poodle mix puppies for sale under $500
Our sire, Snow Commander Gibbs, has 5 show champions in his first four generations. Gibbs is retired. Ew keep breeding within his lines. Our mom's pedigrees are filled with field champions and master hunters. Our dogs have the thick stocky bodies, big blocky heads, thick otter tails and have black pigment on their nose and gums that gives them their stunning appearance. All our dogs have OFA hip and elbow certification as well as genetic screening. If you want the best looking, well mannered dog , with a great personality own a Kennel Up Idaho puppy. Our kennel has been inspected and approved by AKC. Our pups are gorgeous and are wonderful family companions. Our lines have show champions as well as Field Trial and Master Hunters. Our puppies have proven themselves as family and hunting companions, as well as therapy dogs. Read testimonials from people who have one of our dogs on our facebook page. Puppies come with AKC limited registration. Full registration is available to breeders. If you are wanting one of our gorgeous puppies make your reservation Note: I had my 79th birthday last summer. I have raised these superior dogs for 19 years, and it hurts to leave this hobby. My daughter will continue to breed our line. She will respond to text Healthy Puppy Guarantee All puppies come with a healthy puppy vet check and first set of shots. Their dew-claws have been removed and typically weigh between pounds at 6 weeks of age. Limited registration comes with a written one year health guarantee for genetic defects and a book with family pictures, pedigrees and copies OFA hip certification. Full registration may be purchased by private treaty and does not come with a health guarantee. Liter Available mid April. Recently, we have begun to produce well-bred Labradoodle pups from our own stock. These pups have many qualities, making them highly sought-after family pets and traveling companions. He has caught on incredibly quickly to potty and crate training. We love him immensely and are so grateful to you both for this precious pup…Just celebrated Easter with his first tour of Teton Pass. She was a typical puppy when small but very smart, learning commands by voice and by hand. She loves to take a shower. Everyone says she is just beautiful and has eyelashes any woman would die for, long and red. She gets along well with other dogs. Loves to play fetch. She is 65 lbs now. She goes to door and sits when she has to go. She crate trained well. Rides In car well. Love our Zoe Melissa C. She was super easy to crate and potty train. She learns fast!!! She is doing well walking on lead and learning basic commands. She has gone on overnight trips and long car rides and has done well. Haven't found a single hair shed in my house, or my shower. Honestly, she is the best and we are so in love with her…even in her wild and crazy puppy moments!! Thanks again!! Jill K. I met a woman in a dog park who stopped to gush over Freddie. Turned out she is ex-military and retired police who did nothing but train and work with dogs, for search and rescue only. More than half her dogs were Labradors. Here is what she told me: Freddie is the most beautiful chocolate Lab she had ever seen. She said he has perfectly bred-in proportion. She loved his big head. He has a perfectly bred temperament and is highly intelligent… She loved him! I recall your wife telling me when we picked her up that she had a delightful personality. She was right on in that assessment! Izzy has been an absolute joy as a hunting mate and family friend. Best dog I have ever had. I wish I could clone her! We have had two local field trial picnics this year. Rebel, the yellow, has taken first place in both of the derby tests. Rider, the chocolate, took third in the last qual. Both dogs ran against about 14 dogs. Rider lost out to 2 older dogs that had been trained by pros. As you can tell, I am very excited for the trail season. Thanks for the great dogs. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Boise. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are great stress relievers for children. Imagine the effects on family life when the stress levels of parents go down. Children who have a dog feel more secure about home safety and going to sleep in the dark. One of the greatest stresses on children is night fears. To have this overcome, or lessened, is a great benefit to relieving stress. For children who are having any sort of difficulties at school, but especially thoughts and concerns over being liked or accepted, having a dog as a companion that loves you unconditionally is positive and brings with it a good feeling and alleviates symptoms of depression. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!
Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of not doing enough research and unknowingly adopting a puppy from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. Although their prices may be much lower, their puppies often come with severe health and behavioral problems. A good breeder will also offer a health guarantee so that you can be refunded or given a replacement puppy if your dog develops any genetic health conditions in the first year or two. This is a good indication that the breeder is professional and takes their work seriously. You can find reviews online on sites like Google, Facebook, and Yelp, or you can ask your friends or family if they know anyone who has adopted a Doodle from a specific breeder. You can also check for user submitted reviews here at Doodle Doods. Although they mainly focus on standard-sized pups, they occasionally have a litter of slightly smaller Medium Bernedoodles. By the way, they also plan to add F2b Bernedoodles into their program very soon. At Harmony Hill Doodles their goal is to provide healthy and well-socialized puppies for loving homes. This exceptional breeder takes great pride in their dogs and puppies. They conduct extensive health and genetic testing to ensure that their puppies are born from healthy and strong bloodlines. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Harmony Hill Doodles utilizes various forms of enrichment methods to give their puppies the best start in life. They make sure to socialize each puppy with children, adults, and other dogs. In addition to that, they start with early training to enforce good manners and behaviors from an early age. They occasionally have Medium Bernedoodles available. Waitlist: Yes. Email: sterlingbrookdoodles yahoo. They are professionals in the area. They grow puppies in their homes. Spread across their 7-acre ranch, Teddy Bear Love Bernedoodles started off with a handful of Bernedoodles. Since then, they have produced a good number of purebred Bernedoodle puppies. Being a veteran in the area, the breeder offers a good 5-year health guarantee for their bred Bernedoodle puppies. Bernedoodle puppies bred here grow up to be well-socialized with other dogs, children and other pets in your family. They are raised to have a smoother integration in their new homes. So, here is a list of important factors to check while searching for breeders of Bernedoodle puppies in New England. Research: There will be innumerable Bernedoodle breeders in New England when you seek to get one. It is important that you gather information about the best ones before you purchase your Bernedoodle puppies. This will enable you to have a wide variety of choices for making an informed decision. Medical History Check-up: Not all breeders will provide you with health information. The best Bernedoodle breeders in New England will have a set of the medical history of their puppies filed accurately. Refer to all the documents before you make the purchase. Guarantee and Assurance: There are perks of getting your Bernedoodle puppies from the best Bernedoodle breeders in New England as well. Final Words Bernedoodles and their puppies are friendly and easy-going family or companion dogs. Having been bred by the best breeders, Bernedoodle puppies grow up to be service or therapy dogs as well. Dog lovers go through every kind of information on the internet before they get one. Their breeding requires the correct environment so that they are properly nurtured. You are now all set to go ahead and make your choice! These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Welcome to New England Bernedoodles we are a family-owned breeder of exceptional Bernedoodles. We breed for temperament, trainability, and affectionate, lovable companions for any family. We started with this breed after having Australian Labradoodles for many years. However, the shedding and the largeness of the breed were off putting. We decided to put our understanding of genetics to work and combine quality, loving, gentle Bernese Mountain dogs with smart, affectionate poodles to produce Bernedoodles here at New England Bernedoodles. We are also producing the Australian Bernedoodle. Yes, they really are low to non-shedding. We here at New England Bernedoodles breed specifically for temperament so we know that our bernedoodles will excel in gentleness, trainability, love and sweet demeanor. Our bernedoodles have exceptional beautiful coats. There is nothing like snuggling up close to your New England Bernedoodle. New England Bernedoodles strive for excellence and we produce puppies that are extremely intelligent, abundantly affectionate and forever your best friend. As first time dog owners, we were extremely selective and knew we wanted to go with a transparent breeder and we got all of that and more. Our puppy just turned 9 weeks today and he is an absolute sponge. He learns so quickly and Julie works tirelessly to set that foundation. I know if we ever want to add another bernedoodle to our family fingers crossed… we will once again go to Vidadoodle. Jette Family Vida means life. That is what you get when you decide to choose Julie Dillow and her family as breeders for a Bernedoodle. Julie pours her life into this beautiful dogs so she can share them with other great people in need of a therapy dog , family dog, and a good companion. These dogs are bright lights in our chaotic world. They are beautiful, smart, and well loved all because of Julie and her family. We are so in love with our puppy, that we have decided to get another from our new found friends at Vidadoodle. Smith Family Coming across Julie Vidadoodle on google was a blessing in disguise. This is my first time having a puppy and I couldn't be happier than with having Julie essentially be my mentor. Not only does Julie go above and beyond with answering all your questions but she's naturally an amazing dog mom. You can tell her heart and soul is poured into the puppies but also the mom who carried the puppies. Julie, words cant describe how grateful and appreciative I am of you. Concord now Rye is so wonderful and well behaved and I know I owe a good portion of it to you. We are happy to have a piece of you with our family! Hughes Family When you choose Vidadoodle, you are not just "buying a puppy. As a first time puppy owner, Julie immediately put me at ease. Julie's communication was fantastic. She was available any time I had questions and I had a lot of them. Throughout the process she had complete transparency and integrity. She makes sure to empower and support you as well as her puppies. Julie works hard to lay a strong foundation for her puppies with early introduction to neurological stimulation, smells, socialization etc. Julie also completes a puppy temperament aptitude assessment to help you choose the perfect puppy for YOU no matter what your needs are. I can't say enough and I am so glad I chose Vidadoodle. Gospodarek Family Description goes hereIf you are contemplating getting a healthy, friendly, gentle puppy, look no further than Vidadoodle NH in Litchfield, New Hampshire. The proprietor, owner and breeder, Julie Dillow, is a highly qualified, attentive, nurturing breeder of Bernedoodles. She and her family provide 24 hour video access to her immaculate facility. She includes a video evaluation of each puppy so that a family can make a well-informed choice when the time comes to pick a puppy on Gotcha Day. Our little lady, Merry, was one of a brood of 10 puppies carefully nurtured by Julie and her amazing family. We highly recommend Vidadoodle, and Julie Dillow. Borrelli Family Julie, the Breeder of Vidadoodle is incredible! She made the entire process of a new puppy a wonderful experience. Through a puppy cam, I was able to watch her and the puppies in action from day one. Her relationship with my puppy's mom is a heartfelt and tender one. She keeps the puppy area immaculate, washing, scrubbing, changing pads all day. Julie has been available for questions, suggestions and anything else from the day of application. She has gone out of her way to make sure each puppy in the litter got a head start on their new lives. My puppy came to my home pretty much paper trained and sleeping in her crate without crying, yelping or any problems whatsoever. My pup is getting used to her surroundings but is extremely intelligent, well-rounded and happy for her 8 weeks of life. Hats off to you, Julie. You contribute to making this world a better place by breeding loving, responsible and amazing dogs. God has blessed you with an amazing talent! From start to finish, the experience was wonderful. I felt involved right from the start and every question was answered. Our puppy is smart, well socialized and so lovable. Vidadoodle — Bernedoodle puppies raised by a small, reputable NH breeder in our home. Contact us to learn more about our bernedoodle puppies, join our waitlist or get more information about our program. E-mail: bernedoodleNH gmail. First Name. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale.
If the apples are fed to your dog incorrectly, these crispy fruits can end up causing harm. And I doubt if we want that. For example, if your dog is diabetic, it must not consume apples as a single one has roughly 25g of sugar. Do Not let your Frenchie eat the core or apple seeds. When serving an apple slice to your Frenchie, ensure you get rid of all the seeds. Additionally, if you have an apple tree in your backyard, experts suggest that you keep an eye on fallen fruits, because as a dog owner, you are never sure what your Frenchie will eat. We have an apple tree in our front yard and our Frenchie Augie is on a mission to try to eat fallen apples all the time so we avoid that part of the yard. Fortunately, the cyanide quantities in apple seeds are moderately low. They do not pose any considerable threat when they do somehow eat them in small quantities. Still, it becomes a concern if many apples-worth seeds are swallowed, or the toxic substance accrues over longer periods. Moderation is key. The skin of apple fruit is the fundamental source of fiber and antioxidants. So, if your dog has a delicate digestive system, remove the apple peel to reduce the additional fiber. And just like the seeds, the apple core is another part I advise them to skip. The core is tough and pretty hard for French Bulldogs to chew; hence, it presents a choking hazard. In addition, if consumed, it can cause gastrointestinal blockage. If your puppy had eaten the core before you had an opportunity to stop it but does not seem to have any issues, there you have no reason to worry — but pay close attention to the pet. On the other hand, if they start choking, attempt to mildly remove the core using your fingers. Avoid Artificial Apple Flavors It is better to offer your Frenchie apples than to feed them artificial, flavored, or canned apples since they are laced with harmful preservatives. At all times, recall that a lot of sugar in canned products causes indigestion in the short-haul and plumpness and diabetes in the long-haul. Hence, expert suggest you feed your pet a slice of the apple you have prepared at home. There are many foods made from apples, including apple chips, apple juice, and applesauce. And many tend to question whether these products are good for their canines. Unfortunately, they are not beneficial to your Frenchie and should be avoided. All the products mentioned above made from apples are less nutritious and pose a great threat to the dental health of your Frenchie. The natural version of the apple is always best so stick with that. Apple chips are desiccated, have zero dietary fibers, and are laced with added sugar. On the other hand, applesauce and apple juice might have the water, but they lack dietary fiber and possess additional sugar. When you combine all three products, you will have enamel decay, diabetes, and obesity. It is best to avoid these for your Frenchie. But since these canines are small and cannot work out too vigorously because of their short muzzles, it is crucial to watch their calorific consumption. According to research , one-half cup of an apple chopped up will give roughly 30 calories. Hence, I suggest adding apples to a frequent rotation of treats instead of feeding your pet apples daily. We will give our Frenchie a slice of an apple here and there after making sure to cut the core out and clean off all the seeds from the apple. Below, we have listed some important tips regarding how to make apples for your pooch to enjoy: Clean the fruits thoroughly to get rid of any traces of herbicides or pesticides Core the apple and ensure all the seeds are shunned into oblivion Get rid of the stem and the whole of the internal core If your pooch is young or senior, I propose you peel the apples. Hence, making it softer. Apples Individual Effects on French Bulldogs Each living creature has a distinct body type and digestion mechanism. Hence, I suggest you consider that not all things are good for every creature! Apples are a great source of carbs and many other crucial nutrients. Eating apples relies on the internal digestive system. They do not harm everyone, nor are they great for everyone. Hence, for your Frenchie, the suitability of apples is solely dependent on him. In this instance, we are talking about all dogs in general, not about particular ones. In addition, if your French bulldog suffers from diabetes , the apple can spike blood sugar more than is needed and you may want to avoid them. So, ensure you do not feed them that. Frenchies treasure the sweet taste that makes them consume these sweet crispy fruits. As a result, it is the taste you give the dogs apples to consume and gnaw on, and essentially, they do not harm their health. Taking care of them entails selecting high-quality food for them. And when introducing new things to your Frenchies, always pay attention to know if there are any side effects after consuming them. Start with just a small piece of an apple when trying a new food like apple with y0ur Frenchie. There is no need to overdo it. I advise you always stay on the lookout for food, especially food that is not great for your dogs. The same goes when trying to add apples to their diet. There is no assurance on how your Frenchies would react after taking apples for the first time since all creatures have different immunities. But ensure you feed them a very minute amount. If they fall sick after consuming the fruit, I suggest you rush the animal to the nearby vet as soon as possible. Or, in an emergency, start by giving them some fresh water, which will help get them back to normal. If you are going to feed your Frenchie puppy apple do so in small amounts. Fortunately, as time goes by, they adapt and start consuming some hard diets, including dog food. As we all know, Frenchies are sensitive and pretty costly pets for medication. Hence, I kindly ask you to pay attention to their health and diet. French Bulldogs and Green Apples Across the globe, there are several types of apples. But generally, we know red, yellow, and green apples. These three types are somewhat very popular universally. In addition, you can give any apple to your Frenchie. They enjoy eating them, so you will not get in trouble by giving them. The actual trouble is trying to stop them from consuming