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Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. Cheappuppiesforsale is your go-to website for finding inexpensive, locally available, and registered French bulldog for sale. Our primary objective is to assist you in locating the appropriate French Bulldog puppy for sale in your neighborhood History of French Bulldog Puppies French Bulldogs are considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and around the world. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities and are often kept as companion animals. The breed is a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was brought to France by English lacemakers. The French Bulldog was then developed by crossing the English Bulldog with local small breeds, such as the Terrier, to create a smaller, more delicate version of the English Bulldog. During the 19th century, French Bulldogs were used for bull-baiting and dog fighting. They quickly gained popularity among the upper class in France, especially in Paris, where they were considered a symbol of luxury and elegance. In the late 19th century, French Bulldogs were brought to the United States by American tourists who fell in love with the breed while visiting France. Temperament of Frenchies The temperament of a French Bulldog is generally described as affectionate, playful, and sociable. They are known to be good with children and other pets and make great companion animals. They are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them easy to train and manage. French Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners, and they have a strong desire to be close to their family. They have a playful nature, and they love to play and interact with their owners. French Bulldogs are known for their expressive personalities, and they are known to be very vocal. They are known to make a variety of noises, including grunts, snores, and snorts, which can be quite endearing. They are also known for their sense of humor and their ability to make their owners laugh. One of the most striking characteristics of French Bulldogs is their easy going nature. They are known to be adaptable and easy to live with, which makes them great family pets. They are also known to be relatively low maintenance, as they do not require a lot of exercise or grooming. Let us introduce you to Rose a gorgeous French Bulldog pup ready to venture off to her forever home. She is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, plus the breeder provides a 1 year genetic health guarantee provided by the breeder. Her momma is Amber. Rose enjoy spending time with the children she is currently being raised with. Sex: Female.

Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. 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 American Bulldog Overview American Bulldogs are generally happy, family-loving dogs that do well in homes where they have plenty of space to roam. A big, fenced-in backyard is practically a must-have for one of these energetic dogs, though exercise needs may vary by specific type and breeding. They may be just fine with urban life, so long as they get plenty of walks, and they can even make good jogging or running buddies. They do not, however, take very well to being left alone for long periods of time, and they can feel cooped up in an apartment. American Bulldogs need experienced owners who can be patient with training and start socialization early. Whether they are used for hunting and farm work or just cuddling up with their humans, the American Bulldog makes for an excellent, loyal companion and a competent watchdog. American Bulldog Highlights Temperament: They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. American Bulldogs are often described as gentle giants, making them good family pets. Intelligence: These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be strong-willed. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Exercise Needs: American Bulldogs are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like daily walks, playtime, and even agility training. Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is around 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care. Family Compatibility: American Bulldogs can make excellent family pets when raised in a loving and consistent environment. They are known for their patience with children and are protective of their human family members. Guardian Instinct: Due to their protective nature, American Bulldogs can be good guard dogs. They are naturally watchful and alert, which makes them capable of providing security. These two lines may have slight differences in appearance and temperament. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring one of these dogs. American Bulldog History The ancestor of the American Bulldog is the Old English Bulldog, which was brought to North America by working class immigrants who wanted to keep their working dogs to help on the farms. Rather than being concerned with maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers bred the dogs with the best working qualities for all-around farm work. Wild pigs were an invasive species not native to the American south that had no natural predators, and the strong jaws and muscular build of the American Bulldog was perfect for hunting them down. They were originally used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct until a few breeders scoured the south for specimens to revive the breed. Today, the American Bulldog is in no danger of extinction and is mostly a family-friendly companion. Adorable American Bulldog puppies will grow to 20 to 28 inches in height and 60 to pounds by the time they reach adulthood. Although these sizes are considered to be standard for the breed, American Bulldogs can be quite a bit larger or smaller. American Bulldog Personality American Bulldogs are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate , though that affectionate nature often leads them to be territorial and overly suspicious of strangers. This makes them lovely family dogs and watchdogs, even for families with children, but they will need socialization training, especially as puppies to get along with unfamiliar humans or other dogs that stop by for a visit. Luckily, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable. The American Bulldog is a playful breed that has some high exercise needs, and they do well in families that are able to stay active with lots of walks and play time. They can develop in American Bulldogs and may require surgical removal for treatment. It can lead to itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Treatment typically involves medicated baths and sometimes oral medications. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues, and other health problems. It is usually managed with lifelong medication. It can lead to lameness and discomfort, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Elbow Dysplasia : Elbow dysplasia is another developmental disorder affecting the elbows. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected limb. Treatment may involve medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to correct the condition. American Bulldog Care Most of the care that is necessary for the health of an American Bulldog is meeting their needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Failing to do so can result in anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. So long as those needs are met, the rest is fairly standard. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. One of the issues you may face is the potential for drooling that is common among bully breeds. You should take care to wipe your dog as needed unless you want a generous amount of slobber all over your home. American Bulldog Feeding An American Bulldog diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed, and their high energy level should be taken into consideration. Their needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood. You should discuss with them how to form an appropriate diet for your dog. Traditionally they are white with patches of brindle, red, or black, but there are quite a few more color variations to the breed in modern times. They may have patterns that include shades of black, red, brindle, brown, or fawn. American Bulldogs usually have black on the nose and the rims of the eyes, but they may also have shades of pink. Their eye color is usually brown. Although these are breed standards, some American Bulldogs have been known to be merle or have coats that contain shades of blue. Weekly brushing should keep it under control with baths as needed. So long as they are trained properly, American Bulldogs are great with children and are very loyal to all members of the family. It is also important to train children on how to properly handle and treat animals to avoid incident. American Bulldogs are large animals, and overly energetic play can cause injuries. The same can be said for interactions with other pets. So long as American Bulldogs are socialized and trained, they usually get along with other dogs just fine. Play should be supervised, especially with smaller dogs that can easily get hurt when playing with a large, muscular American Bulldog. You can also check local shelters near you, or you can use our adoption page that lets you search by breed and zip code for adoptable dogs. American Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. They know how to finish a task, and they hope you'll appreciate it. They're brawny and well-built, they have incredible stamina, and they'll be at your side if you're out in the fields, in the woods, or hiking a rocky trail. They also enjoy cuddling. With a family, they're naturally loyal. Their hindquarters are narrow and lifted with sculpted haunches. They have a high, thin tail like a rudder and a long back. Standing about 2 feet at the shoulder, their broad, square head is positioned on a solid neck. With a quick glance, it's almost as though most of their 60— pounds is in the front of the body, but that's just because their burly chest ripples with strength and their forelegs are set wide apart. They have a prominent forehead, and their dainty upside-down, V-shaped ears drape on either side of their cap. They have soft, round brown eyes. Most American bulldogs are white or have a white base coat usually marked with black, brown, brindle, or tan. Their fur is short and neat. Temperament The American bulldog temperament is quite silly when excited or happy, and these dogs will clown around to make their human companions laugh. Your lap is often their favorite spot, regardless of how much oomph they have. They love to frolic and play, especially fetching and tug-of-war, and they'll spring many feet into the air after a Frisbee or another flying toy. They're so intelligent , it's easy to be enthusiastic about training to help them grow into effective hunters or well-mannered family dogs. American bulldog puppies need early socialization and consistent training , and mental and physical stimulation for bullies of all ages is a must. They were bred to do good work, and some of their job titles include feral hog wrangler, hunting dog , livestock herder, personal protection canine, and ranch hand. When a working dog is bored, their impish charm might toe the line, and they're more likely to engage in undesirable behaviors such as digging , chewing, and barking. Birt says new American bulldog owners need to be knowledgeable and vigilant! Include your American bulldog in any exercise you do. This helps them see you as the leader, and they'll jump for joy—literally! They're naturally wary of strangers and may need some extra association with your children's friends so they recognize their play together as non-threatening. Early and consistent socialization will help your American bulldog be more comfortable around new people. Living Needs As long as American bulldogs are kept active and engaged, they'll do well on a farm, in a house with a big yard, or in an apartment with a large-animal dog park nearby. As long as they're not left alone for too long, they're adaptable. Because American bulldogs crave activity and stimulation, potential owners should first talk with a veterinarian to determine if this bulldog's exercise needs match their lifestyles. All dogs benefit from early, positive socialization so they can learn to work well with their owners and children, and this is true for an American bulldog, too. Though he lives happily with animals he's known since puppyhood, Birt says he might get a little grumpy if his four-legged sibling tries to play with his toys or eat all his food. An American bulldog's temperament is so persistent, he'll probably dash through invisible fencing, especially if he's chasing a rabbit or squirrel. Tall plank fencing is a good option and hard for these dogs to jump over. Creating a maze or a busy box to provide mental stimulation is a terrific problem-solving activity to eliminate boredom and avoid undesirable behavior. Something simple, like tossing wads of crumpled newspaper across the floor with little treats hidden underneath, helps keep your American bulldog happy and engaged. When you're not around, he'll love interactive toys to keep him busy. Care There's no need to spend a lot of time spiffing up an American bulldog—he's a naturally handsome breed. Weekly brushing controls moderate shedding and spreads essential oils through his coat to keep it healthy. But you might need to give him an extra comb-through when spring and fall seasonal shedding picks up. They only need baths when they're dirty , and that's a good time to trim their nails and check and clean their ears , too. Regular home dental care is important, not only for healthy teeth and fresh breath but also because they have a tendency to slobber a lot, especially after eating and drinking. Their cute facial folds need cleaning throughout the day. Most types of bulldogs, including the American, are a bit gassy. A veterinarian can explain how their particular anatomy affects digestion and what diets minimize flatulence. Health An American bulldog's lifespan is 10—12 years, and they're generally healthy and robust. But as a brachycephalic or flat-faced breed , they're prone to overheating, and you have to take action quickly. According to the American Bulldog Association ABA , this breed can also develop elbow or hip dysplasia , a condition where the joint doesn't properly form. This results in a loose joint and, if untreated, osteoarthritis. The ABA also says American bulldogs can also develop two diseases: Ichthyosis: This is a skin disorder resulting from a genetic mutation. In less-severe cases, the dog has flaky skin and requires more frequent bathing and oiling to be comfortable. In severe cases, your pup will be itchy and need almost daily bathing and oiling. American bulldogs can also develop allergies , so talk to your veterinarian if you notice your dog excessively itching. Canine Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis NCL : This is a deadly, incurable condition where a dog loses control of his hindquarters, eventually resulting in him not being able to move. According to the ABA, signs of the condition begin appearing when a pup is about 2 years old. The good news: both of these conditions are detectable with genetic testing. Make sure your American bulldog breeder conducts all health screenings recommended by the OFA. If you're adopting through an American bulldog rescue, ask for all available health information. History American bulldogs' ancestry began in the English countryside, where they were often found in butcher shops. When laborers immigrated to the American colonies in the 17th century, they brought their stout working dogs with them. According to the ABA, this breed was originally known as the English white bulldog or the white English bulldog because of their mostly white coats, even though they didn't have the typical "sourmug" face of their English cousins. American bulldogs almost faded away after World War II, but breeders John Johnson and Alan Scott each worked to improve the animals' family sociability and guarding skills. Now, there are two primary strains of American bulldogs, and those with Johnson's traits are a little larger and more athletic than canines Scott's line. This breed is sometimes confused with pit bulls, but there are some things prospective owners need to know about American bulldogs vs. For one, the term "pit bull" in the U. But pit bulls are recognized as their own breed by the United Kennel Club. While both can be loving and rambunctious dogs, the American bulldog always has a white base for their coat, while pit bulls can be almost any color. They also have different lineages—American bulldogs descend from mastiffs , and pit bulls from various terriers, including American Staffordshire terriers and Staffordshire bull terriers —although some breed historians believe there's a little bulldog mixed in. Fun Facts American bulldogs can jump more than 3 feet in the air. Some have been known to bounce as high as 7 feet! American bulldogs have spent a lot of time on the big screen. Steve Martin's movies Cheaper by the Dozen and Cheaper by the Dozen 2 featured an American bulldog as the family companion. The couple also trained him for his movie debut. Was this page helpful? Monte Carlo the American Bulldog puppy at 6 weeks Monte Carlo the American Bulldog puppy at 6 weeks "Marilyn is a beautiful three-year-old, pound American Bulldog with a heart of gold. Named after the "greatest female star of all time" Marilyn Monroe, she has a larger than life personality that fits her wonderfully. Marilyn is everything you could ever want out of an American Bulldog—well socialized, protective, obedient, great with children and all animals!!! She is a 7-month-old female American Bulldog who is about 45 lbs. From what I can see she appears to be from the "Scott" or performance line of American Bulls. She is very gentle and learns extremely quickly. I have never raised my voice at her to get her to obey or learn anything; she is very food and praise motivated. Roxy loves to play and run outside but she is relatively inactive and cuddly once indoors. Roxy is a wonderful dog and I am lucky to have her. I would recommend this breed to anyone who can give it the exercise and structured environment it needs to be the best it can. He likes staying very close by me. Very well socialized around people and other dogs. It was very easy to train him on several commands. He was 9 weeks old in this picture and already weighed 25 lbs.!! He has a very outgoing temperament. He already takes on the full-grown Dobermans at the dog park in tug-of-war! He is inactive in the house, but is so playful outside and around other dogs. He hates the vacuum, lol. He actually gets about 2 hours of exercise a day at 10 weeks old but he sleeps for the rest of the night following that. He loves his three brothers, a Great Dane , Chihuahua , and Poodle ; in fact the only thing he loves more is children!! He is able to have fun and run around when we go out, but when we are at home he is able to lay back and relax and chew on toys. At this young age he is already learning commands. I purchased the leashes , etc. The leash truly helps in keep the dogs walking correctly. I tried out his food, and I take the bottled water by Cesar Millan to the dog park so they don't drink the communal water. I always use his techniques, and I train myself before the dog!! Her tail can clear a coffee table in two seconds flat and she snores like the proverbial freight train, but the look of love is so clear in her eyes that all you can do is laugh. I've always had small to medium dogs, but I truly don't think there will ever be another breed for me! His biggest dislikes are the rain and very small dogs. His two best friends are yellow Labs named Bruschi and Molly. How can you not love that face???? This beautiful American Bulldog is named Roxy. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article.

