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A rolled eyelid entropion is an eyelid malposition in dogs Teat Tumors Tumours of the mammary gland, also known as mammary tumours, are among the most common cancers in dogs. The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix is a large, muscular dog with a short, low-maintenance coat. They come in a variety of colors, but most have a brindle or black base color with white markings. What is the personality of an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix is a loyal, protective and loving dog. They do well with children and love to be part of the family. They can be stubborn and willful, but respond well to consistent training. How much exercise does an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix need? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix needs moderate exercise. A daily walk or playtime in the yard will suffice. They don't need a lot of room to run, but they do enjoy a good game of catch. How do I care for an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix has a short, low-maintenance coat. Weekly brushing is sufficient. They shed an average amount of hair. Are American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mixes good with other pets? They have a very strong temperament. If they are well trained, they get along great with cats as well as with a second dog. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. However, these dogs are so adorable as puppies that many people often adopt them without giving it the proper amount of thought. The food costs are exorbitant, though, and you should expect a whopper of a vet bill every now and then. They can also be prone to behavioral issues if not properly trained and socialized. Just keep in mind that your home will get smaller after you bring one into it. You better know how to swim, because these dogs drool. When you combine two breeds that are already known for having overactive salivary glands, you get a mix that can flood your entire house. It may sound adorable and it often is. They have no idea how big they are. However, they generally weigh well over pounds. Also, they have no idea where their feet are at any time, and they will definitely step on you. They love being the center of attention. They constantly crave affection — and at their size, they have no problems getting it. They make up for it by being incredibly sweet, though. Masti-Bulls are fun-loving and affectionate, but they can quickly get serious if they perceive a threat. They will not hesitate to protect their families, making them great guard dogs and equally good babysitters. Despite their agreeable nature, they have sad-looking faces, especially their solemn eyes. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, that protectiveness can sometimes be an issue, especially if your kids have friends over who like to roughhouse. Also, these dogs have no idea how big they are. If they get rambunctious, they can easily step on or bowl over a small child. You need to teach them to be aware of their surroundings; you also need to teach your kid how to act around the dog. They have formidable barks that broadcast just how big they are; there are few criminals brave enough to risk entering a house with one of these monsters inside. However, both parent breeds were originally bred as fighting animals, and there may be residual violence left in their DNA. Also, be careful about resource guarding with these dogs. They may get along great with other animals — until somebody gets too close to the food bowl, a favorite toy, or even you. Avoid anything with animal by-products. Portion control is important with larger breeds, as many of them will eat until they run out of food. A brisk walk, lasting minutes, is often all they need. They love to play, and they can spend hours pulling you around the house with a rope toy. Be careful not to overdo any exercise regimen you put them on. That means avoiding activities like agility training or anything that involves running and jumping especially on hard surfaces. Swimming is great for them, though. Introduce them to new people and places, and build up their confidence. You need to pay special attention to their ears too. Other than that, their grooming needs are fairly basic. Brush their teeth every day , bathe them every few months, and trim their nails as needed. Unfortunately, the breed is prone to a variety of health issues, both large and small. Minor Conditions. Lambert December 12, Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is a designer dog breed. They are obtained by crossbreeding two eminent dog breeds, i. The other name of this hybrid breed is American Bandogge. They are friendly dogs having great affection for kids. So, the owner can leave these beloved dogs with their kids without any problem. These hybrid dogs were created in the year in the United States. They are large and affectionate dogs. Sometimes they may become aggressive at their guard duty. They drool a lot, and a little grooming is required for their coat. Contents Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Temperament Like all hybrid dog breeds, the temperament of parent breeds can easily describe their mixed breed temperament. These dogs are strong and powerful guard dogs. They are protectors of their families. They like to play with kids all the time. If you are an experienced dog owner, these dogs are a perfect fit for you. These beautiful dogs are alpha with a strong personality. They should be socialized properly for a better experience. They are affectionate not only with kids but also with other dog breeds. These dogs like to be independent and can always find a separate place for themselves. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Size Bullmastiff American bulldog mix are docile dogs. They are large in size. The size of the female Bullmastiff American Bulldogs is a bit smaller than the size of a male Bullmastiff American bulldog. Their average height falls between 25 inches to 29 inches from the shoulder. Talking about their weight, they weigh in the range of pounds to pounds. These dogs cannot be carried in hand because of their large size and weight. They can be taken out for a walk, on a picnic, or on a trip. These happy dogs are a very good company to keep. They require attention and exercise. They are perfect for those who are experienced in keeping pets. They are also easily available at rescue and shelter homes, but you have to make some effort to find them. They are guard dogs with a protective nature. They protect others as well as play with them. Adopting these dogs is a sensible decision if you are a family person. They are highly adaptable to apartment life. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Lifespan Lifespan is a variable factor that may vary within the breed. The average lifespan of a Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is up to 10 years. Large-sized dogs usually have a shorter lifespan as compared to small-sized dogs. They are overall healthy dogs because designer dogs skip most of the inherited diseases and health problems. These problems can affect the lifespan of these dogs. So, always ask the breeder to show their health profile. If the tests are properly done, then you may go for a purchase. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Price The price of a Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is dependent on different factors. Their average price is in the range of dollars to dollars. Their parent breeds are expensive, especially American bulldogs. They cost around dollars if purchased from a reputable breeder. Talking about Bullmastiff, they cost around dollars. When these eminent breeds are crossbred, it leads to the production of an improved and healthy designer breed, i. These dogs require minimal grooming, but they may drool a lot. So, you can spend on the purchase of these dogs. Coat colors include fawn, fawn and white, brindle and white, white. The ability of this task is necessary to the old days of the true "Band dog. This breed will be completely submissive with proper training and a handler who has a natural authority over the dog. Proper human to canine communication is necessary. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 28 inches 61 - 71 cm Females 23 — 27 inches 58 — 68 cm Weight: Males 90 — pounds 41 — 45 kg Females 80 - 90 pounds kg. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Exercise A brisk walk twice a day will suffice to keep your ABM in good physical and mental condition. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Nails will need trimming once a month. Teeth may require a cleaning periodically and should be done by the veterinarian. Flea and tick preventative is recommended as well as heartworm preventative. We recommend that you consult with a qualified veterinarian before cleaning or treating your dog with any products. Origin A cross between an Alaunt type German Mastiff, 'Sassin, who shows ribs while free standing at lbs. Various Bull and Mastiff breeds were imported into North America from various countries. The first major imports were brought by Spain. Such dogs have always been used in guarding farms and controlling livestock. Various breed types developed in various locations. The American Bull Mastiff represents one of these variations. Typically stand 24 to 26 inches Typically range from 75 pounds to pounds. Bull Mastiff American Bulldog Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could have obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed that might be best for an experienced dog owner. They might be an alpha with a strong personality and needs a strong owner with experience who can set themselves as pack leader. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The mixed with the Bulldog might be prone to cardiac and respiratory disease, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and other concerns. Highly prone to heat problems. Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will be a moderately shedding dog. But will depend a lot on which one of these dogs it takes after. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? This is a moderate energy dog that will need that from an owner. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Frightened or startled When they are not socialized If you think that your American Masti-Bull is displaying aggression, it is important to seek professional help from a certified trainer or behaviorist. A twice-weekly brushing with a natural bristle brush will help remove dead hairs and prevent matting. They typically shed moderately, so regular brushing will help keep the shedding under control. An occasional bath with a mild dog shampoo will help keep the coat clean and healthy. Beyond regular brushing and bathing, the American Masti-Bull requires minimal grooming. Their short, smooth coat is easy to care for, and they are not prone to excessive shedding or matting. As a result, they are an ideal breed for busy families or individuals who do not have the time or inclination to groom a high-maintenance breed. Nails should be trimmed regularly using a canine-specific nail trimmer. Overgrown nails can cause pain and difficulty walking. Ear cleaning is also important, as American Masti-Bulls are prone to ear infections. Clean the ears weekly with a cotton ball soaked in a gentle, dog-safe cleanser. Never insert anything into the ear canal itself. Teeth should be brushed regularly using a canine-specific toothpaste. American Masti-Bulls are prone to dental problems, so regular brushing will help keep the teeth and gums healthy. Regular grooming will help your American Masti-Bull stay healthy and comfortable. American Masti-Bull — Drooling Levels The American Bulldog Mastiff is known for its heavy drooling, which can be quite irritating to their face and neck. For this reason, it is important to wipe down their face and neck daily with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any build-up of saliva and prevent irritation. The American Masti-Bull is a loyal and protective breed that makes a great family pet. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, and they thrive on human interaction. They are patient with children and other pets, and they will quickly become a cherished member of the family. While they are not typically aggressive, they can be defensive of their family if they feel threatened. For this reason, it is important to socialize them early on and to provide them with plenty of positive reinforcement. If you are considering adopting an American Masti-Bull, it is important to research the breed thoroughly and to find a reputable breeder. This will help ensure that you end up with a healthy, well-adjusted pet that will be a cherished member of your family for many years to come. The American Masti-Bull is an excellent guard dog breed. They are loyal and protective of their family, and they will quickly become attached to their human companions. They are also quick to sound the alarm if they sense something amiss, which makes them an excellent watchdog. While they are not the largest of dogs, their courage and tenacity more than make up for their size. They will stand up to much larger opponents if they feel that their family is in danger. If you are looking for a guard dog that will become a loyal and loving family member, the American Masti-Bull is an excellent choice! However, like all breeds, the American Masti-Bull is susceptible to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health issues seen in American Masti-Bulls include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cherry eye. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joints. Both conditions are believed to be genetic in nature and can be exacerbated by improper care or nutrition. Cherry eye is a condition that causes the third eyelid to become swollen and protrude from the eye. While cherry eye is not typically painful, it can cause long-term damage to the eye if left untreated. Proper care and nutrition are essential for all dogs, but they are especially important for American Masti-Bulls. This breed is prone to dental problems, so regular brushing and dental checkups are a must. However, they do have some specific nutritional requirements that need to be met in order for them to stay healthy and active. Puppies: Puppies of this breed need food that is high in protein and fat in order to support their rapid growth. The focus should also be on food that is easy to digest, since their digestive systems are still developing. This is to maintain their muscular bodies and active lifestyles. However, they also need easily digestible food since they tend to have sensitive stomachs. Senior Dogs: As senior dogs, American Masti-Bulls need food that is easy to digest and high in antioxidants to help keep their immune systems strong. They also need food that is low in calories to help them maintain a healthy weight. In addition to high-quality food, American Masti-Bulls may also benefit from a food supplement. This is especially true if they are not getting all of the nutrients they need from their food. Some good food supplements for American Masti-Bulls are omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. Table scraps should not be given to American Masti-Bulls as they can easily become obese. This is a health hazard for them since they are already prone to joint problems. Overall, American Masti-Bulls need a food that is high in protein and fat, easy to digest, and rich in antioxidants. A food supplement may also be necessary to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need. Treats should be given in moderation to avoid weight gain. American Masti-Bull — Are they friendly with other dogs? When it comes to other dogs, the American Bulldog Mastiff can be both friendly and aloof. They may get along well with some dogs but be standoffish with others. Due to their size, they may be best suited to being the only dog in the household. However, with proper socialization from an early age, they can learn to get along with other dogs. American Masti-Bulls are usually not aggressive towards other dogs, but they may become territorial if they feel threatened or if their family is threatened. Small dogs may view American Masti-Bulls as a threat, so it is important to introduce them slowly and under supervision. If you have another dog in the house, make sure to monitor their interactions carefully. This cross breed may also try to dominate other dogs, so it is important to be consistent with training and discipline. Overall, American Masti-Bulls can be friendly with most other dogs if they are properly socialized from an early age. These dogs are great with children of all ages and make wonderful family pets. If you are looking for a breed of dog that is good with kids, the American Masti-Bull is an excellent choice. Very young children or the elderly might find a large American Masti-Bull to be overwhelming. If you have small children or the elderly living in your home, it is important to supervise their interactions with this breed of dog. Otherwise, the American Masti-Bull makes an excellent companion for kids and families. Excessive barking can be a sign of underlying behavioral issues that need to be addressed. This makes them an ideal choice for many families, as they can be comfortable in both hot and cold climates. In hot weather, their coat will thin out, helping to keep them cool. In relation to hot weather, the American Masti-Bull is more tolerant to heat than most other breeds of dog. They can handle being in hot weather for longer periods of time and are less likely to overheat. Overall, the American Masti-Bull is a breed that is known for its tolerance to both hot and cold weather. This makes them an ideal choice for many families, irrespective of the climate that they live in. American