more. So the color of the crispy fruit does not matter. But you can keep on swapping the methods of feeding them apples. Case in point, you can serve your pooch, cooked apples, or you can create fresh juice from them. Final Thoughts — Can French Bulldogs Eat Apples French Bulldog can safely eat apples as long as you feed it to them in small amounts and avoid letting them eat the dangerous parts of the apple. I hope that I have answered all of your valuable queries brilliantly. However, make sure the apple slices are nice natural products and not artificially generated and apple-flavored. In addition, ensure that you do not overfeed them; else, you will get into several problems. Kindly be patient and composed while doing so because; Patience and care are what your French bulldog requires! In retrospect, apples are a great diet for you French bulldogs, but take care of all the points discussed in this article. They will come in handy. And always recall one crucial factor: your French bulldogs are not humans; hence, they cannot convey what they require nor how they feel, and it entirely relies on how you handle them. Show your love and affection, and you will have a great and joyous pooch! Other fruits your French Bulldog can safely eat include blueberries , watermelon , cantaloupe , bananas , carrots , and strawberries. I would recommend avoiding letting your Frenchie eat avocados. Share on facebook. Frenchie parents all over the world want to keep their French Bulldog in their ideal weight and make sure they have a variety of healthy snack options. More often than not dog treats are high in calories and full of chemicals. Some French Bulldog owners choose to feed their Frenchie raw dog food to ensure the food is not processed at all. Do Frenchies even like fruits? Fruits and vegetables can be great snack source for your Frenchie dog. French Bulldogs can eat almost anything, and that includes foods that can potentially harm them. This is why it is important you as a dog owner are familiar with what kinds of fruits and vegetables you can feed your French Bulldog and which ones to steer clear of. Bluenjy the Frenchie eating a celery Celery is a safe snack your Frenchie would love. Celery is full of vitamins A, B and C, it promotes a healthy heart and helps to fight cancer. Large quantities may make your French Bulldog urinate often so give in moderation. Can you feed your Frenchie apples? Quite simply, apples are tested and trusted. Apples are almost the number 1 best fruit you can give to your Frenchie. They are rich in Vitamin C, which is great for repair and development of tissues. Do not give your dog apple seeds though, because they usually contain cyanide which is harmful to them. You should also consider pear; they are a close and slightly softer relative of apples. The same conditions apply. Can you feed your Frenchie bananas? Bananas have just a few more calories than your regular fruits. This is why, even though bananas are okay to give your French Bulldog, you should only feed them about half a banana in 3 days. This helps prevent obesity and constipation in French Bulldogs. Can you feed your French Bulldog Green Beans? Green Beans are packed with vitamins and minerals. All types of green beans are good for dogs to consume as long as they are plain. We recommend giving them in the purest and most natural form however you can still offer canned green beans. If you are offering any canned goods to your French Bulldog it is best to make sure they are low-salt or no-salt products. In the picture Bluenjy the Frenchie is holding a green snap pea. French Bulldogs can eat cabbage, of all types. Cabbage should not be fed in large amounts though because of thiocyanate which is a naturally occurring compound in the vegetable. This may affect their thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism. Thorough cooking such as steaming or boiling can eliminate the thiocyanate. Can you feed your Frenchie dog watermelon? French Bulldogs can get overheated fast on hot summer days. Watermelons can be the perfect solution on a particularly hot day. They are packed with a lot of nutrients and have no cholesterol or fat. All you need to do is remove the seeds before sharing with your Frenchie. Also endeavor to take rind away from it to avoid stomach upset by your Frenchie pup. Can you feed your Frenchie dog blueberries? Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries are all great for your Frenchie puppy. Berries are a good bite-sized fruits. They are also great sources of vitamins. They are antioxidant and help to flush out toxic substances. Can you feed your French Bulldog oranges, mandarins and mango? Oranges, mandarins and mangos are good for your Frenchie but should be fed with caution. They are rich in Vitamin C but have a lot of natural sugar. Eating these fruits in excess is an invitation to obesity, which Frenchies are very prone to. Mangoes are very rich in nutrients; they are also rich in Vitamin C and are a good source of potassium and fiber. It should be noted the fruits have to be peeled and their seeds taken out before serving to your dog. The main thing to always remember when giving your canine partner fruits and vegetables is that it should always be in moderation. Less is best in order to see if your Frenchie is showing any symptoms of indigestion or allergies. Some fruits and vegetables will likely cause your Frenchie to pass gas or pee more frequently. Every dog is different so give a small amount to get to know your dog and what they are able to digest well. There are other fruits and vegetables like cantaloupe, apricot, peach, pineapple, plums, papaya, and carrots, that can be good for your furry friend. But there are some that you should avoid. Fruits and Vegetables to avoid giving your French Bulldog As humans, we eat a lot of different things that we think is healthy for us, however, some of these foods do not have the same effect on our dogs. Only give your Frenchie what is good for them and avoid fruits and vegetables like: Garlic and Onion: Garlic and onion are poisonous to dogs. They are part of the Allium family and French bulldogs should not eat these. Accidents happen. Just watch your Frenchie dog closely for symptoms like increased breathing, nausea, pale gums, abdominal pain and lethargy. If in doubt, contact your vet immediately. Symptoms like stomach bloating, weakness and diarrhea are common after the consumption of grapes. They can also lead to kidney failure and death. Avocados on the other hand can be fed in very small amounts however, may be best to avoid altogether. They contain a toxin called persin, a fungicidal toxin, which can cause serious health problems and is present in small amounts in the avocado flesh. Consuming it by your Frenchie can lead to gastrointestinal blockage like vomiting and diarrhea. Check with your vet before feeding your Frenchie kale. Feeding your French Bulldog raw potatoes - Potatoes contain a compound called solanine which is toxic to dogs. Although cooking can destroy most of the solanine, diabetic Frenchies should not be given potatoes at all. Feeding your Frenchie wild mushrooms - French Bulldogs should not eat wild mushrooms as they can be toxic for them. Consuming wild mushrooms by your Frenchie can lead to death. You should also watch out for nuts, raisin, unripe tomatoes, nutmeg and rhubarb. Apart from the life threatening consequences of feeding fruits and veggies like these to your Frenchie, we should not forget that every dog is an individual. Every time you introduce something new, start small and pull back a little. Dogs have allergies too. Observing them and finding these allergies will go a long way in keeping them healthy. Are Fruit Cores Bad for your Frenchie? Fruit cores like seeds, pits and stones are incredibly high in cyanide. Cyanide is poison to French Bulldogs and dogs generally. If anything seems off, pull back immediately and consult with your vet. We have all the updates, tips and information you need to shower your dog with the love and care they deserve. Can a French Bulldog Eat Apples? Last Updated by Melissa Whalen An apple a day keeps the doctor away, a commonly used saying, but is this really true? An apple is incredibly healthy for a human, but is this also the case for your French bulldog? For a French bulldog, an apple is not dangerous, and in fact, it provides a lot of nutrients just like it would for you. Your Frenchie will probably love apples. I would recommend cutting the apples into slices to feed to your Frenchie and only feeding them a few slices at a time. Be aware that dogs should not eat the core of the apple because it contains seeds. These seeds contain amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide, which can be dangerous or even deadly for your Frenchie. What is an apple? An apple is a fruit that grows on a tree. You can eat an apple with or without its peel, but the core that is inside is not consumable. An apple grows on the branches of an apple tree and is available in many varieties; sweet, sour, and bitter. Apples are a popular fruit because you can use them for many dishes, such as salads and apple pie; you can even use apples in a Thanksgiving Turkey. Nutrients from an apple. Is It Safe? The French Bulldog looks exactly like a bulldog except in miniature. These pint-sized pups, with their adorable squashed-in faces and meticulous manners, got their start in England before relocating with their owners to Paris and throughout Northern France. It's not surprising that the moment the French people laid eyes on these dogs they decided to claim them for their own! Like many Parisians, Frenchies are true "foodies" and always want to eat what you are eating. If you happen to be eating a sweet, crunchy, crispy apple, you may wonder if French Bulldogs can eat apples too. Let's find out together in this article! Can French Bulldogs Eat Apples? The short answer to this question is that yes, French Bulldogs can eat apples. The longer answer is that, like any sweet treat, apples should only be fed in moderation. It is also vital to remove the seeds, stem, and core, as these parts can be toxic to your precious dog. Finally, be sure to cut the apple into bite-sized pieces to avoid a choking hazard. Some great points to notice in this video is how the owner first removed the core, seeds and stem from the apple and cut it up into small, bite-size pieces. The owner also waited until the dog had completely finished chewing and swallowing each piece of apple before offering another. This is particularly important for safety in short-muzzle breeds like the French Bulldog. But because these dogs are little and can't exercise too vigorously due to their short muzzles, it is important to watch their caloric intake. As the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center Clinical Nutrition Service explains, one-half cup of an apple chopped up will deliver about 30 calories. Cummings also notes that no more than 10 percent of your dog's daily calories should come from treat foods. And this is just an example, but if you feed your French Bulldog calories per day, no more than 30 calories should come from treats, including apple treats. So you will want to add apples to a regular rotation of treats rather than feeding your Frenchie apples every day. Here are some handy tips about how to prepare apples for your French Bulldog to enjoy: — Wash the apple thoroughly especially if they are not organic to remove any traces of pesticides, herbicides, or another residue. Apples can provide your French Bulldog with certain essential nutrients including vitamins and trace minerals. While you are likely feeding your Frenchie a complete and balanced dog food as it is, there is never any harm in offering some extra nutrition in the form of treats like apples. Just make sure to adjust your dog's daily caloric intake accordingly so your dog doesn't start to pack on the pounds. As Ballpark Bulldogs breeder explains, apples are completely safe for French Bulldogs to eat in moderation. So let's take a closer look at the nutrients in an apple and which ones might benefit your French Bulldog. Antioxidants PetMD points out that apples are a great source of natural antioxidants — cancer and free radical-fighting agents that prevent cellular oxidation. Examples of antioxidants include Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium. Dietary fiber Apples are also a great source of natural insoluble dietary fiber. This type of fiber is sometimes referred to as prebiotics and is helpful to keep your dog eliminating on schedule. Vitamin A is essential for proper development and maintenance of your dog's skin, coat, nerves, and muscles. Calcium As the American Kennel Club AKC points out, apples are a great source of calcium, which of course is vital for healthy teeth and bones. But as Veterinary Practice explains, calcium is also essential for muscle contraction and nerve function as well as blood clotting. Phosphorus Phosphorus is an essential mineral to stabilize and optimize kidney function in your pup. It is also an essential partner with calcium to maintain strong and healthy bones and teeth. Even more importantly, phosphorus plays a vital role in maintaining DNA and RNA and helping cells create strong barrier membranes and take in energy. It is always smart to consider in advance whether there may be any reason not to feed a new food to your French Bulldog. This is especially the case if your dog is still a puppy, is in their golden years, or has been diagnosed with any specific health issues. Sensitive stomach or food allergies French Bulldogs can be sensitive to environmental or food allergies. Some dogs may be more affected than others. If your dog seems to be prone to allergies, you likely already know to proceed with caution whenever you are introducing a new food. Apples are no exception. Try feeding just one small chunk. Then wait 24 to 48 hours and see how your dog reacts. If all goes well, try feeding one more small chunk and wait again. If you still don't see any signs of a food allergy, it should be safe to feed your dog apples. When in doubt, always talk with your dog's veterinarian first. French Bulldog puppies French Bulldog puppies, like all puppies, may need a year or more before their digestive and gastrointestinal tract is fully developed. In the same way, your Frenchie puppy's immune system is still developing all throughout the first year of life. So unless your dog's veterinarian specifically says it is okay, it is usually best to just stick to small breed puppy food that is complete and balanced until your puppy grows up. French Bulldog senior dogs As with many dogs in their golden years, senior French Bulldogs often become less active with age. When your dog starts to slow down, you may need to reduce the daily caloric intake to account for this and keep the weight off. Excess weight can put more pressure on joints and cause pain and you don't want this for your dog. Also, sometimes Frenchies in the later life stage may have more trouble chewing and apples can be hard to chew. Instead of feeding raw apples, you may want to feed stewed unsweetened apples or store-bought unsweetened applesauce. This way your dog will still get a tasty treat but it will be easier to enjoy. Brachycephaly French Bulldogs belong to the group of short-muzzle dogs. The squashed-in looking face is less pronounced with French Bulldogs than with some other breeds, but it is still important to learn about for your dog's health. This is especially true when it comes to feeding your Frenchie. Because your dog has a short, wide face instead of a long narrow muzzle like, say, a German Shepherd , the teeth are more crowded and there is less space in the mouth and nasal areas. This can make it a bit harder for your French Bulldog to grasp and chew food. It can also mean breathing problems sometimes if your dog eats too quickly or over-fills their mouth. If your French Bulldog seems to be struggling to grasp or chew the raw apple segments, you can try the same tip we mentioned for a senior French Bulldog — you can feed unsweetened homemade or store-bought applesauce instead. Now that you know the nutritional benefits that apples have to offer your Frenchie, you can give them a try to see if your dog tolerates them well. Remember, if you have any concerns about your French Bulldog's ability to chew hard apples, you can always substitute unsweetened applesauce. Yet another option is to add apples or applesauce to other recipes for tasty dog treats. For French Bulldog puppies or senior dogs, always talk with your dog's veterinarian first before adding apples to your pup's regular treat rotation. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Can French Bulldogs eat apples? French Bulldogs can eat apples safely but make sure you remove the pips, seeds, and core as these can cause upset stomachs. Apple contains vitamins A and C, so can be of a health benefit, but should not be fed to Frenchie puppies as their digestive system may not react to apple very well. Are apples good for a French Bulldog? In short, yes, they can be, but moderation is key to maintain the health condition of your dog. But try to limit it to just a few times a week, and small portions only. There are natural sugars in fruit, so too much can be a bad thing. Watch the video below to see a clip of me feeding our Frenchie some apple, and how I prepared it first to be completely safe. All dogs are individuals though Just like with any other fruit, apples contain natural sugars so can be harmful to dogs with diabetes where their sugar intake needs to be regulated. You should talk to your vet and take into account any pre-existing or potential health problem they may have before taking any risks with the food you let them eat. If your Frenchie experiences any form of vomiting or diarrhoea, give them some fresh water immediately, and if not resolved in 24 hours, consult with your vet. Can French Bulldog puppies eat apples? This is where I would draw the line; Frenchie puppies are notorious for having stomach problems when they are younger. When we first got Claude as a puppy it was a struggle to stop him eating anything that he came across outdoors, and he would be sick a lot of the time. You can read more about how much should be in a French bulldog puppy diet elsewhere on the website. How to prepare apple for a Frenchie Before you even think about feeding your French Bulldog apples, make sure you cut the core out and remove any pips and seeds. Slice the apple into small bite-size chunks and test him on one cube first. If he reacts ok to it, then you can let him have some more. But please limit the amount of apple to just a few small cubes and treat it the same way as you would a doggy treat. In other words, less is more. Can French bulldogs eat green or red apples? You could even mix things up a bit, and simply feed them as a small slice of raw apple like I did in the video, or even as cooked apple. Cooked apple will be softer and easier to chew, particularly for an older Frenchie. Reasons to remove the core and pips Apple seeds contain a small amount of cyanide which is released when the pips are chewed. Remove the core and pips before feeding apple to a Frenchie. The more likely danger to your Frenchie will be from choking on the core or from a seed getting trapped somewhere in their digestive system. Can Frenchies eat apple every day? Instead consider it like a treat to be fed to them in moderation, perhaps no more than a few slices a couple of times a week. What about other apple-based foods? But what about other foods that contain apple, and how safe are they to feed to your French Bulldog? What you should always avoid is nutmeg in apple pie. Nutmeg has myristicin in it which is a toxin harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities. In other words, take it slow, and only give your dog small amounts at first so you can react to any situation that may arise. You can download a printable version to pin on your refrigerator.
