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miniature poodle puppy feeding chart - They usually come in a medium gray color accented with black-tipped guard hairs and light silver accents. The origins of the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog are heavily influenced by their parent breeds; however, there is no exact date or location where the hybrid was born. One theory is that it was the result of a mating between German Shepherds and Norwegian Elkhounds by breeders who wanted to create a dog that has the hunting skills of the Elkhound and the work ethic of the German Shepherd. However, some dog experts believe that the creation of this hybrid breed was not intentional. Rather, they say it was an accident due to both breeds having similar characteristics and appearing to be very similar physically. He wanted to create a working dog that would have intelligence and loyalty like no other to herd livestock and protect them. So he crossbred various working sheepdogs from rural Germany eventually came up with his favorite type. It is from this organization that the breed got their name. The German Shepherd Breed Standard was also established in , which describes a dog that is very athletic and muscular, has a keen intellect, is able to work hard for hours on end without getting tired, and possesses high energy levels. Since then, they have only become more popular with time! If you need a great family dog, then yes, a German Shepherd is definitely one of the best options. Usually, they get along well with children and some smaller pets while being wary of strangers. Compared to other dogs, they can also be trained relatively easily. Although it will take some effort on your part, you will eventually find that a German Shepherd is a big dog capable of doing many things — from hunting to herding your children to sleeping by your feet at night. Norwegian Elkhound History A Norwegian Elkhound was originally bred in Norway in after the Norwegian Hunters Association held its first dog show, and it is believed that these dogs existed long before then. Furthermore, based on historical records, it is believed that the Norwegian Elkhound has been used in war since at least years ago! Because of their skills when defending and hunting, which makes them an excellent guard dog. These ancient working dogs are a very intelligent and loyal breed that loves to work hard with their owner. The Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a body that is on the slim side but has a muscular build. Their coloring is usually medium gray, and they have black-tipped guard hairs and light silver accents. Their ear tips and tail tip are usually black as well. Their eyes are normally dark brown, while the forehead usually comes in a lighter gray color. They also have medium-sized ears which need to be carried up and close to their head, pointing slightly forward with rounded tips towards the top of their skull. Their head is broad and wedge-shaped with a strong muzzle, a defined stop, and a black nose. Their tail is moderate in length and is tightly curled. It has strong bones and a well-muscled body that gives them great speed while running but also makes them agile enough to make sharp turns while doing so. Key Characteristics of Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd Mix Dog lovers who are interested in getting a Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog should know that there are many defining characteristics of both the parent breeds. Here are some of the key differences: Size Their height and weight can vary greatly since there is no breed standard for this Norwegian Elkhound mix. Based on the parent dogs, the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized dog that typically weighs around 48 to 90 pounds. Their height usually ranges from 20 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Size can also vary depending on whether you are talking about a male or female in the Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd. Female dogs are always smaller than their male counterparts, and this can also be determined based on genetics. Temparement and Personality The Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are a loyal and intelligent breed that has a zest for life. They are an agile, playful, and active dog who can do everything from hunting to herding your children. Generally, they are a very friendly dog and tend to get along with all people, other dogs, and even cats. They can be protective of their family or property if need be; however, once they realize you are a friend, they will welcome you with open paws! Although this dog is usually friendly, they can also have moments where aggression is displayed. Thus dog owners need to understand that this is a very protective breed of dog, and they need to be socialized from an early age to avoid problems later on down the road. Their temperament is affected by many factors, such as their upbringing, how they were trained, and the experiences they have had in life. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd puppies with nice temperaments will be eager to meet new people, and their tails will likely wag after meeting someone. You should also have an opportunity to visit the home environment so you can see how the puppies are raised and how they interact with both people and other animals. They can be solid black, gray, white, silver, and tan. Both parent breeds have a thick, double coat, so you can expect the same thing from this mixed breed. Providing your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd does come with a double coat; know that they shed twice a year heavily when their coats grow in and out. As for their bathing needs, this dog does not need to be bathed more than once a month. Trim nails when they start to get too long. Also, be careful about their ears. Their ears should be cleaned and checked ideally once a week for redness or bad odor. Using cotton balls, clean the inside of the ears and wipe away any excess dirt. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. However, this mixed breed should be monitored closely because they are prone to weight gain when not fed properly. The amount of calories depends on the size of your dog. It may also depend on whether you have a male or female, but either way, most Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds need about 25 to 30 calories per pound per day to maintain their ideal weight. The good news is that there are a lot of resources out there on the best dog food for medium to large dog breeds like Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes. Health There are many known health problems that come with this dog mix. One of the most common conditions is hip dysplasia. This condition is something they share with their parent dogs. This condition can be painful and make it difficult for your dog to walk properly. It is imperative that you feed your dog food formulated for larger dogs as well as monitor their weight because this can minimize the impact of joint disease. In addition to hip dysplasia, you also need to watch out for elbow dysplasia, allergies, digestive problems, renal problems, progressive retinal atrophy, degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, thyroid problems, and osteochondritis. Training and Exercise Needs Descending from both famous hunting and herding dogs, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes have a lot of energy and endurance. They require daily exercise not only because they need to expel their energy but also to keep them from getting bored. If they have nothing to occupy their time, they will likely find something like digging or chewing on furniture. There are many different ways to exercise your dog, from digging, fetching balls, rolling in leaves and sticks, going on walks as a family or with other pets. When taking your dog for an exercise session outside of the home, you must keep them on a leash and always be careful about potential dangers. They are well known for being intelligent dogs and will be able to learn how to listen to commands quickly. Crate training and house training are two basic training that you would want to begin with. Keep in mind they are barkers, so take that into consideration when you are going to adopt them. You may want to reconsider your decision if you live in an apartment complex or a neighborhood with a lot of close-by neighbors. Children And Other Pets If they are well-socialized and have had plenty of exposure to kids, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mixes have no problem getting along with children. As with every dog, you should teach your children how to approach and interact with dogs in a safe way. However, introducing an adult Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd is another story as it can possess its own challenge. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are perfect for experienced owners who can handle the challenges of owning a large and active breed. Also, consider whether you can commit to the exercise, grooming, and feeding needs. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. If you notice any changes in activity levels, eating habits, mood, or any other element of their lifestyle, make sure to inform your vet immediately. The sooner the issue is identified, the faster it can be treated. Your vet may be able to advise you on a good brand for them, especially if your dog has been diagnosed with certain dietary or health issues. In general, opt for a high-quality dog food that utilizes quality food sources for protein, fats, and especially carbs. Stay away from brands that use fillers, preservatives, or other ingredients that can compromise the nutrient content of the dog food. It is important to always follow the feeding instructions provided for each food. This ensures that your dog gets the right amount of calories according to its size and activity levels. When in doubt, ask your vet how much your dog should be eating each day. Some German Shepherds tend to grow quickly within a short time as a puppy. This may be a trait that your German Shepherd Elkhound may inherit as well. This can cause various joint issues later on. You should always speak to your diet before making any changes to your diet, however. Norwegian Elkhounds have a higher propensity than German Shepherds to gain weight. Due to this, it is best to limit treats and snacks and stick to a set number of meals per day. Make sure the snacks and treats are of the same high quality as their dog food. This mixed breed is usually high-energy and does need quite a bit of exercise. Depending on what parent your pup takes after, your dog may need between an hour to two hours of exercise a day. Remember to never let your dog off its leash, however, especially around wide-open spaces or wooded areas. Elkhounds tend to roam and this instinct may be strong in your pup as well. If your dog appears to have lots of energy after your daily walks, it may be time to increase how much exercise they get. Do this in minute increments and monitor your dog closely afterward. If they still seem to be hyper, they probably need more exercise. If they are calm, you have found the right time stretch. In case your German Shepherd Elkhound is tired after your workouts, you may be overdoing it and need to cut back. You can play fetch with your dog and throw a Frisbee around too. You will also find that this mixed breed responds well to swimming and water sports. As this mixed breed has a double coat, you can expect a fair amount of shedding. If your pup takes after their German Shepherd parent, you will have to contend with a lot of shedding. Your dog may also blow their coat a few times a year. At this point, the shedding will increase for a short time. Then, your dog will grow a new coat for the new season. Despite all this, the grooming techniques for a German Shepherd Elkhound are rather simple. Regular brushing is key here. Normally, brushing your dog three times a week or so should help to keep the shedding under control. When your German Shepherd Elkhound blows their coat, try to brush them every day. There will be less of a mess around their house. For the best results, use three different types of brushes. A slicker brush helps to get rid of matting and most of the loose fur. This can be used for each brushing session. An undercoat rake works to get rid of loose hair in the coat closet to the skin — this can be used more occasionally. A de-shedding brush is a great tool to have during the shedding season. It makes it easier to get rid of large amounts of loose hair in a shorter time. If your pup takes after their Elkhound parent, you will find that their fur is highly resistant to dirt and grit. As a result, you will only have to bathe a German Shepherd Elkhound every few months or when they have become very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep them clean. A German Shepherd Elkhound can live in an apartment or a smaller home as long as they get their daily exercise. If you live in a small space, it is important to take your dog out for as long as is necessary or they may begin to exhibit destructive behaviors. See also Czech German Shepherds In general, though, these dogs function best in homes where there is a yard. This will allow them to run around several times a day and may not require as much exercise. You should also be mindful of the fact that these dogs can be quite vocal, particularly when they are left alone. There is a limit to how much you can train your German Shepherd Elkhound out of this habit. It may not be something your apartment neighbors will appreciate. As for weather and climate, these dogs thrive in moderate or cool to cold climates. They can even be kept outside for short periods when it is snowing. Only ever take them out for exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. These dogs are highly trainable. Not only do they take great pleasure in having a job to do, but mental stimulation also makes the German Shepherd Elkhound satisfied. This dog will also be eager to please its owner. Due to this, giving them positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping commands and lessons stick with your German Shepherd Elkhound. Never use punishment, however. Also, be aware that these dogs have an independent streak. Your dog may be more likely to listen to you this way. Remember to always choose a reputable breeder. They will do extensive genetic testing on both parents to reduce the likelihood of genetic issues cropping up in the puppies. It is unlikely to find this dog in a shelter as they are an expensive designer breed. You may want to focus your attention on shelters that only handle German Shepherds or Norwegian Elkhounds to improve your chances. These dogs are loving and loyal and even protective of their family. They may not always be the best choice for households with very small children, though. These dogs may be as large as German Shepherds, but it is also likely that they will only be slightly bigger than the medium-sized Elkhound. Both these breeds have some excellent traits that they can pass on to their puppies. As such, it is a good mix to have. We hope you learned something new about the unique and interesting German Shepherd Norwegian Elkhound. Now that you know what to expect from this mixed breed, you can determine whether they will be the right addition to your family. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Lifespan Sociability Finding one of these pups may be difficult due to the rarity of Norwegian Elkhounds in most areas. There are not currently any major breeding programs creating these breed hybrids. In fact, the remains of a skeleton resembling a Norwegian Elkhound was found among the stone age tools in a cave in Norway. These dogs were companions of the Vikings and were often spoken of in myths and legends. They historically have served as hunting dogs to track large animals like elk, moose, and deer. They have also been used as herding dogs and livestock guardians, defending flocks against large predators like bears. They are highly versatile dogs that can do just about any job you throw at them, but they have been bred far away from their original herding roots. Some people use them as farm guardian dogs because of their protective and loyal nature, but there are many dogs that are far better options for herding. One Breed is a Westminster Champ German Shepherds have taken the coveted Best in Show title at the annual Westminster Dog Show multiple times in the over years the show has been occurring. The most recent German Shepherd win was in .A Norwegian Elkhound has not taken the top prize yet, but in , a Norwegian Elkhound was in the top seven finishers. German Shepherds and Norwegian Elkhounds are both breeds that love to be with their family and usually bond strongly to the whole family. While German Shepherds are typically good with children, Norwegian Elkhounds are less tolerant of children. These dogs would likely do well in a home with older children that understand proper dog etiquette and when to give the dog its space. Keep in mind that the levels of protection and wariness these breeds exhibit may make them wary of strangers, including family and friends, so be prepared for visitors with high-value rewards and praise. Proper socialization at an early age and positive encounters with other animals will help give you the best chance of your dog accepting other animals. When it comes to small animals, these dogs may play too rough or see the animals as prey, making them a poor fit for homes with small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. However, with proper supervision and introductions, they may be able to live harmoniously. Early introductions and proper socialization seem to be key when it comes to successfully keeping these dogs with other animals. Intelligent, quick-learners, loyal, energetic, alert, and friendly Shedding Moderate to high; requires moderate grooming Common coat colors Black, gray, tan, red, silver, white Activity level High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for active families that can meet the exercise requirements Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require approximately cups of high-quality food per day depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, bloating, thyroid problems, allergies, digestive problems, dwarfism, cardiac issues, and cataracts About Norwegian Elkhound The Norwegian Elkhound is an old dog breed that has been around for centuries. They are thought to have originated in Scandinavia and were used as hunting dogs. These dogs are known for their strength, agility, and intelligence. They are also very loyal and make great family pets. They are known for their intelligence, strength, and agility. They are also very loyal and make excellent family pets. Appearance The German Elkhound is a medium to large dog that has a thick, double coat. The coat can be black and tan, gray and tan, or all white. They have a long muzzle, bushy tail, and pointy ears. They are agile dogs that is both strong and fast. They need plenty of exercises and enjoy playing fetch or going on long