Masti-Bull — Life Expectancy The American Masti-Bull is a loyal and loving companion, but like all dog breeds, they are susceptible to certain health problems. On average, they have a life expectancy of 10 years, but this can be shortened by health problems such as hip dysplasia and heart disease. By catching these problems early, you can get treatment for your Masti-Bull that can help extend their life. While this mixed breed is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC , it is growing in popularity as a family pet and working dog. The American Bulldog Mastiff is a popular crossbreed in the United States, and their pup prices reflect this popularity. This price range can differ depending on the specific breeder, bloodline, and coat coloration of the pup. For example, pups with rarer coat colors or those from show-quality bloodlines may cost more than pups with more common coat colors or from working lines. In general, though, most Masti-Bull pups will fall within the mentioned price range. If you are interested in purchasing a Masti-Bull puppy, be sure to do your research on reputable breeders in your area. With any luck, you will be able to find a healthy, happy pup that fits both your lifestyle and budget!

As we combine two different purebred dogs, there are so many possible variations and outcomes! Of course, a Bernedoodle puppy will inherit its traits and characteristics from its lineage. The traditional Bernese Mountain Dog coat features a solid jet black base color with white and rust or tan markings. The tan and rust markings are usually present above the eyes, on the cheeks, on each side of the chest, on the legs, and under the tail. The white markings are found on the muzzle, between the eyes, on the chest, neck, and paws. Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Colors Poodles, on the other hand, most commonly come in a variety of solid colors, such as black, blue, gray, silver, brown, red, apricot, cream, cafe au lait, silver beige, and white. In addition to that, Poodles can also come with different color combinations like black and brown, black and tan, black and apricot, black and cream, brown and apricot, brown and white, and other combinations of the more common solid colors. As you might guess, black and white Bernedoodles have a black solid dominant color and white markings on the face, neck, and chest. Merle Bernedoodle One of the rarest, but most beautiful Bernedoodle colors is the merle pattern. Merle Bernedoodles have a solid base color with speckled patches of diluted colors throughout the coat. The merle coat gene is not as common in either Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs, but it can be passed onto the Bernedoodles when one of the parents is carrying the merle gene. A higher chance of achieving a merle Bernedoodle pup is by crossing a Poodle with a merle Bernedoodle. However, ethical breeders will never cross two merle Bernedoodles, as this increases the risk of serious health issues like blindness and deafness. Red and White Bernedoodle Red and white Bernedoodle is another rare color combination that features a mixture of reds and whites. The more traditional red and white Bernedoodle color has a solid red base on most of the body, while the chest, face, paws, and legs have white hair. Additionally, there are parti red and white Bernedoodles, where the base color is white throughout the body. In contrast, the red markings are found on the face, ears, and sometimes on the back as well. Black Bernedoodle A solid black Bernedoodle is more of a rare find compared to the black and white Bernedoodle and tri-color Bernedoodles. If the goal is to achieve a black Bernedoodle, both parent pups should carry the same recessive gene. The Bernedoodle tri-color pattern features three different colors on the coat. There can be various tri-color patterns with colors like black, brown, tan, rust, apricot, red, white, and cream. The dominant base color is usually darker and white markings are found on the face, chest, feet, and paws. Sable Bernedoodle Another popular choice is the sable Bernedoodle color. Sable Bernedoodles have a solid base color, but the hairs have black tips. Of course, the overall look depends on how much of the hair lengths are colored black from the ends. Phantom Bernedoodle Phantom Bernedoodles are somewhat similar to tri-colored Bernedoodles, but they have less white markings and more brown hues in their coats. The most common phantom combination is black and tan. These pups usually have dominant black color all across the body with tan markings on the face, chest, legs, and paws. This is again a more rare Bernedoodle color out there, but it sure does look beautiful! Chocolate Bernedoodle Chocolate Bernedoodles can come in a variety of patterns. Rare Bernedoodle Colors Of course, in addition to all of the Bernedoodle colors and color combinations we listed above, there are countless other colors and patterns that the puppies can come in. Many of them surprising even the breeders. It all comes down to their genetics and which dominant and recessive genes are present. Additionally, keep in mind that not all puppies in the same litter inherit the same coat colors. As with any Doodle, combining two different breeds gives us endless possibilities. Like many other Doodles, Bernedoodles often carry the fading gene , which is usually inherited from the Poodle side of their lineage. This typically occurs anywhere from 6 to 10 months of age. The fading, also called clearing, is most noticeable in darker colored Bernedoodles who have blacks and browns in their coat. Black Bernedoodles with the fading gene often change into silver, gray, or bluish tones. Chocolate or brown Bernedoodles can turn silver, cream, or silver beige over time. However, merle Bernedoodles might be at a slightly higher risk of certain health problems, such as deafness or blindness. To be fair, it all comes down to your preferences and which colors you