Boston Veterinary Clinic specializes in primary veterinary care, including wellness and preventative care, sick and emergency care, soft-tissue surgery, dentistry. The clinic also provides specialty services in behavior, nutrition, and alternative pain management therapies using acupuncture, and therapeutic laser treatments. Brian has over 19 years of veterinary experience and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 49, times. Pugs may be little, but what they lack in size, they make up for in personality. They are fun loving, loyal, and affectionate dogs that love to make their owners smile. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Crate training will keep your pug protected from household hazards, help with house training, and give him a place to retreat when he's overly excited. An ideal crate size is 24 inches long x 18 inches wide x 21 inches high 61 cm x 46 cm x 53cm. Place a blanket on top of the crate so it feels like a cozy den to your pug. Leave the crate door open at all times during this part of crate training. This will allow your pug to explore the crate at his leisure, without fear of you closing the door behind him. For crate training to be effective, your pug must learn to be comfortable in the crate when its door is closed. Gradually, have your pug wait up to 10 minutes after a meal before you open the door. You may need to leave your pug crated for hours at a time during the day, and maybe overnight. Sit with him briefly, leave the room for few minutes, then return to the crate. Work up to leaving the room for 30 minutes. Reward him with a treat each time he responds to it correctly. Practice leaving the house when you crate him. Do not get your pug worked up when you leave home or return; this could build up a lot of anxiety and anticipation in your pug. A common concern with crate training is whether to respond to whining, especially with overnight crating. Just be prepared for the whining to get worse before it gets better. Pugs aim to please, but can get sidetracked by a short attention span. When your pug stays focused on your finger on your nose, immediately give him a treat. Lengthen the time he watches your finger before you reward him. When your pug learns the basic commands, he will have the proper foundation to behave well and learn even more commands. Basic commands include sit, stay, come, and heel. If his short attention span is making training difficult, consider enrolling him in a local dog obedience class. Use plenty of positive reinforcement verbal praise, treats, extra petting each time your pug correctly follows a command. The more excited and positive you are, the more your pug will try to please you and behave properly. Pugs love to chew. Teaching your pug to 'leave it' will help keep him from chewing something inappropriate e. If you cannot stay with your pug all day and take him outside frequently, gate off an area in your home for him to stay during the day. Place some pee pads in the corner of this space where he can eliminate. When your pug urinates, the urine would go through the grass into the underlying tray. Place his water bowl and bed in the gated area. Without knowing when he should eliminate, your pug may have accidents in your home more often. A consistent bathroom routine is very important for puppies, since they cannot hold their bladders for very long. If you have a pug puppy, take him out first thing in the morning, 15 to 20 minutes after eating, after naps, and before bedtime. As he gets a little older and has better bladder control, you can start leaving his water in the crate overnight. The indoor gated area lessens the need for frequent outings during the day. However, it may take longer to house train your pug if he gets used to eliminating on pee pads or in the litter box. Your pug should learn to eliminate in the same area each time you take him outside. If you have a backyard, take him out on a 6-foot 2-meter leash, stand in one area of your yard, and let him pick a specific spot within a 6-foot radius of the leash. Examples of this body language are sniffing around, looking for a private place, going to the door, and whining. Give him a treat and verbal praise when he eliminates so he makes a positive association with eliminating outside. When you reward him for eliminating, he will also be learning how to respond to your command. It can take time—up to 20 minutes—for your pug to relax enough to eliminate outside. If you become impatient, you may experience what many other dog owners have experienced: elimination as soon as the dog gets back inside. Twenty minutes can feel like an eternity, so bring something with you e. If you pug has an accident and he probably will clean it up promptly with an enzymatic cleaner that will erase the urine smell. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source If your pug smells the urine, he will likely go back to that spot to eliminate. Do not punish your pug, whether you catch him in the act or not. Doing so will make him fear you, rather than teach him not to have another accident. Your adult pug may have had some previous training, but it may not have been completed or consistently reinforced. Ask the rescue group or animal shelter from where you adopted your pug about what types of additional training he will need. Be patient with your adult pug during the training process. If your adult pug was mistreated by his previous owner, he may be extra sensitive to yelling or harsh punishment. If you have other household members, have them all train your adult pug. The good news is that crate training a pug when done right can be relatively easy and fast compared to most breeds. The crate training process should start as soon as the pug is home, and the younger the puppy the better, old dogs have already acquired habits that need to be changed. Should pugs be crate trained? Unless your dog has some sort of separation anxiety or old bad experiences with the crate, then yes you should definitely crate train your pug or any breed for that matter. Before you do that, you should know a few things to make a good buying decision and have the perfect tools for the job. Choosing the right crate There are various types of crates and each has its pros and cons, depending on how you plan to use it and the breed of dogs you have. The most popular crates are the wire and plastic crates, there are also the heavy-duty ones for strong and aggressive dogs. Pugs are not large nor aggressive dogs, so there is no need for a heavy-duty crate, but a soft-sided crate is not a good idea neither. Pug crate size Choosing the perfect-sized crate for your pug is the most important thing about the whole process, If you get this wrong it can make the crate training difficult, longer, and perhaps even impossible. So how big should a crate be? The crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up, lay down and turn around comfortably with a few extra inches on each side. The crate should have a divider to adjust its size as the puppy grows not to change crates every couple of months. According to the AKC standards, pugs are inches in height and weigh around pounds, for a dog this big the perfect crate is 24 inches. We strongly recommend the Midwest Ultima Pro Metal Crate check price at Amazon , it comes with a divider and has a double doors feature which makes exploring it easy for the dog in the early stages of the training. Treats should be small in size to help you lure the puppy into the crate, reward good behavior and encourage the puppy when inside the crate. Chew toys will help you keep the puppy distracted inside the crate when you need to leave and after the meals. Interactive toys will help release the energy before your pug goes into his crate, and make a good training session to bond and also as a rewarding activity. A dog that is low on energy especially after a play session is more willing to go into the crate to relax, but interactive toys are to be used only for that purpose and when you are there. On the other hand, your pug can have access to his chew toys at all times especially inside the crate to keep him distracted. So what makes a good crate placement? The crate should not be placed next to noisy machines like refrigerators, heaters, or anything disturbing. It should not be directly exposed to the sun or in a spot with too much airflow. At night it should be close to your bedroom so you can hear the puppy when whining or when it needs to go for a break. Following this advice, it would be better to start in the morning so your dog has an entire day to interact with the crate before he has to sleep in it. We recommend doing it on the weekend morning to get as much time as possible to introduce your dog to his new home and get some bonding and interaction done before nighttime. Following these easy steps will make the crate training easier and faster, so make sure each step is valid before you move on to the next. Take your pug preferably with the leash on and just circle around the crate for a couple of minutes, let him sniff around, and check the crate out. When your pug gets inside the crate to get the treat you need to reward with more treats and verbally praise him. The best way to create a bond with the crate is to use food and toys, start serving your dog his meals in the crate then secure a chew toy inside the crate for your dog to stay inside as long as possible inside. Pug in the crate closed While your pug is enjoying his meal inside the crate you can slowly close the door while keeping an eye on his reaction. In the beginning, you want to stay next to the crate while your pug is feeding with the crate closed, when he finishes his meal offer a chew toy to keep him distracted inside. If things are going as planned you can leave the room for a couple of minutes at a time and then go back inside but act casual. At this point, you can leave the house for 30 minutes at a time, but you want to keep a couple of things in mind. Crate training a pug at night Crate training a pug at night is the hardest part especially the first night , but if you start early in the morning and introduce your dog to his crate it will sure be easier. You can expect to wake up a few times especially in the first few nights as most puppies will start whining and barking at night and also need to go for a potty break since young puppies especially small breeds can not hold it throughout the night. You can reduce the number of breaks by simply taking your dog for a walk just before he goes into the crate and also stop giving him water at least a couple of hours before. At night it is best at the beginning to have the crate placed close to your bedroom or in it so you can hear the puppy if he starts whining, usually just talking or gently tapping on the crate will suffice to calm him. How long can a pug stay in the crate? The time a puppy can spend in the crate depends on many factors, including age, the breed, and the activity level, but in general, young puppies can not stay for longer than one hour with two to three sessions a day. Pugs are not very active dogs, so adults that have had enough exercise and playtime before crating could stay from two to three hours at a time in the crate twice a day. Are pugs hard to crate train? The only difficulty being the breed is of small size so at first you might need to wake up a few times at night as they have small bladders and will need a pee break. Related Posts. They will want to be with you. Have a crate or bed next to your bed for at least the first few weeks while you get them into a Puppy night-time routine. Here is how to get a puppy to sleep through the night. Alone Training Teaching your Pug puppy that they can be totally fine being left alone can be done with stuffed chew toys, time and patience. Remember to do it slowly to avoid any stress! Toilet Training Training Practically every website you read may tell you that Toilet training your Pug puppy can be a challenge. As with alone training, start sooner rather than later. Of course, if they run into any birds, butterflies and hear planes flying over, it will be great for them to get acquainted already. Have fun gathering surfaces with different textures for them to explore, like synthetic grass, tiles, and soil. Use treats! Remember to use lots of treats and praise when training. They love making your tail wag! Repeat their name to them a lot in the first week, so it really starts to click. Recall — How to teach your Pug puppy to come back when called — This is important for safety. Pugs generally stay close, but they can be very friendly and want to run up to people and other dogs for a bit of a cuddle, so a good recall will always help. But they can enjoy fetch games on a smaller scale, get on the floor and interact and play with your Pug puppy to learn what they enjoy. This will help to avoid resource guarding. Husbandry Tasks Pugs love affection but should be handled with care. Be mindful to not treat them like toys. Not going to blame children to think they are toys though — the resemblance is uncanny. To do this we want to teach them that hands will do nice things to them so use plenty of treats when handling your puppy. Week 2 — Training your Pug puppy Week 2 already! The Complete Guide February 24, by Susan Crate training a pug puppy may be a frustrating or fun experience for you and your puppy. Younger puppies may take longer than older puppies. The trick to successful crate training is to introduce the training in small steps as you build up their love for the crate. In this article, I will take you through all the aspects of crate training a pug puppy that you need to know to make this whole process fast and easy. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you Keep reading. Why you should crate train your puppy I know this has been emphasized enough times already but I will say it once more, crating dogs is not being inhumane but a way of liberating them. A place he can retreat to find peace, calm, and alone time. You can go about your duties in the home without worry or distraction. Crates also come in handy when you want to step out of the house for a couple of hours and you have no one to pet sit. You can rest assured that you will not come to a messed-up house with litter allover, gnawed sofas, and pee in your fur carpet. Another great reason to start crate training is that it is the easiest way to housetrain your puppy. Since he will not want to potty where he will be sleeping, he will be forced to hold the bladder until when he is taken out. Crates are also a super convenient way to travel with your puppy. They are safer than having to keep checking on them as you drive knowing how playful and cheeky pug puppies are. You can use them for both short trips like to the vet, groomers, or grocery store as well as for long trips like interstate drives. In case of emergencies, it is safer and easier to move your puppy in a crate. In the midst of panic during emergencies, a puppy may run away out of fear which can be frustrating having to run after him. If you have multiple pug puppies, you can buy one with a divider, that way you can set a specific size space for each pug instead of buying several crates which can take up so much space. Finding the Right Crate Size and Type The perfect crate size should allow your puppy some room to make some movement like turning, lying down, and standing. Then add inches on all the measurements. Crates come in small, large, and medium sizes, most likely your puppy will fall into the small category size, but still, go ahead and check from the above measurements the category your puppy falls. If you would rather take a bigger crate that your puppy will grow into you can take a size up and use cardboard or dividers to allocate a sizeable amount of space. Crates are made of different materials and each material is ideal for specific purposes. Depending on your lifestyle, you may end up having more than one crate. We have wire crates which are mostly open, collapsible, and lightweight. These are perfect for owners who live in warmer areas or for use during the warmer months because they allow maximum airflow to keep your puppy cool. Since they are collapsible, they are great for traveling and movement from one room to another. Next, we have plastic crates. These are pretty sturdy and durable and great for air transport as they meet most airline requirements. We also have wooden crates. These come in a variety of styles and designs and are great for people who are keen on aesthetics. These however require permanent storage space and tend to be heavy therefore not portable. Lastly, we have the popular soft-sided crates that almost all small breed owners have. They are super light, portable, and great for short trips. Just like wooden crates, they come in a variety of sizes, designs, styles, and colors. When choosing a crate size and type, consider key things like portability, sturdiness, how well the crate blends with your home decor and ventilation. As for traveling, choose a crate that is lightweight, safe, has handles and allows enough ventilation. Its recommended that you get a crate that has ventilation space on opposite sides. Choose a place with high traffic, your dog still needs to feel part of the family even though in a crate. The living room or even in the kitchen would be perfect. However, if your pug puppy is the kind that prefers total alone time and gets anxious in a busy and noisy place, you are better off setting it up in a secluded corner. Ensure the place is clean, ventilated, away from direct sunlight and heat. It should not be too hot neither too cold. Set it up and allow your puppy to explore the crate. Remember pugs can get pretty anxious very fast when around strange things. Part of them getting familiar with the crate will include poking, scratching, and pulling it. Give them a few days before you can begin the training. Stock Up the Crate Once your puppy is comfortable being around the crate, stock it up with their essentials- food, water, toys, and bedding. Most preferred is to get one that you can clip on to the wall of the crate. Stock up a couple of his chewy toys too to keep him busy and to prevent him from chewing his beddings. For the first day, you want to put your puppy in the crate when he is maxed out. By this time he will be looking to take a good rest. Lead him to the crate, close it up, and walk away without looking at him. Continue with your chores as if nothing is strange. Come back later and open the crate to let him out. Repeat this several times a day every day until he associates the crate as his retreat space. Take note of his behavior while in there, if he seems anxious or agitated, take him out. It could be that he wants to toilet or he simply wants out. After a couple of days, start leaving him alone inside the crate. Step out for about 10 minutes, increasing the duration each day until he gets used to being in the crate alone with no one watching him. Never push, pull, or force him to get inside the crate. If he refuses, let him be. Try again after an hour or so. You want him to learn to get in the crate whenever he wants to. Crating only when leaving will make him associate the crate with being abandoned. Keep your kids away from it. They should not play with the dog when in the crate or play inside the crate when the puppy is out of it. Make it a habit to exercise your puppy before crating him. As mentioned earlier, pugs are naturally playful, and crating him when he is under-exercised will cause him to be agitated and restless and may make crate training so frustrating for both of you. Leave the crate open so your puppy can walk in anytime they want to without you having to lead them to it. Every four weeks, you can increase the duration by minutes. By the time he is 17 weeks and more, he should be able to be doing hours at a go. However, it should never go longer than that. However, there are times when you will be forced to cut short his crate time like when he wants to use the toilet, he is crying uncontrollably, vomiting or eliminating, or when he is very agitated. Pugs are naturally active breeds and so they need to be active way more than they need to sit and relax. Ignore your puppy when he whines or fusses wanting to be let out unless you are very convinced there is a need to. You will know when your puppy is scared when he shows signs like flat ears, trembling, and having their tail down. Some even defecate when scared. Going ahead with the crating will only make things worse. Also never crate a puppy that suffers from separation anxiety , this will make their condition worse. Instead, seek professional help to deal with the anxiety. Puppies with separation anxiety show signs like drooling, excessive gnawing, non-stop crying and barking as well as soiling the house. This also applies to puppies with special medical conditions like convalescing. For these puppies, freedom of movement is what they need to help them feel better. And lastly, never use crating as a punishment. This will make your puppy hate the crate as they associate it with negative feelings that come with punishment. Also crating them just because they are demanding your attention and you want your peace and quiet is a form of punishment. After all, you signed up for it. You knew puppies demand affection and attention. The best way to start night time crate training is to ensure that your puppy is super tired before bedtime. Keep them very active one or two hours leading to bedtime so they are exhausted. They will fall asleep with no fuss. Wake him up if you catch them snoozing just before bedtime. Avoid nap times in the late afternoon or early evening. For the first few nights, have him sleep in your bedroom just so he can feel safe with you around. Every couple of days move the crate away from your room towards where you intend it to be eventually. During the first few nights of crate training, your puppy may whine and even cry uncontrollably. Let him whine till he falls asleep. Coming out to engage him will only encourage this naughty nighttime behavior. Soon he will learn that bedtime means only one thing- sleeping till morning and only coming out for bathroom breaks. If getting a wire or wooden crate or a crate with no enclosures, you may need to cover the crate, especially at night so as to keep your puppy warm. Covering the crate can help some dogs feel safer. Covering also helps to keep the dog under-stimulated at night and undistracted during their daytime naps. It makes them feel calm and relaxed. If however, you find that your puppy gets anxious or stressed remove the cover. Use old towels or bedsheets to cover the sides of the crate. Those tiny pieces of clothes can choke your puppy or cause obstruction. This can be very dangerous not to mention amounting to costly vet bills. You can also use wooden cardboard or specially designed crate covers. Puppies are notoriously playful and would rather spend time with you than in a kennel. If you heed to everything we have taught you and put it into practice consistently, crate training should take you two to three weeks depending on the age of your puppy. So yeah, it is difficult but very doable and rewarding. If not, did you know that crate training your dog can be highly beneficial to both you and your dog? Contrary to popular belief, crating a dog is not a cruel act. In fact, providing a dog with proper crate Pug training is, in actuality, a positive thing. What makes it so positive? The den provided them with shelter and protection. This instinct is still engrained in your Pug. With proper crate training, your Pug will use his crate as his den and be able to totally relax in this special area which is solely his own. When you give your Pug a crate he has a place where he can feel secure. Crate Pug training helps to make housebreaking an easier task. Since a dog does not naturally want to eliminate in his home, he will choose to refrain from doing so until you take him out. When your Pug is effectively crate trained he will bark and chew less, and be provided a safe place to stay when you are not home to keep him out of mischief. A crate is a safe and comfortable place for your dog when traveling. You can also try feeding him in the crate to crate the same effect of making the crate inviting to your pooch. If your Pug is unsure about going into the crate right away to eat his treats or food, first place the treats just outside the door. Once he is comfortable with this, move the food inside the crate. When you are first introducing your Pug to his crate, always praise him when he enters it. Never try to push, pull or get him into the crate by force. Crate your Pug for short periods while you are at home. You will find that he will respond better to the crate when he knows you are still near him. During the first times you start the Pug training with the crate, close him up in his crate and stay where he can see you. As he becomes comfortable with this, take the next step and leave the room for short periods 5 minutes to start then gradually make it longer. When you get your Pug used to your absence while you are still at home, he will not associate being crated with your total absence from the house. How long should I crate my dog? It depends on how old your Pug is. The following are the essential furnishings his crate will need: Toys — two or three favorite or different toys will do IE. Kong, ball, plush toy. Just make sure it is nothing he can choke on. Water — If your Pug will be in his crate for two hours or more, attach a small hamster-style water dispenser to the cage. Fill it with ice water. Bedding — Place a blanket or towel on the floor of the crate so your Pug has a comfy place to lie down. If during the Pug training your puppy eliminates on the towel remove and clean it and do not put it back in the cage until he is properly housebroken. Where Should I keep the crate? Keep the crate in a well used area of your home; essentially wherever you and your family spend the most of your time. This could be the living room, family room, kitchen or hallway near the entrance. They also should not be permitted to play with the dog while he is being crated. It is important that you let your children know how this form of Pug training works. What size crate should I buy? The standard crate size for Pugs is 16in. If you want you can purchase your dog a crate that is one size larger than his recommended size. Your Pug is vomiting or has diarrhea. Your Pug is too young to control his bladder You must leave him alone for longer than is recommended for his age or longer than 5 hours. Your Pug has not eliminated before being crated The temperature is really hot or cold Your Pug has not be exercise properly Never use the crate as a punishment. Pug training in relation to a crate is something that will become easier with time. Be patient and persistent with your pup. The sooner he understands that the crate is his special sanctuary, the less he will reject it. Related Posts. Email One of the most cuddly and sweet yet, stubborn and destructive to stuffs at home is the pug breed. Pug puppies in particular can be quite a handful when not house trained properly. They can gnaw on precious furniture, break valuable decors or, worst, bite or scratch anyone who comes near them. Crate training for pug helps put a lid to their seemingly limitless vigor and minimize some of the difficult aspects of house training. It also makes it easier to bring them along when traveling. So, how does a pug owner go about it? Many pet owners have used this method to control their pugs for either competitive-obedience training or when going to a competition or simply, to house train a new pug. Here are the steps how: 1. Consider the future size of your pug. This dog breed though predominantly small will need a lot of wiggle room due to their hyperactive nature. A puppy, for instance, will need at least a crate that allows it to stand, turn and lie down. While multiple pugs owner go for ones with a divider. Coming in either 1 door or 2-door choices, it features the following 7 sizes— 2XS 22x13x16in , XS 24x18x20in , S 30x19x21in , M 36x23x25 , and L 42x28x30in — to suit your specific requirement. Made from high quality heavy-duty metal construction, this pug crate is built with durability in mind. The plastic pan at the bottom also helps collect waste. Fret-not though as this removable pan can be easily cleaned. Once you have the right size crate, it is time to set it up. Find a space where it is most active and familiar. Some choose less trafficked areas in the household to help alleviate pug anxiety. Others, however, are more liberal-minded by exposing it to where the commotion in a home to keep it attuned to the environment. Allow your pug to get curious with its crate. Like other dog breeds, crate training for pug can make pugs anxious. Allow it to explore then. Aside from the puppy, make sure it has comfortable bedding, chew toys, and clean water. Feed a pug inside its crate. As pugs love to eat, this move will link it to associate being inside the crate as a good thing. Keep the door shut when the pug is eating and then, opening it after feeding time. After a week, place your pug inside the crate and close the door. Now feed some treats to it every 5 minutes through the door. Increate the time of giving treats gradually until such time that the pug keep itself comfortable without you shoving treats every now and then. With you still inside the room, leave it there for 10 minutes max. Now, leave the pug inside the crate with a chew toy and leave the room for at least 5 minutes. Let it out once you are back inside the room. Do not go beyond the three-hour training period of keeping a pug inside its crate. Be reminded that this is a highly sociable dog breed. Keeping them locked up will only make them miserable as well as destructive. Pugs, as well as other dog breeds kept far too long in a crate, can become vicious when crate training becomes extensive. Many find crate training for pub challenging. But being a good housebreaking tool, crates can be truly liberating to you as an owner and beneficial to the pug, too. It keeps them free from outside dangers when you are not around. Crate training also allow them to easily travel without any fuss. All in all, training your pug to stay in a comfortable place like a crate will prevent accidents as well as keep its obedience in check. 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Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs?