walks. They are also good with children and make great family pets. With the proper training, they can be excellent guard dogs. Some dogs will be larger than others, and some may be smaller. However, on average, these dogs will weigh in at around pounds. Because of their size, they are also relatively easy to transport and take on walks. Some Norwegian Elkhound hybrid may have a thicker coat than others, which can cause them to weigh more. This mix is known for its friendly temperament and high intelligence. They are perfect for families with children and make great watchdogs. Feeding Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix are not as common as some of the other mixes out there. But, when you see one, it is definitely a beautiful sight. These dogs are a mix of two very different breeds, but they somehow manage to make the perfect dog. One thing that people worry about when getting a German Shepherd Norwegian Elkhound is feeding. What kind of food should they give their dog? Will the dog be able to eat the same food as the other dogs in the house? In general, Elkhound German Shepherd Mix can eat most types of food. They are not as particular as some breeds might be. However, you will want to avoid giving them too much protein, as this can be bad for their kidneys. If you are unsure about what to feed your German Elkhound, it is always best to check with your veterinarian. They will be able to tell you exactly what your dog needs and how much they should eat each day. They are considered a medium-sized dog and will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds when fully grown. This mix breed is known for being loyal, protective, and intelligent. They make great family dogs and are really good with children. Grooming One of the many things that make an Elkhound German Shepherd Mix so great is their easy to groom coat. All you need to do is brush them once or twice a week and give them a bath when they get dirty. If you want to keep their coat looking shiny and healthy, you can also give them a light misting of water once a day. Norwegian Elkhound hybrid are also known for their strong, healthy teeth, so be sure to brush them at least once a day. They are one of the best dog breeds around. Exercise The Norwegian Elkhound cross German Shepherd is a great breed for people looking for an active dog. They need lots of exercises to stay healthy and happy. Without it, they can become destructive and restless. Owners should be prepared to take their dogs on long walks or hikes or enroll them in a good obedience class. A Norwegian Elkhound Shepherd Mix is a great choice for an active family. They will keep everyone on their toes with their playful antics. This mix is known for being smart and easy to train, making it the perfect companion for athletes or active people. Fortunately, this breed is known for being eager to please and quick to learn, so training should be relatively easy. Some of the exercises that you can do with your German Shepherd Norwegian Elkhound Mix include basic obedience commands, agility drills, and retrieving games. Be sure to keep your training sessions short and positive, and always end on a positive note. When you mix the two together, you create a dog that is even more prone to these diseases. Some of the most common conditions seen in Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd Mix include: — Hip dysplasia — Eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma — Autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and lupus erythematosus — Skin allergies and skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and seborrhea — Ear infections — Digestive problems such as pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and bloat — Joint problems such as arthritis All of these diseases can cause a great deal of pain and suffering for your dog, and many of them can also be quite expensive to treat. It is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with this mix before you decide to bring one into your home. With proper care, most of these diseases can be managed effectively. Elkhound German Shepherd Mix can be great with children if they are properly socialized and trained. It is important to remember that any dog can become aggressive if provoked, so always supervise any interactions between your child and your dog. Is Elkhound Shepherd mix a good guard dog? Some people might think that the German Shepherd cross Norwegian Elkhound is not a good guard dog because of its size. However, this mix has a lot of energy and is very protective of its family. It will bark and alert you when there is danger. This mix is also agile and can easily chase away intruders. If you are looking for a good guard dog, the Norwegian Elkhound German is a great choice. Some breeders may charge more or less depending on the bloodlines and other factors. It is important to do your research before buying German Shepherd Elkhound mix puppies to make sure you are getting a healthy dog from a reputable breeder. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mix puppies for sale When considering adding a Norwegian Elkhound and German Shepherd Mix to your family, keep in mind that this is a large breed dog and will need plenty of exercise and room to run. They can make great companions for active families who are willing to commit to providing the necessary care for this wonderful breed. You can buy a Norwegian Elkhound mix at most pet stores. Both organizations have directories of breeders who are members in good standing. Puppies should be healthy and well-socialized, and the breeder should be willing to provide a health guarantee. These dogs are known for being loyal and protective, making them great companions for active families. They require plenty of exercise and can get along well with children and other pets. However, they may be too much dog for some people or homes. If you think a German Elkhound is right for you, be sure to research the breed and find a responsible breeder. If you have space and time for your dog, then you can go ahead and buy or adopt a Norwegian Elk hound mix. Take good care of them and they will prove amazing companions to you. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix As with all hybrid dog breeding projects, it can be challenging to predict in advance what types of traits a puppy might inherit. However, what we can say for sure is that the Norwegian Elkhound GSD hybrid dog will grow up to have a working dog temperament, a thick double-layer working dog coat, and a very bright, brave, loyal personality. This is a good example of how unpredictable hybrid dog breeding can be. Some puppies may look much more like one parent dog than another, especially in the earliest F1, F1b litters of puppies. So that is what we will do in this section — learn a bit more about the Norwegian Elkhound dog and the German Shepherd dog parents. In terms of their lineage, the Norwegian Elkhound is descended from the truly ancient line of Arctic spitz-type dogs — herding, sledding, hunting, and hauling dogs that often appear fox-like in their facial features and sport a thick working-dog coat. The breed history states that these dogs are perhaps one of the oldest breeds on the planet with more than six millennia under their belts. German Shepherd history The German Shepherd dog actually does hail from Germany, where the breed was originally developed to herd livestock and was later conscripted for military K-9 and police dog work. Captain Von Stephanitz expertly repurposed the breed to keep it from becoming irrelevant when the rise of technology meant livestock herding dogs were no longer in high demand. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd mix history From this overview, you can discern that your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog is going to inherit a strong dose of the energetic, active working dog temperament from both parent dogs as well as the thick, double-layer coat. In fact, the concept of a companion canine is actually a relatively new idea! In this section, we take a look at how the temperament and personality traits of each parent dog might combine in a hybrid puppy. Norwegian Elkhound personality and temperament The purebred Norwegian Elkhound dog is incredibly smart. But when it comes to choosing a pet dog, this is not always a good thing. These dogs are quick learners and get bored very easily. They can do it all — run, swim, jump, herd, hunt — and are well known for standing their ground against predators three or four times their size. German Shepherd personality and temperament The famous GSD personality and temperament have been immortalized time and again in famous films like Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart. German Shepherds are actually extremely people-centric and tend to want to be with their people all day, every day. A lonely or bored German Shepherd is going to be a destructive German Shepherd, unfortunately. These dogs are known to be vocal and talkative, something first-time GSD owners often have to get used to. They are also incredibly brave and loyal and have a decorated history serving in the military, police force, search and rescue, and many K-9 roles. This hybrid dog breed will not fare well if expected to be self-entertaining for hours most days. Norwegian Elkhound size, height, and weight The Norwegian Elkhound typically weighs just 48 to 55 pounds and stands .There typically is not much difference in size, height, and weight between females and males. German Shepherd size, height, and weight The German Shepherd typically weighs between 50 and 90 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulder girdles. With the GSD, there can be up to a pound weight difference and a two-inch height difference between adult males and females. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd size, height, and weight Where you will see the greatest height and weight variance in Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd puppies is in early F1, F1b litters, since the German Shepherd dog can be quite a bit taller and bigger than the Norwegian Elkhound. If you really need a smaller adult dog, the best way to reduce the risk of having your little puppy grow up to be 90 pounds is to work with a hybrid breeder that specializes in later-generation hybrid breeding F2, F2b, or later generations. With later hybrid generation breeding, you will see a lot more consistency in every trait between puppies within a single litter. Norwegian Elkhound training and exercise needs The Norwegian Elkhound is a Spitz-type dog breed that is classified as a hound. Hounds are known for their strong ability to follow a trail and to track and hold prey for their human hunting partners. These dogs have such an irresistible desire to explore and run and track that they can very easily become lost or come to harm. The independent spirit of the Norwegian Elkhound can also make training and socialization challenges. Yet these dogs need it to learn how to tell the difference between friends, neutral situations, and genuine threats. German Shepherd training and exercise needs The German Shepherd dog is also high energy, a high activity dog breed that has an incredible athletic ability. These dogs love to run and jump and play and typically excel at the entire spectrum of canine athletics. German Shepherds, like Norwegian Elkhounds, need early and ongoing socialization and training and should not be let off-leash in an open area. They need help learning when to welcome a new friend and when to guard or protect against a threat. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd training and exercise needs Training and exercising a Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd dog mix will mean devoting at least one hour per day to your dog. This can be a significant time commitment and it is worth considering in advance whether your schedule can accommodate this commitment. But what you will have is a lot of shedding — a LOT. Norwegian Elkhound longevity and health issues According to the Canine Health Information Center CHIC database, the Norwegian Elkhound breed has the following known possible genetic health issues you need to be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Puppies for Sale The decision to rescue a dog or to go through a breeder requires a lot of research. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help you find a good rescue or a reputable breeder who provides healthy Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix puppies for sale or adoption. Most animal shelters and rescue centers report that most rescue dogs in their premises are a result of a lifestyle change or an unexpected incompatibility with the breed. This means that there may be good Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix puppies or adult dogs who are in need of a new forever home. Finding a reliable Elkhound German Shepherd rescue or shelter may be as easy as browsing the internet. Check out local Elkhound and German Shepherd rescues to see if there are any of these dogs available for adoption. Unfortunately, there are numerous pet stores and puppy mills masquerading as reputable breeders. Take caution, and check out different online forums for discussions about where to find your future puppy. Make sure to ask a few questions, and visit the parent dogs or at least the mother. At the end of the day, use your due diligence. Whether you intend to adopt or to work with an ethical breeder, be ready for a brave and friendly companion. The Furhaven Orthopedic dog bed is an excellent choice since it has medical-grade memory foam along with soothing gel foam. This dog bed actually looks and feels like a therapeutic mattress. It also features an elevated headrest that your Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherd Mix will enjoy using. They praise its lightweight and durable construction, size and affordable price tag. We recommend this crate as it has a divider feature so it can suit your Elkhound German Shepherd as he grows. This implies that this crate will be the only one that your dog will ever need. Barking could be a major issue with these dogs. For individuals looking for a watchdog or guard dog to protect their property, this might be a good trait. Fortunately, you can train your dog out of it. German Shepherds are known to be quite aggressive, but this reputation is actually not deserved. They are watchdogs in nature and reserved towards strangers. However, they are not naturally aggressive dogs that will always attack. They are also highly intelligent and very easy to train. This makes them very easy to control. This makes the mix very unlikely to be an aggressive dog. Due to their high intelligence, Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are moderately easy to train. They will master instructions and commands quickly, but they might not always obey them. Conclusion Norwegian Elkhound German Shepherds are adorable dogs that make excellent companions, but they require a lot of exercise, care and attention. They are best suited to active families or individuals who can offer them the love and attention they need. This includes training them properly, and exercising them both physically and mentally. However, these loyal, brave and protective pups will repay you with love and affection for a long time to come. Checkout Our Favorite Dog Products 1. Also provides sustained energy for sporting dogs and dogs with high physical demands. The Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel Puzzle Toy gives your dog the same feeling as though he was outdoors chasing live squirrels. With features and tools that dig out dirt, hair and allergens everywhere your pet gets.

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miniature poodle puppy feeding chart - How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Are Lab puppies trainable too? They include intelligence, temperament, and genetic traits. As a rule, dogs that are highly motivated are also the easiest to train. Labradors are highly motivated by two things. But even more than that, they are are incredibly motivated by the promise of a tasty treat or two. One study actually found a gene alteration in Labs that gives them greater food motivation. This could explain why Labs have a reputation for always being hungry. Their origins can be traced back to the cross-breeding of working dogs in the s. From these modest roots, the ever-devoted and hard-working St. Life on Newfoundland revolved around fishing, and these able-bodied dogs were well-suited to the water. Working together in a cooperative way in this harsh climate forged a close bond between these reliable working dogs and their human companions. A study of Labrador Retrievers found that the working status of the breed impacted their trainability. The Labrador Retriever possesses a solid body and alert senses. This, combined with an innate work ethic, genial nature, and intelligent temperament, makes him an ideal candidate for a wide variety of service jobs. Search and rescue, detection, disabled-assistance, and therapy work are service areas that the Lab excels in. The fact that Labs have been found to be among the least aggressive breeds toward humans and other dogs also makes them suitable for these roles. However, intelligence alone does not necessarily denote trainability. There are breeds who are intelligent, but stubborn and less willing to learn. This natural obedience makes them not only trainable, but loyal and dependable. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Puppy socialization and training is important in determining their future behavior. Labs are energetic dogs who grow quickly. The bigger they get the harder it is to control them. Puppies as young as 8 weeks old can begin a training routine. Coming when called, sitting, staying, and walking on a lead without pulling, are important skills, especially for a large dog. As their name suggests, the Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve prey. Today the breed still retains the instinct to chase objects and bring them back to you. So be prepared for many rousing games of fetch. Training methods have changed over the last few years and positive techniques have become increasingly popular. Rewards are a key element when training a Lab. The use of treats and praise to reinforce proper behavior is one of the best ways to get them to respond the way you want. This type of training is referred to as positive reinforcement training. When Are Labs Hard to Train? No puppy understands how to behave in the human world without being shown. This loving breed is very social and loves to be around people. If they are kept isolated from companionship, they are quite likely to develop behavior problems that make them harder to train. There are different ways to train your Labrador Retriever. This endearing, active dog only wants to receive as much love as he can give. Has your Lab impressed you with their good manners and how quickly they pick up commands? Is there anything you credit with their success most of all? Give your dog some praise, share what works for you, or ask for the support of our other readers down in the