like. However, we do recommend you choose your new family member based on their health and temperament, not for their looks only. Black Bernedoodles can fade into gray or silver tones, and chocolate Bernedoodles might fade into silver, silver beige, and beige tones. The only way to accurately predict the color of your puppy is by DNA testing, which you can arrange at an additional cost with your breeder. The rarest variations are bi-color black and white Bernedoodle, sable, phantom, and merle patterns, solid black, and solid white. In conclusion, choosing the color of your Bernedoodle puppy is one of the more difficult decisions that you face. They all look beautiful in their own way, but one thing is for sure — all Bernedoodles have amazing personalities, regardless of their coat color. We hope this guide has given you a good idea about all the different Bernedoodle colors and patterns that are available out there. What is your favorite Bernedoodle color? Let us know in the comments below! Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. What IS a Bernedoodle? These are NOT mutts which implies a breeding between unknown breeds or not carefully planned. These are designer breeds that are bred for a specific purpose. We produce an incredible bernedoodle that displays the qualities of both our champion line Standard Poodles and the Bernese Mountain Dog pedigrees. The advantage of a carefully planned mixed breed is that you get the added advantage of a phenomenon called "hybrid vigor". This process shuffles new combinations of genes that helps to increase longevity and decrease the usual ailments that impact many purebred dogs such as various forms of inherited types of cancer not all cancers have a genetic basis such as small and large cell lymphoma which is usually a result from environmental exposure. The bernedoodles are super healthy and are not as prone to the same issues that Bernese mountain dogs and standard poodles are. As a result, you have a family member for a lot longer and that will live a vibrant and healthy life if properly cared for diet, exercise, and family integration are all important components toward helping the dog to live a long happy life with you.You can see the links above about the qualities of Standard Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs as both are extraordinary breeds in their own right and for many, purebreds of these may be a great option as well. We prefer the Bernedoodle as they get the best of both breeds, incredibly loyal, goofy, smart, playful, intelligent, and has one of the best dog personalities we have seen in a family dog. The Premier F1 Standard Bernedoodle is a low- to mostly nonshedding we use standard poodles that do not carry the improper coat alleles and Bernese mountain dogs that have thick wavy curly coats.If you want a guarantee on non shedding, then you should try to select an F1b or F1bb bernedoodle. Both look amazingly similar to the F1 standard bernedoodles but maybe a little smaller. We will produce about 2 F1b and F1bb standard bernedoodle litters per year for those wanting a more curly coat in their bernedoodles. Premier Bernedoodles love to be with the family and do not do well in enviroments of isolation. Wherever the family is, that's right where they want to be. They are stunning dogs, and you'll likely get alot of attention and people asking you what kind of dog you have. They are beautiful and along with their incredibly gentle personalities, you will have an absolutely stunning dog. They are a perfect companion dog that love to go on walks through the city or hikes in the woods or mountains or a swim at the beach. They love it all and will be at your side the entire time. They don't tend to wander away as they prefer to be with you.They equally love just hanging out with you on the couch watching your favorite movie or watching you reading a book. They really love it all as long as you're a part of it. They are so loyal to the family. Bernedoodle puppies do have energy like most puppies, and this will continue thru about years of age at which time they really mellow out. They are not nervous nor hyper but will need some off leash time where they can really stretch their legs and run. The old motto "a tired puppy is a good puppy" always prevails! Just make sure they have a lot of fresh water and a cool spot to cool off afterward. Due to the the recombination and shuffling of new genetic variations, they do show some variation in their coloration however they also all have a common morphology that tells you it's a bernedoodle. Although we do take deposits on a first come, first pick basis, we will know the puppies well, their personalities, and can help select a puppy that best fits your lifestyle and what you are looking for. We only use Standard Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs to produce our Premier Bernedoodles so that any dog we accept into our Premier Bernedoodle program have passed stringent health tests, display family oriented personalities, and exhibit the best of conformation so that our bernedoodles are absolutely beautiful. Be very cautious when purchasing a purebred or bernedoodle without doing your due diligence as the puppies will always be cute, but will exhibit the personalities of the bloodline used later in life.Therefore, use a reptutable breeder that has invested in the dogs they use for their breeding programs and that raise them as their own family members. They should be able to produce their pedigrees as well, and should have both parents on site so you can see how they react to you. We are very Type A when it comes to the quality of dogs which makes it more difficult to give referrals. We are always going to be biased and believe that the wait for a Premier Bernedoodle is worth it and you'll be very happy you did! Also you can visit your local humane society and help rescue a dog at the shelter.If you have young kids be sure to get a younger dog from the shelter that can