As a breed they have a great temperament. However, it can still happen, and French Bulldog puppy biting problems are one of the most challenging issues I am asked about on social media. Speaking from real-life experience, our Frenchie Claude has never bitten anybody aggressively. However, he was very nippy as a puppy, and in truth, a lot of that was my fault due to the way I would play with him. I soon learned fast that I was going to get nipped! Our next door neighbour also has a French Bulldog puppy who was constantly biting. I worked with them to try and stop the biting problem and had great success. It was particularly important as they have young kids to consider. Please read down and take everything in. I believe this is the most comprehensive guide to stopping a French Bulldog biting that you will find anywhere online. Make a drink, sit back, and I will teach you how to stop the keep biting problem, starting off with why it happens. Why French Bulldog Bite? But this can start off with something as normalised as barking. If you decide to not heed the warning, the barking can then progress to a growling and showing of the teeth. If you continue to approach and invade their space, the bite is the next natural step. However, with a more aggressive Frenchie this bite can be very painful as they have very strong jaws. For parents this will be of particular concern if a French Bulldog bites your child. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? As puppies, yes, Frenchies can bite and nip as part of teething and play. As a general rule of thumb, they will get over this behaviour. Generally speaking though, Frenchies are a non-aggressive breed. Most of it will be down to how the owner has trained and raised the dog. Why French Bulldog puppies bite Sometimes the puppies will start to bite for fun, others will bite during the teething phase read more about teething here. Frenchies use their mouths to explore, and small nips here and there can be explained away by their age. Other will bite and act aggressive out of fear, and others will bite too enthusiastically during play. Another reason why Frenchie puppies bite can also be to try to show that they are the ones who are in charge of your relationship. If this is the case with your puppy, it must be stopped immediately as if you have a puppy that believes it is dominant, its nibbling will be just the beginning of your troubles. Whichever scenario you face, biting is a behavior that needs to be nipped no pun intended in the bud as soon as possible when the dog is younger. This will help to prevent bigger problems as the Frenchie gets older. But there is a fine line between biting and playing. Our own Frenchie Claude is a classic example. As a puppy I would play with him probably a little too enthusiastically, and he would go for my hands as a result — thankfully he grew out of it, and yours probably will too. Adult Frenchies that bite are a problem However, French Bulldogs that bite into adulthood are problematic, especially if the biting suddenly starts with no previous form. In this case, please take the dog to the vet immediately to rule out any illness or injury that could be causing the biting problems. In cases such as this, vets will often recommend a dog behaviour specialist. How to stop your French Bulldog puppy from biting If your Frenchie puppy starts to show aggressive behaviour and biting it does need to be stopped as soon as it can. Otherwise it could continue into adulthood and become a bigger problem that is behavioural rather than playful. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When puppies play together, they will squeal when bitten by another pup. In the litter you will see this happening, and the squeal results in the biting puppy backing away. As humans we can mimic this behaviour. This is a hugely popular method used by dog trainers as it makes your puppy believe that he hurts you every time he gives you a bite. You might find that your puppy takes this telling off to heart. When we tried it with our puppy he would get all submissive and run to my wife for reassurance. The key is to not comfort them at this point, as this could lead to more biting. By shunning the puppy momentarily, you will get the best results. It sounds harsh, but if you really do want your French Bulldog to stop biting, you need to stick firm. The sooner you start doing this, the sooner your puppy will learn that biting is not ok. It really does work very well. By doing so, you are encouraging the bad behaviour. This is one of the most important tips, and to not do so will only prolong the period you have to try to stop the bad attitude. Then place another finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds, but not too hard. Your puppy will feel uncomfortable it will train him to not keep biting you. A dog trainer gave me this tip and swears by it. It involves wearing a pair of gloves with something on it that tastes bad. My trainer recommended a bitter spray see it on Amazon. After a few bites, your Frenchie will soon learn that if it bites you, it will not taste good! If you see the puppy starting to come towards your hands or fingers, move them out the way and use a chew toy instead. By focusing on the toy instead, the puppy will learn that hands are not for biting and will associate a chew toy with biting instead. The toys we found worked best for biting and chewing were the Kong on Amazon view prices. You can also see some other recommendations in my chew toy page. Frenchie puppies love to chase feet and bite at shoes, and yes, it is fun, but curb it sooner rather than later. Puppies love biting feet, shoes, and shoelaces as part of play. Use the same preventative methods listed in points 1 and 2 to discourage feet nipping. From talking to animal behaviouralists and vets, they say that a physical punishment will only exacerbate the biting problem and create more fear and aggression in your French Bulldog. Fear is the root of so many biting problems and will only make your puppy feel scared of you and be more inclined to deliver a nasty nip. But you still need to teach your Frenchie puppy to be accepting when your hands do go near the mouth. As puppies, you will need to fish things out of their mouth, and into adulthood check their teeth and administer medicines. You need to train them to not bite your hands when your fingers need to go into the mouth area. Do this by giving them a small treat and then quickly taking it out of their mouth. Train your Frenchie puppy to not bite over food Another flashpoint will be food. Puppies are very protective of their food bowl and will wolf it down in seconds to stop anybody else from eating it. But this behaviour that was learned from a young age, will also result in biting problems around their food dish. Food aggression is a problem even with the most well-behaved Frenchie so your aim here is to train the puppy that you can take food away from it with no aggressive response. Keep repeating the lesson until your French Bulldog puppy learns that you, the master, have control over food and can give or take it away at will. If you have kids, then also get them to practice this as the dog should never have dominance over any member of your household. If you can stop your French Bulldog puppy biting over food, then your almost there with having a perfectly well adjusted and non-aggressive pet. However, you might still experience it in other scenarios such as them being jealous of another pet, child, or visitor. It can also occur when you try to get your dog to get down off a couch or bed to make way for you. This is there way of exerting dominance over you so nip it in the bud by reinforcing good behaviour. Socialise your puppy with other dogs Make sure that your puppy has opportunities to play with other dogs. Puppies learn from each other and particularly older dogs. You can help stop a French bulldog puppy biting by wearing them out and learning from adult dogs. Not only do they learn from each other, but they will also wear each other out. Expose your puppy to loud noises and fearful situations Now obviously I am not suggesting that you go out of your way to scare your young dog, but it is important to expose them to situations that could spark fear, aggression,and biting. Think of things such as loud noises from traffic passing by, children shouting, or noisy public environments. The sooner you can get your Frenchie trained to be calm in these situations, the more chance you stand of them not reacting badly and reacting with a fearful or aggressive bite. Always supervise young children with a puppy A French Bulldog that bites a child is a hugely serious issue. Supervise your dog at all times when around young children to avoid bites and aggression. Whilst French Bulldogs are great with children , you should never leave them alone. When to seek professional help If even after using all these training methods, you still have a French Bulldog that bites, then please talk to your vet immediately. An expert will be able to tell you whether the mouthing of your puppy is normal behaviour or something that requires a treatment plan. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in French Bulldogs. The dangers of a dog bite Adult dogs that bite can be serious problem. People die every year from bites, and more frequently can develop serious infections when a wound goes septic. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. Compress the wound gently by pressing on it. This will squeeze some blood out which can help to flush out as much of the bacteria as possible. Clean the bite wound with clean water and a mild soap. Press a clean cloth onto the bite to slow the bleeding down. Apply antibiotic cream to the bite wound. Dress the bite wound with a sterile bandage. Consult with a medical professional as soon as you can. Conclusion The general rule to stopping a French Bulldog from biting is to always encourage acceptable behavior and to discourage unacceptable behavior. This rule is fundamental in the training of any dog. Use chew toys and games and not your hands. This means that you or any other person who comes into contact with your puppy must keep in mind the strategy chosen each time your puppy begins to chew. If you have visitors and other family members, communicate with them to adopt the same strategy as you. The bottom line is this; if you do not communicate clearly with your French Bulldog, he will not understand that what he is doing is not good. Do not just expect the puppy to know it for himself. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also be interested in: If you enjoyed this guide on how to stop your French Bulldog puppy biting, you might also like these related posts:. However, whilst French Bulldogs tend to have good temperaments, as puppies they use their mouths to learn and will bite anything in sight. In this guide I will explain how you can overcome French Bulldog puppy biting problems, despite the challenges involved. He has never been an aggressive biter, but he would nip a lot as a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of the biting was down to me, as I would do rough play with him and almost encourage the nipping. But, as my puppy got older, those playful nips started to hurt. Please do take all my tips in, as I believe it to be the most detailed solution you will find for stopping a French Bulldog biting that you see anywhere on the Internet. But first, why do French Bulldogs bite you? Most will let you know they are scared with a little bark, letting you know to keep away. If you continue to advance and upset them, the growl can then become a snap and possible bite. But, with an older and more aggressive French Bulldog, that bite could be very painful, particularly to young children. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? When French Bulldogs are puppies, they do tend to do a lot of biting. Why French Bulldog puppies bite? The teething phase is when you will notice your French Bulldog puppy biting the most. Some French Bulldogs will also bite a bit too enthusiastically when they are playing with you. This is a hangover from their days with their siblings where mouth play would have been used. You can stop a Frenchie puppy biting at you by encouraging them to chew things like toys instead. You need to draw the line between biting and playing. As mentioned earlier, I would play with my own puppy and he would go for my hands with his teeth. I turned this into a game, which then became an issue as I had to train him out of it as he got older. French Bulldog puppies can also bite as a way of showing their dominance over you. Whatever the reason is for your French Bulldog puppy biting, it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If not, you will have problems with your adult French Bulldog thinking that biting is acceptable. Also, if your French Bulldog suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately — it could be the sign of a new illness or injury. How to stop your French Bulldog puppy from biting Here are different ways that really work if you need to know how you can stop a French Bulldog from biting as a puppy. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When you see puppies playing together in their litter, they will let out a tiny squealing sound when bitten by sibling. The puppy that bit will hear the squeal and then tends to back off. As French Bulldog owners we can imitate this behavior! If your French Bulldog puppy bites you and gives you a nip, make a high-pitched squeal sound. You might find your puppy seeks re-assurance and comfort, but the key is to not give it. Instead, ignore them for a few moments, for example; turn your back to them. This might sound mean but if you want your French Bulldog to stop biting it can work very well. The quicker you begin using this technique the sooner your French Bulldog will biting you and your family. All it will do is make your dog scared and could lead to more biting out of fear. I made this mistake with my own puppy, as would push him away playfully, but that just encouraged the biting more. They will want more of the play, so will bite back again. But you are training them into thinking your hands are fair game. Instead you should use chew toys for this type of play. If you can focus their attention onto a toy and not your hands, they will learn that fingers and hands are not there to be bitten. You can also see the prices by clicking the photo below. Puppies will often eat things they should not do, so you will need to hook stuff out of their mouth. You will also need to check the health of their teeth and gums. One of the best ways you can train a French Bulldog puppy to not bite your fingers in their mouth is to use a treat or snack. Let them see it, and then use your fingers to pop it into their mouth and out again. Over time, they should get comfortable letting you put fingers in their mouth without biting back. Train your French Bulldog puppy to not bite over food One of the most common times a French Bulldog puppy will bite is when food is in the equation. Puppies tend to be very overprotective of food, which they learned when in the litter as they had to fight for nutrition. Unfortunately, it will be behavior that can extend to occur over their food bowl. If your French Bulldog is showing food aggression, then you need to train the puppy to learn you are in charge and can pick their bowl up and put it back down at any time — with no aggression from the dog. What you do is put a bowl in front of your French Bulldog then quickly remove it again. Dog trainers tell you to do the loud squeal when the French Bulldog puppy bites you then quickly place your thumb in their mouth, pressing it underneath their tongue. You can then put a finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds if you can, but not hard enough to hurt the puppy. The French Bulldog will not like it, and it could mean they stop biting you and will learn for next time. Let your French Bulldog know you are in charge Older French Bulldogs that bite will often do it to try to exert dominance over their owner. They can also bite due to jealousy, or when you tell them to do something like get off your chair or bed. You need to train your French Bulldog to realize you are the pack leader and the dominant one. Alphas like us owners, should not be bitten by pack members lower down the chain. Being assertive will help, but often simply rewarding good behavior is enough to get a dog to bend to your will. Socialise your French Bulldog puppy with other dogs Puppies will learn from each other and older dogs. We often look after puppies for our friends. Our friends will often say what a positive impact they see in their young pups after spending a day in the company of our now older dog. And that can include not as much biting. The sooner they can get used to things like this, the sooner they should learn not to bite out of fear. Keep your French Bulldog on a leash when exposing them to new things and noises. Always supervise your puppy when young children are present A French Bulldog that bites a child is a massive problem. The same goes for when you have visitors of all ages come into your home. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in French Bulldogs. Something to consider though is how long your French Bulldog could be teething for. It can last up until they are 8 months of age, so biting and chewing things is to be expected during this phase. The dangers of a dog bite Adult French Bulldogs that start biting can be dangerous. Whilst they are a small breed, people can get ill from infections. For example, around half of all dog bites will infect the person with bacteria, possibly leading to illness. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. What do so when bitten by a French Bulldog If you get bitten by a French Bulldog and it leaves a bleeding wound rather than just an abrasion, take the following steps: Press down on the bite wound. This might mean that blood comes out, but that is good as it might help bacteria to come away from the wound. Use clean water and a mild soup to clean the bite wound. Use a clean cloth to press down on the bite wound again as this will help to slow and stop any bleeding. If you have it, apply antibiotic cream to the dog bite wound and then dress it with a new or sterile bandage. If serious, contact a health professional for advice. Conclusion To conclude, some of the quickest ways you can stop a French Bulldog from biting is to make sure you use positive and negative affirmations. In other words, you praise the good, and discourage the bad. Whichever method you try to use, and can be a combination, just make sure that you are consistent when training your French Bulldog puppy to not bite. Tell your friends and family to use the same methods too if they have contact with the puppy. Ultimately, unless you a clear and obvious to your French Bulldog, the puppy will not understand that his biting behavior is a bad thing. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also like…. Why Is My French bulldog Biting? This can be possible that your French bulldog never bites, but you have to train them from the day you get them home. Biting behavior can also be seen in French Bulldogs. I also had achieved success in making a French bulldog not to bite who was known for his biting behavior. Here I have briefly discussed the French bulldog biting behavior, the reasons, tips, and preventions to eliminate this unwanted behavior. I hope that this will help you make your dog a good and happy pet for you so you both can live happily together. Like all other dogs, aggression and fear in this breed are normal. You can take the aggression of your dog as normal as his barking. In this way, the French bulldog is actually reminding you to keep your own distance. If your dog is barking at you, it means he wants you to stay away for a moment. If still, you are invading his space, then naturally, the next step taken by your French bulldog will be biting. Mostly, that kind of biting will be like a bit of nip, but it can be hard. Because that French bulldog got strong jaws, so if you have kids in your house, be concerned. Do French Bulldogs bite a lot? But with time, they will get over this behavior. Generally, French Bulldogs are not bred as an aggressive breed of dog; most of them show the behaviors that are trained by their owners. Why do French Bulldog puppies bite? French Bulldog puppies bite for several reasons, like in the teething phase, in aggressiveness, just for fun, or enthusiastically during play. If this is the reason, then immediately solve this issue because if now he is just nipping to show his dominance, he is going to create big problems for you in the future. But if he grows up with biting behavior, it is really a thing you have to worry about. Although there is a fine and clear line between playing and biting, you have to overcome this issue. Little puppies will bite your hand while playing with you, but they can be trained not to repeat that act with training. Adult Frenchies Bite is a Problem Once your French bulldog grows up, never allow him to bite you even if he is playing because such Frenchie can be problematic. If your French bulldog who has no record of biting suddenly starts biting, then immediately contact a vet to rule out any injury or illness that is causing your canine friend to bite. Simply provide him with chew toys made up of rubber and silicone. In many chew toys, there is a pin-like structure on their exterior that massages the gums of your canine friend. Some toys that work best preventing the French bulldog biting are Suction Frenchie Tugtoy and Teeth cleaning toy. Then use a bitter spray on them. It will keep your dog away from those items and make your dog understand what is prohibited from being chewed. If your dog is not getting over their behavior of biting your hand, you have to wear gloves containing some bad-tasting substance like bitter spray. The bad taste will make your French bulldog stay away from your hands. Never allow your dog to use your feet as a chewing toy. You have to understand that when your dog is anxious, he can show unwanted behaviors like destructive chewing and biting. French bulldogs are more likely to get separation anxiety; they handle such situations easily by training them from childhood. For this purpose, leave them alone for some time, make them busy playing with toys alone. After some practices, increase the time of leaving them alone. This will help them control their anxiety if they get alone in any situation. Although chewing toys are helpful in making your dog not bite. You can also use interactive French bulldog toys that will not only seek his attention but also boost his intelligence. Conclusion You should also know that French bulldog puppies can be aggressive and nippy. Which is why they need to be socialized early. He can advise some tips and tricks for your dog. Technique No. It is important to understand why they result into biting so that you can better train them to control their urge. This is why owners should just control what their Frenchie chews on rather than completely preventing them from biting or chewing. It is in the Frenchie puppies nature to bite or chew as they also try to protect themselves. Frenchies also bite as a way to defend themselves against people or things that they think put them in danger. Biting As A Form Of Play French bulldog puppies are naturally playful and one way to show their playfulness is through biting. It is a form of socialization and a bit of rough play. A Frenchie puppy learns to control the intensity of its bite when it plays with other puppies. When it bites too hard and causes pain on another Frenchie, the other puppy will cry loudly to let the Frenchie know. This is a natural way on how Frenchies learn to control their bite. Some may consider them as just a phase that they can outgrow as they mature into adults. Biting usually occurs when Frenchies are puppies because they are still in their teething stage. Like babies who like to chew on different things while they are teething, Frenchie puppies also like to bite and chew on things while they are teething. The process of chewing relieves their gums of the discomfort that they may be feeling because of their erupting teeth. Giving them items that they can chew will help them feel more comfortable as they pass through this stage of their lives. After teething, it is possible for Frenchies to lessen their frequency in biting or chewing. You should establish that you have authority over your Frenchie so that it follows you. With whatever you are training your puppy for, you should be consistent. Make sure the rules are always followed and no exceptions so that your Frenchie learns faster. By yelping out loud and startling your Frenchie puppy every time they bite you, your cute Frenchie will learn that biting is hurtful to you and should not be done. Frenchies also bite as a form of defense. When they feel that they are in danger because of your violence, they are more likely to be aggressive and react with violence too. It helps them with the discomfort that they feel in their gums. To prevent your Frenchie from biting you, you can provide them with alternative chew toys or chew items instead. Giving them iced treats or rags soaked in cold water will help numb their gums and make them feel more comfortable. It is possible that your Frenchie is suffering from anxiety and using biting as an outlet. Finding a way to overcome their anxiety will eventually lead them to stop biting. Our boutique About Us The exclusive destination for all your luxury accessory needs. Inspired by French Bulldogs, made for all pups.
GSGRR is a c 3 nonprofit organization run by a small group of volunteers. We provide our dogs with veterinary care including spaying or neutering as necessary, evaluate their temperament, and socialize them by having them live with foster families. Then the dogs are matched with loving, carefully selected adoptive homes. We place our dogs in adoptive homes in the Gulf South. Each GSGRR member, officer, and foster care provider is a totally unpaid volunteer with family and work commitments. We strive to respond quickly to every inquiry received, but more importantly, we want to place the right dog in the right home. Should you not receive a timely reply, please click here for our main email address. If you would like more information on a dog available for adoption, please click on petfinder website. Yes, we get youngsters! Please note that we take in dogs of all ages. Because we typically have a waiting list of approved clients, many dogs are adopted before they have a chance to get onto the website. So if you don't see exactly the dog you're looking for listed here, please fill out an application and let us know what you're looking for. We will do our best to find the right dog for you! Here is some information on the Darlene Fund- for special needs dogs. They will help defray the costs associated with our Golden Retriever rescue program. Click below to make a secure payment via Paypal, or send a check to the address below. We are exempt from federal income tax under section a of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section c 3. Your donations are considered tax deductible. Thank you! Located just 7 miles north of Covington, LA. For over 40 years, we have been providing the people of Louisiana with some of the finest Golden Retrievers. Fifteen years ago, we integrated Golden Doodles into our breeding program. If you are looking to add a member to your family, contact Hunnington Farms today. We have puppies for sale that are looking for that perfect home. Hunnington Farms is a breeding facility that believes in breeding the finest animals. We are a family-owned farm that started breeding dogs purely out of love for the animals. The way our dogs have always enriched our lives and assisted in running our farm made us want to breed the same dogs. We firmly believe the best possible dog breed for a single owner or a family with children are Golden Doodles and Golden Retrievers. No matter what trait you are looking for in your next pet, Hunnington Farms breeds the perfect dog for you. If a loyal, fun loving, ultra obedient and a true lifelong friend is what you want, we have the finest Golden Retriever puppies in Louisiana. If you? Thank you for visiting our website. Here you will find valuable information on the breeds we provide and the puppies we have for sale. We are a full service farm that has transformed a small portion into our breeding haven. We follow all AKC breeding requirements and go the extra mile to provide every home with the highest quality pet. All of our breeding dogs are OFA certified for hips, patellas, elbows, dental, and heart. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn About The Breeds.