comments box. Their specific disposition not only makes them highly trainable — it also makes them excellent service and all-around work dogs. Begin early, use positive reinforcement, train in short sessions, and attend a puppy class or two. Are Labrador Retrievers Easy to Train? Many professional dog trainers and Labrador Retriever owners would argue that high intelligence and trainability go hand-in-hand, since they can learn more commands and tricks quicker and more accurately than other breeds. Male Lab Puppy vs. There are stark differences between the ways males and females tend to behave in the animal world. Although both male and female Labs are excellent companions, females mature faster than males and may be easier to train. They just might require a bit more attention, practice, and patience. Helping Your Labrador Train Well You already know that Labs are one of the most intelligent and trainable breeds, but there are instances in which they may be pretty challenging to train. Ultimately, this comes down to the way owners socialize and exercise their Labs: Labrador Retrievers are a very energetic breed. It could even develop into behavior problems that may be difficult to correct later down the line. This is when he learns the fastest, when he most readily masters new tasks and when he adapts most readily to new environments. The must-know basics are loose leash walking, basic commands, and crate training. You can begin as early as 8 weeks and see results shortly after. Luckily, these dogs are more than willing to learn from you. Start early, use positive reinforcement, train in short sessions, and consider signing your labrador retriever up for socialization classes when your dog has all of the core vaccines. Labrador Training Tip 1: Start Early The best advice that any owner or breeder can give new owners is to start early. Research shows that early training reaps tons of benefits, such as: Alleviating fear and aggression while in a new environment Developing a more profound and stronger bond with their owners By six months of age, almost all behavior problems are set in place. Therefore, early training can avoid issues and bad habits before they start or become more challenging to work with. Labrador Training Tip 2: Use Positive Reinforcement There are different training methods, the most common being positive reinforcement, clicker training, electronic training, and alpha dog training. Research shows that dogs trained using exclusively positive reinforcement methods have a more secure attachment to their owners. Florence Gaunet , the leader of the study that observed positive versus negative reinforcement training in dogs. Image Source Clicker training practices positive reinforcement with the help of sound: When a dog does a wanted behavior, the clicker clicks immediately following the action. Clicker training is an especially helpful tactic because it shows the puppy the desired behavior. However, the puppy needs to associate the clicking sound with a reward. This tactic can sometimes be challenging to try as a novice trainer, so many owners opt for puppy training classes where they can receive some guidance. Yet, this particular method is frequently used in service dog training sessions. Labrador Training Tip 3: Keep Training Sessions Short But Frequent Puppies are like toddlers: Their ability to concentrate is naturally short, requiring stimulation if you want to hold their attention. Otherwise, they may become distracted, get bored, and stop paying attention. Most dogs have an attention span of about 15 minutes before they get bored, tired, and begin resisting commands, so a good rule of thumb is to aim for at least 15 minutes of training every day in five-minute increments. Incredibly distracted puppies may need shorter sessions, like two to three minutes, a few extra times a day. Quick Tip: Train in every room of your house so that your puppy recognizes cues in different places. Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Ian Dunbar recommends that your puppy meet at least people of different appearances, backgrounds, and abilities during his first month at home or at least three months. One of the best ways to do that is by attending socialization classes. Plus, class participation leads to a well-rounded, happy, and willing puppy which directly translates to ease of training. Simply put, certain traits are more likely to be shared by genetically-similar breeds. Therefore, they should all be registered with the American Kennel Club, offer full-replacement guarantees, conduct ethical breeding practices, interview prospective owners , and allow on-site tours and meet-and-greets with the puppies and their parents. Conclusion Labrador Retrievers are some of the smartest and easiest dogs to train, partly due to their genetics and partly due to the way they are raised. If you want a dog that is easy to train, start training your pup early and use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or clickers with short training sessions. Learn more about what we do at Snowy Pines, or come visit our Labrador puppies at our acre property nestled in the Ozark Mountains. Share on. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts! Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving.

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miniature poodle puppy feeding chart - Pug puppies can be quite expensive, and there are several reasons for it. Some of the biggest among them are discussed below. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed and have short, flat faces. This physical characteristic can make breeding them more difficult and costly. Furthermore, breeding pugs require a lot of knowledge, experience, and resources. Therefore, you may have to spend much more to get these pups than other breeds. Rarity Being an exotic breed, Pugs are not as common as other breeds. This is because they are prone to many health issues and breeders have to spend a lot of money to keep them healthy. Likewise, Pugs need a safe environment and providing that comes at a cost. This allows the breeders to charge more for them and dog enthusiasts are willing to pay. Reputable Breeder Reputable breeders are more likely to take care of the health and well-being of the puppies. Reputed breeders also provide a lot of extras, like microchips, vaccinations, and health guarantees. Are Pugs in Constant Pain? Click here to find out. What Papers are Needed for Getting Pugs? When getting a pug, several papers are typically needed. The most important ones are discussed below. Registration Papers They prove that the pug is purebred and has a known pedigree. They will also include the unique registration number of the dog. Can Pugs Eat Strawberries? Click here to learn more. Health Certificate This is another important paper that is issued by a veterinarian. It states that the pug has been examined and is in good health. Bill This document carries all the information about the terms of the sale between the breeder and the new owner. It includes the purchase price, the date of sale, and any guarantees or warranties that are included. Can Pugs Eat Watermelon? Importance of Paperwork While Getting Pugs Paperwork is an important aspect to consider when getting a pug. Registration papers are essential when showing a pug in competitions or breeding them. They are also useful to maintain the integrity of the breed. Similarly, a health certificate is also important to ensure that the pug is in good health. It will allow the owner to plan for any future vaccinations or treatments that may be necessary. The bill of sale is also an important document because it shows the terms of the sale. It has all the necessary information about the deal, including price, date of sale, and any warranties. Can a Pug Be a Service Dog? However, the cost can vary in some cases because it depends on several factors. For example, your location, the reputation of the breeder, and the overall health of the pug. In most cases, purebred pugs with papers cost much more than pups without proper documentation. It is important to thoroughly research breeders and their reputations before making a purchase. This is because buying from a reputable breeder can ensure the health and well-being of the pug. How Much is the Cheapest Pug? The cost of a pug can vary greatly depending on the location, breeder, and supply and demand. However, prices can be lower or higher depending on the circumstances. Some of the cheapest pugs may come from backyard breeders or pet stores. These breeders have lower standards of breeding and care. Hence, your chances of adopting an unhealthy pug increase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. No Why is the Pug so expensive? Pugs are often considered expensive due to a combination of factors, including their popularity, demand, and the costs associated with breeding and raising them. Here are some reasons why pugs may have a higher price tag: Breeding challenges: Pugs have a unique physical structure with a short snout, which can lead to health issues. Breeding pugs requires careful selection to minimize these problems, which can increase the cost of obtaining healthy and well-bred puppies. Health concerns: Pugs are prone to several health conditions, such as respiratory problems, eye issues, and skin allergies. Responsible breeders undertake health testing and provide necessary veterinary care, which contributes to the overall cost. Limited availability: While Pugs are a popular breed, finding a reputable breeder can be challenging. Responsible breeders may have a limited number of litters each