If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

You should bathe your puppy about no more than once a month unless necessary. Puppies and adult dogs have natural oils in their coat to prevent their fur from getting brittle or damaged and to keep it soft and silky. Bathing your dog too often can strip away those oils. How often to bathe a puppy will vary from breed to breed. A long-haired dog breed is likely to get tangled or matted fur if they go too long between baths. Frequency of baths may also change from one season to another. Puppies are playful, curious explorers. Puppies should not be bathed until around eight weeks old. A puppy less than eight weeks old might get overheated or too cold during the bathing process. Prior to them being old enough to bathe, try wiping them down with a warm, wet cloth when needed. You can bathe your puppy at home or take them to a groomer or a self-wash station. Groomers often have vaccine requirements as well. Puppy Bathing Checklist When the time comes to bathe your puppy for the first time, make sure you have everything you need on hand, including: Treats. Use puppy treats to reward them for good behavior and to help them associate bath time with things they love. A brush can help remove loose hair and address any tangles. Choose a shampoo made specifically for dogs, as human shampoo is not suitable for their fur. Hair dryer. Use with caution, as puppies can overheat if you hold the dryer too close or for too long. If the loud noise scares your puppy, try rewarding them with treats so it becomes a positive experience. Bathtub, sink or container. Whether you use bathtub, sink or kiddie pool, your puppy will probably splash around or shake water from their fur. So, make sure the surrounding area is suitable for getting wet. Gently brush out their coat. Before bathing them, start brushing your puppy slowly, as this can help them relax. Simple movements with an appropriate brush will also remove dirt and debris from their coat, and alleviate matting and knots. Pick a spot. Sinks are perfect for bathing small puppies. A hose or kiddie pool in the backyard can work for larger breeds in the summer months. Make sure the surface is non-slip with something like a rubber mat to help them feel more secure, then gather all your supplies pre-bath. Don't leave a wet puppy unattended, or you may end up mopping the whole house. Give plenty of praise and the occasional treat. Bath time should be an enjoyable experience for you and your puppy. A great way to make baths something they look forward to is to give them lots of praise and reward any good behavior with treats. Make it fun. Try tossing their favorite toy into the tub, or just give them lots of love and attention. Scrub gently. Gentle scrubbing will wash and massage your puppy while getting them used to being handled. This is also an excellent time to check their skin. Feel all over for lumps and rough areas and call your veterinarian if you find anything suspicious. Rinse well. Just like humans, leftover shampoo can cause dry, itchy, flaky skin. Try to avoid getting water in their ears or eyes. Prepare for the post-bath shake. Dogs dry themselves quite a bit by shaking. Unfortunately, that can mean your puppy is mostly dry, but everything else is soaked. You can try tossing a towel over them and rubbing them dry before they shake. Using a hair dryer on a warm or cool setting can also help speed up the process. Treat time. Reward your puppy for a successful bath by offering them a special treat or fun toy. In this case, using a hairdryer might be necessary. Sometimes, puppies can find hair dryers to be loud, confusing and even a little frightening, so reassure them and reward them for good behavior if they seem to tolerate it well. To get your puppy used to the hair dryer, introduce it from an early age, initially just using the dryer to make noise in the room, before moving towards your puppy while giving them calm and soothing encouragement. Find more valuable puppy health insights and tips from our experts on our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Dog Whisperer Hypoallergenic Puppy Shampoo This puppy shampoo uses vitamin E and Pro-V B5, organic aloe vera, and rosemary leaf extract to create a gentle shampoo that also conditions young coats. It also comes with a waterless shampoo that you can use to freshen up your pup between washes if they do manage to get into some dirty trouble. Like with all things, you will need to train your dog in terms of what is expected of them at bath time. The best approach is to use positive reinforcement training. This means showing them what you want, and then rewarding them when they comply. Each time you bathe them they will have a better understanding of what you need from them. Make sure you have a good space prepared before you get started. You might want to set yourself up inside the shower or outside, as they may make quite a bit of water mess. Make sure the water that you use is lukewarm. Not only will this be less of a shock to them, but it also minimizes the problems relating to cold and regulating body temperature. Get them completely wet, maybe pouring water over them using a cup. Then you are ready to add your chosen shampoo. Rub gently without applying too much pressure. While you want to be thorough and get the shampoo everywhere, avoid the eyes and try not to let the shampoo get into their mouth or ears. When you are done, make sure that you rinse thoroughly as shampoo residue can irritate their skin if left behind. If it is not a leave-in conditioner, make sure to rinse thoroughly again with lukewarm water. Before releasing them into the wild, you will want to get them as dry as possible. A good rub down with their own towel is usually enough to do the trick. The sound of the machine is very likely to scare your dog. You can get special dog hair dryers that are designed to make almost no noise, but unless your dog has a particularly long or thick coat, it is probably not necessary. Try to use the same process every time you bathe your dog, and do it in the same place. Your puppy will find reassurance in the routine. If you choose to bathe them somewhere different every time, it will be much harder for them to associate this bath with their previous bath and repeat the behaviors that they learned. You can find more Labrador retriever grooming tips here. FAQs Can I bathe my puppy once a week? If your puppy leads an active, outdoor lifestyle, you might feel like you want to bathe them as often as once a week. This is fine as long as you use an appropriate shampoo and monitor their coat and skin for reactions. You should only bathe them more than once a week in a mud-related emergency. Why do puppies shiver after a bath? Yep, your puppy is shivering after a bath because they are cold. As the water evaporates off their body, it cools them down significantly. Dogs will shake to remove as much water as possible and warm up more quickly, and a nice toweling down can also help. Should you give a puppy a bath when you bring them home? You might be tempted to give your puppy a bath as soon as you bring them home, but this urge is best resisted. Even if they are already of bathing age, it is better to let them settle in for two weeks before giving them a bath. Changing the scent that they are familiar with can make it more difficult for them to adjust to their new home. Plus, bath time can be a little traumatic, so you should wait until they trust you. Is it OK to let your puppy air dry? It is generally not advised to let your puppy air dry as they are likely to roll around in the grass and dirt in order to dry off and remove any shampoo smell. The result might mean that they need another bath. A good toweling down is usually enough to get your dog sufficiently dry. The biggest challenge for many new pet parents is that they are overzealous in wanting to care for their new canine friends, so they start bathing their puppy too soon and too often. Bathing your puppy too soon can put their health at risk and make it harder for them to settle into their new home. You should also wait at least two weeks after bringing them home before bathing them to make it easier for them to adjust. If you want to freshen them up a bit, best to reach for a brush. Do you have any essential bathing tips for new pups? Share them with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I have a towel fluffing in a warm dryer to wrap them up in when the bath is done. I have a Kool-Dry dryer, which is really nice to use on them, as you can adust the airflow from way low, to blow-a-big dog-off-the-table-high! We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labs have a thick, water-repellent coat that tends to be on the oily side. This coat is designed to keep the Labrador warm and dry even in fridged water conditions. Too frequent bathing can strip the oil from the coat, robbing it of its water-repellent qualities and drying out the skin. So, how often should you bathe your lab? Labradors should be bathed no more than once per month to avoid stripping their coats of natural oils and drying out their skin. If a Labrador spends most of its time inside, then the time between baths may be much longer. Since we advise bathing as infrequently as possible, there are certain things you should do beforehand to get the most out of each bath. Additionally, there are a couple things you want to avoid doing as well. I'll discuss these in detail in this article, and give some tips that will make bathing a piece of cake! In this article Things to do before bathing You won't need to bathe your Lab very often soit is important that you make the most of each bath time by thinking about whatto do before you bathe. Brushing The Labrador's coarse coat is not prone to matting, but it is still important to brush your Labrador's coat in order to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris prior to bathing. Wouldn't you rather your dog's fur end up neatly collected in the garbage bin, rather than clogging up the hair trap in your shower? A self-cleaning slicker brush is a great option for safely removing all of your Labrador's loose hair as well as for distributing the oil throughout your dog's coat. The self-cleaning feature is especially nice for the Labrador's short rough fur, which can be difficult to remove from traditional slicker brushes. Get your dog tired Most Labradors love the water. After all, swimming is what this breed is made for. While it may not be challenging to get your dog into the bath, you may have a hard time getting them to stand still instead of having a blast playing in the water. If you want a more relaxing bathing experience, it's a great idea to thoroughly wear your dog out by taking them for a long run or playing an extended game of fetch before you give them a bath. Clean your Labradors ears Labradors can be prone to dirty ears and ear infections, thanks to their oily skin and the flopped nature of the ears. It is very important to regularly clean your Labrador's ears. This can often be a messy process, as your dog may have a tendency of shaking their head and sending ear cleaner and gunk all over. It's a good idea to take care of ear cleaning before you give your dog a bath so that you can clean off the debris from the ear cleaning as well. Things to avoid before giving your dog a bath It's important to plan out your dog's bathing routine so that you can avoid bathing them at inopportune times. Here are a couple things you want to avoid doing in the days leading up to giving them a bath: Topical flea treatments If you give your dog topical flea treatment, usually by rubbing the medication between the shoulder blades, you should wait at least 24 hours before bathing. Since Labs are large dogs with thick coats, it is advisable to wait at least 48 hours after applying a topical flea treatment before you bathe your dog. Topical anti-itch treatments Unfortunately, many Labradors are prone to itchy skin. If you use a topical anti-itch cream for your dog, it is best to wait until it is nearly time to reapply before bathing so that you don't waste the topical treatment or cause an interaction between the treatment and the shampoo that you are using When should you give a Labrador puppy their first bath? As cuddly and cute as they are, Labrador puppies often find themselves getting in sticky situations. That's right. Sticky, stinky, dirty, wet - you name it. So, naturally, we will want to freshen them up and keep them as cute as possible! But when is it too early to bathe a Lab puppy? Labrador puppies should not be bathed with soap until they are at least 3 months old. Until then, warm water and a rag should be used exclusively. At 3 months, you should use sensitive soap that has been diluted during the first couple of baths to avoid skin irritation. This isn't unique to Labradors, either. The AKC recommends that all puppies follow this gradual approach. Additional guidance is that you should consult your vet to determine if any special soaps should be used. Shampoos for puppies and older Labs For most of their lives, your Labrador will do well with any high-quality shampoo. Since you don't want to strip the oils from their skin any more than necessary, it is best to choose a shampoo designed for sensitive skin. Gentle shampoo is even more important for puppies and older Labs. For your puppy, choose a shampoo made especially for puppies, ideally a shampoo that is formulated with oatmeal. Look for a shampoo that advertises being hypoallergenic and soothing for your dog's skin. It's a good idea to choose a puppy shampoo that has calming herbs such as lavender since it can be stressful as your puppy becomes accustomed to bathing. This shampoo formulated with colloidal oatmeal and lavender is a good choice for tear-free puppy baths. Older dogs Your older Labrador will benefit from an especially sensitive shampoo that moisturizes the skin. Look for a shampoo that is pH balanced so that it doesn't bother sensitive skin. Ingredients like aloe vera help to balance the levels of oil in the skin while cleaning. Avoid anything that contains alcohol or harsh chemicals. This shampoo formulated for sensitive skin which is free of soap and contains ingredients like aloe vera and almond oil to condition your older dog's coat is an excellent choice for the aging Lab. What to use if you don't have shampoo If you find yourself without shampoo when your dog has gotten into something particularly filthy don't panic. Blue Dawn dish soap is a safe and effective way to clean your dog and kill adult fleas. Blue Dawn is quite gentle, but it does contain strong cleansers and should never be used regularly. However, if you find yourself in a pinch, this is a great option. For those who go on camping trips with their Labs, you'll appreciate the ability to clean your camping dishes and your dog with the same soap. Cleaning a Lab's ears It is important for most breeds to maintain clean ears, but for the Labrador, ear cleaning is especially essential. Dogs with floppy ears, such as the Labrador, are more prone to ear infections and other ear diseases than breeds with upright ears or ears that fold over at the tip. The floppy ears paired with a Lab's oily skin means that Labradors are especially prone to ear infections. Ever wonder why Labrador ears are floppy? Don't over clean! It is important to regularly clean your dog's ears to prevent ear infections, but it is also important not to over clean, as this can lead to irritation and infections as well. Therefore, you should only clean your Labrador's ears when they need it. A