Final thoughts on crate training What are the benefits of crate training? However, leading animal rights organizations along with reputable training and veterinary experts say that when used correctly, crates provide dogs with a sense of security. Before training begins, you need to choose the right crate. It should be large enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lay down. Chewy offers a helpful crate size chart along with measuring instructions. When purchasing a crate, choose a size appropriate for your Frenchie when fully grown. Place a blanket or soft bed in the crate, and add a favorite toy or bone. Introduce your puppy to the crate by dropping treats directly inside the door to encourage him to enter. Never force him into the crate. Depending on your dog, this step can take from a few minutes to a few days, according to training experts at the Humane Society of the United States HSUS. This helps your Frenchie make a positive association with the crate. The next step is to coax your dog to go in the crate for short periods during the day. Close the door, and sit beside the crate for a few minutes. Your dog now can stay in the crate overnight. Keep the crate in your bedroom at night when potty training so your puppy can alert you when he needs to go out. Are French Bulldogs easy to train? Is crate training good for a French Bulldog? This makes housebreaking easier and helps get your puppy safely through the destructive chewing stage. Additionally, breed experts say that crating keeps French Bulldogs safe when traveling, visiting other homes, or recuperating from an illness or injury that requires rest. Crating also can help Frenchies who suffer from separation anxiety. Editors' Recommendations. Crate training your dog can be very useful for you as well as your Frenchie. You can compare crate training to a cradle for a baby. A dog who has a crate they love is a safe haven for them, just like a cradle is for a baby. Crate training your dog may or may not be an easy task. Either way, a step-by-step plan can only be helpful. And, if followed, will make the end goal easier to reach. Many pet parents feel guilty or unsure about crate training, and understandably so. However, crate training is beneficial for your furry family member and can be a great thing. Your puppy will learn that their crate is their space and where they will rest, so they will want to wait to use the restroom when they are outside. Separation Anxiety Many dogs suffer from anxiety when left alone. This is not uncommon. While being put in a crate can add to their anxiety or stress, their crate can be helpful if it becomes their safe haven and a spot that makes them feel safe. Emergency Use Crate training your dog can lend to be very helpful in case of an emergency. If there is ever a situation where you must evacuate your home or go to a place where a crate is required, having a Frenchie who happily goes into their crate can keep this situation safe and smooth. Another emergency you could face with your dog is surgery on their part or yours. For their or your recovery, being able to have them in their crate is extremely helpful. For Convenience Crate training your dog really helps when it comes to daily life. There are often times when putting your sweet Frenchie away simply makes life easier. These times may include when guests come over for dinner, when fireworks are happening outside, a friend brings their pet over, you have errands to run, etc. A crate not only relieves stress or anxiety your dog may experience when daily life is altered a bit, but it can also help you. Senior Dogs Senior dogs who have been crate-trained will benefit greatly. Older dogs can use their crate as a space to get extra rest. Senior dogs will also like their crate when they no longer have the energy to entertain big groups or children. Crate Options Once you decide that crate training your dog is the right move to make, choosing the best crate will depend on several factors. There are many different crate options depending on your Frenchies size, activity level, and your future plans with the crate. Making sure you select the right crate can make all the difference in creating a comfortable, safe spot for your dog to feel at home. Size Crates come in varying sizes, usually about 20 inches to 48 inches. The ideal size of a crate depends on the size of your dog. Most Frenchies are medium-sized, so a medium-sized crate would be good. The intention is that once your dog is fully grown, they will be able to stretch out and sit up straight in their crate. Before puppies are full-grown, use the divider panel that comes with the crate to expand the crate size as needed. When purchasing a crate, look at the size chart to make the best choice. Crate Types There are three different types of crates: the wire crate, the fabric travel crate, and the plastic travel crate. They are each different. Wire crate A wire crate is the most popular option when crate training your dog. Customer support team based in Indiana We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. It is easy to set up and take with you and is intended for travel as they are lightweight and easy to carry. These crates can easily be chewed on, so they may not be suitable for puppies or any Frenchie that has a habit of chewing. Plastic Travel Crate A plastic travel crate is more robust than the previous two mentioned. It is made of plastic and is also used for travel since it remains set up and is easy to carry. This may be a better option than the fabric crate if you need to transport your dog. They are also easy enough to carry, and your Frenchie is not as easily able to chew them. Some people use these as fixed crates at home, but they are more enclosed than the wire crate. This makes it less desirable for many dogs and owners. Doggy Playpen A playpen is a route some pet owners like to take as opposed to or in addition to crate training your dog. A playpen allows your Frenchie more room for walking around and playing. Playpen Versus Crate Like a crate, a playpen contains your dog in one space. The biggest difference is their size. You may decide to use one over the other depending on your needs. Playpens typically come in two different materials: metal and fabric. The metal playpen is similar to a metal crate, only bigger. Playpen Use: Contain your dog to an area, but give them room to play. You need to leave your dog for a full day more than hours. Your dog prefers a larger space. Crate Use: Contain your dog to a smaller area sometimes makes them feel safer. Sleeptime may go better in a crate. Transportation to another place. You will train your dog to happily go into their playpen as you do the crate treats, slowly increase time, make it a fun space. Having both would allow your pup to have a confined space for sleeping the crate and a bigger area for when they are ready to walk around and play the playpen. You can choose to set the two up in separate places, using each for different purposes and at different times. You can also set the two up together where the crate will open into the playpen. This option would be used with a metal playpen. Of course, this setup will require more space. You could use the following to do so. Bed or Crate Pad A crate pad fits more precisely into a crate than a standard dog bed. Get one that is sturdy and difficult for them to chew, like this chew-resistant pad. Durable crate pads can be pricey, but it beats buying several fluffy, easy-to-chew ones. I like to buy dog pads that have a zip-off cover, making them easier to wash. Your dog will love to cuddle up in this dog bed. This is one tough dog bed. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Chew Toys Chewing can be calming for dogs and gives them something to do while they are in their crate. As mentioned before, providing chew toys will also prevent them from chewing their crate pad. Choosing appropriate toys for your dog is important. Make sure that your Frenchie cannot tear and eat pieces of the chew toy and that it is not too small for them. A chewable stick is a good option. If you have a puppy, you should not leave them in their crate for too long and they also are unable to hold their bladder for too long. In this case, refrain from leaving them water. An option for leaving water in the crate without it becoming a mess is to purchase a snap bowl that easily connects to the side of a wire crate. A regular water and food bowl can be left in the playpen if you leave for an extended amount of time. This can be done with adult dogs, not puppies who need to relieve themselves often. A Possible Step-by-Step Plan for Training Crate training your dog requires a lot of preparation and training, as you may know now. This is only a guide. You know your Frenchie and your situation best, so always do what works for both of you. This plan could also be used for a playpen with alterations where needed. Days Set the crate up and keep the door open for several days. Place a couple of toys and treats in the crate. Place their meal in the crate at times. Allow your Frenchie to choose when they are curious enough to go in the crate. Allow them to explore and find the treats on their own time. Do not shut the door during this time. Shut the door for just a moment while they are in the crate. Stay there and open the door right back up. Increase the length of time, but stay in sight. Days If your dog has responded well to the door closing while you are visible, try closing the door and leaving the room. Start out small and increase the time. Always open the door if they do not respond well. When your dog is able to stay in the crate while you are not visible, try leaving home for just a short time or even stepping outside. Increase this over time. Helping Your Dog Like the Crate In order to ensure that crate training your dog is successful, you want to help your dog like their crate. To do this, it should be a positive experience for them. There are ways to achieve this. Make it comfortable with a crate pad. Give them safe toys to chew on. Before you start to use the crate with the door closed, have the door open for some time, allowing them to go in and out as they please and not make a big deal of it. When you do begin to shut the door, start small by only leaving them in there for a few minutes and slowly increase that time. As mentioned, treats are important for helping your dog feel good about being in the crate. You can use treats to train your dog to go into their crate on their own eventually. Practice this many times before leaving them alone in their crate. Keep training sessions short and repeat them up to several times a day. Tire your dog out by playing with it or walking it before putting them in the crate to help them reach calmness and possibly a level of tiredness that will help them sleep. Length of Time in Crate Once you have trained your dog to freely go into the crate, it is time to try leaving them in the crate for an extended period of time. When you first leave your Frenchie alone in the shut crate, leave home for just a couple of minutes. You can simply go outside your front door to do this. When you return, give a treat and lots of praise. Slowly increase the time they are left in there while you are gone. Puppies should not stay in the crate for more than a couple of hours because they will not have access to water and also use the bathroom more frequently. Once your puppy is older, approximately 6 months, they can stay in the crate for several hours. All dogs are different, and as a pet parent, you should be able to determine how often your dog needs to use the bathroom. If you need to be gone for a full workday, come home on a break, or have a dog sitter let your Frenchie relieve itself at a minimum. Or, you can use the playpen at this time if you have one and your dog is older. There is a very good chance that your Frenchie will whine in the crate. If this happens, you should let your dog out. Maybe you could go on a walk, play together for a bit, or give them a potty break. Then, try again. Otherwise, try to get them to go in peacefully using treats and toys. Provide different or new toys that may pique their interest and distract your dog. If your dog does use the bathroom in their crate, there is likely an issue you resolve. Make their space smaller using the divider that comes with the crate. Use a special cleaner to rid of the smell since dogs often remark the same spots. Give them time to relieve themselves outside right before they go into the crate. Leave them in the crate for a shorter time. Is it Worth It? Most would say yes! Crate training your dog can seem like a lot of work, but all good things do, right? While it takes time and patience, having a Frenchie that can successfully use a crate can really come in handy. As always, your vet can help. Not only can crate training your dog help you as a dog parent, but it also helps your Frenchie in many ways when it comes to their happiness and safety. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Put the crate in the car with your Frenchie in it, and take them around the block for a short drive first. When you get home, take them out and give lots of praise! Next time, you can even take them for a short shopping and so on, keeping everything smooth and gradual. When is it recommended to crate your Frenchie? For example, when traveling with a puppy on a plane or in a car, using a portable plastic crate or a soft crate is almost essential. Place a soft and comfortable bed for your Frenchie there with their favorite toys, especially one they can chew on. They may even develop separation anxiety, which you can read more about here. Should you crate your Frenchie at night? Read our blog post about how you can train your Frenchie to sleep in their bed. At the beginning, your fur baby might cry for you, which is completely normal at that point. Are you maybe looking for your second fur baby? Two Frenchies are always better than one , so feel free to check out our available puppies here! Visit our webshop to find some great Frenchie crates and carriers from Chewy that we recommend for your fur baby! The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them, and show puppies from their breed. If you have any questions or comments let us know below the article! It also satisfies their natural instinct since most of them live indoors. Safe evacuation is easy in case of emergencies. It helps in potty training the dog. Helps in dealing with separation anxiety common in French bulldogs and the cage; they feel more relaxed. Training Caution Training your French bulldog is not an easy task, and it could be worse if the dog starts resisting the crate. Here are some cautions to prevent the canine friend from feeling trapped: French bulldogs love company, and you should never leave them in the crate for too long. When denied interaction, they become anxious and depressed. The longest the dog should stay in the crate is at night, and the best part is it spends this time sleeping. Find the Perfect Crate Size A good cage plays a significant role in excellent crate training for a french bulldog. Get the right style crate, and the size should be reasonable too. Here are the best features of a training crate: Your buddy should be able to turn around and get out of the crate without touching the side borders. The dog should stand in the crate without touching the top. The crate should be taller by a few inches. Additional space helps keep your dog comfortable, easing the training process. If the crate is too big, the dog might wee at the corner, bringing another problem when potty training. When dealing with puppies, they may wee in the crate at times. You need to be extra patient with their small bladder. You will find different crates on the market, and your choice depends on the breed size and temperament. Crates that come with dividers are the best since you can resize the space your dog occupies when the dog grows bigger. Plastic crates work perfectly for smaller breeds. Besides plastic crates working well for smaller breeds, I recommend a wired crate when training your French bulldog. It lets your dog view the environment, and you will also have an easy time supervising him. Another feature to consider with the wired crate is double doors , as it makes the early training phase easier where your dog can enter the crate from both sides. See our post on the best dog crates for French Bulldogs. The introduction saves your dog from the shock of being locked in the cage, especially at night. Introducing your dog to the crate keeps him secure, especially when you rush out for a few minutes. Crate training is a kickoff for the potty-training process. Once your dog learns to stay in the enclosure, he will learn to hold his bowel and bladder for longer, making potty training effortless. Place the crate in the desired area early in the morning, and the dog will spend time surveying it before he gets inside. Never force your dog into the crate because he will feel trapped and start rejecting it. Let him survey the crate from outside. Consider securing the door to avoid incidences that will make your dog fear the crate, do this after every 5 minutes. The time interval also depends on his reaction when in the enclosure. Begin luring your dog into the crate using a couple of toys and treats. Also, adding a fleece blanket and bed to the enclosure will help immensely. Puppies are easier to teach than adult dogs. However, some older dogs will also give you an easy time in training. Let the puppy keep the instinct of having a den, and he will want to spend more time there. Purchase the crate early enough to start training your puppy. As soon as you bring him home, he will adapt easily. French bulldogs are intelligent, and when you are consistent in your training, they will understand. If you have kids, please introduce a house rule that no one should disturb the sleeping dog. Leave the door open once you set up the crate and add blankets and a bed you can include a puppy pad when dealing with one , and your pet will come closer to it. Ensure that the door remains open to prevent it from accidentally hitting your pup; you can even tie the door. Introduce a Play Session A good way of ensuring that your little friend relaxes in the crate is introducing playtime a couple of minutes before the dog enters the cage. Using interactive toys is another way to engage him before he enters his cage. Some play toys, such as tugs, help teach your dog desirable behavior like soft mouthing. Introduce His Favorite Treats Tossing a treat in the crate is a great idea. The dog will get into the crate trying to retrieve it. Ensure you put the treat far into the cage to ensure he gets in with her entire body. It would help if you were cautious about the diet. Showering your little friend with praises is an excellent supplement to treats. Since Frenchies are playful, placing some chew toys in the crate will easily lure them into getting inside. Remember to purchase nontoxic toys, plus supervise your buddy during playtime. Important: Overfeeding your Frenchie with treats can cause vomiting and other health problems. Never use treats as a replacement for food. Take Meals in the Crate Dogs love food, and introducing it to the crate will be an effective way to make them feel happy while in there. You can start by introducing meals in the crate using a clean pet bowl. Taking meals in the crate is also a good way of making him stay in there for longer; after putting the food bowl in the cage, close and open the door at an interval. It creates a good impression. Repeat the process after every meal. After feeding, start by leaving the room for a couple of minutes. Use this time to complete simple activities and leave the crate closed. Keep increasing the stay-away duration gradually. To avoid raising the alarm, leave without saying goodbye or something that will make her feel that you are leaving. Adding a playpen to the mix is an excellent way to create a larger play space that will help him adapt to the new environment. Potty breaks before sleeping will help reduce waking up. Move the crate to your room, and you can hear your little one waking up for the potty breaks. A crate cover saves the night by minimizing distractions from outside, and your French bulldog will sleep longer. Be Patient French bulldogs can be fearful, and patience is vital in this case. Never think of punishing your dog. Keep the Buddy Comfortable With the dog battling separation anxiety, keeping him comfortable is vital. If you just picked a puppy from your breeder, ensure he sleeps in a warm and cozy area. During the cold season, add some blankets on the sides of the crate for warmth, being careful with ventilation. A puppy heat pad will help immensely. It works well for almost all dogs, and I love the maximum ventilation that comes with it. Most wired crates are foldable and portable , making traveling with your dog easier or moving it to another room. Most of them include a divider that helps adjust the space for your growing pet. A double-door wired crate is the best for training. Not forgetting that when your buddy is in there, he sees the environment and is less likely to experience anxiety. Plastic crates also work well for small breeds, especially when traveling. These cages work perfectly during car travels , plus they are den-like and minimize light from outside that distracts the sleeping puppy at night. The best part is your wooden crates come in many designs. Before leaving your pup, you need to stay around the cage for a couple of minutes before leaving. When leaving the house, direct the dog to the crate and utter the command, and when he obeys, leave him with a yummy treat. Introduce a consistent departure routine, and the dog will soon adapt to not seeing you around for a couple of hours. Chew toys will work well for younger dogs by helping them with teeth issues. You can also introduce dental toys to older dogs to help remove tartar and plaque. Interactive toys also work well during exercising and playtime before getting into the crate. Once you are done playing, the dog will be yearning to relax in the crate. Remember, most dogs suffer from separation anxiety and may have difficulty adapting to crates. However, the earlier you start training your dog, the better. In the training process, you are likely to encounter: Whining You may experience it during the first few days when the clingy friend feels uneasy when left in the crate. With time, this bad behavior should subside. But if the whining and barking continue, attend to him; he might be having a health problem. Destructive chewing When your little friend is overwhelmed with separation anxiety, they will likely get into destructive chewing. Sometimes it could be a sign that the buddy is hungry. Are French Bulldogs Hard to Train? The task is not easy, but you will love the whole process with consistency. Adult Frenchies may prove stubborn, but with consistency, they will adapt. The earlier you start the training, the better. Do French Bulldogs Require Exercise? Your dog needs exercise. It helps her keep the right weight. Wrap Up French bulldogs are friendly, and crate training them is the best thing. Remember that these dogs love cuddling, and you need to set aside some minutes for it. Feel free to drop a question on crate training a French bulldog or ask for clarification in the comments. All the best in your crating journey. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment. Training your puppy to behave nicely is the key to ensuring harmony in your home. If a Frenchie is going to be a member of your family, he needs to obey certain rules. That being said please note that crates ideally are used with caution as using a crate extensively during puppyhood can affect eye sight development. So, how to do it? With love and caring is the answer. Only if you make your pup fall in love with spending time in a crate will he be willing to follow your orders. Of course, there are some practical techniques to speed up the training process. Crate Placement A yogapose and his spotter. Whether your puppy is going to love its crate or hate it could be decided by its placement. On the other hand, if the position is right, your pup will love spending time there. It needs to be somewhere where you and your family spend a lot of time. And that means that they like to be in the pack, not separated from it. Keeping your French bulldog away from where the people are is going to make him nervous, sad, and depressed. Think of it as the new home of your pup and such, his create should not be moved too often. Take It Easy Although crate-training your Frenchie is not something that should last too long, sometimes it may not go as smoothly as planned. Keep calm and love your Frenchie is the best advice we can give you. If you do that even once, your Frenchie will have negative associations with the crate, subconsciously hating and fearing it. Another thing to pay attention to is not too kip your pup in the crate for too long, especially while still crate-training him. And if you keep on doing it for a long time, you can turn your formerly cheerful puppy into a grumpy dog. Using food is one of the easiest ways to teach your puppy new tricks. And you can use the same method to make him fall in love with living in the crate. What you got to do is place his favorite food inside the crate and invite him to get it. Spending time in the crate can get pretty boring for your Frenchie. A way of dealing with the problem is keeping him entertained by putting some toys inside the crate. Depending on a dog, the perfect toy might be a squeaky ball or something similar. Your pup needs to feel good inside his create, meaning that it has to be spacious enough, as well as warm and comfy. Actually, the size of the crate should be the number 1 deciding factor. The rule of thumb is that bigger is better. Your Frenchie might be only about 25 pounds, but you should go for a crate meant for dogs of larger sizes. Our advice is to buy a crate for medium-sized pets , that is, for animals of up to 45 pounds. And the best thing is that even the best crates on the market are not too expensive. What this means is that anyone can get the kind of crate their Frenchie deserves. If you would like to learn more on how to ensure your Frenchie lives a happy life, just click here and it will take you to a place dedicated to everything about French bulldogs. Love our content? Share it with a friend or link it to social media. Like short clips of cute household pets? Training tips? Follow us on instagram nydognanny or on YouTube at nydognanny. Have some news you needs to get to dog and cat parents stat? Email info newyorkdognanny. Also when you wish to teach your Frenchie to relieve themselves in the right area. Take you Frenchie outdoors to where you want him to use as a bathroom. He may be easily distracted and want to play so make sure you are firm with your instructions. Praise your Frenchie with excitement when they relieve themselves in the correct place outside. Oh and do not forget to do this last thing at night too! Your Frenchies crate should have just enough room for him or her to turn and lay down. Dogs will not usually relieve themselves where they sleep unless they are left for too long. You can give your Frenchie a treat when he or she does well in potty training. But if your Frenchie has an accident in your presence then scold it and quickly move them outside. It is important to remember that your French Bulldog puppy has a small bladder. Make sure they have the chance to relieve themselves every 2 hours and at night when required. Please do not crate your French Bulldog puppy for longer than 4 hours when they are small. Do not scold your Frenchie if it has an accident and you do not witness it, it will only confuse them. Potty Training Your French Bulldog Each time the puppy goes in the right spot, he is being trained to relieve himself there. Consistent training with your puppy will bring consistent results You may found it helpful to have an exercise pen for the house, and one for the yard. But please so not leave your Frenchie out in cold or alone in hot weather. Place the other exercise pen in the spot you wish your Frenchie puppy to use as a permanent potty spot, both as a puppy and adult. Use your Happy Voice! Make sure you take your Frenchie puppy outdoors to eliminate on a regular schedule and especially prior to being left for prolonged periods of time. He will start to circle and sniff and look for a place to potty when he has to go and when you are watching him, you can quickly take him to his potty spot. Minimize his chances of making a mistake by predicting when he will need to relieve himself. If you are going to be playing and interacting with your puppy, then it is absolutely fine for him to be out of his crate as long as you like. Times to watch are : As soon as he awakens, as soon as he finishes a meal, first thing in the morning, after a play session, and as soon as you take him out of his crate. Do NOT let your puppy run lose when your eyes are not on him, even for a couple minutes. Each time your puppy has an accident, he is being trained to potty in that spot. Housebreaking is the most indispensable thing your French bulldog puppy needs to learn. Ordinary sound judgement ought to reveal to you why. Besides the preservation of your general domestic hygiene, trained dogs are contented dogs. Using a Crate Helps As we outlined earlier on this page, French Bulldog trainers recommend using a crate in housebreaking your French Bull puppy. A crate is similar to a cage, having you can see through bars and a locking door that locks. Its area ought to fit sufficiently the dogs dimensions for it to move about in. It is advised to not confine your puppy in his crate for longer than two hours at a time. The thinking supporting using a crate in housebreaking your puppy is that dogs would not foul their areas where they sleep areas. Nevertheless, he may do so if you confine him in somewhere for longer than he can keep it in. At no time use a crate to penalize your dog, it would boomerang. This way out ought to be the one that you desire your French bulldog to scratch to advise you concerning his being called by nature. Taking your pup out at approximately the identical times every day would be extremely useful for the both of you. This would assist in establishing a habit, and would force him learn to keep it in waiting for you to become ready to accompany him out. Watch For Clues If your un-housebroken French bulldog is used to roaming unrestricted about the home, look for signs that indicate to you he needs to do it. Be absolutely watchful enough of his behaviour, i. Subsequently, accompany him into the outdoors and let him conclude what he had started. Offering him treats as a bonus whenever he does his business in the appropriate place can be very useful, too. Being Patient is a Big Asset Similar to any disciplinary endeavour, housebreaking requires a lot of tolerance. Thinking logically ought to let you know you to not give your dog water previous to bedtime if his inclination is to pee frequently at during the night time. Following his timetable as top priority should turn out to be extremely useful in having it slowly switch into yours. Besides tolerance and common sense, regularity is likewise one of the significant factors of this dog disciplining exercise. Bear in mind that the stakes are significant dirty and foul-smelling house. Allocate sufficient time and dedication on your side. We recommend that you should get the little guy out for a walk as soon as he or she wakes up, after play time and also after any eating or drinking. Tip Two… Confine your Frenchie if there is a chance that supervision is going to be a problem. If you limit your dog to a crate or confined space then they will refuse to relieve themselves in what they would see as living quarters or sleeping quarters. This also goes back to their clean breed set up. Tip Three… Keep your eyes peeled for any warning signs from your French Bulldog! They will include things like circling in the room, pacing around from one room to another, some sniffing about, whining, maybe even a little barking. Remember, if you spot any of these sure fire signs then immediately take your Frenchie outside to eliminate. When they finish heap loads of praise on them while they are still outside or on the training mat and give them a little treat. It will not take long for them to get used to this command and eventually just go outside! You want to eliminate the odor of urine and feces around the house as when the dog smells this around the house he or she will be more inclined to use it to go to the toilet. A good tip is to remove the guys little accident into the back garden or yard and leave it out there, that way they can identify the spot with where to go potty. Frenchies have an estimated 15 minute attention span so when you are training your little friend then make sure you keep that in mind as anything over this and he will already be losing his focus. If you schedule these little bursts of training sessions throughout your day, you will make more progress and keep these sessions happier for both of you. Make sure that you have established yourself as the Alpha leader with your Frenchie. They will always respond better to training when they know who is in charge at all times. This does not mean that you have to hurt or dominate your French Bulldog. It can be as simple as ensuring that you always eat first at mealtimes before giving him his food. Do not limit rewards to your French Bulldog to just when he follows your commands. If you see him doing good positive things reward him then too. He will catch on very quickly! It will get him used to what he needs to respond to. When giving commands to your Frenchie make sure that you are serious at all times. Do not reward or scold your French Bulldog for something they did 15 or more minutes ago. They will not associate the action with the event! They have terrible memories remember! Your Frenchie may do funny things that are also bad. This will only confuse your dog and make training harder down the line. Training Your French Bulldog To Use A Leash And Collar There are many different techniques you can use to train your French Bulldog on a lash or a collar , and it is important to find one that works for you and your family in order to have the most loyal and well-behaved pet possible. It is fortunate that French Bulldogs are innately programmed to submit to a leader, it allows them to follow commands and make training easier. Each French Bulldog has its own personality, which is emphasized even further by many years of selective breeding. The personalities of individual French Bulldogs can be very different, even within the same breed. It is up to you, as the owner, to determine which method of training will work best for your French Bulldog, so it is important to work with the trainer in order to attain your goal of an eager, well-trained and friendly French Bulldog. For example, certain working French Bulldogs, such as police French Bulldogs, rescue French Bulldogs or guard French Bulldogs, tend to gain from leash and collar training. The level of correction used should be relative to the situation, as too much correction, or not enough, can prove unproductive. Once the French Bulldog seems to understand the command, the leash is then used to modify incorrect behaviors. The leash is used as the main form of control and communication with the French Bulldog in this form of training. The French Bulldog is considered fully trained when the handler is able to show that the French Bulldog will follow a command even if he does not want to. While this does not mean using brute force, it will likely necessitate some physical handling. This type of handling is most effectively completed by use of the leash. Anyone attempting to train his or her French Bulldog should understand that the leash is merely a device. While the leash is necessary for this style of French Bulldog training, it is important for the French Bulldog trainer to strive for the same results using whatever gear are nearby. Building a trusting relationship between owner and French Bulldog is vital, and it is important that the leash is used as a tool rather than a crutch. A properly trained French Bulldog should be eager to obey with or without a leash. Knowing what you want to train is as important as training your French Bulldog. You can begin training almost immediately, at around six weeks of age. A puppy is a blank slate and does not know any rules, therefore it is a wise idea to make a list and have an understanding of what you would like your puppy to do. What are the household rules and proper dog etiquette? As he grows, the same principle applies and you may adjust training from the basics to more specialized behaviors, such as making your dog a good travel, hiking, agility, hunting, or simply a companion dog. Know what conditions and circumstances you plan to expose your dog or puppy to outside of the household and strategize to be prepared for those encounters by slowly introducing your dog to those situations. Establish yourself as the pack leader from the time you first bring your new dog or puppy home. Life is much easier for your dog if you are in charge, leading, and providing for his needs. Leading as the alpha assists in the act of working together with your dog towards the goal of understanding the rules of conduct and obedience. Your dog will be at ease when the rules are understood. Training should be an enjoyable bonding time between you and your French bulldog. Remember that there is no set time limit defining when your dog should learn, understand, and then obey commands. Use short training sessions and be aware that if either of you are tired, it is recommended that you stop and try again later. If something does not seem quite right with your dog, in any way, have him checked out by a veterinarian. Timing is crucial when rewarding for good behaviors and making corrections for bad. Patience and Consistency are your allies in the training game. An easy way to avoid the onset of many different behavioral problems is to give your dogs or puppies ample daily exercise to keep them fit and healthy, and destructive behavioral problems at bay. Always provide consistent structure, firm but fair authority, rule enforcement, and importantly, love and affection. By maintaining these things, you will help to create a loyal companion and friend. Reward good behaviors, not for simply being cute, sweet, loveable, and huggable. If you wish to reward your dog, always reward after you issue a command and your dog obeys appropriately. Only train one command per session. Puppies only have the attention span to go about 10 minutes per session, but never exceed 15 minutes. Training a command once per day is enough for your dog to begin to learn and retain, but whenever the opportunity presents itself you should reinforce the training sessions throughout the day. For example, opening a door or putting down a food bowl first command sit, down or stay and be sure not to reward your dog unless your dog obeys. The most important thing to remember is to remain relaxed, keep it fun, and enjoy this time of bonding and training your dog or puppy. All dogs have their own personalities and therefore respond to training differently. No matter the breed that comes with its own characteristics, you need to account for individual personality and adjust accordingly. If needed, do not hesitate to solicit professional help and advice. We all love treats, and so does your dog. Giving your dog a treat is the best way to reinforce good behavior, to help change his behavior or just to make your dog do that insanely funny dance- like-thing he does. Make the treats small enough for him to get a taste, but not a meal, kernel sized. Remember, you do not want him filling up on treats as it might spoil his dinner and interfere with his attention span. You do not want to miss a chance to reward a good behavior or reinforce a changed behavior. Always carry treats when you go on a walk. Remember what treats your dog likes most and save those for super special times. In addition, what you consider a treat and what your dog considers a treat are two vastly different worlds. A single malt scotch or chicken wings might be a treat in your mind, but dried liver bits or beef jerky in your dogs. Tell your dog to sit, stay, or lie down, print two copies of your resume, anything, before you reward your dog with treats, petting, or play. By asking for good behavior, before you give your dog a reward, you demonstrate you are in charge, in an easy fun manner. There is a common misconception that dogs are selfless and wanting to behave only to please out of respect for you. This is horse pucky. This line of thinking is incorrect and detrimental to your success with the training. You have to make sure that your dog knows exactly why he should be listening to you. You are the alpha, the keeper of the treats, the provider of the scratching and the purveyor of toys. Keep this balance of power and the results will be your reward. Do not send mixed messages. Simply, ignore the bad behavior and reward your dog when he does the action you request to be done. You will be continuously training your companion, but use the formal training sessions to focus on one objective. Any session longer than 15 minutes will be hard for your dog to stay focused. During training, this is the attention span of most canines. Ten minutes per session is a good time limit for young puppies. Some breeds stay puppies longer than others stay, and may not fully develop until year two. Use a variety and an abundance of different treats and rewards. Rewards are play, toys, praise, affection, treats, and anything that you know that your dog enjoys. When you master this one, it will make life easier for both of you when at home, and either at the groomer or the vet. It also helps when there is unwanted or accidental touching and especially when dealing with small children who love to handle dogs in all sorts of unusual and not so regular ways. This one will take patience and a few tricks to get it started. Remember, it is important to begin handling your new puppy immediately after you find each other and are living together. Understand that muzzles are not bad and do not hurt dogs. They can be an effective device and a great safety feature when your dog is learning to be handled. Easy cheese or peanut butter spread on the floor or on the refrigerator door should keep your puppy in place while he learns to be handled. If your puppy does not like to be handled, he can slowly learn to accept it. You must practice this with your puppy for at least one to three minutes each day so that he becomes comfortable with being touched. All dogs are unique and therefore some will accept this easier and quicker than others will. Handling training will be a life-long process. With all of the following exercises, follow these steps: — Begin with short, non-intrusive gentle touching. When he settles, treat him and remove your hands. Overstimulation can cause your puppy stress. Handling the Body Paws in the clause It is a fact that most puppies do not like to have their paws touched. Proceed slowly with this exercise. The eventual goal is for your puppy to adore his paws being fondled. In the following exercises, any time your puppy does not squirm and try to get away, click and treat your pup. If he does squirm, stay with him using gentle contact, when your pup ceases wiggling, then click and treat, and release when he calms down. Each one of these steps will take a few days to complete and will require at least a dozen repetitions. Make sure you successfully complete each step and your puppy is at least tolerant of the contact before you go on to the next one. Repeat this five times and then continue forward by adding an additional one second each time you pick up his paw until ten seconds is reached. Begin with two seconds then in different sessions work your way to twelve. It is not easy and it can cause extreme pain to your dog if you are not properly trained. Do this about ten times or until your puppy seems comfortable and relaxed with it. Increase the amount of time until you have achieved about ten seconds of holding and your puppy remains calm. Click and treat after each elapsed amount of time. Work your way up 2,4,6,8 to 10 seconds of holding. This may take several days and sessions. If he accepts this and does not resist, click and treat, and repeat. Repeat this step until he is content with it. Now, switch to the top of the collar and repeat the whole progression again. Remember slowly increase the time held and the intensity of the tug using a slow pace. You can practice touching the collar while you are treating during training other tricks. Gently hold the bottom or top of the collar when you are giving your dog a treat reward for successfully completing a commanded behavior. Then release when he does not resist, click and treat. Be cautious with this one. If any of this is confusing, do not worry, because I walk you through the training process, step-by-step. Clicker training started over seventy years ago and has become a tried and true method for training dogs and other animals. The outcome of using a clicker is an example of conditioned reinforcement. Rewarding the animal in combination with clicker use has proven highly effective as a positive reinforcement training method. It is a humane and effective way of training dogs without instilling fear for non-compliance. I know that my mother wished she would have known about clicker training when my brother and I were growing up. I am sure she would have put the clicker into action so my brother would place his dirty clothes inside the bin, rather than on the floor. In the s, Keller Breland, a pioneer in animal training, used a clicker while training many different species of animals, including marine mammals. He met great success using this method of training on these animals. His system developed for clicker training marine mammals is still in use today. Keller also trained dogs using the clicker. Because of its effectiveness, it was brought into use by others in the dog training community. The success of the clicker spans 7 decades and now is a widely accepted standard for dog training. A trainer will use the clicker to mark desired actions as they occur. At the exact instant, the animal performs the desired action, the trainer clicks and promptly delivers a food reward or other reinforcements. For example, clicking and rewarding slightly too early or too late will reinforce the action that is occurring at that very instant rather than the action you were targeting the reward for. Shaping is the process of gradual transformation of a specific action into the desired action by rewarding each successive progression towards the desired action. This is done by gradually molding or training the dog to perform a specific response by first, reinforcing the small, successive responses that are similar to the desired response, instead of waiting for the perfect completion to occur. The trainer looks for small progressions that are heading in the direction towards the total completion of the desired action and then clicks and treats. It is important to recognize and reward those tiny steps made in the target direction. During training, the objective is to create opportunities for your dog to earn frequent rewards. During training, and in conjunction with clicker use, the introduction of a cue word or hand signal can be applied. Eventually, the clicker can be phased out in favor of a cue or cues that have been reinforced during the training sessions. As a result, your dog will immediately respond by reacting, obeying, and performing actions to your hand gestures or verbal commands. Watching this unfold is a highly satisfying process, which empowers your friend to be the best he can, and while you have fulfilled your role as alpha and pack leader. Why is clicking effective over using a word cue first? The clicking sound is a unique sound that is not found in nature, and it is more precise than a verbal command. Verbal commands can be confusing because the human voice has many tonal variations, whereas the clicker consistently makes a sound that your dog will not confuse with any other noise. It is also effective because it is directed at him and followed by good things. Therefore, your dog completely understands which action is desired and your dog will quickly understand that the click is followed by a reward. The clicker sound is produced in a quick and accurate way that is in response to the slightest actions that your dog makes. This clarity of function of this tool increases the bond between you and your dog, as a result making your dog more interested in the training sessions, and ultimately your relationship more engaging and entertaining. Dare I say fun? On that note, do not forget to always have fun and add variety to your training sessions. Variety is the spice of life, mix up those treats, rewards, and commands. Clicker training works this way At the exact instant the action occurs, the trainer clicks. Usually the reward is a small kernel sized food treat, but a reward can be a toy, play, or affection. Whatever the dog enjoys is a reward worth giving. In as soon as clicks have been issued a dog will associate the sound of the click with something it enjoys. Once the association is made, it will repeat the action it did when hearing the click. The three steps are as follows: 1. Get the action you request 2. Mark the action with your clicker 3. Reinforce the action with a reward. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published.
Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals. Post navigation. We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary.
This article gives guidance on how to crate train an older dog. A List Of Dog Crates Highly Recommended By Labrador Training HQ A high quality, durable crate of the correct size and type is essential to guarantee safety, comfort and to get the best out of the crate training experience. But with so many styles, types and sizes available, selecting a suitable crate is no easy task. So we at Labrador Training HQ have taken the hard work out of the hunt by putting together a hand picked selection of the best crates available that you can see by reading this article. Travel safety — A crate is a very useful tool to confine your dog safely during travel by car or by air and reduces the stress they feel due to being in a comfortable and familiar crate. Security — A dog learns to view their crate as a special place all of their own, where no human ventures and they can get away from it all to be alone when they desire. A crate is the one tool that can be used to dramatically speed up the time needed to train your lab to toilet outside and to improve their bladder and bowel control. Protecting your possessions — A crate is a useful tool in teaching your puppy to be fixated on chew toys and not your furniture and shoes. A quick note about boarding and kennels. When our Linus got sick he had to stay in the kennel at the vets office while he recovered. Thank goodness he was crate trained. When I came in to stay with him he was comfortable in his crate with an IV hanging out of his leg. These are just some of the benefits you and your Labrador can enjoy if you take the time and trouble to crate train your dog. Is Crate Training Always Successful? Sadly not. Dogs are individuals and come with their own likes and dislikes. So although a crate can be used to benefit the vast majority of dogs, there will always be a select few that just will not enjoy or accept being crated. It helped our last 3 puppies Charlie, Doni, and Downey get used to their crate in only a few nights. This is particularly true for the occasional adopted dog for which their background is unknown. Dogs up for adoption may have had bad and traumatic experiences with crates earlier on in their lives, where owners used a crate as a form of punishment or misused a crate amounting to imprisonment. Obviously in these cases, a crate should not be used. These cases though are the exception and not the rule. The vast majority of dogs learn to love and enjoy spending time in their crate. I believe everybody should at least educate themselves on the subject and give it a go. By soaking up the knowledge in this guide and following the steps I outline for crate training, you and your Lab can enjoy the rewards that using a crate provides. Your Lab will be happier, safer, more secure, less likely to engage in destructive behavior and from these facts you can enjoy a greater peace of mind that you are doing the very best for your dog. One of our favorite features is the crate comes with a divider that allows you to adjust the size of your crate as your puppy grows. I will always try my best to respond to every one of them. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Material This is a polyester product, which is great for moving Labrador puppies. In theory, you can use this crate even as a dog home as long as your puppy is young, but that would make it harder for your Labrador to accept a metal crate later on. The harder potions of this crate are made of PVC, which is sturdier than polyester but is a nightmare to clean. Other Features While the product will last a much shorter while than its metal counterparts, it does present its own advantages. The key features include the breathability of polyester, lack of stimuli, and a fleece pet bed. It is pretty easy to carry and comes with a strap to help manage this. Convenience With this product, the convenience is dictated entirely by how well-trained your dog is. This travel crate defies that principle and presents a spacious way of housing your Labrador on your travels. Material This crate incorporates both metal and plastic, which is great for travel but inconvenient for home use. Opaque plastic on the side reduces this stimulation, while the metal wire window keeps your dog from feeling claustrophobic. The crate dimensions stand at 48 inches x 32 inches x 35 inches, comparable and even more spacious than many metal options. Instead, you should compare it to other portable options. The plastic sides are better than polyester panels commonly used in travel crates. The metal wire window alongside the ventilation holes at the back allows air to circulate properly. It features metal bars and a wooden roof, panels, and flooring. Material The product features wood which can be a concerning aspect because of the rivalry between dogs and wooden posts. However, this is plastic wood and is not as scratchable. According to the manufacturer, the wood is non-toxic and recycled. The stainless steel bars are obviously strong enough to make sure the crate boundaries are actual boundaries and not suggestions like they are with travel crates. Size The crate is .With a .Other Features The only prominent feature is the style and aesthetic appeal of this crate. While most crates look like jailhouses, this one looks like a luxurious house arrest destination. It comes in black, white, grey, espresso, and russet colors, of which I only knew three. Espresso is a fancy way of saying brownish-grey and russet, reddish-brown. This variety allows you to pick the crate that complements your furniture. Convenience Despite looking like a complicated piece of carpentry, the crate is easy to assemble and requires no tools. It also doubles as furniture making it more convenient for you to make room for the crate, especially if you live in a studio apartment. All in all, I love the look of this crate and the great choice of colors which will fit any decor. You can also use it as an effective time-out during training. Material The playpen is made of materials not disclosed by manufacturers, but I can convey it best by describing the feel. The exterior of this water-proof playpen feels like canvas, while the bottom feels like the outside of a tent. The material is sturdy but is no match to plastic or metal. Size This is one of the most spacious items on this post because it serves a different purpose. It is not meant to be the sleeping place of a dog or a traveling carry-case. It gives an inspiring environment for your Labrador and spans 61 inches in length and breadth across its octagonal shape and 30 inches in height. Other Features and Convenience The product comes with a carry mechanism that makes it look like a large laptop bag and features outer pockets and even a water bottle holder. Best Metal Playpen MidWest Homes for Pets Foldable Metal Playpen Click HERE to check the latest price on Amazon This product brings together the spaciousness of the previous option with the sturdiness of the first item in this post, making the perfect environment for your Labrador to relax or play within a relatively confined space. I love this idea as it gives your Lab loads more room whilst keeping him in a safe environment and allowing a positive experience. Material This playpen features metal wire panels and has an open top and bottom. In other words, the flooring could be grass or carpet, depending on the place where you assemble the playpen. Size Each panel is 24 inches wide, and there are eight panels. You can determine the width of the playpen by assembling the panels closely or even attaching extra panels. Convenience The most convenient thing about this playpen is that it takes your hands off of babysitting your dog. This also is the thing you must be most concerned about because leaving your Lab in his playpen for extended periods might make it easier for you to slack off on your responsibility to socialize with your best friend, take him out on walks, and play with him. Labradors need a inch-size crate, so their size is well-accommodated in it. The crate should also be 27 inches tall at minimum, so the dog can safely stand without hitting his head and 28 inches wide so that he can move around, lie on his side, and comfortably stretch out his paws. The best crate size for a Labrador puppy is 42 inches. A wire crate with a divider is perfect as you can start your pup off in a small enough space by setting the divider a few inches away from his full length and continue to adjust as the dog grows. This also speeds up potty training. Which Crate Should I Pick? Labradors are very social and strong enough to rip apart delicate boundaries that cordon them off from their favorite pastime: playing with people. Related Posts You May Like:. Print Crate training your Lab puppy, why you should and a guide on how Labrador puppies are so cute and cuddly, it almost seems wrong to put them in a crate. But crate training is one of the best things you can do for your new puppy and for yourself. There are many benefits to crate training your retriever puppy, but it is a process. Learn how to properly crate train a Labrador puppy and why you should start crate training as soon as possible. Why should I crate train my Labrador? While some people think putting a dog in a crate is cruel, experts disagree. Most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs from a young age. Dogs are den animals and often feel most safe when they are in a tight, confined area. A crate can represent this den-like experience for your puppy and give them a place to retreat when they feel stressed, confused, or just need some time alone. Dogs that are crate trained properly do not fear the crate, in fact, they love it and will often seek it out for a nap. Easy and safe transport Crates are the safest way to transport dogs. A dog contained in a crate cannot move around within your vehicle, get in your way while driving or create distractions. In addition, you can buy crates that are 5-star crash tested , possibly giving your dog superior protection if you are involved in an accident. Crates help with housebreaking As discussed in our post on housebreaking your Labrador puppy , crate training can make housebreaking easier and quicker. Crates allow you, as owner, some off-time — time when you do not have to be constantly watching your puppy for potty accidents. In addition, crates help encourage your puppy to hold it, to wait a little longer before going potty, since most puppies hate to mess their bed. Note: My husband and I are professional retriever trainers, so any products listed here are items we use on an almost daily basis. We only recommend products we know are good quality and will stand the test of time. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission, but all opinions and recommendations are my own. Learn more. Can help hunting dogs with blind manners and patience Hunting dogs often need to sit still and quiet for hours on end. Sometime in dog huts or MoMarsh stands. Crates can help hunting dogs by teaching them there is a place that they should simply lay down, rest and keep quiet. Better dog to family relationships and more control Crate training your puppy can provide many benefits for your entire family. Crate training your puppy at a young age means that when you need to put them in a crate they will go in willingly and without a fight. As professional retriever trainers, we crate train all the puppies we raise as custom trained dogs. We also crate train all our own dogs. We find that it makes for a better adjusted puppy all around. Choosing the right crate for crate training Lab puppy Getting ready to crate train your puppy means you need to buy a crate. And the size and type of crate do matter. Size of crate for crate training retrievers You want the crate to be large enough that your puppy is comfortable laying in the crate, but not so big that your puppy can walk around. The puppy should feel snug and protected, but not uncomfortable. The unfortunate thing about crate training this way, is that it means that as your puppy grows, you will need progressively larger crates. While inconvenient and bit more costly, this really is the best way to crate train your puppy. But if you do not wish to buy multiple crates, there are other methods. Some people buy a large crate, the size their dog will need as an adult and then section off some of the crate. Blocking off a portion of the crate will give the puppy that tighter, den-like, experience and ensure that the puppy cannot walk around inside the crate. While this can work, be careful what you use to section the crate off. You would not want to use a material that can be chewed or ingested by your puppy. Puppies are naturally chewers, so keep this in mind. Type of crate for crate training retriever Technically, any kind of crate will work for crate training. But over the years we have found that some crates just simply work better. Plastic crates seem to be the best option. They can be found easily at a local pet store, superstore, or even bought online. There are some inexpensive options that provide the protection and privacy of a den-like experience for the dogs. In addition, they have a solid bottom so should your dog get sick, or if you are in the process of housebreaking, cleanup is rather easy. Wire crates , the kind that you can see right through do not seem to work as well as plastic crates. Wire crates are wide open, they do not provide dogs the opportunity to get away and relax. The wire offers little protection and privacy, and many dogs do not like them as dens. We discuss crate options in more detail here. How to crate train a Lab puppy? Crate training is easiest when done with young puppies. We recommend starting crate training the day you bring the pup home from the breeder. Often this is at around weeks old. The sooner you start, the easier the process will be. Crate training can be done with older dogs, but it may take more effort and patience on your part. Step 1 — Let puppy explore the crate The first step is to place the crate in an area that is frequented by the puppy. Prop the door open in some way, a small bungee works well and let your puppy explore the crate on his own. Puppies are naturally curious, so often they will walk right into the crate on their own. It is best if you do not move the crate around the house. Instead, find a place for the crate where the dog will spend a majority of their time and leave it there. The crate should not be right next to a bed or a bedroom. Your puppy will be sleeping in their crate and your puppy will make more noise and wake up more if the crate is close to you. Also, your puppy is bound to make some noise the first few nights in the crate. Step 2- Establish a routine Develop a routine of putting your puppy down to nap inside the crate. You can put one or two small toys in the crate if you wish and a small towel that you do not care if it gets ruined. I know this sounds self-explanatory, but I have seen it. Also, do not put a dog bed in the crate. A dog bed is too big and bulky to fit into crates well and your puppy will simply chew it to pieces or accidently have a potty accident on it. Once that happens, the bed will have the scent of potty and will work against your housebreaking efforts. That is natural and nothing to be worried about. Simply walk away from the crate and allow the puppy to settle down. Depending on the nature of your puppy this may take a few minutes to an hour or more. It is vital that you stay away from the crate during this time. If you follow this advice, your puppy will quickly learn to be content in the crate and over time the noise will become less and less until they finally understand they must stay in the crate. Step 3 — Watch the clock While I suggest you do not take your puppy out of the crate while they are making noise, you do need to keep an eye on how long your puppy has been in the crate. You do not want your puppy to have an accident in the crate if you can help it. With week old puppies, I start by leaving the puppy in the crate for 1 hour at a time followed by playtime. As the puppy gets older, they can naturally hold their bladder longer. This should go without saying, but you should never leave your dog in a crate 24 hours a day every day. Socialization of young puppies is vital. Block the crate door open again. The door should be blocked open anytime the puppy has not been placed in the crate for some quiet time. The puppy will see or smell the toys and go inside the crate to get them. Some people play crate games. They will throw a toy inside the crate so that the puppy must go inside the crate to retrieve it. These games can help your dog become extremely comfortable with their crate. Over time you will notice that your puppy is not afraid to go inside their crate while the door is open. Sometimes, they will even go inside the crate and lay down when they are tired. This is the reaction you are seeking. How long does it take to crate train a dog? There is no set amount of time it takes to crate train a dog. Each dog will progress on their own schedule. But if you continue to place your puppy inside the crate on a routine basis and make the crate available to your puppy at all times, you will reap the benefits of having successfully crate trained your puppy. Final thoughts on how to crate train a Labrador puppy Crate training is a greatly beneficial thing for Labrador puppies and other retriever breeds. It can mimic a den for these beautiful animals and give them a safe and secure place where they can rest without stress or fear. This helps them with emotional stability and can curb behavior issues. It also makes for a more enjoyable home life with less dog induced strife. How to crate train a Labrador puppy. You can find a summary of these in my crate training schedule chart below Stage 1 Introduction to crate training for puppies from 8 weeks old This stage covers the first week that you bring your puppy home. Your objective at stage 1 is simply to get the puppy used to being in and around the crate with the door open. Leave the door open Start by placing puppy in his crate frequently and each time you place him in there drop several little edible treats through the roof for him. Just let him come straight out again when he has finished his treats. This introduces the crate as a fun and enjoyable place to be. He will soon come to associate this phrase with going into his crate for a treat Closing the door briefly The next step is to close the crate door momentarily and then open it again. Leave it shut only long enough for the puppy to finish his treat and notice that the door is closed. Then let him out. Do not wait until he gets upset or cries. Repeat many, many times during the course of the next day or two. If he is left alone at night whilst he is still homesick he is likely to howl, and howling in his new crate is not a habit we want to establish. Tending to your puppy during the night If the box is right up against the side of your bed, you can put your hand in and comfort him if he cries. Moving your puppy downstairs at night After the first three or four nights, or by the end of the first week, your puppy can be placed in his crate in the kitchen before you go up to bed at night. So if you put him to bed at midnight, you will probably need to get up around 5am to let him out for a wee to begin with. If a puppy has fallen asleep in his crate and slept for more than a couple of hours then you will need to let him out if he wakes up crying. Getting more sleep! If all goes well, you can stretch this five hours out by 15 minutes or so a night until you are getting seven hours sleep. If he wets the bed you will need to get up earlier the next night. And some puppies will be 12 to 14 weeks before they can cope this long. You can find lot more information on teaching your puppy to be clean and dry in our potty training sections. Crate training during the day There is no immediate need to crate your new puppy during the day for more than a few minutes at a time. The main purpose of crating a puppy during the day is to Help the puppy learn to hold onto the contents of his bladder for a bit longer. To keep him safe when you are busy for short periods, or if you need to leave the house for a while. To give him chance to calm down or a break from small children. However, you do need to get the puppy used to spending longer periods in the crate in preparation for being left alone from time to time when he is older. So gradually, you will accustom the puppy to a few longer spells in his crate. These are tough hollow rubber toys that you fill with mushy food and freeze. You can freeze several Kongs at once by standing them on a baking tray in the freezer. Each time you put the puppy in his crate for more than a couple of minutes, you will leave a frozen food filled Kong in there to keep him company. Puppies love these and will soon grow to associate the crate with the pleasure of the frozen Kong. How to get the puppy used to longer crate times Once you have got to the end of the first week and the puppy has accepted the crate as a nice place to be, the next task is to get the puppy to accept the closed door for longer periods of time. This may take a day or two. Place him in the crate with his frozen kong and close the door for 30 seconds. The idea is to leave the door closed for a few seconds longer each time you crate the puppy. But it is very important only to open the door when the puppy has been silent for several seconds. What to do if the puppy cries in his crate If the puppy starts to whimper or howl you will need to turn away from the crate and ignore him. Wait for the silence as he stops crying and gets to work on his puppy kong. Tell him what a good dog he is. Let him out immediately and go back to much briefer periods of closed door for a while. Try ten seconds or five. Build up again gradually, but do not be tempted to avoid crating him because it upsets him. Once the puppy is happy in his crate, you can use it to help with his potty training. Until then, make sure that you crate him for very short periods when you know his bladder is empty. Otherwise he will wet himself when he gets upset. Puppies that cry need crating more often! If your puppy whines in the crate, you need to crate him more often not less, and for shorter periods. Check out our in-depth article on coping with a crying puppy for more information Just make sure that each time he is crated is very, very brief to begin with. That way he will learn that being crated is not a big deal Warning: if you open the crate door whilst your puppy is howling, he will howl longer and harder next time! Build up slowly to a minute, then two minutes, then three, five, seven, ten, fifteen minutes and so on. How long can a puppy be left in a crate People often ask how long a puppy can be left alone in his crate. For puppies three to six months old I think two hours is a maximum, and for puppies under three months, one hour. If you need to leave your puppy for longer than this, then you need to consider a puppy proof room or pen where water and puppy pads are always available, or even a weatherproof outdoor kennel and run. This involves putting puppy pads down in a large puppy pen or puppy proofed room so that your puppy always has access to a toilet area. You can find out much more about overcoming the problems of being a working puppy parent in this article: combining a puppy with full time work. Stage 3 Training your puppy to go into his crate on command! As your puppy grows bigger, picking him up and putting him in his crate becomes more of a physical event! Provided you are not leaving your puppy alone for too long, he should be happy to go willingly into his crate. This can be achieved through training. This will probably take a couple of weeks. Maybe more if your puppy really does not like his crate at the moment. Have several training sessions each day — at least three. And do 20 or 30 repetitions of the following exercise in each session. This will take you about five minutes. If you are have never used one before, check out this article before you begin: Charging your clicker. Imagine a zone around the crate. It should not be so small that the dog avoids it altogether. A couple of feet in each direction is fine. The object is to get your puppy to choose to enter this zone. You are teaching him to chose to approach the crate. EXERCISE 2 entering the crate doorway In this exercise, you are going to click and treat the dog for putting a nose, or a paw through the opening into a crate. For some dogs this is too big a jump and you will need to work on a smaller crate zone first. We are moving the goalposts and the dog will be surprised when you do not reward him for entering the zone. He will quickly try something different. Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog enters the crate zone Repeat five times Throw the treat outside the zone so that he has to re-enter to get the next reward. The next time he enters the zone, wait for him to go closer to the crate and put his nose in the opening What if he fails to do this? Repeat from step 3 until the dog repeatedly puts his nose through the crate door. Now you can stop rewarding him for simply entering the zone. It just takes longer with some dogs than others. Use his entire food ration if necessary. Remember, if you have to go out, scoop him up without a word, and place him in there bodily. Do not use the clicker or any other part of this process, or attempt to lure him in. You going out is a punishment in his mind. Behavior that is punished will diminish. When you click, he will come dashing out again for his treat. Again, we begin the exercise with something we know he can already do Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog puts his nose through the crate doorway Repeat five times Throw each treat outside the zone so that he has to re-enter to get the next reward. The next time he puts his nose through the doorway, withold the click. Wait for him to go further in Repeat and gradually raise the criteria you are setting so that more and more of the dog must be through the doorway to get a reward. The exercise is done when the dog repeatedly goes right inside his crate. With a dog that is not crate-shy, you can often work through these three Exercises in a day or two. EXERCISE 4 spending time in the crate Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat each time the dog goes inside the crate Repeat five times The next time he enters the crate withold the click and treat for two seconds If he remains in the crate click and treat If he leaves the crate wait for him to re-enter Repeat from step five until he can wait 2 seconds in the crate and then increase to 3 seconds Work your way up to ten seconds When the dog can cope with ten seconds waiting in the crate, you are ready to close the door. To begin with this will be momentary EXERCISE 5 closing the door Have the dog in the room with you Make sure the crate door is wide open Click and treat after 10 seconds, each time the dog goes inside the crate Repeat five times The next time he enters the crate close the door and immediately open it again Wait a few seconds then If he remains in the crate click and treat If he leaves the crate wait for him to re-enter Repeat from step five until he will go into the crate, watch you open and close the door, and remain in the crate for a few more seconds after you have opened the door. We are nearly there! Use the cue you have chosen. You know the procedure now. We want him to have absorbed the association between this cue and the act of entering the crate. Now it is time to use the cue in advance of the behavior. Once the dog is repeatedly racing into the crate on your cue, we need to make sure he can distinguish this command from other commands. In this case the dog is not discriminating between different cues, but rather making assumptions about what game you are going to play. So the next step in training is to mix in another cue. If he is confused, and he may be, show him what you want, just like before. You now have a dog that actually understands the meaning of In Your Crate and happily complies with your command. It is time for him to adapt to being confined after being told to go in there. Start slowly and build up EXERCISE 9 adding duration Place a Kong with food in it, or some treats on a slow feed bowl into the crate without your dog spotting you Cue the dog into the crate call him into the room first Shut the door and leave it closed for one minute Open the door again and ignore the dog. It is up to him if he stays in the crate or comes out Repeat from step 1 gradually increasing the time you wait before opening the door Vary the length of time you keep the door closed. Sometimes two minutes, sometimes as much as fifteen minutes. Now you can begin to send the dog into his crate for longer periods, such as when you go out for an hour or so. Maintenance tips Send the puppy into his crate often, not just when you need to. Make sure there is always a tasty treat or a Kong in there waiting for him Sometimes when you send him in, close the door If you know you are going to go out shut him in at least ten minutes before you start getting ready to leave If you know you are going to go out always leave him with a Kong full of frozen food When you are not going out, vary the times he is shut in from two to thirty minutes Send him in from time to time without closing the door Provided your dog is not left overly long in a crate on a regular basis, this should overcome any shyness he has about going in there. Dogs of any age can be trained to crate on cue using this system. For more information on using a clicker check out : Ten great reasons to start clicker training Stage 4 Growing up By twelve weeks or three months old, many puppies will be sleeping 7 hours or more at night and going happily into their crates on cue, if they have been taught to do this. When to let your puppy out of the crate at night If all goes well, by about six months of age, your Labrador puppy should be clean and dry in the house, and sleeping soundly through the night in his crate. At this point, many puppy owners breath a big sigh of relief and start to look forward to the prospect of removing this massive and annoying crate from their kitchen for good. So, at what age is it OK to start leaving a puppy loose in the kitchen overnight? And how do you get your dog used to a basket or dog bed, rather than sleeping in his crate? Age related crate training schedules Most people are reluctant to give out information on how long a puppy should be crated, or what to expect at different stages, because puppies are so different from one another. So, I have included a rough guide or puppy crate training chart above. It really is just a rough guide. Your best approach is to simply follow the four stages outlined above, from start to finish, and not worry too much about where your dog is at the moment. Dogs love having a small den to sleep in, and once trained, will find comfort in tucking themselves away in a crate. But Labs come in many different shapes and sizes, and grow quickly as a pup. Benefits of Crating a Dog There are many benefits to using a crate for a new puppy or dog. Safe Sleep and Relaxation Space A crate offers a safe space for your dog to relax and rest in. This is the most important use of a crate and should be your first priority when crate training. House training your puppy will be significantly easier if they are confined to a small space. Puppies innately know not to eliminate in their sleeping area. Using this innate knowledge to your advantage can mean only a few days of accidents in the house. This avoids them chewing on furniture or getting into kitchen cupboards. Labs are an intelligent breed who love to chew. They will quickly work out how to open kitchen cupboards and help themselves to your food. This space is only safe if you have correctly and fully trained your Lab to be relaxed and calm in the crate. Ensure you read over our crate training guide before you attempt to secure your Lab inside the crate. Preparing for Future Travel If you plan on traveling with your dog in the future, then it is wise to crate train them while they are young. This will minimize the stress they feel when they are inside a crate. If they are familiar with sleeping in a crate, they will be able to relax. Dogs will be put into crates at the vets if they ever need surgery or an overnight stay. Again, you can minimize their stress by crate training from day one. Untrained or nervous dogs are a danger to themselves inside a crate. Crating can cause a welfare issue if the dog is stressed inside it. However, most puppies and dogs will get used to and even enjoy the crate once they are trained. What Size Crate for a Lab? As a general rule, your Lab should be able to stand up fully, turn around and lay outstretched in the crate, without too much spare room. Depending upon the individual Lab, they can vary in height and weigh between lbs. Males will be on the larger side and dogs from the showing line will be bigger than working Labs. Measuring Up Since your Lab needs enough room to move around, you can measure them to see exactly what size crate they need. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while they are standing. Add 4 inches to this measurement. Also, measure from the floor to the top of their head while sitting. Add 2 inches to this measurement. This will give them enough room to move around, but not too much room to do themselves any harm. It is easy to set up and comes with roller feet to protect your flooring. The plastic tub style base will contain any accidents and is easily washable. Depending on the size of your Lab, purchase a inch crate or inch crate with the divider. A divider is good for puppies, as you can make the crate space as big or as small as you need to. We recommend the extra-large size to contain an adult Labrador. This would not be suited to young Labs that still chew. What Size Car Crate for a Labrador? Your Lab will need the same sized car crate. They should be able to move around in the crate comfortably, without extra space. If you plan on having the crate in the trunk of your car, you will likely require an SUV or truck as crates take up a lot of space. Crates vs Playpens for Lab Puppies I always use a full sized adult crate with a divider for my puppies. It saves a lot of time and hassle. If you need to confine your puppy or dog to an area for extended periods of time, then it is best to use a playpen instead of a crate. A Lab will require a inch playpen to keep them contained. Playpens can be used indoors and outdoors to keep your dog contained. If you want an even larger contained space, purchase 2 or 3 playpens of the same brand and size and join them together. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. From potty training to behavioral training , a new dog owner has a ton of responsibilities—sometimes more than they can keep up with. Crate training benefits both you and your dog in significant ways. There are more dog crates for sale than you can count, and they come in all different shapes and sizes. Here are some of the top benefits of crate training your lab: Benefit 1. Dog Crates are Cozy and Relaxing Labs love their crate because they offer a safe place to rest, relax, and sleep. Image Source Some labs feel so attached to their crates, they may choose to eat their food inside or halfway in and out. For you, this can also reduce the stress of dealing with anxious dogs. Benefit 2. So here is one of the best training tips: crate your lab puppies to help them become house trained. A crate can help a puppy remain within a smaller area. Benefit 3. Essentially, having labs feel comfortable in their crate gives you options when it comes to transportation, house training, calming a stressed dog, and so much more. Buy an Adult Crate and Section It Off Crate size is really important because adult labs need to be able to get into the crate and turn around. There should be enough space for them to do this, but no more. This is also why a divider can give labs the right fit and adapt to their growth. Besides these tips, all you need to figure out is the size of your lab. Your lab might be taller when sitting upright than he is standing on all fours, so have your dog sit on its behind and look up towards you. Four Types of the Best Dog Crates In addition to different dog crate sizes, you can choose different builds that might suit your lab depending on their age and rambunctious nature. Image Source Type 1. Wire Crate Wire dog crates are the most popular type of dog crate and their construction makes them quite durable. The wire design allows for air to circulate around your pet, which can help cut down on odors. They also allow for handy slide-bolt latches that let you quickly open and close the crate while keeping it secured. Wire dog crates are best for a puppy that is extremely active. The wire construction allows your dog to look out of the crate and see what is going on around him. This is best for dogs that like to be able to see what is going on. Type 2. Plastic Crate The main advantage of plastic dog crates is the fact that they are lighter than metal wire ones. This makes them very portable and easy to move around. You can move them from one part of the house to another depending on where you want the dog to sleep. Plastic crates are often made of high-quality polyurethane, which makes them easy to clean and sanitize. This usually means buying plastic products with a carry handle. Many plastic dog crates have a divider panel, which can be taken out to enlarge the crate and create more room for a growing pup or adult dog. One of the advantages of using plastic dog crates is that they can be used for several different purposes. For example, the bottom of the crate can be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. Type 3. Type 4. Wooden Dog Crate Wooden crates are a great way to get the functionality of a metal crate, but with the luxury appeal of nice wooden furniture. Of course, this is also a much more eco-friendly material than metal. Wood is porous and absorbs urine which means that if your dog has an accident while in the crate, the pee will soak into the wood and leave a stain. You also need to factor in the amount of space in your home and how well you can travel with your crate. Each type of crate comes with its pros and cons. Buying the right size crate is only one of many steps in responsible labrador ownership , so make sure to check out our other training tips for raising a labrador puppy to give your new best friend a long, healthy, content, and happy life. Share on. Crate of the correct size for your dog Treats Blanket or dog bed According to the American Kennel Club, Labs are one of the most popular breeds in America , and for good reasons. Many love to play fetch, and others are glad to be your running buddy. You have a long fun life ahead of you with your Labrador retriever puppy. Should that life include crate training? Crate training a Lab puppy is actually a good idea. Image used with permission by copyright holder Are Labs easy to crate train? You may have some pet-parent guilt about putting your fur baby in a crate. The good news is that Labs often make crate training easy on their parents. They love making their humans happy, so they take to all kinds of training well, including crates. Every puppy is different, though. Your veterinarian or a trainer can help you through any troubles that may arise. Crate training a Lab puppy is one of the best ways you can help them thrive in their new home. Experts say your new pup will reap many benefits from having a crate, including: Easier potty training. Housebreaking can be one of the tallest tasks new pet parents have to work on with their Lab puppies. Crate training makes it a little easier and less messy. Reduced stress. Labs tend to be adaptable, but a new home can be stressful for anyone. Even social pets need to chill sometimes. Consider it a space for self-care, kind of like your bedroom may be for you. Safer car rides. A crate is one of the safest spots for a pet in the car. Image used with permission by copyright holder How to crate train a Lab puppy Though Labs tend to take to training quickly, they still need some guidance from you. Step 1: Select the correct crate size for your puppy. Labs will generally grow to weigh 55 to 80 pounds. You want a space your pet can move around in comfortably. They should be able to sit , lie down, stand, and turn. The puppy may soil the space if they have enough room. Most crates will have height and weight specifications on them, and once you have that information, you can purchase one. Step 2: Make the crate comfy. You probably made your bedroom into a comfortable spot for you to sleep at night. Make it a cozy hangout spot by putting some blankets or a bed in there. Toys keep it fun.
Greetings from Bruiser Bulldogs and The Wysongs We are a family absolutely in love with the Bulldog breed and are dedicated to breeding genetically healthy English Bulldog puppies. As responsible AKC English Bulldog breeders, our extensive experience and unique take on the need for a healthier English Bulldog has positioned our breeding program as a visionary leader for adopters in search of a higher quality Bulldog. At our core, we love placing healthy, properly socialized puppies into loving families. There is no greater joy than to be able to share our lifelong passion for English Bulldogs with our adopter families. Feel free to read our blog , watch our videos and learn why Bruiser Bulldogs is producing a better bulldog. Instead of focusing on maximizing wrinkles or winning in the show ring, we have built our foundational bloodlines over the past decade with a focus on health first on foremost. Sires and Dams are health tested with a unique criteria. Bruiser Bulldogs must breathe freely, move athletically while still maintaining that classic English Bulldog look that people around the world have come to love. Our goal has always been consistently produce puppies that are both a head turner and fundamentally healthy Bloodline development is the key to producing healthy bulldogs. We believe that foundational genetics are created through layer after layer of breeding healthy generations of bulldogs. Over the course of a decade, we have focused on a stringent set of health criteria to gradually improve the health and quality of the dogs we produce. The rare combination of experience, repetition, and ethical awareness of correct breeding practices has set our breeding program at the forefront of responsible breeding practices. The process truly is an adoption that affects the time, focus, and schedules of each household that gets a puppy from us. After a healthy puppy , the single most critical factor for a successful bulldog adoption is adopter support. The English Bulldog is unique breed with a unique set of caretaking criteria. Previous dog ownership, while helpful, is not enough to fully prepare an adopter for English Bulldog ownership. We always say the adoption is just the beginning of our journey. Through blog articles and email prep, we focus on such topics as socialization, crate training, disease prevention, potty training, nutrition, and basic puppy supplies to ensure that each adopter will be fully prepared for their new puppy. UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content.