year, which increases demand and drives up prices. Popularity: Pugs have gained significant popularity over the years due to their charming appearance and friendly temperament. Increased demand for Pugs can drive prices up, as breeders can charge more when there is high demand for a particular breed. Breeding expenses: Responsible breeders invest a considerable amount of time, effort, and money into breeding and raising their puppies. This includes expenses such as health checks, vaccinations, proper nutrition, and socialization. These costs are passed on to potential buyers. So just be ready for more than the price of a puppy — unexpected vet bills, food , treats, toys, etc. This is pretty much the same price as a Pug from any reputable breeder, as you would expect to get a purebred Pug from a reputable breeder. What is the cheapest price of a Pug puppy? Adopting is also a great way to provide a home to a pet in need while also saving yourself some money in the process. What is the price of a Male Pug Puppy? However, prices are high for those with superior lineages and pure breeds. How Much Is a Pug in the Philippines? In the Philippines, different Pug breeders from different parts of the country have varying prices. However, the average price is slightly consistent compared to in the US. Below are some of the Pug prices and descriptions. A purebred 1. A purely black female Pug without papers aged between 6- and months costs PHP8, Plus, you can also negotiate the price with some breeders. In California, the cost of Pugs constantly fluctuates due to market demands. The cost of a typical puppy Pug in India lies between 5,Rs and 20,Rs. However, the average price ranges from 10,Rs and 12,Rs. Keep in mind that these prices also fluctuate from time to time. Posted on. Few people can resist the goofy smile of a Pug. However, the market price of a Pug will vary greatly based on a few important factors, such as the blood line, breeder reputation, location, and coat color. However, compared to other dog breeds, Pugs are not very cheap. Though you can certainly find one for much less, the average cost of a healthy Pug from a good breeder is not something to scoff at. There are plenty of factors that can determine how much a Pug will cost you. For instance, location, breeder reputation, pedigree and colors can all play a factor in Pug price. Location Unfortunately, the price of a Pug can vary depending on where you are. In some countries such as the UK , these dogs will likely cost a lot more. And even in the same country, the price will vary by location state, city, region, etc. If you must pick up a Pug in a certain region, then there is very little you can do. Driving for more than 10 hours one way may require an overnight stay. Pedigree and Lineage The pedigree or bloodline of a Pug will matter in regards to price. In fact, this may be the most important factor for price variation seen in all dog breeds, including Pugs. According to Business Insider , the prices of pedigree dogs such as Pugs are climbing to an all-time high. So what exactly is a pedigree dog? These dogs have at least 3 generations without any crossbreeding. Anything less is technically not a pedigree dog. However, there has been concern and controversy over the overbreeding of pedigree dogs. These dogs are bred over and over again using dogs from the same family. Inbreeding can lead to a lower life expectancy in Pugs, as well as potential degenerative diseases and mutations. Rather, the opposite is likely to happen. Pugs with a superior lineage will cost much more than a Pug without. And when I say superior lineage, I really mean champion lineage. Champion dogs are those that win an event at an AKC event. Sometimes, these dogs can command a hefty premium if they have an impressive long list of ancestors. Another great reason to go with AKC registered Pugs is that you can confirm the lineage of the pup. Reputable Pug Breeder There are two types of breeders you can purchase a Pug from: reputable and non-reputable breeders. I always highly recommend finding a reputable breeder. However, just like in every industry, reputation comes with a premium price. By reputable breeders, I really mean responsible breeders. The American Kennel Club inspects thousands of kennels each year and provide certification to those that breed responsibly. But because these breeders are recognized and recommended by the AKC, their puppies do come with a premium. These colors are fawn and black. Selling different colored dogs for different prices is frowned upon. However, even reputable breeders do this. Unfortunately, this is a classic example of supply and demand. In addition, expect the apricot, silver and apricot fawn colors also see a markup in prices. Less common dogs cost more. Personally, I think the classic fawn Pug with a black mask is the most attractive. No matter what color, all Pugs will be loving dogs and companions. To sum things up, the key is to shop around. There are so many great adoption websites with plenty of Pugs that need a new home. The first site I highly recommend is Adopt-a-Pet. With just a quick check, I already see plenty of Pugs on that marketplace! Another fantastic website is PetFinder. Have a check for yourself! Visit Your Local Animal Shelters Adopting a Pug from an animal shelter is always the best, that is, if you can find one. Do a simple Google search for shelters near you and check Yelp too! When doing your research, check to see if they have a website. It might be a good idea to check that before driving all the way there. It really depends on the shelter, but adoption fees can vary a lot. Are Pugs Worth the Price? But are they really worth the cost? Pugs are some of the most entertaining dogs you can find. My pug is definitely a handful but being able to come back from work to see her silly face every day is well worth the time and money spent. Pug Owner So, yes — Pugs are definitely worth the price! Some claim that these super pedigree Pugs are more intelligent. The truth is, all Pugs are intelligent in their own way. They may not be the most obedient dog breeds, but they show high instinctive and adaptive intelligence. How much did your Pug cost? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Compared to most small dogs, Pugs cost less in comparison. Pugs, in particular, are quite susceptible to respiratory issues, skin infections, and bone problems that can affect their lifespan. In other words, while they seem relatively cheap at first, these costs will add up over time. Check out this video for more information on Pug pricing: Things you should know about pugs! Female Pug: Which Is Better? The initial cost of a puppy alone will set you back at least a few hundred dollars. But why are they so expensive? There is no one factor that directly determines how much a Pug puppy will cost. There are multiple factors often working hand in hand. Getting some background knowledge in these things will give you a better grasp on what makes Pug puppies so expensive and where your money is going. This will also help you figure out the right Pug that fits within your budget. Here are some of the major factors affecting Pug prices: Age: As a rule of thumb, puppies typically cost more than adult dogs. This is no different when it comes to Pugs. Pug puppies are typically more expensive as the process of breeding can cost the breeders a lot of money. From health screenings to vitamins and sometimes even c-sections, it takes a lot of money to keep the mama dog happy. Appearance: Although there are only two registered Pug colors in the American Kennel Club, Pugs can often be seen in a wide assortment of shades. Rarer brindle coats tend to fetch a higher price than solid colored pups, and fawn or apricot Pugs with a black mask are also experiencing a rise in cost. A Pug from a reputable breeder, although expensive, will have perfect health, a good temperament, and no pre-existing medical conditions such as PDE or Pug dog encephalitis. A lot of reputable breeders also breed dogs from champion bloodlines, which ensures that the Pugs will inherit the best traits from their parents. A Pug with a superior lineage will cost significantly more than a regular Pug. Health Screenings: A vast majority of Pug breeders usually screen their puppies for pre-existing health issues before selling them. Healthy puppies with no signs of underlying medical issues will usually have a heftier price tag than others and will save you vet expenses in the long run. Training Received: Although Pugs are good family dogs, they can be quite stubborn and challenging to train. So if a Pug breeder trains their puppies before selling them, expect the price to be relatively higher than usual. Bringing home trained puppies is always worth it, though, as it saves you time and effort. These are just some of the most significant things that affect the price of a Pug dog. Of course, this list is by no means complete. Rescues generally have a lower price tag for their Pugs. What makes the deal even more ideal is that most shelter dogs have already been fully vaccinated. Additionally, many of them have already been dewormed, spayed or neutered, or even microchipped in some cases. Here are some of the initial expenses for your Pug puppy: Food and Treats: Deciding between wet or dry food is crucial in the first few days that your Pug dog comes home. If your Pug is a picky eater, you may need to try out different brands and flavors to see which one your pup likes best. This also applies to doggy treats. Ultimately though, stainless steel bowls will withstand more wear and tear. Crate: For first-time dog owners, a crate is one of the most important things to invest in. Crate training your pup is important, as it introduces them to a safe space when they feel overstimulated or unsafe. It also helps transport your Pug dog to places like the vet or during car rides. Leashes and Collars: As soon as you bring your new dog home, it is important that you get them acquainted with a leash and collar. Some dogs take a while to get adjusted to wearing harnesses, so starting pups with a collar while getting them used to daily walks is optimal. Toys: Pugs often have a reputation for being lazy, sleepy dogs, but this is not the case at all. A well-stimulated, happy Pug will be playful and alert rather than spend most of its time sleeping. Enrichment objects such as chew toys and puzzle toys are sure to keep your puppy busy and your slippers and charging cables safe from bites. Grooming Essentials: Although they have short fur, Pugs are double-coated. This means that they shed more than other short-haired dogs. Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: A lot of Pug breeders typically cover deworming, flea, and tick prevention before selling their puppy. Initial Vaccine Shots: Before a Pug puppy turns one year old, they need to complete their first set of vaccine shots. The usual shots most dogs need are for distemper, parainfluenza, rabies, parvovirus DHPP , and hepatitis. Neutering or Spaying: If you have no plans of breeding your Pug, it may be good to consider neutering or spaying them. If done at the right age, getting your dog fixed will help prevent the risk of some cancers and uterine infections. Dog License: While it may seem unnecessary at first, licensing your dog is a great way to have a permanent formal record of your ownership. This is especially helpful if your dog gets lost. Licensing also lets people know if your dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations. A microchip will come in handy if ever you lose your pooch. It does not, however, work as a GPS tracker. If your lost puppy gets taken to a shelter or a clinic, they can easily scan the chip and contact you immediately. These include vitamins , pet-safe wipes, poop bags, and a poop scooper. A few toys should do the trick, but make sure to provide them with at least a few puzzle toys to get their brains working. Pugs thrive on attention and most are happy with an hour or so of playtime in the yard, two walks per day, and an occasional trip to the park to socialize with other dogs. Training your Pug beyond basic obedience training is a great way to bond with them and provide mental stimulation. Pugs are eager to please and attentive to their owners, so teaching them tricks or training them in agility are excellent ways to occupy their minds and enhance your relationship. Pugs only eat about pounds of food per year and are mostly healthy, although setting aside extra cash to deal with emergencies is a good idea. Food, medication, and pet insurance—if you purchase it—will be the highest regular costs, but occasional vet visits and extra medication for potential eye problems could become significant outlays as well. Additional Costs to Factor In Most Pug owners have success training their dogs themselves, but some people still opt for professional training. Dog sitting is another additional cost that only applies to some people. Before you purchase your new buddy, make sure you can budget enough money per month to cover food and medication costs. It is also a good idea to have money set aside to cover unexpected medical expenses. Training games, obedience training, and makeshift agility courses are excellent inexpensive ways to keep your Pug happy and make for some great owner-dog bonding time. Your upfront costs could be significantly reduced if you adopt a dog from a local shelter. The main drivers are food, medications like heartworm and flea and tick prevention, and pet insurance. You might also like:. The following information regards prices in the United States. So, how much are pugs? The cost of a pug depends on: There are three factors that go into the pug price: Location — prices can vary from state to state. How much do pugs cost if… I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? I want a specific color pug? How much do pugs cost if I rescue my pug from a reputable rescue? How much do pugs cost if I buy a pug from a reputable breeder? If your pug comes from a champion line and is show quality, they can cost even more. Can you pay less for a pug from a reputable breeder? Actually, yes. These retired pugs are usually spayed or neutered and cared for as beloved pets. In many cases, they are still only a few years old and get placed for free or for a small fee. Some breeders may list these dogs on their website, while others may just keep them as pets until the right home comes along. If you have a breeder in mind, but sure to ask them. Why are pugs so expensive? Pugs are expensive because they have small litters, often need a C-section to give birth, and because they are a popular breed in high demand. The average size of a pug litter is 4 to 6 puppies. Pugs are prone to health issues, and can have complications during and after pregnancy. Expensive vet bills, and excellent care, are not cheap, meaning that puppies will cost more. How much do pugs cost if I want a specific pug color? According to the American Kennel Club, pugs come in three colors: Silver. Apricot-fawn, with a black face mask. Learn more about pug colors here. Your eyes may bulge with excitement. It sounds too good to be true! These puppies are sold by backyard breeders. Backyard breeders are amateur breeders who breed dogs in substandard and unethical ways. So skip the cheap puppy ads and Craigslist posts and focus on finding a reputable breeder. Need help weeding out the bad guys? The extra cost of getting a pug: The price you pay to own a pug is just the beginning. After that comes other expenses , like vaccines, check-ups, food, supplies, pet insurance, training and more. How much did your pug cost? Click here to learn more pug stuff. Pin for later! Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Why are Pugs so expensive? So just why are Pugs so expensive? One reason is because Pugs, like most other Brachycephalic dogs with flat faces and large heads , are most often born via cesarean section. Pugs are also susceptible to numerous orthopedic and hereditary diseases—so reputable breeders will conduct testing on both parents to help ensure a healthy litter. This test screens for Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation. Breeders also have the option to test for Elbow Dysplasia with this screening. This important test screens for Necrotizing meningoencephalitis NME , a fatal brain disorder that can kill Pug puppies. This metabolic disease breaks down the red blood cells of a young Pug. The price will depend on several factors: The location of the breeder. The rules of supply and demand pertain to dogs as well so larger metropolitan areas are often more expensive. The pedigree of the parent Pugs. Pugs that have participated in sanctioned competitions have more expensive litters. Whether the Pug is a show quality dog or a pet quality dog. Show quality puppies with a future in competitive dog shows and breeding are more expensive. The age of the Pug. Puppies are definitely more expensive; you may occasionally find a breeder selling a retired breeding Pug or a Pug that originated at the breeder but has been returned. The color of the Pug. AKC recognized two colors : black and fawn. The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes fawn, silver fawn and black. The Federation Cynologique Internationale and the Kennel Club of the UK both recognize silver sometimes called silver-fawn , apricot often called apricot-fawn , fawn and black. The less common the color, the more expensive the dog. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with Pug breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Do an online search for complaints. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through comments. Remember, however, comments can be deleted by the page owner. When you find a breeder and want to determine if they are reputable: Ask for references. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. Ask if the breeder will take the Pug back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Pug breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a Pug online, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care. The pros of purchasing from a Pug breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of color and gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about Pugs and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a Pug breeder You will pay more for a Pug from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has Pug puppies for sale at prices far lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. Pugs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Pugs under a year old will be the most costly. The dogs that are up for adoption at Pug rescues may be there for a variety of reasons: Death of an owner. Lost Pugs that the rescue had seen on shelter websites. Pugs a breeder no longer wanted. Whatever the reason, the Pugs in rescue may or may not come with papers, depending on whether or not the dog was surrendered with papers. You may also find Pug rescues at pet expos and special events in your area. Rescues will often have a booth with information on the rescue and a few adoptable dogs. Most dogs at purebred rescues are pulled from shelters, often open-intake shelters that may not be no-kill shelters. You will be able to adopt a Pug for far less money than purchasing a Pug from a breeder. You will be able to talk with people who are passionate about Pugs about the individual Pug you are interested in adopting. Our most recent search brought up a healthy, 7-month-old Pug puppy so you never know. Your dog may or may not be a purebred Pug and may or may not have papers. The least expensive option when it comes to Pug prices is the shelter, either a municipal shelter or a privately-operated shelter. Are you a senior? A member of the military or law enforcement? Many shelters offer special discounts. To locate a Pug at a shelter, call your local shelter or start your search online. Click on the link of adoptable Pugs in the top left corner; you can then enter your zip code to see Pugs near you. The listings will include both rescues and shelters. Unlike adopting from a Pug rescue, dogs at a shelter will generally be housed at the shelter although an increasing number utilize foster homes whenever they can, especially for puppies. If the dog is housed at the shelter, you may not know a lot about his or her personality. Talk with the shelter staff and ask if the dog has been temperament tested and if they can tell you if the dog is skittish, shy, outgoing, has any prior training, etc. And while you may see dogs listed as a Pug at a shelter, that may or may not mean they are Pugs, purebred or mixed. Shelters use their best judgement, often while intaking many dogs, so sometimes the accuracy of the breed is questionable. Since Pugs do have such a distinctive look, however, you can use your judgement to see if the dog displays usual Pug characteristics and markings. Ask the shelter if they have any background on the dogs; you may be surprised to find a puppy whose purebred mother came in as a pregnant lost dog and gave birth at the shelter. It definitely happens. The Pros of Adopting a Pug from a Shelter You are saving a life, not only of the dog you adopt but of the next dog who will be rescued due to the kennel that is now clear. Your new dog will have received a long list of veterinary services. You will have the love of a dog whose price was far less than that of a dog from a breeder. You may not know the history of the dog. FAQ What is the cheapest price for a Pug? If you find low-cost purebred Pugs listed online, please consider that you may be supporting a puppy mill. What is the Teacup Pug price? These dogs are the result of breeding the smallest runt dog of one litter to the smallest dog of another litter, producing smaller than usual Pugs—and selling them for sometimes twice as much as a traditional Pug. As you might expect, this can mean additional health problems for the puppies. Are Pugs expensive to own? While their small size means Pugs are not as expensive to own as larger breeds, due to the potential health issues discussed above they can be expensive in terms of veterinary care. Pet insurance is a good investment to help cover vet issues as they arise. Pin it to remember the Price of Pugs Posted on Last updated:. Less - Square-proportioned, compact and of a cobby build, the pug is a large dog in a little space. Its gait is strong and jaunty, but with a slight roll of the hindquarters. Its distinctive expression is soft and solicitous. Its forehead has large, deep wrinkles. Its coat is fine, smooth and short. The Pug breed is often described by the Latin phrase multum in parvo, or "much in little" or "a lot of dog in a small space", alluding to the Pug's remarkable and charming personality, despite its small size. Pugs are strong willed but rarely aggressive, and are suitable for families with children. The majority of the breed is very fond of children and sturdy enough to properly play with them. Depending on their owner's mood, they can be quiet and docile but also vivacious and teasing. Pugs tend to be intuitive and sensitive to the moods of their owners and are usually eager to please them. Pugs tend to have a somewhat lazy nature and spend a lot of time napping. They are often called "shadows" because they follow their owners around and like to stay close to the action, craving attention and affection from their owners. History There are various theories regarding the origin of the Pug breed, but the most generally accepted is that they originated in the Orient, and are a smooth-coated, longer-legged type of Pekingese. They have been well known in Europe since at least the 16th Century. After gaining favor with Royalty, the breed became very popular and even more well known. The AKC recognized the Pug in .In Canada it is CAD to .So, when purchasing from a different state, you also must consider travel fees when buying a Pug from a different country. Why Are Pugs So Expensive? Pugs are a popular dog breed currently taking 28th spot on the list of the most popular dogs in America. Lots of people want a Pug so this demand tends to increase their price. Popularity alone does not control the price of a Pug. There are many other factors that make Pugs expensive. A major one is breeding fees. It is not easy to breed a healthy Pug. Professional breeders do not just want to sell you any kind of dog. They want to show you a puppy that is cute, adheres to the breed standard and is in good health. To breed a puppy like this takes lots of money that will be reflected in the final sale price. Most of the fees that are involved within the pregnancy and birthing of Pugs are because they are brachycephalic. As a brachycephalic breed it is difficult for mothers to give birth to their pups. Going into labor is body intensive and difficulty breathing only makes the process more strenuous. Not only that but Pugs tend to have narrow hips. The heads of puppies tend to be large in proportion to their body and sometimes they cannot easily pass through the birth canal. For these two reasons Pug breeders often elect to do C-sections. Finally, before the mother can give birth, breeders must ensure that she and the father are in good health. In Pugs it is common to see brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye conditions. The Pug Dog Club of America recommends that all Pugs are screened for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and necrotizing meningoencephalitis. Pugs from these breeders are usually more expensive because breeders go to great lengths to breed healthy and high quality dogs. Not only that, but they also tend to give you a dog with all of its vaccines and registration papers. The price of a Pug can really go up when you consider genetic health testing, vet visits, membership documentations and registration fees. No documentation with the sale. No available health care records or genetic testing results of the parents. Breeders that advertise their dogs on websites like Craigslist at a cheaper price. They often breed dogs other than just Pugs. To be a part of these clubs breeders must be certified and approved to have met breeding requirements. As you search for a Pug keep in mind the type of puppy you want. Do you want a specific color? Most often breeders sell fawn or black Pugs. If you want a rare color you are going to have to do some extra searching. What kind of temperament do you want? Pugs are very social. In general they tend to be friendly, affectionate, playful and mischievous. However some may be more timid than others. Will it be healthy? Puppies should have a brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome score of zero. Sometimes you might fall in love with a Pug in a picture but later find out it is missing its health papers. In most cases you should avoid this type of puppy. Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with health papers and registration papers. They will always be clear about the kind of Pug you are buying and their pedigree. They will give you straightforward answers on anything you ask and will show you any paperwork that you ask for. They will also allow you to see the puppy and the mother. Buying from a breeder might not be the cheapest option, but it does ensure you that you are getting a healthy Pug. Cost Of Keeping A Pug Pugs live for between 12 and 15 years so adopting one is a long-term commitment. Out of all the years, the first one will generally be the most expensive. Where does this money go? We will breakdown their typical ownership costs below… Healthcare and Insurance There is no way around it. If you do get a Pug, it is highly recommended that you get insurance. Pugs often have unforeseen medical expenses because they are a brachycephalic breed. You have to be careful when exercising your Pug, especially if you live in hot areas and during the summer months. Overexertion and heat can cause make it harder for them to breathe, and if you do not recognize the signs of heat stress, your dog could end up at the vet ER. You could also find yourself paying for treatment for some of the common health issues within Pugs. Some of these include: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Fold Dermatitis, obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Dog Food Pugs need a well-balanced diet. It is not a good idea to just give your dog whatever is left over from your last meal. They need high quality kibble that is specifically made for their breed. Pugs are small dogs so they should be eating food that is specifically made for small dogs. Puppies will eat at most 80 pounds of dry food every year, while adults eat about pounds. Some brands will cost you more. The following are some examples of kibble that you can buy for your Pug. Food Brands.