adapt to your family. But if you're looking for a unique new family member, a Premier Bernedoodle will be a true delight. Colors and Fur Our Premier Bernedoodles will be traditional tri-color much like a Bernese Mountain Dog , abstract tricolor similar to a traditional tricolor with less white in the face , sable similar to a traditional tri-color but has more reddish-browns due to the poodle genetics we use , phantom, merle, merle tricolor, or bi-colored brown and white, black and white, or shades thereof. Our F1b's will consist of black and whites, traditional tricolors, abstract tricolors, and lots of variable brown and reddish brown and whites. Color never reflects temperament and personality so usually most people don't really care too much what color they are. They are all really beautiful. Although there's variation due to the hybrid vigor present as a result of the recombination of genes in many arrays, there is definitely a bernedoodle appearance that is fairly consistent. If you let the hair grow, they will look like big shaggy dogs that you can't help but to give a big hug to. And they enjoy every minute of it! Our Premier Bernedoodles will tend to have wavy curly coats due to the coat types we require in our bernese mountain dogs which helps to minimize or eliminate shedding.We do make sure that our standard poodles do not carry the genetic marker known as the "Improper Coat" allele or IC for short. Wavy curly coats do require a little more grooming as compared to straight, but many, straight coats shed more.Although they are considered to be large, they don't act like a large dog in the house. They are generally very careful and calm natured as adults however they do have some puppy-fun energy thru the puppyhood stages and thru 3 years of age. They love people and other pets! We do thorough genetic testing of our adults that we use in our breeding program to assure that you are purchasing the healthiest of bernedoodle puppies. Our Bernese mountain dogs come from very long-lived blood lines in Western Europe and these longer lifespans is one of the many reasons we obtain our Berners from several specific populations known for their longevity. Obviously we can't guarantee lifespan as there are many variables outside of our control not to mention, environment, stress, climate, food, etc. But track record seems to show a longer lifespan. What's the Difference? An F1b is an F1 standard Bernedoodle backcrossed to a standard poodle or could be a backcross to a Bernese mountain dog but we generally use the poodle as the backcross. An F1bb is an F1b standard Bernedoodle backcrossed to a standard poodle. Behaviorally they are all very similar with the F1b and F1bb's being slightly smaller than our F1 standards and tend to have slightly curlier coats to a tight wave. If you're looking for a smaller standard Bernedoodle these would be a great option. Pictures are posted below with the other pictures. We continue to get lots of praise from those that have purchased our F1b and F1bb standard bernedoodles. Is the Bernedoodle for Everybody? I would like to think so, but if you do not plan on being with your bernedoodle and keeping it with you, in your home, as part of your home, this is definitely not the dog for you. They thrive on being with the family and not isolated we believe this is the case for all dogs, and especially bernedoodles. Any of our puppies kept in a permanent kennel situation, on a tether, or the like, will violate the terms and conditions of our puppy contract and will have to render the puppy or dog back to Premier Doodles see puppy contract in link above. We definitely support crate training, but these dogs are not meant to live their life in a crate nor kennel! If you want a pet that prefers to be in isolation, you may want to consider a nonsocial pet perhaps a Betta fish! Yes we have done a lot of the hard work the first 8 weeks as we do extensive early neurological stimulation bio-sensor and Puppy Culture program, along with starting crate training and housebreaking, BUT, they are puppies and will need your undivided attention for the next weeks as they work towards being completely housebroken and earning more privileges. They have been communicating with their siblings for the past 8 weeks using their mouth. During their normal daily interactions, you will occasionally hear a loud "yelp" in response to one biting another too hard. This yelp usually ends the mouthing behavior. Now puppies have fur and people generally do not. When you bring your bernedoodle home, they will likely display some degree of mouthing behavior toward their human family. This will usually stop this behavior. We then redirect their desire to mouth to something more appropriate like a chew toy and after a few seconds of cooperating we praise them. The good news.We have a Puppy Guide under our tab "Puppy Central" on how to unpack this process so that you can have success. If you put them time in early, they will have this knocked out in a few days. The rule of thumb is to get them outside ALOT.Be sure to purchase two Midwest XL crates can get from our Puppy Store , one for the back door and one next to your bed. The power of meiosis specialized cell division event that occurs in the reproductive organs, ovaries for females and testes for males and crossing over assures that each offspring will be diverse and different and this difference will be noticeable in color and a little bit in behavior. All will be superior, but some will be more playful and others less so, some will mouth more than others, etc. Available Puppies.Check out our "Available Puppies" tab at the top to find out how to get onto our Master List for a future puppy! If black, puppy has markings outside of the normal pattern for a parti puppy. Markings can range from silver, light tan, to dark brown, to red. These markings are found over the eyes, on the sides of the face, on the chest, on all four legs and feet, and under the tail. There is