healthy, clean ear is pink and has no odor. When you notice black or brown dirt or debris building up around the ear or if the ear has a stinky or yeasty smell to it, it is time to clean. Ear cleaners Choose an ear cleaner that is approved by veterinarians, is gentle, and cleans with minimum scrubbing and trauma to your dog's ears. If your dog is very prone to ear infections as many Labradors are, an ear cleaner containing hydrocortisone that is designed to combat bacterial, yeast, and viral infections may be a good option. Fill your dog's ear canal with the cleaner by holding your dog's ear canal open. Spread the cleaner around the ear canal, using your fingers to massage the base of the ear. You should be able to hear the cleaner squishing around the ear. Most dogs have an impulse to shake their heads during this process, so it is a good idea to hold your dog's head firmly while you massage the ear. Next, pour the cleaner out of your dog's ear canal or allow them to shake their head to get it out. Use cotton balls or gauze to firmly wipe the interior of your dog's ear, taking care to get into any crevices. You may need to soak a cotton ball in some more ear cleaner in order to remove any stuck-on debris. How to wash a dog's face Labradors have shorter, softer hair on their face, which means that their faces often seem more oily than the rest of their coat. If you find that your Labrador has an oily face before you're ready to give them a bath, you can use gentle wet wipes made especially for dogs to remove the excess oil and get your Lab's face smelling nice again. When bathing your Lab, take special care when washing the face to make sure that water doesn't get into the ear canals, which can make ear infections more likely. In order to avoid this, pinch the ear canal closed while wetting the face. The best way to dry off your Lab You can dry off your Labrador by rubbing them down with a towel. It's wise to use one towel to soak up most of the moisture and another to vigorously rub the coat and remove the rest of the water. Because Labradors have a water-resistant coat, they tend to shed water after a bath quite easily. Minimizing the wet dog smell Have you noticed that after giving your Labrador a bath they actually smell worse with a strong wet dog smell? The smell will go away as your dog dries, but it may take a couple of hours and leave your house smelling like dog for some time. If you really want to avoid the wet dog smell, try blow-drying your dog after a bath in order to eliminate the last bit of moisture in their coat. Things to watch out for in the days after If this is the first time that you have bathed your dog or if you are switching to a different shampoo, it is especially important to monitor them closely after their bath to make sure they don't have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the shampoo that you used. Look for dry, itchy skin, redness, or signs of lethargy or refusal to eat. Dogs often shed more right after a bath, so it's a good idea to brush your dog again after bathing and continue to brush more frequently for the next day or two until all of the shed hair has gone. Lastly, monitor their ears. Their floppy ears make them more prone to ear infections, so catching any signs of irritation at the onset may save a trip to the vet if you can clean out the ears and keep them dry! Some of the scabs are from rough and tumble sessions, but a lot aren't. We showed it to the vet who said it was quite normal in puppies. They have both been treated with Advocate and there are no signs of mites or fleas We have been using some aloe vera anti itch wipes and today we got some Oatmeal shampoo to soothe dry and itchy skin, and we gave them both a bath. After the initial surprise of being in the bath, they loved it, we massaged the shampoo in and it had to be left on for 3 mins, so we kept massaging and they looked like they were in heaven! Fingers crossed no scratching since. Today we visited a local pet supplier who manufacture their own pet food which we have had recommended to us, and we have got some high quality hypoallergenic puppy food, which has less cereal and more chicken than the Wagg. We will gradually swap them onto this over the next week or two. We rarely did this with our other two as they weren't too keen and rarely needed it, but we would wash them down if they got particularly dirty. Thanks, Lou. Choosing the best products Do Labradors Need Baths? So, when this happens, they will need a bath! This might not be as regular as other breeds who have longer, or curly fur. In fact, many Labrador owners will simply wash their dogs as and when the process is needed, rather than on a set schedule. About the Labrador Coat Labradors have short, dense fur made up of two layers. This means they have relatively low grooming needs compared to many other dogs. But, they are also heavy shedders. Labs will shed moderately all year round, and heavily during their highest shedding periods. Labrador coats are also water resistant, a trait which was very useful in their original days of working alongside fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. So, you must be very thorough when washing them to ensure all of their coat is properly cleaned and dried. By the time your Labrador puppy comes home with you at 8 weeks, some breeders may have already given them their first bath! Puppies have a fear period between 8 and 12 weeks where they should be socialized to new experiences. Bathtime should be included in this process! Labs who experience bath time as puppies will often be much happier with the process as adults! Labrador grooming needs are quite low, and this includes bathtime. Many Labs will easily be able to go months without having a bath. Often, Labrador owners prefer to use their judgement when giving their dog a bath. Since they have such short, easy coats, tangles and knots are rare. You will need to wash your Labrador when this happens. Washing a Labrador too often can strip their fur of these oils. Tips for Bathing a Labrador Adult Labs are large dogs, so washing and drying them can be quite the feat! Here are some tips that should make the entire process a little easier. Prepare all of your products and tools before bringing your Lab in. Enlist the help of someone else if possible! Make sure your Lab is used to baths from a young age. Associate the process with something great, like tasty treats. Dry your Labrador thoroughly for best results, and to avoid wet dog smell! How to Choose the Right Products Having all the right products and tools at your disposal will also make bathing a Labrador easier. So, invest in those before trying to give your Lab a bath. Take your time looking at the different dog shampoos and conditioners available. There are a lot of products out there, but some are better quality than others. You can even get an expert opinion from your local groomers. Tips for keeping your Lab clean The Labrador Coat The Labrador has a double coat which means they have two layers; the topcoat is wiry and abrasive, while the undercoat is softer and lighter. Because they have a double coat, Labradors have minimal grooming needs compared to other breeds. Their coats do not grow long enough to encounter painful knots or tangles and do not require any expensive trips to the groomer for clipping. However, Labradors are heavy shedders, shedding all year round and having a complete blowout twice a year. Regular grooming and bathing can help remove excess fur and make your pet smell cleaner. Do Labradors Need Baths? Bathing followed by grooming can help minimize shedding and help those Labs with allergies. Finally, bathing allows you to look closely at your dog, checking for anything abnormal like lumps or skin infections and fleas, mites and lice. How Often Should a Labrador be Bathed? Bathing your Lab once a month is a good rule of thumb, as bathing too often removes essential oils from the coat. However, if your Lab spends a lot of time outdoors, then it is highly likely they will roll in the mud and dirt, so they may need bathing more frequently. If your Lab continuously gets dirty, you can spray them with lukewarm water from a shower or hose or wipe them with a damp cloth instead of bathing them. Excessive bathing may seem like a good idea to keep your Lab squeaky clean, but it can actually be harmful. Bathing too often strips Labradors of their natural oils, which they need for a healthy skin and coat, and can cause irritation. It also damages hair follicles, increases the risk of fungal and bacterial infections, and interferes with worming and flea treatments while leaving their coat looking dull and unhealthy. How to Bathe a Labrador When bathing a Labrador, you must clean their coat thoroughly and have the right products, so prepare beforehand. By Tom Massey Aug 30, You walk through your front door, and suddenly it hits you: Eau de dog — or, perhaps more familiarly, dog perfume. But in most cases, owners will try to beat the stink before it permeates throughout their living space. On the other hand, infrequent baths can make the scent of a dog linger. As a Labrador owner, you must find a happy medium for bathtime so your pup smells clean and fresh while maintaining its healthy, silky coat. So, how often should you bathe a dog? And more importantly, how do you comfortably bathe a large-sized dog like a Labrador Retriever? Do Labradors Like Water? Most Labs love swimming around in the water. The reason this dog breed enjoys bath time dates back to the history of the Labrador Retriever. In the s, Newfoundlander fishermen bred local working dogs with the Newfoundland breed and created a new dog breed: The St. This breed rapidly increased in popularity due to its innate ability to retrieve items from the water and swim. Later on, through additional breeding efforts, the Labrador Retriever was created. While historians have difficulty pinpointing the exact date of the Labrador breed, we know our water-loving canine friends descended from the since-extinct St. Our beloved canine pal was first introduced to the world with the Labrador name by the Earl of Malmesbury in the midth century. Everyone wanted this loyal, water-resistant, fetching dog to help with their fishing needs. In other words? The frequency in which you need to bathe a lab depends on the amount of time they spend outside and their affinity for dirt. If you have a yellow or white Lab, it will be easy to see dirt on their coat after their latest venture outside. Unless you see them rolling around in the dirt, you might not be able to tell they need a bath until the smell hits you. Typically, a Labrador Retriever should bathe once every four to six weeks. But beware: When it comes to dogs with a double coat like our Labrador friends , overbathing can cause dry skin and remove essential oils from their fur. These oils are vital since they help dogs regulate their body temperature. If you find that your Lab needs baths more frequently than the recommended four- to six-week period, consult with a licensed veterinarian about dog shampoo options. The vet can offer specific gentle shampoo recommendations that help maintain the natural oils while leaving your dog fresh and clean. Waterless baths and wipes can also assist with cleanup in between baths. The Benefits of Bathing a Lab First and foremost, one of the biggest benefits of regular Labrador bathing is eliminating the funky smell of a dirty dog. Benefit 1: Reduces Excessive Shedding from Their Double Coat Labrador Retrievers have a double coat that sheds year-round, with two major shedding seasons ahead of the summer and winter months. A regular bath will help manage the shedding by removing excess hair in a controlled space. When left untreated, dogs can become ill following a tick bite, so Labrador owners should be diligent about brushing and bathing after an extensive time outside in heavy brush. Dogs need to allow humans to touch their paws, ears, legs, and tail without becoming distressed or upset. Bathing Tips for Your Labrador Retriever If bath time feels like a chore for you, know that your dog likely feels the same. After all, some dogs would prefer a mud bath over sudsy bubbles! However, if you begin bathing your dog at a young age, it will slowly become comfortable with bath time. Just be sure that bath time is enjoyable — otherwise, your pup will loathe getting in the tub. In fact, it could even make your loveable, friendly dog wary of strangers in general. Watch for signs that your pup is anxious immediately before or after their visit to the groomer since this could mean you need to find a new shop to visit. The last thing a pet owner needs is a smelly dog that is apprehensive about bathing! Instead, they have growth plates, which are small areas of cartilage that serve as a placeholder until their bone structure grows. In severe cases, this could mean that your dog can develop an uneven limb. If your Labrador puppy slips and falls while trying to jump out of the tub, it could result in a growth plate injury. Image Source When bathtime is over, a ramp can help wet dogs get out of the tub without jumping over the side. Ramps keep dogs from injuring themselves or you — meaning no more bending over and physically picking your large pup out of the tub! Your furry friend will avoid bathing if they remember painful experiences associated with the bath and could develop frequent ear infections from excess soap. And not only will your Lab pup hate bathtime, but residue water can result in ear infections. There are also plenty of tools that help make bathtime easy for dogs and their owners. For example, a detachable showerhead allows free movement around the tub so that you can wash off the suds quickly and efficiently. Doing so will ensure that your dog is eager to take a bath. Labradors especially adore praise and positive attention. The toy should be entertaining and only obtainable during bath time. Presenting your pup with this special bath toy will strengthen their positive association with the tub and keep them occupied while you hose them down. Why is it essential to have an exclusive bath toy? Well, toys that are frequently available lose their appeal after a while. However, if your dog expects to play with a specific toy during bath time, it makes them more likely to hop in the tub. Make sure to provide them with their favorite treat, be it peanut butter or a name-brand dog snack. If this is the case with your Labrador Retriever, you may want to schedule a visit with your local veterinarian because there may be underlying medical issues causing a lingering odor to persist after a bath. Here are some of the most common reasons Labs still hold onto a nasty smell after bath time. Your dog may experience allergies and have grown an intolerance to one of the primary ingredients in its regular food. Reason 2: Compacted Anal Glands If an unpleasant smell lingers following a bath, it might be time to have a veterinarian examine their anal glands. Animals have fluid from their rectum that releases during their bowel movements, but these glands can become impacted for some pets. As plaque builds up, teeth and gum health declines, resulting in an unpleasant smell. Reason 4: Bacterial or Fungal Infections Every dog has a form of healthy yeast on its skin. However, sometimes the yeast can get out of control and cause a nasty fungal infection. An overgrowth of yeast can cause excessive skin issues like irritation, dandruff, thickened skin, or a putrid smell. Bacterial infections are often caused by underlying medical issues like parasites, allergies, or autoimmune diseases. Share on.