poodle mix puppies for sale under $500 - Sign up for BoxerBriefs to get news delivered right to your mailbox! Get them early for holiday gifts! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We are operated and managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, and we are funded by adoption fees, fundraisers, and gifts from generous donors like you! Atlanta Boxer Rescue, Inc. If you are interested in adopting a Boxer in Atlanta, you've come to the right place. Take a moment to learn about the Boxer breed, including some of its history. When you are ready to move forward, familiarize yourself with everything you need to know before you adopt. Some Frequently Asked Questions are answered on our site as well. We strive to support your adoption to make it a success for you and your new Boxer friend. All of our Boxers have had a check-up with a veterinarian, been spayed or neutered, and brought up-to-date on vaccinations. We have also done our best to evaluate our Boxers for temperament, socialization, and house-breaking. We are always looking for great volunteers to help us. If you are interested in being a foster home for a Boxer in need, thank you! The number of Boxers that we can save depends on the number of willing volunteers like you. Please complete our Foster Application or contact us for more information. We have a lot of resources to help you. Sign up for our newsletter , contact us about any questions or concerns you might have, or seek comfort if you've lost your Boxer friend. We can't do this without you, so please consider a donation or a purchase from the ABR Store! Available: Now Hey everyone! Chance was an owner surrender to the animal shelter and was in rough shape. Along with a really nasty skin condition, he was emaciated, had an upper respiratory infection, UTI, GI worms, and heart worms. It was clearly evident he had been neglected and abused. He got treated and well fed with a heaping side of love and care so he could be ready to meet his new family. Even though he had a rough patch, he still loves and want to be loved. He is a true velcro Boxer and want to be with you and cuddle. If he can't cuddle, he will be at your side, waiting for your attention and to look into your soul with those big, chocolate eyes. He wants to do whatever you do and be where you are. He is such a joy to be with. He had a good life before his previous owner, so he was already neutered and knew manners and commands. He is very smart and love treats, so I he picks new things up fast. He is house broken and know to stop something if mom says "uh-uh no" or "leave it" in her firm voice. He doesn'tt chew anything and doesn't counter surf. He only barks at delivery people. Chance can share his people, toys, and his bed, but please let him have his food to himself - he didn't always have food and worries. Chance knows the up and down commands, though he won't get on furniture unless you tell me it is okay each time. He also know sit, stay, come, and shake. Chance walk easy on a leash and loves his walks. He corrects easy with voice commands and gentle pressure on the leash. Sometimes, something fun to chase goes by and he wants to get it. He uses a harness and that helps him learn not to do that. He is already much better at it, except with cats and rabbits - those are too exciting. Some of his favorites include car rides, walks, being outdoors, toys, and cuddling. Part of his past was being crated all day, every day without bathroom breaks, enough food, or play time. So please let him play often, with lots of exercise. Also, Chance can not ever be crated at home, the vet or boarding except in emergencies and with medication. Crating triggers panic attacks for him specifically because of his past. The good thing is, he is such a good boy free roam, you don't need to crate him! Chance very much likes dogs and wants to play, but his foster Boxer brother is really old and can't play. He plays with his people and neighbor dogs. Chance does a good job, but can miss some doggie signals and will need help learning all of them for playtime. He acts like a big puppy, so he could knock down or step on little children with his zoomies. He does love all the rubs, pets, hugs, cuddles, ear smooshing, kisses, and scratches you can dish out. He also is happy to be lifted for a bath, car ride, or vet exam, though. We know some of the abuse in Chance's past was done by a man. He is scared of some men - not all men, but certain actions done by men trigger memories. He is not scared of the women and kids he has met. It took Chance a few days to trust him, but I love my foster dad now. He now trusts that his foster family will only let safe people in the house and will steer wide of men on walks doing any of those scary things like swinging a tool or carrying a load overhead. Chance now enjoys walks and visitors to his house. Interested in me? If so, fill out an application and mention Chance. If you are already approved, just email the adoption coordinator and ask to be added to my list. Please consider a donation to help with Chance's medical care. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? Things that will make a difference to the price are the experience and location of the Atlanta Boxer breeders, as well as the markings and coat color of individual pups, as well as their pedigree. Can I just choose puppies from Boxer breeders in Atlanta? Definitely not! You can easily arrange to pick your new bundle of fluff up at any major airport. How do you screen breeders of Boxer puppies in Atlanta? At Uptown Puppies we have a rigorous vetting process that we use to make sure we only work with the cream of the crop when it comes to businesses with Boxer puppies for sale Atlanta. Once accepted, every partner in our network also needs to sign our binding Breeder Pledge. Is Uptown Puppies different to other networks with Atlanta Boxers for sale? We definitely are! Rather than being led by marketing dollars, we concentrate solely on the reputation and experience of individual businesses. What is a puppy mill? Sadly, puppy mills place more importance on profit than animal welfare. Tragically, pups born in mills are far more likely to suffer from illnesses and behavioral issues than pups from reputable breeders. Can I buy a Boxer for sale in Atlanta right now? Connect with the recommended businesses and companies within the Uptown network and prepare to be dazzled by the seriously cute puppies that are just waiting for their new homes! Where are Boxer dogs from originally? While the history of the Boxer can be traced back to B. C the breed we know and love today came into being in 19th Century Germany. These charismatic, intelligent, and fearless dogs soon became prized for their abilities as working dogs - which of course includes guarding. They have been a well-loved breed ever since. What will the average Boxer be like? Boxers love fooling around with their families although they can switch into guard dog mode in a moment if they feel you need protection. Are Boxers good family dogs? An Atlanta Boxer for sale will make a wonderful family dog. Their loyalty makes them a wonderful choice for watching over children and adults alike. This, combined with their fun-loving nature and high-energy personalities makes them the perfect choice for active families looking for an all-round companion for every adventure. Are Boxers easy to train? Training a Boxer for sale Atlanta can be a joy thanks to their eagerness to please combined with their intelligence.
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poodle mix puppies for sale under $500 - Categories Dog Fun , Dog Training Pugs are small charming yet affectionate dogs with a pinch of mischief. They can be quirky, but their playful personalities are hard to resist. Pugs can swim and will instinctively dog paddle when put in water. Due to their short snouts and flat face, Pugs may have a more difficult time breathing with their heads tilted up in the swimming position. For this reason, they should always use a life vest when swimming in water. There are plenty of videos of quick-swimming Pugs on the internet. However, most Pugs do not enjoy being in water. However, these dogs were literally bred to swim by retrieving game from water. On the other hand, you have bulldog-type breeds, such as the Pug, who have a much more difficult time in water. So why is it that Pugs struggle with swimming, while other dogs excel? For the Pug, there are both physical and temperamental reasons why they may struggle. All of which, play a huge factor in their ability to swim. Dogs with these physical traits are called Brachycephalic dogs. Dog breeds with brachycephaly can potentially experience many health concerns thanks to the short nasal passage. In fact, breathing can become even harder in certain, unnatural positions. The genetic odds are stacked against them. With this physical characteristic, Pugs will need to tilt their heads upward while in the swimming motion. And as you can guess, swimming with a tilted head can make it more difficult to stay afloat. And, we tend to agree with them! After all, they were originally bred to be lap dogs for the Chinese elite. And according to Pet Helpful, they like to spend much of their day sleeping. They require relatively little physical activity compared to other dogs. Sloan would rather hang out on the couch than go for a swim always! Slow and short walks around the neighborhood work best. Sometimes even I struggle to swim for a prolonged period of time. Can you imagine dog paddling for 30 minutes? Pug Health UK recommends just one daily walk for a Pug. However, splitting it up into 2 short walks tend to work best with these dogs. Some Pugs will be more active than others. And if you do bring your Pug for a swim, make sure to give the dog many breaks in between sessions. Pugs have short legs with a long body In addition to the short snout, the body shape of the Pug is not ideal for swimming either. They have a relatively short set of legs and a barrel-shaped elongated body. Both of which, can hinder swimming in the Pug. For instance, Corgis have even shorter legs and a longer body. However, the difference is that Corgis have powerful legs that are needed to herd cattle and sheep. So unfortunately, without the power, the unusual body shape becomes a disadvantage for your Pug. Can Your Pug Swim? Not all Pugs have a difficult time swimming. So to really gauge how well these dogs do in water, we decided to survey real Pug owners. We asked this question in the Pug Subreddit and other online dog forums and gathered some answers. It was a scary sight and we never brought her again. Then he sank like a rock. Heh, I was there to save him in time. But he has somewhat learned to swim for short distances only. When were outside, he likes to jump in the pool when he gets hot. You should definitely consider getting a life vest. We let him swim for a few minutes at a time. In fact, there are plenty of capable pugs that love being in water. The key is to properly introduce them to water and swimming. If you want to swim with your Pug, it will require a lot of consistency and patience. Here are the best tips for getting your Pug to go for a swim and have fun! If anything, for peace of mind. Plus, it allows you to give them a little more freedom to roam around by themselves. We suggest getting a small or medium for your Pug. However, make sure to check the sizing chart before purchasing. Introducing Pugs to Water Perhaps the most crucial step is the introduction. If your Pug is scared of water, good luck trying to get them to go in it. And according to the AKC , the earlier you start this process, the better. You can do this by bribing them with treats and giving positive praises when they get inside. The second step is taking your dog to the exact spot he or she will be swimming at. From there, let your Pug sniff the water. If possible, you can try to get them to touch the water with their feet. If possible, find a sweet spot where the Pug can still stand up if needed. But because Pugs are relatively short dogs with short legs, it may be hard to do this in a pool. In this case, you may want to go to the shore of a nearby lake. By now, the life vest should be on your Pug. Along the way, always make sure to give high praises. Also, if your Pug has a favorite toy or enjoys playing fetch with a ball, make sure to bring it. Throw the ball out and in some cases, the Pug will go after it based on instinct and old habits. In this step, you just want them to get comfortable playing in the shallow end. The best way to get your dog into the deep end is to swim with your Pug. If your dog sees that its owner is enjoying the deep end, the dog will be more likely to join. You may need to get them more comfortable in the shallow end with a few more sessions. But if your Pug does join you in the deep end, make sure to give them high praise as encouragement. With these simple tips, your Pug will be swimming in no time. It may be difficult in the beginning, but persistence is key to successfully training your dog to swim. Posts you may like:. Do all dogs know how to swim without teaching them and are the chemicals in my pool bad for him? A: Hi Tony, great question. It is very important to be aware of water safety in regard to your Pug swimming, though it can be a fun summer activity. You do not mention how old your dog is; however one will want to be particularly careful with a small puppy. All Pugs will be able to swim purely out of a natural and inbred instinct. .This does not mean that a dog will enjoy it! Sadly, some dog owners simply throw their dog in, expecting that he or she will instantly know what to do and paddle around happily. In most cases, the dog will be swimming for his life, as adrenaline kicks in for him to survive. It is best to let your Pug get used to water in a pool where their are boundaries and you will be able to retrieve him easily should he swim away. The barrel shape of this breed does present more exertion to swim than some other breeds; however you will be the best judge to see if your dog enjoys the water and it will be your job to remain close in case he tires out too far from the edge. Your dog's first time in the water will affect their feelings toward this activity. Therefore how you introduce this concept is important. To prepare, be sure that: The water temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit .To make this an even better experience for your Pug try to: Have an older, experienced dog in the water with you if possible Floating toys that your dog may wish to swim to You may coach your Pug to join you or you may hold him or her as you enter slowly. Offer him plenty of time to adjust to this new sensation. If your Pug swims for shore or the edge of the pool or appears frightened, allow him to exit and then just let him watch for a while. You may then try again. Most dogs, when given a pleasant experience will continue on to love this method of fun and cooling off on a hot day. To keep your Pug safe: Take him out of the water before he appears to have tired himself out; if you wait until he shows signs of being worn out this can quickly turn into a dangerous situation where you are trying to pull out a Pug that is scared and resisting help due to panic. Supervise him at all times - Even those that learn to be pretty good swimmers also need to have an owner close by if not right beside them in the water Remember that even though a dog is in water, he still needs water to drink. Keep your Pug hydrated before and after any swimming Pools Regarding chemicals: Just as pool chemicals can irritate a person's skin, they will affect your Pug also. This breed has very sensitive eyes and skin. Limit the time to 5 or 10 minutes and evaluate if the chemicals have given rise to bloodshot eyes. If so, remove your dog. If your Pug seems to be able to tolerate the chlorine, you may add on 5 or 10 minutes each session in the pool. If irritation does occur, gently wash out your dog's eyes with fresh, clean water using a dropper. It is highly recommended to use chloride alternatives which will keep your pool just as clean without using elements that could cause reactions to your Pug's eyes or skin. At any rate, no matter where you are swimming with your dog, be sure to rinse your Pug off very well after you are done to remove all traces of chlorine. Possible hazards of allowing a Pug to swim in a pond or lake include: Blue-green Algae Cyanobacteria poisoning - Even very small exposure to this just a mouthful of water with this sort of algae can be fatal to dogs. Sings are vomiting, diarrhea , seizures, coma, shock, trouble breathing and even with treatment, it can be deadly. Liptosprirosis - This is a disease that is carried by the urine of wild animals. Most dogs are only vaccinated by this if deemed at risk; so a Pug will not be protected unless an owner asked for this inoculation specifically and the Pug is up-to-date on shots. Contracting a wide range of gastroenteritis related illness due to bacteria and pathogens in unclean, untreated water. Ears and Wrinkles Wet From Swimming Just like your Pug's ears and wrinkles will become soaked after a bath and need proper drying, this must be done after a swim session as well. After rinsing off your Pug and patting him dry, be sure to follow the grooming rules of swiping wrinkles with a Q-tip or canine facial wipes and dry the outer ear canals so that moisture does not remain as this can lead to an ear infection. Did you find this article helpful? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Pug maintenance: what to do after a swim Can pug dogs swim? Yes, pugs can swim! Just like other dog breeds, pugs can enjoy water and doggy paddle like the best of them. That said, keep in mind that dogs, like people, have individual, personal preferences. So while some pugs might love the water and getting wet, others may prefer to keep their paws dry. Are pugs born knowing how to swim? Pugs, like all dogs, are born with a natural and inherent instinct to paddle in water. But, unfortunately, that doggy paddle may be the extent of their ability to swim. While some dogs think retrievers and settlers were born to swim, it may be difficult for some pugs to keep their head above water. For example, a dog who is thrown into the pool without warning will likely develop an understandable fear of water. That way, they associate water with fun. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your pug has a good experience their first time in the water: Make sure the water temperature is comfortable — not too hot and not too cold! Be sure the area is clear of obstacles and debris. If possible, have other, more experienced dogs, in the water. Have toys and other fun items around that your pug enjoys. Go slow. Offer them time to adjust, and to familiarize themselves with the scene. Instead, do the following to teach your pug how to swim: Get a life jacket. This will ensure safety and that your pug floats, no matter how good or bad they are at doggy paddling. Encourage your dog to enter the water on their own. Giving your pug freedom, instead of forcing them in, will make them feel more secure. Let them enter at their own pace. Entice your dog to enter. Bring a toy or ball that they like. Start in shallow water. Let your dog start with just getting their paws wet. If possible, bring a friend. Use lots of praise and reinforcement. Reward your dog for going in the water or swimming. Show your dog the exit. Learning where to exit a body of water is just as important as learning where to enter. The barrel shape of a pug requires more exertion to swim than some other breeds, so your pug may tire out faster than you expect. Be patient. Move slowly, and take your time. If your pug is scared, let them sit back and watch. Spending time in the water can be great fun when done safely. Here are some tips for making sure you and your pug stay safe in the water: Water temperature: Make sure the water temperature plus the air temperature equals at least degrees Fahrenheit before letting your dog swim. This is when their tail will droop and no longer wag or lift up. They can also get hypothermia, which is even more serious. Pug age: Puppies are particularly sensitive to potentially dangerous pool conditions, like water temperature and poisoning. Water toxicity: Water can be toxic to dogs if they swallow too much of it while swimming. A common sign is throwing up after swimming. To avoid this, play with a flat, small toy, like a soft flying disc, and feed your dog dehydrated or freeze-dried treats to help absorb the excess water in their stomach. Algae: Lakes and ponds might contain blue-green algae, which can poison your dog. Even a very small exposure to this, like a mouthful of water, can be fatal. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea and seizures. Dehydration: Just like with humans, a long day in the sun and in the water can cause your pug to become dehydrated. DO have fresh, cool water around so your pug stays hydrated. DO use positive reinforcement. DO have a life jacket available, if your pug needs it. Can Pugs Swim? And while many people believe that all dogs are natural swimmers, there are so many factors that determine whether a dog can swim or not. Some of them include weight, breed, size, and their ability to swim. So can pugs swim? Find out in the next section. Are Pugs Great Swimmers? So, why are pugs not very good swimmers? Dogs with these physical structures are known as Brachycephalic dogs, and they include English dogs and bulldogs. These breeds are prone to many health issues due to their small nasal passages. This position can make it difficult for them to stay afloat. And they only need minimal physical activities compared to other dogs. Experts recommend one daily walk for a pug. Your pug will love it even more if you do two short walks instead. Some pugs will be more active than others, which is fine. However, when you take your pug for a swim, and they want to keep going. They have an elongated body and short legs, both of which are a hitch to their swimming abilities. And a lot of power is required to propel their bodies. There is a misconception that all dogs enjoy being in the water. However, many dogs, including pugs, do not love being in the water. That said, there are some signs that you can watch out to know whether your pug enjoys being in water or not. For example, if you take them near a pool and they start sniffing floaties or bags and wagging their tail at the sunbathers, they might love swimming. If you push your pug to the water, but they refuse to get their paws wet, they might not be interested. If your pug is still a puppy, then this is the time to start training them. How to Teach Your Pug to Swim? Be Patient and Gentle When Introducing Them Most pug owners just throw them in water, and when they stay afloat, they conclude they enjoy swimming. Although your pug may still afloat, it may not because they enjoy swimming but a way of protecting themselves out of fear. Begin by luring them to enter the bathtub with treats and positive praises. Next, take your pug to the pool or the lake that you will be taking them for a swim to familiarize themselves with the place. From there, you can let your pug sniff the water and touch it. If they accept to enter into the water, hold them, and ensure their head is above water until they show interest in the next step. To make it easier for them, consider putting something visual such as a plant near the stairs. Pay close attention to how they feel, and make sure they take enough breaks. Hire a Trainer If your pug is hesitant to give swimming a try after all these steps or you feel the process is too complicated, consider hiring an expert. However, there are a few things you can do to keep them safe in pools, lakes and ponds. Here are tips to make sure your pool is pet-proof: Use Pool Covers Pool covers are commonly used for keeping your pool from dirt, but they come in handy for protecting your pug from drowning. Hardcovers are more preferred to soft covers. The latter can be dangerous as your pug can walk onto it and end up wrapped or trapped, causing them to drown. Use a Pool Fence State rules require you to have a pool fence if you have a pool. However, not every pool fence is dog-proof. Get Your Pug a Life Jacket If your pugs love being in the water, a life jacket will help them stay afloat when they fall in water before coming to their rescue. Pug life jackets come in different sizes, so it may take you time to land on the right coat for your pug. Precautions you can take to protect your pug from chemical reactions include: If you notice any reaction, wash them using fresh water and a dropper. Use chlorine alternatives that are pug-friendly to clean your pool Regardless of where you take your pug for swimming, be sure to rinse them thoroughly after swimming. Make sure you keep the pool chemicals, pug cables, and other equipment that hurt your pug out of their reach. Some of the diseases that your pug may contract from swimming on lakes and ponds include: Blue-green Algae Cyanobacteria poisoning. Even a cup of water with this bacterium is fatal for pugs. Symptoms include vomiting, coma, shock, seizure, and even medication, which can still be dangerous. Gastroenteritis related illnesses. This is a result of pathogens and bacteria in dirty water. This can lead to redness, itchiness, ear canal inflammation, discomfort, and pain. The condition is mainly caused by exposing your pug in water for prolonged periods and not properly drying their ears. To protect your pug from ear infections: Rinse your pug and dry them correctly by observing the grooming rules of swiping wrinkles with canine facial wipes or Q-tips. If you realize your pug already has an ear infection, visit your local veterinarian. FAQs 1. Why does my pug paddle their paw above water? Here is why: Fear. This is an unnatural position for them, so they might be panicking or feeling uncomfortable. Many animal traits are purely instinctive, and so is paddling. So, once your pug is above water, they may begin to paddle as a reflex. Learned trait. If your pug paddles and you hug them with their affection, they may associate the feedback with paddling, causing more paddling. What dogs are natural swimmers? Spanish water dog.