no white on the puppy or the white is very minimal. Unlike a phantom puppy, there is white present somewhere on the puppy. It is most common to only have white on the chest and sometimes the feet. These puppies most closely resemble a bernese mountain dog in their color patterns. It is more rare to get the white on the face with perfect berner markings, so please understand if leaving a deposit, you could be waiting a very long time for a puppy like this. The two non-traditional tri-colors we produce are sables and brindles. A sable is when the outer hair is a darker shade than the hair underneath. These puppies are a different color when they are shaved down. They commonly have places where their hair tends to stay darker like on the ears or tail. They may or may not have phantom markings and can have varying amounts of white. Brindle is when the puppy has stripes of different colors on their body. If all these colors werent confusing enough as it is, you can also have a sable brindle combination where the puppy has the stripes, but the hair underneath is still lighter too. These puppies will have varying sizes of patches. Several colors of hair create the "blue" and "red" color that these babies are known for. One puppy could appear to be several colors as its base coat. No two babies are ever the same!!! The phantom merles have those distinct phantom markings that we love so much! On average, these babies will appear to be three or more colors! These babies have large patches of distinct white, not just small spots of white hair mixed in which is common in merles. These puppies can appear to be five or more colors. The are the most unique color out there and are something extra special!!! A little about merles: Standard sized merle bernedoodles are especially hard to find. They are one of the few colors that are auctually harder to find in Standard size than mini. The reason being that standard sized merle standard poodles are difficult to find. The merle color is very uncommon in all poodle sizes. They can usually be readily found in toy and mini sized poodles. The toy poodle is then bred to a standard sized female to create the Moyen or medium sized poodle. This poodle as the mother cannot safely be bred to a bernese mountain dog. She will be far too small. If this moyen poodle is the father, the puppies will be a larger mini or very small standard size. These are not Large standard sized puppies that we are hoping to have. This merle moyen poodle should be bred again to a standard poodle in order to bring as much size as possible to the offspring, and then that puppy could safely breed for standard sized puppies. It takes several generations to safely and correctly breed for True Standard sized babies. It takes many years to create the perfect poodle to make these babies happen! We maintain the right to refuse sale to anyone we do not feel comfortable placing a puppy with for any reason. This right also extends to people who have already left a deposit with us, in which this is the only case that a deposit will be refunded. We want only the best for our babies and if we believe you may not be a fit home for one of our babies for any reason, we will exercise this right. Thank you for understanding. Copyright Kandissweetpuppies. All Rights Reserved. I cannot fully articulate how delightful he is, you have to experience it for yourself to fully understand. As with almost all of our Bernedoodles, he will do well in just about any lifestyle and will be a loyal companion and friend for the family lucky enough to get him. This guy will be a loyal friend with his pleasing personality and laid back nature. Birthdate: Parents: Zuko and Fergie Just a few of the beautiful babies in our new litter. We breed for color, conformation and temperament. While we endeavor to keep our Bernedoodles moderately priced and affordable for most families, but top quality puppies are not inexpensive. Prices vary according to color, markings, coat texture etc. An extra silky coat texture keeps our Bi-Color Bernedoodles very hypoallergenic and non-shed. Tri-Color Bernedoodles Rare colors are a passion at Cobblestone. We specialize in stunning Tri-Color and Tri-Color sables. Prices are higher for puppies that approach perfection in markings coat and color. Bernedoodle puppy health We believe that core nutrients are vital for raising healthy puppies. I've found it takes more than just an expensive dog food to keep dogs healthy. Start your puppy on good supplements to help him grow up healthy and strong. Our parents and puppies thrive on them. Shipping Your Bernedoodle Baby Our puppies travel with a Puppy Nanny to their new homes to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for each puppy that leaves Cobblestone. Fees are based on puppy size and destination. Puppies travel to major airports and availability and scheduling are limited so please be flexible : Occasionally, a puppy will need to travel via United or Delta Air Cargo, we have used this service for many years and they do an excellent job of delivering our babies to their forever homes! She has settled in just great. Oh my heart she is spoiled rotten! It's currently nap-time after playing with a new toy that squeaks. Thank you guys! Bernedoodle Colors and Patterns Bernedoodles come in many colors and patterns. To see the coordinating waitlist, visit this page! Please see this page for more examples of what bernedoodles look like! Here are the most common colors and patterns! Traditional Tri-Colored Bernedoodles have the same pattern and coloring as a berner but with non-shedding hair! The fathers producing traditional tri colored bernedoodles regularly are Sargent Pepper, BB King and Ringo Next, we have the Traditional Tri-Sable which is mostly brown with white berner markings and black or brown points. Up next is the Merle Category! The most important aspect of breeding with the Merle gene involved is making sure only one parent is a Merle gene carrier. This