What Is A Mini Labradoodle? The difference is that the Labradoodle is mixed with a standard-sized Poodle, not a mini one. Some puppies will have more Lab in them, others will have more Poodle. A distinctive feature of multi-generational puppies is their ringlet coat, which happens to be super soft and almost rug-like. The Mini Labradoodle comes with many coats, either white, tan, black, apricot, caramel, chocolate, red, silver, cream, and grey. It almost sounded like we were naming off desserts for a while. When it comes to Miniature Labradoodles, the options are endless. When compared to its parent breed, the Mini Labradoodle has a heavier body than the Poodle with more muscular forelimbs. It has a more narrow snout and muzzle than the Labrador. As mentioned in the first paragraph the average lifespan of a Mini Labradoodle is 12 — 14 years. More research needs to be done on the distinct illnesses or diseases that could affect this dog. The Labrador, for example, is prone of hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, eye disorders, and cruciate ligament injuries. Poodles, on the other hand, have their set of issues, including patellar luxation a knee injury of sorts , cataracts, sebaceous adenitis, and other skin problems. Mini Labradoodles are the America or, actually, it was the Caribbean islands of dog breeds. This breed can be found in a lot of pop culture memorabilia. Labradoodle Monopoly token Even some of the biggest celebrities in the world have Mini Labradoodles at home. The Prince and Princess of Norway are big fans of this breed. As mentioned above the smallest version of a Mini Labradoodle ranks between 14 — 16 inches 35 — 40cm at the shoulders. But what if a Miniature Labradoodle takes after its Labrador mom or dad? Mini Labradoodles can get as big as 21 — 24 inches 53 — 60cm if there are a lot of Labrador genes mixed in. One size does not fit all. In terms of weight, a smaller Mini Labradoodle will be between 15 — 25 pounds 6 — 11kg. A lager Mini Labradoodle will weigh between 50 — 65 pounds 22 — 29kg. This breed is full of surprises. Is The Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? Want to know a secret? There is no such thing as a non-shedding dog. All dogs shed to some extent. This breed is considered allergy-friendly and hypoallergenic. That being said, we can never promise that you or someone you know will never get a reaction. It could be its saliva or dander. Because their parents are so different in size, temperament, and appearance characteristics, your life as an owner becomes a box of chocolates. The general temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle is silly, playful, and fun. These dogs are a safe choice because they tend to be friendly to everyone. Strange people, strange dogs, cats, babies, toddlers — you name it, they love it. Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule. And it all depends on genetics. If your Mini Labradoodle is more Labrador, it may be wary of strangers. Poodles are more aloof. Labradors are prone to boredom but more playful and sweet. They like to run around and swim. Poodles are smarter and more relaxed around the house. Less active and need less exercise. In China, for example, the first gene-edited dogs from were reported to have muscle enhancements and better running ability, making it optimal for hunting or police applications. They were two Beagles named Hercules and Tiangou. Here are other Poodle and Labrador mixes that qualify as designer dogs. They take after their labrador side and love retrieving items They are loyal and affectionate animals Mini Labradoodles personality and appearance can vary depending on what their parents aspire to be. One thing that you can be sure of is that with the proper training, these highly intelligent animals will do anything that you ask of them. For this reason, they have become a popular choice for service dogs, especially those with vision problems, autism, or other disabilities. Mini Labradoodles with Kids and Other Pets As we mentioned, miniature Labradoodles, are very gentle and loving and therefore very good companions for children. One thing to keep in mind is that despite the fact that they will love your child wholeheartedly, their exuberant personality can occasionally upset smaller children. It is also vitally important that your children understand that dogs just need to be left alone and eat and your child should know to never interfere with their bed or their food. As friendly as miniature Labradoodles are, always err on the side of caution and never leave them unattended with young children. Will you train your mini labradoodle correctly and provide them with a perfect living environment they usually get on very well with any other pet or dog and a happy to interact with any other visiting animals. Mini Labraoodle Care Despite the fact that your miniature Labradoodle will need a bit more TLC than many other dog breeds, this mix still remains undisputedly one of the most popular crosses in the world. Beyond their invincible personalities, miniature labradoodles have become more popular, largely due to their non-shedding hypoallergenic properties. They need much more grooming at a higher rate of frequency than breeds with a straighter or stronger coat. Thankfully, most of this grooming can be done in the comfort of your home Having a miniature labradoodle of a straighter coat which will require less maintenance. Typically, most miniature labradoodles get a light cut every weeks and will be taken to a groomer at least every 3 months for a more detailed inspection and cut. Start by introducing them to the grooming processes like shampooing, as much as possible We also recommend taking them to a professional groomer, as these are usually better equipped and trained to deal with some of the most delicate tangles that can arise in a miniature Labradoodles coat But aside from occasional maintenance, labradoodles are much more comfortable than the vast majority of other breeds. The last thing to do is how long to keep your mini labradoodle coat, it is usually very dependent on the environment your mini Labradoodle lives in and your personal preferences You have to remember that despite the fact that Labradoodles are cuter when they grow long, wavy coats, the longer you let him grow, the more maintenance it will need. Mini Labradoodle Life Expectancy We can expect a healthy miniature Labradoodle to live into their early teens. If you maintain consistency in their diet and keep them fit and healthy chances are they will stay with you and your family for up to 15 years, we even know some to have lived longer. Health issues of the mini Labradoodle Most mixed breed dogs come out healthier than their purebred parents. We can say the same for miniature Labradoodles, but they have a tendency to inherit certain medical conditions, and most often get sick from any of the following issues Eye problems Miniature Labradoodles commonly inherit a predisposition to progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, and other eye conditions common in both Labradors and Poodles. It is easy to spot your Miniature Labradoodle if it develops cataracts, you notice that its brown eyes turn opaque and eventually they stop responding. Unfortunately, contracts lead to blindness in the most serious cases, contracts cause blindness Hip problems Poodles and Labradors and other breeds of large dogs often have problems with their hips. Sadly, your miniature Labradoodle will inherit some of these issues from their parents. Sebaceous adenitis It is not the most common type of dermatitis in dogs. Although it will feel desperate and is difficult to watch, brief seizures rarely damage your dog and are easily controlled with medication. Coat Problems Once the coat on your miniature Labradoodle grows, it will become a very fluffy and warm, but this can easily turn into knots that the nightmare. If you let their hair grow too long, it can act like velcro so it picks up debris, dirt, and dust practically anywhere. Training a Mini Labradoodle A dog with a higher level of intelligence makes your life easier. Many Labradoodles are very easy to train and they mostly take this in by the poodle side of the family. This ability to follow directions makes them an excellent therapeutic guide dog. They have also become increasingly used as companions for people with physical disabilities, depression, autism, and blindness The sooner you can start training, the better. Some puppies are difficult to walk when they are younger due to their social nature. One thing to know about miniature Labradoodles is that you are not going to the best guard dog, as they are overly welcoming to anyone who walks into their house and are far more likely to lick a burglar than bark or bite one. Mini Labradoodle Exercise Needs Before ever considering buying a mini labradoodle, you need to know that they have lots of energy that requires exercise to burn off. Experts say they will need a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise a day. Perhaps this should be used for work or a long walk, and swimming as often as possible to burn off this energy. They are also very social animals, so we should take them to local dog parks, but it is important to keep your miniature labradoodle on a leash is important until you are fully trained. Reasons to buy a Mini Labradoodle An ideal companion for anyone with a physical or emotional disability. Have a fun-loving personality that is infectious Great fun around water as they love to swim Your children will love this cute and popular canine. Anyone in your family suffers from allergies but really wants a pet then they should consider a mini labradoodle Despite their size, they are great running partners Before getting a mini Labradoodle, here are some questions you should ask yourself. How many does it cost to buy and maintain a miniature Labradoodle? Do I have the time and energy to take my mini Labradoodle for long walks? Will all of my family members be dog friendly? Mini Labradoodles are expensive, do I have enough money to pay for vet fees and food? How much time will my mini labradoodle have to spend alone? Has an enclosed backyard large enough for my miniature labradoodle to exercise independently? Mini Labradoodle Price Oddly enough, most well-bred Miniature Labradoodles are often much more expensive than standard Labradoodles. Before buying a pet, never try to cut corners on costs. Always buy your miniature labradoodle from a reputable breeder. This will ensure your puppy has minimal health problems and has a higher likelihood of living a healthy life. If you see a cheap miniature Labradoodle for sale, it is likely that something is wrong with their health, as we rarely find these designer dogs on the scale. Well, this price makes sense when compared to other crossbreeds. When you weight the benefits of watching a new puppy ultimately grow up to be an adult dog in your home against the cost of buying it, it is a small price to pay. Rather than buying a miniature labradoodle from a puppy farm, if you find one, we would like to encourage you to report it to authorities. When you buy from a genuine mini labradoodle breeder you are protecting the bloodlines, ensuring future generations of mini doodles remain happy and healthy. Another factor that you need to consider is the cost of food. As many Labradoodles will require up to two cups of food per day, they will also need intensive exercise and a quality bed. The cost of all of these things will eventually add up. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. January 23, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. These cute little designer dogs can be great family pets and good companions for work-at-home people. They were bred for those who loved the standard Labradoodle but wanted something smaller. This crossbreed is a popular choice for both experienced and new dog owners because of their calm temperament. They get along with other people and dogs and are easy to train. They can be stubborn, but they are very reward-driven. Even someone with allergies can potentially keep this dog. The idea originally started when breeders bred purebred Labrador Retrievers and standard Poodles to make more hypoallergenic dog breeds with Labrador friendliness and intelligence, creating the standard Labradoodle. But as wonderful as Labradoodles are, they can get pretty huge. Both the Labrador and the standard-sized Poodle are pretty big. So reputable breeders started breeding the purebred Labrador Retriever with the purebred Miniature Poodle to make a smaller version: the Mini Labradoodle. These cute little dogs are known for having big personalities despite their smaller bodies. They love their humans and can sometimes be protective of them. They also love running around and playing. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, like their parents, and are very easy to train. They combine the loyalty, intelligence, and easy trainability of the Labrador with the low-shedding, more allergy-friendly coat of the Standard Poodle and Mini Poodle. Vital Statistics Height: inches, highly dependent on parents Weight: pounds, highly dependent on parents Average lifespan: years Energy level: High energy and needs lots of exercise Trainability: Highly intelligent dogs and easily trainable Shedding: Low shedder, high grooming needs History of the Mini Labradoodle Miniature Labradoodles are a relatively new crossbreed. They are believed to have been bred in Australia in the s when a breeder made the first successful cross of a Labrador Retriever and a Mini Poodle. And so, a reputable breeder wanted to mix the Labrador Retriever with a breed having a non-shedding coat. The standard Poodle was the perfect candidate. Both standard Labradoodles and Miniature Labradoodles came along from this need. First, the standard Labradoodle came along. Standard Labradoodles were popular but much too big for some people. So then the Lab was mixed with the Mini Poodle to make a smaller pup. Generally needs .You should have a good decade or so before you have to worry about health problems related to aging. Some dogs may live longer or shorter lives depending on how healthy they are. Lifestyle management can help maximize the time you have with your dog. Be on the lookout for health issues potentially passed down from the parents. Size Miniature Labradoodles are meant to be smaller versions of the Labradoodle. The designer dog mixes the traits of Labrador Retrievers and Toy Poodles to make a smaller dog. Smaller individuals may be around 14 inches tall. That said, the exact size may depend on the characteristics of the parents. These dogs still come from a fairly big breed. Larger individuals may be closer to 24 inches tall. It can be difficult to determine how big a Mini Labradoodle puppy will get until they grow. Weight Smaller Mini Labradoodles may weigh around 10 pounds or more. Again, they may be bigger and heavier depending on the genes inherited from their Lab and Mini Poodle parents. Larger individuals may weigh up to 30 pounds. Coat The Mini Labradoodle is meant to have the Poodle coat, a low-shedding coat that is allergy-friendly. The coat type and color can vary from individual to individual based on the genes of the Poodle parent or Labrador parent. Some coats may have a wool texture, coming from their Poodle genes. These coats require a lot of grooming. Other coats may be a soft, fleece texture. It may be wavy or curly. Some individuals may also have a hairy, straight coat closer to that of Labrador Retrievers rather than a Poodle coat. Color Mini Labradoodles can come in many colors. They may also be single-colored or multi-colored. It depends on the genes they inherit from their very different-looking parents. Mini Labradoodle Temperament and Personality Mini Labradoodles are believed to be the perfect family pet and companion because of their family-friendly characteristics. They are great with kids and other animals and are all-around easy to get along with. That said, they can also be protective of their family. Miniature Labradoodles can get lonely easily, and they do not like being left alone for too long. Leaving them alone for eight hours or more a day may lead to depression, separation anxiety, and the destruction of your furniture. As adorable and friendly as they are, they may not be the best for families that are out of the house all day. As tempting as it can be, avoid overfeeding your Mini Labradoodle with high-fat treats, no matter how much they beg. Like their parent breed, the Labrador, they can get overweight if overfed. Also, keep their age in mind; puppies and senior dogs need different kibbles. Mini Labradoodles and any breed should be kept on a puppy-based kibble until they are a year old to ensure they get the nutrients needed to grow properly. Seniors, meanwhile, may need senior food that helps them get the most nutrients out of their food. As they age, some dogs have trouble getting the nutrients they need from normal kibble and lose weight at an alarming rate. Family Compatibility Mini Labradoodles are great family dogs because of their friendliness. They can get along great with families and other pets. These dogs are also very playful and love family interaction. You can potentially take your Mini Labradoodle on hikes, trips, or errands without too much trouble. Children should also be taught not to be too rough with them, no matter how easygoing they are. No jumping on them, pulling their tails or ears, or chewing on them. Even the gentlest dogs have limits. Mini Labradoodles can get lonely easily and even depressed if left alone for too long. That said, they can suffer from some health conditions passed down from their parent breeds. Some health concerns these dogs may be at risk of are hip dysplasia, obesity, and bloat. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip develops incorrectly as a puppy, causing problems later on. It can cause pain and dysfunction as the dog grows. Over time it can cause problems like arthritis and mobility issues. Obesity is a common problem among Labradors that can be passed down to their Mini Labradoodle children. Therefore, avoiding high-calorie treats and overfeeding them too much is best. Obesity can cause a range of other health problems in the future, like arthritis or joint pain. This is a hereditary disease passed down from Labradoodle parents. Mini Labradoodle puppies are more susceptible if their parents had it. Do not breed your Mini Labradoodle for Mini Labradoodle puppies if they have this disease. Exercise-induced collapse occurs when a dog overexerts itself while exercising. This particular problem is more common among Mini Labradoodles, so keep an eye on them when running around. This can be life-threatening. While your Miniature Labradoodle is running around and exercising, watch for symptoms like a lack of coordination, muscle weakness, or other signs of exhaustion. Make sure they stop and take a break if they seem to be tiring themselves out. Owners should also be careful of diseases like hypothyroidism. In addition, you should clean their ears periodically to avoid ear infections. Mini Labradoodles need consistent grooming and coat care to keep their fur from matting and getting messy. They need to be groomed multiple times a week, at the least. Daily brushing is recommended if possible. These dogs are incredibly active, coming from two very active breeds. They need a good minutes of exercise a day. They enjoy running and need to be able to burn off all that energy. Mini Labradoodle Training The Miniature Labradoodle is considered very easy to train, even for new dog owners. When all else fails, you can pull out a bag of dog treats to get their attention. You should start training early to avoid behavior problems later on. Keep a bag of low-calorie treats handy during the early days of training. Praise good behavior with a treat as soon as it shows desirable behavior. If your Miniature Labradoodle does something wrong, do not lash out at them, as it may worsen things. Punishments like hitting may lead to fear or aggression that would not have existed without it. Instead, redirect them to the right behavior and then reward them. These little guys can be stubborn and set in their ways if you wait too long. They love their humans, but they can also be a bit protective of them. Teaching your Mini Labradoodle puppy early on that other people and animals are safe is a good way to avoid any future problems like growling or lashing out at strangers. Trust me; you do not want to wait until your dog starts getting nervous about new people and animals to start socializing them. Once they start getting antisocial, it gets harder to mingle them. So go ahead and start taking them out and letting strangers give them treats and pets. Do Mini Labradoodles Bark a Lot? Miniature Labradoodles are not known for barking a lot. Depending on the individual, they may occasionally bark at the door or bark while playing. This breed is generally seen as a moderate barker. Any excessive barking can usually be addressed through positive training by rewarding quiet behavior. They may get into trouble and chew things up out of frustration or just get depressed to the point of illness. Never leave a young Mini Labradoodle puppy alone. They may get into something and get themselves hurt. Is the Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? The non-shedding coat of the Miniature Labradoodle is more allergy-friendly than most. They can also be a good choice for those with concerns about allergies. These small to medium designer dogs are intelligent, loyal, and love pleasing their humans, much like their parent breeds. Mini Labradoodles also require consistent attention and will get lonely if you leave them alone for too long. Make sure you have the means to care for any dog you decide to get. Kelly Smeby Kelly Smeby is a freelance writer specializing in pets and animals. She has written several articles about pet health, training, and behavior. Kelly has lived with many types of animals since early childhood. Kelly has also lived with multiple cats, birds, and fish. Kelly currently lives in Florida with a two-year-old Pekingese and a cat and continues to learn new things from them every day. She enjoys learning even more about animal health and behavior and sharing that knowledge with others through writing. She has a strong background in research, business, and writing from her time in college. Kelly hopes to use her experience to help other pet owners who need help understanding their dogs, cats, or other pets. She hopes her work will help promote better understanding between humans and animals. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. Post by: Emily W. These dogs can be described in many ways: wonderful family dogs, great companions, fantastic workout buddies, and a best friend. Since dogs of this breed have quite a bit of energy, they may be a little too much for first-time dog parents, but overall, these dogs can along with nearly everyone. Dogs of this breed can also do well in a multi-pet home, though it is most helpful when your pup is socialized and introduced to their four-legged siblings from a young age. Breed History Labradoodles first made an appearance in the s. Australian dog breeder, Wally Conron, was tasked with creating a guide dog that was more suitable for people with a dog allergy. Having a lower dander count, Poodles were the perfect breed to mix with the friendly and helpful Labrador Retriever, thus began the Labradoodle. Over the years, as Doodle mixes have become increasingly more popular, the Mini Australian Labradoodle came about as a mix between Poodles , Labradors , and Cocker Spaniels. These dogs are unique because they are a mix of three separate breeds, not the usual two. Mini Australian Labradoodles vs. Cockapoos vs. Cockapoos are a mix of two breeds: Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. As you may have already concluded from their name, Aussiedoodles have Australian Shepherd and Poodle parents. Attributes The typical Mini Australian Labradoodle temperament is favorable and easy-going. These are a great middle-of-the-road breed, making them a wonderful choice for most families. However, before adopting one, most pet parents first have some questions about these dogs that they want to be answered. Yes, Mini Australian Labradoodles do shed, though not excessively. With that in mind, how much your dog sheds may be determined by their coat texture: hair, fleece, or wool. Usually, hair will shed the most and wool the least. Are Mini Australian Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? No dog breed is fully hypoallergenic, but some are more allergy-friendly than others , the Mini Australian Labradoodle being one of them. Mini Australian Labradoodles are considered small, typically weighing between pounds and standing around inches at their shoulder. Even though these are the standard measurements for these dogs, there can be variance from one litter to another because they are a mixed breed. Training One of the many fun and rewarding parts of being a dog parent is getting to train your dog. Training can be a rewarding process that is both enjoyable for you and your dog, plus it allows you and your best pal to spend some quality time with one another. Training should begin as early as possible. Whether you adopt your dog at five months of age or five years, you can start training the very day you bring your pal home. Remember to be consistent, patient, never use harsh tones, and provide rewards for a job well done. If you notice that your dog seems to be getting bored during training, it may be helpful to keep sessions on the shorter side, mix up commands, or simply change the environment in which you are training. On top of commands, other essential training items include house training. You may be surprised just how quickly these intelligent dogs can learn, but some Mini Australian Labradoodles may take a little more time than others. For dog parents, crate training is also a valuable resource. Not to mention, whenever your dog is home alone, you can have the peace of mind that they will be secure in their crate, instead of possibly rooting around in the garbage or making confetti out of your couch. Going hand-in-hand with training is socialization. Socialization mainly involves introducing your dog to new people, places, sights, and sounds, so the possibilities are endless. Grooming Keeping your pup well-groomed is a major responsibility of being a dog parent. Helping your pup look their best can also help them feel their best. If they appear dirty, clean the outer ear with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaning solution—never use cotton swabs or clean down into the inner ear. Though their floppy ears are adorable, Mini Australian Labradoodles can be more likely to develop ear infections because of them. Keeping their ears clean and drying them thoroughly after a bath or swim can help reduce infections. If you notice that your dog is prone to getting eye goopies, simply use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away from their eyes gently. Use a new cloth or the opposite corner for each eye. Of course, coat care is an essential grooming item when it comes to Mini Australian Labradoodles. On top of monthly nail trimming and a bath every few months, your pup will also need their hair trimmed every few months. Like nearly all Doodles, their hair will continuously grow, so you can either give them a little trim every so often or do a more drastic haircut a few times a year. Care Caring for a Mini Australian Labradoodle is a rewarding task. Given the care and attention they need, in return, these adorable pups will shower you with unconditional love. Step one of caring for your best pal is to find an outlet for that Mini Australian Labradoodle energy. As a smaller breed, these dogs typically require close to an hour of physical exercise every day. This can be in the form of a walk, hike, jog, or run. Even some off-leash running is a terrific option, as long as your pup is in a securely fenced-in area. On top of exercise, your Mini Australian Labradoodle will also want some playtime every day. Mini Australian Labradoodles are intelligent dogs that enjoy getting the chance to work their minds. Mini Australian Labradoodles are naturally social dogs that prefer to spend time with their family. By exercising and playing with your dog, you are simultaneously providing them with the one-on-one attention they crave and the mental and physical stimulation they need. Providing your dog with a nutritious and age-appropriate diet is crucial to keep them energized and in great health. Too many treats can lead to some unwanted pounds and eventually to obesity. Common Health Issues Mini Australian Labradoodles are relatively healthy dogs, but they are still susceptible to developing health issues. When you first adopt your Mini Australian Labradoodle, it will be necessary to establish them with a local veterinarian. Plus, these appointments can also be beneficial for you. Learn facts about Chihuahuas from Chihuahua history to types of Chihuahuas. See if this fascinating breed is right for you. Their incredible versatility of an easily trainable and adoring temperament as well as their social nature make them a perfect family pet. These beautiful, miniature versions are also commonly referred to as Australian Labradoodles, Mini Labradoos, and Mini Labrapoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is the smaller version of the equally amazing Standard Labradoodle that is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador, both purebred dogs. The standard-sized versions were bred to be guide dogs, and this trait is dominant in Mini Labradoodles as well. This designer breed is a dog of many talents. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and as loving as can be. They can be trained for a myriad of dog jobs, and are quite the athletes when it comes to dog sports. Appearance and Grooming With two very different parent breeds, it can be difficult to know what each puppy will look like. Some litter pups take on more characteristics of the Poodle parent and others take after the Labrador more. Their low-shedding coat may resemble that of a Poodle : long, curly, and thick, or they may have fur that resembles that of a Labrador: short, straight, and dense with color variations of black, brown, chocolate, cream, golden, silver and white. This breed has a double coat which may require daily brushing depending on the thickness. They will also need regularly scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks. The size of Mini Labradoodles can vary quite a bit as well since they are a crossbreed of different-sized dogs. They may be smaller or larger depending on who they take after more. The typical size for these cuties is 14 to 16 inches tall with a weight of 16 to 25 pounds for a full-grown Mini Labradoodle. With both parent breeds being family-friendly, happy-go-lucky breeds, it is no surprise that this puppy will have the same fun-loving nature. Family and Companionship Perfect for families with children of all ages, the Mini Labradoodle is certain to fit in anywhere. This sweet dog will need plenty of love and attention, so staying away for long periods of time is not ideal for the overall emotional health of this breed. Because of their smaller size, they can thrive in all environments, be it a city apartment or in a rural setting with lots of lands. Keep in mind that your puppy will need lots of exercise and play so make sure you have plenty of places to let them run and sniff. Exercise Taking on the energetic tendencies of both parents, the mini Labradoodles are extremely active dogs who enjoy going for walks, running, and even swimming much like the Poodle. Like the Retriever, they love to play and retrieve things. Be prepared to keep them busy and spend at least an hour of active playtime with them each day. They can be pretty active chewers and seekers of mischief, so giving them something to play with is imperative. Training and Socialization Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle parent will not only make this dog super trainable but also a wonderful option for a service or therapy dog. Its natural intuition makes it easily adaptable to people and places. However, it is very important to begin training the moment you bring your mini Labradoodle puppy home. You should start exposing it to new places, people, and other dogs as early as possible. Early socialization is paramount in the overall wellness of this unique breed. They are happy and healthy dogs that have amazing personalities. Our Mini Labradoodle breeders as well as our Puppy Agents interact with these pups daily to ensure they are socialized early and ready for their transition to your home. How big will my Miniature Labradoodle get? They will grow to a height between 21 to 23 inches and weigh between 55 to 80 lbs. What is the life expectancy of a Miniature Labradoodle? The average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. What is the appearance of a Miniature Labradoodle? What is the temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle? They are spirited animals with a zest for adventure. They are full of love and affection and devoted to their humans. They have a playful and sometimes rambunctious side so creating boundaries and providing proper exercise will be important to keep these little ones in shape and out of mischief. Is the Miniature Labradoodle a good choice for first time dog owners? In fact, they are a perfect match for first time dog owners as they are super intelligent and easily trainable. They start learning at a very young age. Should I socialize my Miniature Labradoodle puppy? Though it is always important to socialize your puppy, please do so in safe places until the puppy has received all of its vaccinations. These little ones love people, but can exhibit a protective nature. Proper socialization will bring out the best of their sociable, easy-going temperament. How much exercise will my Miniature Labradoodle require? These are lively little pups with energy to spare they will need to have 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day, including walks and active play. Playtime and mental stimulation such as training exercises and interactive toys are recommended as well. How much food will my Miniature Labradoodle require? This breed is prone to obesity and bloating so proper nutrition must be shown from puppy and throughout adulthood. Because the sizes of these dogs vary so widely so will the amount of food they should get. Talk with your veterinary care provider about getting your little one on the right track. What type of coat does the Miniature Labradoodle have? Miniature Labradoodle coats come in many different colors and textures. They could have a shorter, double Labrador coat or a long, curly Poodle coat. Most of the time they fall somewhere in between while still showcasing those distinctive Poodle curls. What colors are the Miniature Labradoodles? They come in several solid colors including yellow, golden, chocolate, black, blue, brown, gray, and white. How often will my Miniature Labradoodle need to be groomed? This is a fairly high maintenance breed that requires frequent, brushing and regular trimming. They are excellent family pets, especially for active families. They are full of love and devotion and are always up for a new adventure. They do great with children. Is the Miniature Labradoodle hypoallergenic? Though not a fully hypoallergenic, they are a great choice for anyone that suffers from allergens. The AKC does not recognize mixed breeds. Mini Labradoodle Reviews.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to learn how to exhaust a German Shepherd to tire them out so you can stop feeling worn out and stressed? So, how do they do it? They use essential dog skills, which you can learn easily right here. Below, I will show you exactly how to exhaust a German Shepherd even a puppy to not only tire them out… But to calm them down, too. German Shepherds have one of the highest exercise needs and are considered not only athletic but highly intelligent. These two traits, coupled together, make for a breed that may seem hyper and overactive. Some might even refer to their dog as having ADHD. Instead, they probably need a more creative daily routine to help them meet their breed-specific needs. Can you teach your German Shepherd how to be calm? Calm is hard to train a German Shepherd to perform on command. Being calm is a learned behavior that takes time to master and requires daily interaction and ongoing training to perfect. How to Exhaust a German Shepherd Learning how to tire out and exhaust a German Shepherd is a process that you can learn. But it does require time, effort, and grit. Stick with the program for a few months to see the best effects. Your German Shepherd is a well-muscled athlete whose body structure is designed for endurance. Think you can outrun and outdistance your German Shepherd? Never forget that your dog is first and foremost an athlete and must be challenged regularly and exercised in a variety of ways daily. Instead of focusing on walking your German Shepherd, consider all of the options you can introduce to your working breed dog. Follow these steps for a rounded exercise plan: For puppies, let them enjoy off-leash exploration in your yard or use a long line leash in a safe area and encourage them to explore at least 20 minutes daily For adults, try hill walking to increase muscle, or using fallen logs, tree stumps, and other natural obstacles and having your dog move around and jump over them to improve coordination and balance Find a physical game your dog loves, such as tug, and play it for an extra 15 minutes in the morning and evening Offer them mind games, described below, to have them use up their mental energy Find new activities to enjoy together with your German Shepherd, such as backyard agility or dog parkour You can create a breed-based exercise program that includes a variety of physical movements, like the German Shepherd exercise routine found here , to help you learn new exercises that engage your dog. When they master one of the mind games, you can increase the difficulty with a different and harder challenge. Exhausting their mind through mental challenges encourages calm, thoughtful play. Playing mind games also includes: reduces boredom are great for small spaces are perfect for bad weather days increase confidence and problem-solving skills Mental stimulation and mental exercise are best played 2 to 3 times daily for 5 to 10 minutes each session. Add in a mental enrichment session in the morning before you leave for the day and after their last walk to help calm them down for the evening. Wondering what mind games your dog will like? Or, how about learning how to play these fun mind games for German Shepherds to reduce boredom? You can always find new toys your German Shepherd will love for some exciting games together! Step 3: Let them sniff to calm themselves. Are you guilty of pulling your German Shepherd along on their leash outside, rushing them through the routine, and hurrying them along? Did you know that sniffing is exhausting work for your German Shepherd because they have to mentally process the source of the smell? Compared to the meager 5 million olfactory receptors in our human nose, German Shepherds have around million scent receptors source! Sniff to Calm Routine Try adding in more time to simply let your dog sniff and enjoy the smells around them. Try this sniffing routine to help calm a hyper German Shepherd: Set aside at least 15 minutes of your walk for sniffing. You can split this time during the beginning, middle, or end of the walk as you see fit. You can even visit a new path or trail to allow your dog to follow their nose for different scents. If you want to let your dog off-leash to sniff but keep them safe and close, then consider using a long line leash that allows your German Shepherd to sniff around freely while staying safe and nearby. Step 4: Encourage appropriate daily chewing. Chewing is actually beneficial to hyper, overexcited German Shepherds that need to calm down. Kong toys to the rescue! When they become too hyper, focus their attention on the Kong toy. I love to keep multiple stuffed Kong toys in my freezer. Freezing the Kongs increases the time it takes for my German Shepherd to earn her meal, so she stays calmer for longer, and working for her food tires her out. Feed your German Shepherd from a Kong toy for at least 1 of their daily meals to give them an outlet for their hyper energy. This is one of the daily essentials that I use to help exhaust my German Shepherd. Kong toys for German Shepherds are an essential item when tiring out your dog. The guide not only shows the most durable Kong toys, so you spend less money, but also the exact ways to use the Kong to prevent and lessen unwanted behavior issues. If you want an even more chewing variety, then choose from this list of German Shepherd Toys for Bored Chewers. Step 5: Build and practice new tricks and training skills. Or, do they only know their commands inside the house? Do you train your German Shepherd daily? Spend at least 10 minutes a day, preferably broken up into smaller minute fragments spread throughout the day, working on polishing up their old skills and learning new tricks. If you need a refresher on the basics, you can get step-by-step instructions here: German Shepherd beginner obedience at home. Even more tiring for your German Shepherd? Take them to different, safe areas on a leash, work on what they know, and see how well they perform. Start in your home, then try different rooms, in the backyard, front yard, or while on your daily walks. You can then see what you can polish up or add to their skill set. The German Shepherd is a dog built for endurance, athleticism, and tireless work. Every week, you add just a few more minutes of running to your routine. The same is true for trying to tire your German Shepherd through physical exercise alone. What adding more exercise does is simply build a more powerful and athletic German Shepherd. Your German Shepherd is more than a well-oiled athletic machine. Give all their senses a workout to truly tire out your German Shepherd. The best way to exhaust a German Shepherd depends on their age, health, and unique personality. But, as a general rule, you can use the following exercise formula to help you exhaust and tire out your German Shepherd. Adult healthy German Shepherds need a minimum of 60 minutes of physical exercise, but most adult German Shepherds do best with minutes of exercise, split throughout the day. This time should include about 15 to 30 minutes of high-intensity physical activity, such as tug or off-leash running. Also, include at least 15 to 30 minutes of mental activity and brain training, a daily chewing session preferably with a food-filled frozen Kong. And last but definitely NOT least, set aside 15 to 20 minutes of your day or longer to enjoy one-on-one time with your German Shepherd to help them bond with you. Exhausting and tiring out your German Shepherd means a complete and balanced routine that you perform daily over a long period of time. Consider that your German Shepherd puppy might not need you to exhaust them if they seem too hyper and wound up. Puppies need lots of sleep and rest and may act wild, crazy, and uncontrollable when what they really need is a quiet place to rest and get a nap. Always give your puppy the opportunity to find a place where they can rest, away from the bustle of the family. Many German Shepherd puppy owners have had success feeding their dogs a stuffed Kong in their crates or beds when they have a lot of energy, which encourages calmness and helps them to tire while in their resting place. Try giving your hyper German Shepherd puppy a frozen Kong to help with teething and give them an outlet for their hyper energy or a way to help calm themselves and drift off to sleep. Running your puppy while their bones are not fully fused can cause lifelong damage and put them in pain. Your German Shepherd puppy needs the right amount and type of exercise for their age. Examples of good exercise for German Shepherd puppies include: playing with other dogs and puppies of similar energy levels while supervised self-directed play indoors and out in safe areas short walks that gradually lengthen over time, preferably on grass As your puppy grows, you can slowly introduce more activities, such as going up and down stairs, jumping onto soft surfaces, and swimming. Try the following routine when looking for safe exercises for your German Shepherd puppy. The workouts listed in the post work on the essential physical movements your puppy needs to master while protecting his or her soft joints. There are more fun games to tire out your German Shepherd here you might miss out on! A properly stuffed and frozen food-filled Kong can keep a dog busy for minutes or more while tiring out their minds. And puzzle games will provide your German Shepherd with a way to work out when the weather is less than ideal to release some of their energy and improve their problem-solving skills. In other words: Tiring out and calming a German Shepherd requires a healthy balance of both mind and body exercise. Knowing how to exhaust a German Shepherd means thinking smarter, not harder. Spend time not only with physical movements but also with mental enrichment, as well as their innate desire to chew and sniff. While it takes some time to see the benefits of adding these tips into your daily life, the new routine will give you more freedom with your German Shepherd and help prevent annoying behaviors. They might seem tired the first few days, but German Shepherds have extraordinary athletic abilities and are known for their quickness to adapt. The end result of all your running and jogging? A German Shepherd is capable of learning almost anything, even being calm. How awesome is that? Catherine Krasavin, BS Hons. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Engaging in rougher play than usual. Excessive barking, yipping and snarling. Even in hyperactive ways. To stop this bad behavior, curb it as soon as they display it. Try doing it when you come home. If they jump at you, turn away from them. Then walk away. Another scenario to ignore their bad behavior is meal time. You know how it is most of the time. They may knock the bowl out of your hand and scatter food everywhere. Frustrating, right? Use meal times to teach them manners and self-control. As soon as they jump all over you, go back to what you were doing. Ignore them until they calm down. Wait a few seconds, then go back to the dog food. If they display the same behavior, ignore them again and wait until they calm down. If you have reached the part of pouring the food before they jump, put the bowl out of reach. Then go back to what you were doing and ignore them. Repeat until you can give the food without them jumping all over. You can do this for other bad behaviors such as excessive barking. Follow the same steps above. Or, you can teach them to sit and wait for their food. Do this when they have calmed down from jumping and barking. Their meal would serve as their reward. Can you imagine all 80 pounds 36 kilos of them jumping all over you? Your German Shepherd puppy is not far from that. Would it make them hyper again? One of my friends owns a dog named Oreo. She was worried that rewarding Oreo with attention might make the dog jump at her. She tried it on Oreo, and the dog simply looked at her with the tongue out. The dog even calmly lay down for a belly rub. If it worked on this dog, you can try doing it on your own dog. Reward them with attention and see if your dog remains calm. I do not guarantee that they will always remain calm. But if they become hyper in response, go back to tip 1. Aside from attention, you can also reward them with treats. Note: A calm dog is a happy dog. Your dog can do this up to twice a day until they are fully grown. For example, 3-month old pups can take a minute walk. Or you can divide it to walking 10 minutes and fetch 5 minutes. Gradually increase the time while the puppy grows. But as owners found out, not all German Shepherd puppies are the same. How long puppies can walk depends on their limits. Some can do minute walks times a day at 2 months old. Others can only do one minute walk together with other exercises. At first, you can do minute walks twice a day. Or you can add another minute walk. Caution: Do not push puppies too hard at a young age. If they get tired, stop the walk and let them rest. In addition to walks, do short play sessions in the park or mental exercises at home. Then build on these walks and play sessions as your puppy grows. By having a job, hyperactive behavior is slowly eliminated. So their energy is redirected to more productive things. An example is putting away their toys. It might take a few tries. But with the right motivation, German Shepherds will learn it. Remember, they are smart and can learn tricks in a few tries. Another example is playing scent games. German Shepherds are very good at this. So good that police use them to sniff and identify bombs and other dangerous items. Let them prove their skill at home. Hide items such as anise and clove. If you have a yard, you can do it there. If not, right inside the house will do fine. Another job you can give them is carrying things. German Shepherds love to please their owners. So carrying things for you will be a very important job for them. They can learn carrying things through the Fetch Method. Repeat until they pick the item every time. Then reward them. Move a few feet away and have them bring the item to you. Reward them accordingly. Have them carry the item as you walk around the house or outside. Always reward with praises and tasty treats. Or firewood from the shed to the house. Let your German Shepherd carry their own water and treats in a small backpack. The extra weight will help tire them out. Now, different scents have different uses. Rose is good for reducing anxiety. Rosemary, on the other hand, works to reduce tension and fatigue. Lavender and Roman chamomile will work wonders for your hyper German Shepherd. Lavender promotes relaxation and sleep while chamomile puts the mind at ease. Caution: Scents are not applicable to dogs that have allergy to a particular scent. Consult with your yet. Ask your vet for recommendations for ones that can calm a hyper dog. Does music work the same way in dogs? Will they relax once they hear Beethoven or Mozart? Apparently, yes! Particularly ones where they can sing along. This research observed shelter dogs exposed to classical music, heavy metal and altered classical. Dogs exposed to heavy metal display body shaking, suggesting nervousness. Another study has the same findings. This one observed 2 groups of dogs. One group was observed with classical music. The other was observed in silence. The study found out that when exposed to classical music, the dogs were calm. Their stress levels decreased significantly. Not only that. Dogs were in a relaxed state not standing up and not barking while listening to music. But why classical music? The answer lies in the tempo. Music with long, continuous tones beats per minute is relaxing. Think of classical, reggae and soft rock. This was proven to relax dogs. On the other hand, music with short, choppy tones is excitatory. That includes hard rock and heavy metal. These have a faster tempo that caused an increase in anxiety and agitation among dogs. In addition, heavy metal music has loud percussion that can frighten dogs. Some dogs love to chew on shoes all the time. Or they destroy blankets or the fabric of your sofa. This chewing obsession can drive anyone crazy. If your German Shepherd is a puppy, they could be teething. Chewing relieves any pain and discomfort associated with it. On the other hand, older dogs chew to keep their jaws and teeth strong. This is what dogs in the wild do as well. However, it becomes a destructive behavior if they direct it toward inappropriate items. In situations like this, dogs chew out of boredom or frustration. Caution: Do not punish your dog when they chew inappropriate things. Never place them in their crate as punishment. Teaching them what is okay to chew and what is not is one way to solve the problem. Another is to give them toys and chew bones. In doing this, take note of the kind of toy they chew for long periods of time. If they love chew bones, then keep offering those. However, here are a few reminders when your German Shepherd a bone: Give them raw meat bone. Let them chew on it for minutes. Then store it in the refrigerator. Discard bones after 3 or 4 days. Always supervise your dog when chewing a bone. If your German Shepherd is an adult, give them a large bone. They could chip their teeth while chewing. These might cause blockages or damage the intestines. Your German Shepherd needs interaction to avoid boredom. This way, they redirect their energy to productive things. Play can be in the form of physical or mental exercises. Play games such as Frisbee or fetch. Or teach them the shell game. You can also involve members of the family in the games. For instance, you need to go to work. Your German Shepherd has to know that the crate is their safe haven. Such as a punishment. Caution: Leaving your puppy in their crate longer than 6 hours is not advisable. It will only make them anxious. Staying in the crate too long will end up in pent up energy. And once out of the crate, they are bent on releasing that energy. When crate training your puppy, remember these: Ignore them when they cry while in the crate. Wait 20 minutes until they calm down. If they are just starting the training, it may be difficult at first. There are times when they cry in the middle of the night. But this gradually stops when they reach 3 or 4 months old. It is flattering to some extent. That level of attachment says a lot about the time you spend with them. It only becomes a problem when they learn to crave for your attention. To prevent this, let them play on their own for a while. This teaches them not to crave for your attention all the time. German Shepherds are basically tireless furballs. Lack of or insufficient exercise is one reason why they are hyper. Take them walking early in the morning and late at night. Or take short walks throughout the day as long as the weather is good check out tip 4 for more info. They can also socialize and play with other dogs. If you have a lawn, take your puppy out for some games. Play fetch or tug of war. No yard? No problem. There are games you can do inside the house. Swimming is also a fantastic exercise for your puppy. Let them swim in your pool or somewhere that allows dog swimming. Aside from swimming, running will tire them out. However, there are important guidelines when doing this activity. First, make sure your German Shepherd is 15 months old or older. By this time, their bones and muscles are fully developed. Second, ensure that they are trained well. Basic commands such as sit, stay and stop go a long way for their safety. Third, get them a clean bill of health by checking with the vet. Physical exercise and mental stimulation give you a tired, calm dog. German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs. Help them work their brains by giving them mentally stimulating activities. Hide and seek is a fantastic example of this. It promotes physical exercise and reinforces the recall command. To do this, distract your dog long enough for you to hide. You can throw a ball and have your dog run after it. Then find the best spot for hiding and call your pooch. Just look at this adorable German Shepherd looking around the house for the owners: As you can see from the video, the game is an opportunity for an exercise. The dog goes from room to room several times until they find the owner. The dog has to work harder to find where the scent of the hiding owner is. This game is also a nice way to teach your puppy their name. This is mentally stimulating as your dog uses their nose to find each treat. Note: Spend 30 minutes or more for mental exercises. You can also give them interactive toys to keep them busy. You may unknowingly be feeding them with food that has unsafe ingredients. Many dog foods are made with additives, preservatives and colorants. These have no nutritional value at all. If anything, these only make hyperactivity worse. According to an article by canine nutrition expert Dr. Conor Brady , several things answer the question. Many dog foods are made with chemicals to make them last longer. These are not safe. Another reason is the high dose sugar and low dose protein. High dose sugar can spike blood sugar in humans. Imagine what it can do to a dog. In addition, dog foods contain only the minimum amount of protein. Why is this so, when protein is the building block for serotonin and dopamine? Serotonin and dopamine are the happy and calming chemicals. Lastly, dog foods contain low levels of vitamin B complex. This is responsible for energy levels and behavior. Also, B complex contains vitamin B6, which produces dopamine. Of course, you need to teach your puppy first to love riding a car. Then switch off the engine. Do this until your dog becomes comfortable riding a car. This is also a huge opportunity to mentally stimulate them and tire them out. During a ride, there are a lot of things for them to process. New smells, new faces. This could be a whole new experience altogether. You can drive to new places where you can run, walk or just explore. And by the time you get back home, your German Shepherd is hopefully spent. Because your dog is only a puppy, avoid exposing them to dog parks immediately. Some dog diseases are highly contagious, such as parvovirus. Also, dog parks are open to all dogs of breeds, sizes and temperaments. Some dogs could be rough or simply violent. This could lead to a traumatizing experience for your puppy. Caution: Ensure that socialization is a fun experience. But take them out of situations that frighten them. What you can do, though, is to slowly introduce your dog to others. If not, then perhaps a neighbor or a friend has a dog your puppy can meet. Arrange playdates if possible. Or barking right in their face. One way to prevent this is to instill some manners in them. Teach them impulse control. Impulse control teaches your dog how to engage with you. That is, without lunging, nipping or excessive barking. Make them sit before you open the door or clipping the leash. Before you give them dinner, wait for them to sit. And when they do just that, reward them with what they want. They will associate sitting with getting what they want. In a big way, this teaches them to calm down before they can have the good stuff. Remember to be consistent on your part. It comforts them. So when you have to leave, give them something such as a used shirt. When they are alone, having your smell will feel as though you are with them. For your puppy, the stinkier, the better. Some days going outside for walks or runs is not permissible. Puzzle toys will keep your German Shepherd busy and entertained. The only downside is that they will tire of it after they have figured out how it works. That will get them through obedience training. That way, it can prevent behavioral problems later on. This was exactly what this research found out. It studied dogs divided into 4 groups: puppy class, puppy party, adult class and no class. The puppy and adult classes underwent an hour of training each week for 6 weeks. The other 2 groups did not undergo formal training. The findings showed that the groups that attended training responded well to commands. The puppy class group also showed positive responses to strangers. The study concluded that this could prevent behavioral problems such as disobedience or fear of strangers. That being said, spend at least 30 minutes each day for their training. Train them young starting with basic commands. These are useful commands that you can use at home or when outside. Also, get them busy with leash and off-leash training. This is particularly useful for when you are taking walks or running. Think agility, flyball or disc dog. Getting involved together in sports can strengthen your bond. In addition, these sports provide physical and mental exercise at the same time. A word of caution, though. Formal training can be expensive and time-consuming. But if you do, you can do the sports for fun. Daily running, check. Puzzles and toys, check. Most of the time, exercises, training and activities solve the problem. But if your German Shepherd is still hyper, it could be a medical condition. So check with your vet because the problem could be thyroid dysfunction, allergies and even ADHD. Yes, you read that right. ADHD is common in human children. Apparently, the same symptoms could be seen in hyper dogs. One study in found out that social and physical factors were associated with ADHD-like behavior. ADHD-like behavior refers to inattention and increased motor activity. The social factors mentioned were: Number of social contacts. The duration of the period of separation. On the other hand, the physical factors were: Frequency and duration of walking. The amount of playtime as puppies. For your peace of mind, have your vet run tests to rule out any problems. Either way, it will help toward calming your German Shepherd. Some owners and dogs thrive on routine. For instance, your German Shepherd eats their breakfast at 6am and 6pm. On the other hand, structure is for people who dislike strict schedules. You can set a schedule for activities without being strict about the time. For instance, your dog knows you will take them for a morning walk when you wake up. And not necessarily at 6am. This is great for days when you feel like sleeping in. Take some time to reflect on yourself. There could be problems at work or other stressors that keep you agitated. Without you knowing, all these reflect on your body language and tone of voice. You reflect energy that your dog catches on. One can easily give in to frustrations when training a puppy. But yelling and punishment will only make your puppy more hyper. Also, be consistent. Stick to the rules you set for your hyper German Shepherd. So fixing it will not happen overnight either. But committing to do the right thing will get your dog to the result you want. Related posts:. Mar 10, German shepherd dogs are an active breed. If you live with one, you know what we mean. As working dogs, they are high energy and have lots of brain power, too. And even then, as long as they have the ability, they still love to have fun and play well into their senior years. Since German shepherds were bred to work all day, they have lots of stamina. Built for herding and guarding livestock, they have plenty of energy to burn. They can easily get destructive, frustrated, develop anxieties, and even get depressed. Bored German shepherds are unfulfilled, unhappy dogs. The age a German shepherd begins to slow down is unique to the individual dog. The energy level expended in these sessions will lessen as the dog ages, their physical condition declines, or they develop orthopedic problems, etc. By the time a German shepherd reaches 8 — 10 years old, they are usually content to play, roam around the yard, go for a short walk, enjoy the outdoors, or go for a car ride. Taking them out for several short sessions several times a day is better than 1 — 2 long sessions. Some experts suggest exercising your puppy 5 minutes for each month of age several times per day. So, if your puppy is 4 months old, you would go for a minute walk several times a day rather than one power walk for an hour. Training Training your puppy will also help tire them out. You can also burn off energy by reinforcing training throughout the day. By doing things like having your puppy sit and wait for food, sit at the door before they go outside, or sit before you hand them a toy, you can work in the type of training that will also help calm them down. By exposing your puppy to new people, places, scents, noises, and animals, you will help them grow up into a confident dog that is free from fear and anxiety while burning up some of that puppy energy. Things like stuffed Kongs, puzzle toys, chew toys, snuffle mats, games, problem-solving like finding treats , scented toys, and more are all fun and help burn off steam so they can relax. Teach your Puppy to Relax or Settle Down Did you know you can also teach your puppy to relax and settle down? But, at the end of the day, your puppy can learn to chill out for a while. You can do this by marking calm behavior with a verbal command. Other tips for calming a high-energy puppy include: Crate training Confining to an exercise pen Mental games, such as sniffing and finding things Treat dispensing toys Switching out toys Calming the environment To recap, German shepherds, are working dogs that have lots of energy. They will be active from the day they come home and remain so well into their adult years years old. The age they begin to slow down depends upon the dog, their overall health, breeding, drive, etc. You can expect your adult dog to start becoming calmer around 6 years old. But even senior dogs continue to enjoy activities that they are physically able to do. After all those needs are met, you can teach your puppy how to relax and be calm. We hope you found this information helpful. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. I will try to mention as many as I can below. Exercise German Shepherds are a breed that was bred to do intensive tasks for hours on a daily basis. If you think that your German Shepherd is not currently getting enough exercise then one of the first things for you to do would be to make sure that it does. You might not think that giving your German Shepherd more exercise will make it behave more calmly but it can actually make a big difference to its behavior. Related post: Ways to exercise your German Shepherd. Attention Another cause of its hyperactivity could be that it is looking for attention. If you think that this might be the case then you could try ignoring it when it is trying to get your attention by acting hyper and then rewarding it with your attention when it is being well behaved. Boredom It could be that your German Shepherd is hyper because it is bored. This is again due to all of the new things going on around it. You have been encouraging it It could be that you have been inadvertently encouraging the behavior by giving it things that it wants like food or attention in order to get it to calm down. Separation anxiety The cause of the hyperactivity could be due to it having separation anxiety. This is where it does not like being left without you and it can cause it to become anxious. Related post: Why is my German Shepherd so anxious? A lack of training If you have not been giving your German Shepherd much training then it could be the reason that it acts hyper. Consult with your vet if you think that this might be the cause. How to stop it from being hyper Below are some things you can do to get your German Shepherd to be less hyper. Train it To get your German Shepherd to stop being hyper you can give it lots of training. Start by teaching it to do simple things such as to sit and stay in an environment like the home where there are not many external distractions. Once you can get it to do that you can build up to teaching it harder things such as to come to you on command. If you would like some more tips on how to train your German Shepherd, take a look at the German Shepherd training book on Amazon. You can watch the video below for advice on training hyper dogs. Another way is to teach it to play fetch. By doing so you will be able to get your German Shepherd to do a lot of running over a short time period that will be more likely to effectively wear it out. You could also teach it to swim. There are apps that you can download now that will let you hire a dog walker in your area through the app. So, you should be careful not to reward it when it is acting hyper. Instead, you can try ignoring the hyperactivity if you can and then reward it when it is being well behaved. Calming chews There are chews that you can buy that are designed to calm your German Shepherd down. This is something that you might want to try. Instead, you should train it to behave a certain way in specific situations and stick to training it over the long term. If you just train your German Shepherd once and then stop training it for a while then it will forget its training. Use positive reinforcement If you punish your German Shepherd for acting hyper then it will likely think that you are punishing it for the last thing that it did which is coming to you. A better alternative would be to use positive reinforcement training where you reward your German Shepherd for behaving the way that you want it to. Related questions Will my German Shepherd stop being hyper? If your German Shepherd is still young then it will likely stop being hyper as it gets older. But, in order to get your German Shepherd to calm down the best thing that you can do is to give it lots of training and to give it regular exercise. Why is my German Shepherd hyper all of a sudden? If your German Shepherd has started to be hyper suddenly then it could indicate that something is wrong and you should consult with a vet. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. If a hyper dog gives you anxiety, it could make your dog even more agitated. Some of the things you can do to signal your calm demeanor are as follows: Lower your voice — Speaking in a low baritone makes your calmness more noticeable to a German Shepherd. Minimize physical movement — Do not wave your arms or move too much when getting your GSD to calm down. Your physical stillness can inspire internal peace in your dog. The goal of you being calm and showing it to your German Shepherd is to get him to control the excess energy. But if you do this step right, step 2 will be safer. In either case, your dog is not in an ideal state to exercise around the public. As long as you have a backyard, you can let the German Shepherd Dog run around, exhaust at least some of his pent-up energy, and then take him on a long walk. But if you have the German Shepherd as an apartment dog and neglect his exercise, getting him to calm down safely can be rough. Look into getting him a physically engaging dog toy and let him play with it while you sit next to him, calm as a cucumber. Do Not Reward Hyper Behavior German Shepherd puppies are cute and manageable, making owners inadvertently condition them to be hyper. When you come back home, your dog is likely to be excited. Your puppy might jump on you, and you might pat him. This transaction rewards the dog for being hyper, reinforcing the behavior. And as the puppy grows, you have to reckon with the consequences of having a large dog trained to be over-energetic. Treat your German Shepherd puppy as a fully grown large dog when setting boundaries. And regardless of whether your GSD is a puppy or an adult, you can always start holding back on rewarding behavior when the dog is hyper. Usually, attention is the unintentional reward humans give when a dog is hyper. To avoid rewarding a German Shepherd for being too energetic, you should ignore him when he starts acting up. Reward the Dog With Attention For Being Calm If you ignore your German Shepherd unless he is barking or displaying hyper behavior, you might unintentionally incentivize him to be more excitable. Even negative attention can be satisfying to a GSD that is usually ignored. And when a large dog crosses a certain threshold of hyperactivity, you cannot afford to ignore it. When All Else Fails: Use Calming Products As mentioned earlier, rewarding the dog while progressively getting calmer can instill the importance of being relaxed in your canine. If all of the previous natural techniques fail, you can try calming products. Usually, these products are meant to help the dog feel less anxious around loud noises like thunder or fireworks or help with separation anxiety and travel sickness. Some of the most effective calming products on Amazon for GSDs are: Zesty Paws Calming Dog Chews — Calming chews work unbelievably on German Shepherds because they have over 40x the scent perception capacity as humans. These soft chews help with hyperactive and aggressive behavior. It releases oxytocin and helps the dog calm down when it is anxious. This study of 32 dogs found that aromatherapy diffused lavender odor for canine travel-induced excitement calmed the dogs down. Speak with a low baritone voice and drawn-out words to soothe the dog and reward him for calming down. You may use products like a calming jacket, scent, or calming chews if needed. Above all, the most healthy way to calm your GSD is to spend time with him and give him plenty of exercise to exhaust that excess energy. They are most commonly brought home from a breeder at the age of 8 weeks to 6 months. This is also the juvenile stage when they start acquiring negative or positive habits. German Shepherd puppies can be hyper because of the following reasons: Lack of Exercise German Shepherds were bred to carry out tasks that require a lot of energy, such as herding. Therefore they need exercise to stimulate them. Puppies are always full of energy and therefore tend to run all over the place. They are also naturally built as strong, athletic dogs, and hence require a lot of exercise. Rewarding Bad Behavior When your German Shepherd puppy is hyper, giving them what they want, such as attention or food, to calm them down, encourages bad behavior. The puppy learns that to get what they want, they have to exhibit excited behavior. Boredom Hyperactivity in German Shepherd puppies can result from boredom. In most cases, dogs are left home alone as parents go to work and children go to school. An untrained puppy will end up re-arranging the house and not like an interior decorator! Lack of Training A German Shepherd puppy may act hyper if she is not properly trained. Therefore, regular training is essential to teach your GSD puppy discipline from a young age. This will help your puppy to know the difference between playtime and when to listen. Feeding the Wrong Food Dog owners tend to be overly kind to their puppies and may share food with them. However, certain foods may lead to their hyperactivity. Apart from causing hyperactivity, some of these foods, like chocolate , can be toxic to puppies leading to illness or death. If you are uncertain about what to feed and what not to feed your German Shepherd puppy , consult your vet. Separation Anxiety German Shepherd puppies often suffer from separation anxiety when their owners leave for business trips or vacations without them. This can also happen when the owner simply leaves for the day to go to work. They can express themselves by being destructive or peeing in the house while you are away. Getting Wet German Shepherd puppies who run around outdoors, just like a child, have to be bathed. This dryer comes with adjustable heat settings, a wide selection of air speeds, and a great warranty to boot. How to Calm Your German Shepherd Puppy As much as you love your puppy, all the hyperactivity and destruction can be overwhelming. The following are ways to calm a German Shepherd puppy. Properly Train Your Puppy Training enables your puppy to obey your commands. While you can train a German Shepherd to follow complex commands, only the basics are necessary. Make sure to always train your puppy in an area where there are few distractions, such as in your home or yard, and then progress to more distracting environments. This slow acclimation will also help to properly socialize your German Shepherd , which is essential for your puppy to grow in to a well-adjusted adult. When giving commands to your puppy, be sure to use an authoritative voice and issue them in a slow-low pitched voice. High-pitched commands which are spoken rapidly will only serve to over-excite your puppy. Below is a YouTube video showing you some simple and effective ways to train your German Shepherd puppy: Give Your Puppy Enough Exercise German Shepherds have more energy than most other breeds, and walking by itself as exercise will not be enough to keep excess energy at bay. Playing games such as fetch, going for runs, walking on hilly areas, and teaching your puppy to swim are healthy ways to wear your puppy out and curb hyperactivity. If you do not have adequate time to exercise your German Shepherd puppy, consider getting a dog walker. Did you know that German Shepherds are great frisbee dogs? This fact escapes most GSD owners, and because of this they often miss out on some great fun to be had with their dogs! Read this great article all about German Shepherds and their ability to play frisbee. Socialize Your Puppy As we mentioned above, a great way to calm your puppy is by regularly socializing her with other puppies, adult dogs, as well as other people and animals in general. Socializing your puppy will tire her out both physically and mentally, while at the same time making her the well-adjusted dog that you want her to be. This is because your German Shepherd puppy will learn that to be rewarded, she will have to behave appropriately, and that bad behavior will only result in being ignored. Aromatherapy Essential oils such as vanilla, ylang-ylang, lavender, sweet orange, and chamomile can be soothing to your dog. Test some of these on your German Shepherd puppy to see which one works best. For more information on aromatherapy and its benefits and potential harmful effects on dogs, check out this great article below: Is Aromatherapy Bad for Dogs? Setting up a good routine for your puppy is your responsibility. Make sure to not feed her too late at night, and always make sure that your puppy gets at least a moderately long walk before bed. A useful practice is putting food in a dog toy when your puppy becomes hyper. This will enable her to shift focus from hyperactivity to concentration. One great toy for this is a Kong Treat Dispensing Toy. This toy is designed to be filled with any number of goodies, and will keep your GSD puppy occupied for a long time! Some great examples of treats that you can put into a Kong are: frozen mashed banana and yogurt mashed potatoes and rice frozen Xylitol free peanut butter pureed and frozen watermelon and strawberries pureed and frozen turkey and cranberry mixture Essentially, if you can dream it, and it is safe for your puppy, you can stuff it into a Kong and keep your puppy occupied. Additionally, there are a number of other treat dispensing puzzle toys that will work to accomplish the same goal of reducing hyperactivity in your puppy while increasing mental focus. Stay Calm Reducing hyperactivity in you German Shepherd puppy begins with you. Puppies pick up on the energy you put out. If you become excited around them, they will copy you and start running around or barking loudly. To them, they are doing nothing wrong. In fact, a puppy will think that it is doing a great job by imitating you, the pack leader. So it is important that you set a good example for your puppy through your own behavior. It will take time to train and calm your German Shepherd pup because they are naturally energetic, strong, and athletic dogs — they love activity! Always use positive reinforcement as opposed to punishing your German Shepherd puppy. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are loyal, courageous, make excellent guard dogs, and bred as herders. German Shepherd puppies are generally hyperactive from the age of 3 months to 3 years. Later on, they become more mature and calm. Training puppies from 8 weeks to 6 months enables them to acquire and retain positive habits. Dog owners need to properly socialize their puppies, play with them, and use toys not only to challenge them mentally but also to require their full concentration, thus reducing their hyperactivity. Consistent training is also essential. If you are unable to do this on your own, we strongly suggest reaching out to a professional dog trainer. This will be a great long-term investment, and save you the difficult task of teaching an old dog new tricks.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! The neck should be solid; shoulders should be well muscled and well defined. Elbows should be in line with the dog's shoulders and feet. The musculature is not extreme or bulging as to allow for agility, quickness and endurance. The coat is coarse with slight feathering on backs of hind legs. Black-only pigmentation and spotting is found on the skin, around the eyes, on the nose and lips and the genitalia. The head is square with noticeable or moderate stop. Supra-orbital arches pronounced with a center crease between the eyes to the back of the head. Bite: Scissor, reverse scissor to 1" under at most. The ears are rolled or flapped. The eyes can be any shade of brown, amber okay; blue is considered a fault in the breed. The feet are round and compact with noticeable webbing between toes. When the tail is not docked, it is thick at the base and feathered at the end. Temperament The White English Bulldog is a family and livestock protection dog. It is a controller and retriever of the roughest livestock, even in wetlands. It suffices as an all-around hunter from treeing squirrels to bears. A very old and extremely rare breed in its true form, the WEB is a medium to large dog bred as an all-around farm and stock dog, specifically for protection of such. It is loyal and fiercely protective of its master, the master's family, property, livestock and especially the children. As with all dogs, be sure you are this dog's true pack leader , and it will be submissive to its handlers. The WEB is not bred to be a hunting dog, though it suffices adequately. Height, Weight Height: Females 20 - 24 inches 51 - 70 cm Males 21 - 25 inches 53 - 63 cm Weight: Females: 55 - 85 pounds 25 - 39 kg Males 65 - pounds .Living Conditions Living conditions are described as those for a farm dog: large, open areas with free run. Most do not do well in kennels or indoors. These dogs need to work and perform their duties. Exercise Needs a job to do. If the dog is in between jobs, for example, between hunting seasons, it needs to be taken for at least a long daily walk. Life Expectancy. These heritable health issues have not decreased the popularity of the breed. Potential owners should be prepared for the cost associated with treating English Bulldog health problems. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome Breeding to enhance the distinctive upturned and flat face of English Bulldogs has resulted in the leading cause of their illness and potential death. This is known as Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. Scientists believe that all English Bulldogs are impacted by this disorder to some extent. This leads to snoring, over heating, loud breathing, difficult or rapid breathing, and even sudden death. Life for brachycephalic dogs is generally uncomfortable, even when at rest. They will even try to sleep sitting up in order to breathe better. Corktail A curly or screw-shaped tail formation on an English Bulldog presents two major concerns. These are hygiene and spinal deformities. Similar to deep skin wrinkles, the screw tail must be kept very clean and dry. The curly tail can trap feces and dirt, leading to irritation and infection. Beyond the dirty work, English Bulldogs with screw tails are at risk of misshapen spinal bones. It may also be difficult for the English Bulldog to groom himself or he may experience pain. Surgery can correct spinal compression. If possible, be sure to check if either parent suffered from this affliction because it may be passed down. This goes for any dog with white coloration, The light coloration allows UV rays to reach the skin more easily. Short hairs exacerbate this risk further. This results in sunburn. You should apply pet-friendly sunscreen to a white English Bulldog when spending prolonged periods of time outdoors. You should avoid dog walking on sunny days anyway. It can exacerbate their breathing problems. This means that improving the health of the breed will be difficult. Hope is not completely lost for this beloved breed. Breeders, veterinarians, and scientists are working together to help the English Bulldog breed may make a healthy recovery. Be sure to check credentials and reviews to ensure you are supporting healthy bulldog breeding! These dogs had large heads and powerful jaws. Not to mention a cantankerous temper. This vicious sport was outlawed in the s. Then, they were bred to be companion animals. These days, English Bulldogs are greatly admired for being friendly and agreeable. All-white coloration is a standard variation of the breed. As a result, you can expect a dog as outgoing, gentle, and courageous as their marked or multicolored counterparts. As with any pet, socialization and training are vital. This will ensure your white English Bulldog remains a good-natured companion. White English Bulldog Grooming The sleek and smooth coat of a white English Bulldog should be groomed two to three times per week. Grooming is best done with a soft-brush. Be aware that an English Bulldog sheds regularly. This will ensure the skin is dry and clean. Trapped moisture or food particles can cause skin infection or irritation. Baby powder or cornstarch absorbs moisture after cleaning. If an English Bulldog has a twisted tail, the area under the tail needs to be clean and dry. This goes for the wrinkles too. Activities for English Bulldogs English bulldogs can be mistaken for lazy animals. This is due to their overall laid back nature. While they are happy to relax, they also enjoy walks and play. Regular activity along with a moderate diet will help them keep a healthy weight. Heavy exercise should be avoided on hot days. The short English Bulldog muzzle can cause breathing issues. Certainly, climbing stairs can be challenging, especially for English Bulldog puppies. Their front-heavy build can set them off-balance. As a result, they may fall down stairs. Helping puppies learn proper stair descents, as well as supervision, can prevent falls. These dogs are very happy to splash around in shallow water. However, deep pools are a different story. Heavy breathing can cause rapid inhalation of water. This may result in drowning. These are shared with their colorful counterparts. The potential in White English Bulldogs for deafness is there however. The health problems every English Bulldog faces gives them a short and uncomfortable lifespan compared with the average dog. Therefore, we recommend rescuing an older English Bulldog if your heart is set. In addition, you can give a dog in need a new lease on life by rescuing or adopting. Have you got an English Bulldog? Let us know in the comments! Take a look below.