any standards. The three credentials you need to personally check and verify are Temperament Abililty Temperament The most crucial of all credentials has to be temperament. An adult Labrador may weight in excess of 70lbs. These are large powerful dogs that everyone expects to be friendly. You cannot take any chances with poor temperament. He will inherit tendencies to friendliness or unfriendliness, nervousness or confidence etc, from both of his parents. Never buy a puppy without meeting his mother. And if you can meet the stud dog, so much the better. If you cannot meet the stud dog, make sure that someone who has met him, can vouch for his good nature. This may not be quite as crucial with a show champion as any successful show dog will have proven itself happy to be handled in the most personal manner by total strangers. Working dogs are a different matter, and occasionally dogs with poor temperaments do succeed in competition and are used at stud. Health Health credentials are essential. Follow this link to read all about inherited diseases in Labradors and read our article on health checks. I cannot stress this too much. You must physically check certificates or copies of certificates way in advance of collecting your puppy. It is very hard to turn down a puppy once he is in your arms. Ability Ability is important if you have an activity in mind for your dog. If your aim is to compete in working trials, you might want to choose a puppy whose ancestors have been successful in that sport. Choosing a litter Narrowing down your choice to a single litter can be tough. Unless you have your heart set on a puppy from a particular dog, you may find it difficult to decide. In many cases though, there are not that many litters that meet the right criteria. You can narrow down your choice further by looking again at the breeder. How friendly and helpful is she? Do you think she will be supportive if you get into difficulties with your puppy? Has she offered to take the puppy back at any point in his life if you cannot cope? If you can answer yes to all three, then that is a real bonus point for that litter. This person is important and you need to feel that you can trust her. A breeder with a lot of dogs may have her pups in an outdoor kennel, but they should still spend lots of time with the family. Check out this article: How to spot a good breeder , and this one How to spot a bad breeder for more information. It pays to be picky. Step 7. Choosing gender Should you buy a dog or a female dog? Some people simply prefer one gender over another. And it is very hard to generalise about the sexes. Male Labradors are no more difficult to train or control than female dogs. And though entire males may be more likely to roam if not supervised in an unfenced property, female dogs can do this too. Females come into season twice a year at which time they may need to be confined to washable floors. They will also need to be kept separate from entire males with vigilance for a period of around three weeks. Neutering a female is more expensive than neutering a male. And older, un-neutered female dogs are prone to a serious and potentially deadly condition called pyometra. These are all things to consider. But overall, it often just boils down to personal preference. Step 8. Choosing your puppy And now for the final and most exciting step Choosing your puppy. Which one of these gorgeous bundles of Labrador loveliness should you take home? One of the very best things you can do when choosing a puppy from a litter, is to take someone experienced with you. Another good reason to choose an experienced and dependable person well in advance. If there is a choice, a good breeder will be able to guide you in this. All they can tell you is what you can hope for from the pedigree, and that the puppy seems OK physically. Check out this article: Choosing the right dog for more information. To make sure all is well, you will need to have your new puppy checked over by your own vet, within a day or two of bringing him home. Health and temperament problems in a large dog can be devastating. Now available in most countries, the handbook is already a bestseller in the UK. 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:.