speaks to the importance of finding a great breeder who does genetic testing. Traditional Blue Merle coat color! Jacob, Zeppelin and Jerry are the dads for these beauties! All are non-shedding. Blue Merle only when Jacob is the dad does this color come out shown below. The Phantom color refers to a bi-colored black and white or brown and white bernedoodle without the white berner markings. Also gorgeous! The Brindle Bernedoodle is stunning! This color and pattern combination is one of my all time favorites! Finally, here we have the solid white, black or brown Bernedoodles! Seen mainly in our F1b Mini and micro Bernedoodle litters! Share this:. A Merle Bernedoodle carries the merle gene which causes the coat to have mottled patches of colors. In addition to affecting coat color, the gene also affects skin pigmentation on their paws and nose. It also alters their eye color. Merle Bernedoodles look like any other Bernedoodle except for their coat color. Instead of a solid or tri-color coat, the merle gene causes mottled patches of color. Originally a Blue Merle Bernedoodle has a black coat however the merle gene dilutes areas to grey and white. On the other hand, a Red Merle Bernedoodle originally has a liver brown coat and the merle gene has dilutes areas to beige and white. Merle Bernedoodles are very rare. They are extremely difficult to breed as the gene is very rare in both Poodles and Bernese Mountain dogs. Are Merle Bernedoodle More Expensive? Yes, Merle Bernedoodles are more expensive than other Bernedoodle colors as they are so rare and also difficult to breed. They have black and blue tones throughout the merle pattern. They have brown and red tones throughout the merle pattern. Check out the adorable Bernedoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely!

Puppy Supplies Welcome to Buck Family Farm, a place where our love for Golden Retrievers has evolved into a passion for providing families with affectionate, intelligent, and healthy Golden Retriever Puppies. Our goal is to make sure your next family pet is everything you expected and more. Our Dogs Our family specializes in raising Golden Retrievers of all coat shades who enjoy our spacious 20 acre farm. It is important to us that each dog gets special attention and care each day. Our family-style setup allows our dogs to have the luxury of running free and romping around to their hearts' content while playing together and with our family. Also, since this is our at-home classroom, someone is always available to play ball or give a much needed scratch on the belly and pat on the head. Genetic testing is also performed on each dog to help us make wise choices for the best pairings and to produce puppies with the best probability of excellent health. Of high importance however, is taking into consideration the temperament of each of our Golden Retrievers to produce a well balanced and friendly companion, who exhibits all of the classic traits of the breed. Puppies Buck Family Farm puppies are AKC registered, vet certified, have first shots, are wormed and will come to your home with a 1 year health guarantee and a first bag of puppy food. We also send a blanket with mommy's scent and all appropriate NYS paperwork as well as copies of parents' health clearances. Our desire is to make your experience with us and our puppies everything you expected and more. Puppy Applications If you are interested in purchasing a puppy from our farm please fill out an adoption application to help us get to know you a little better. When your application is accepted you will have the opportunity to place your name on our waiting list for an additional fee. This ensures a courtesy call when a particular color, gender or litter of choice has arrived. You will then have the opportunity to place a deposit on one of our puppies. You will receive a courtesy notification of the litters' arrival and have opportunity to place a deposit. However, deposits that are not submitted promptly will affect your pick-order. Deposits are usually non-refundable. Placing a Deposit Once a new litter is born and determined to be healthy and thriving, we open them for deposit. First, to those on our waiting list, and then to families who have pre-approved applications. We choose puppies at 5 weeks of age in the order that deposits were placed. Please contact us for Paypal, zelle and Venmo handles. Visiting We frequently update pictures of all puppies on a regular basis. You will not be allowed to visit the puppies or parents until mommy is settled in and feeling comfortable with visitors. At 5 weeks of age we have adopting families visit our farm and choose their puppy. Puppies are chosen in the order that deposits were placed. Homecoming At 8 weeks of age and after veterinary examination, puppies will be united with their forever families! Your pup will be in good hands, guaranteed. They have an established track record of success and know how to limit health hazards through meticulous breeding practices. A reputable breeder will be transparent and answer any questions you may have. They understand that a Golden Retriever puppy is not just a pet but a cherished family member. A Golden Retriever puppy looking exhaustedly at a bone The health of your Golden is of utmost importance to Golden Retriever Buddies, and they take great care to ensure that their puppies are in the best possible condition. They emphasize the importance of exercise, grooming , immunizations, worming, and high-quality vitamins and probiotics. So, they gradually introduce their puppies to new people, other dogs, toys, and different environments to help them grow into confident and well-adjusted adult Goldens. They also stress the importance of waiting until a puppy has completed all of their puppy shots before exposing them to other unvaccinated dogs or public areas. Golden Retriever Buddies gladly serves California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and neighboring states, but they do not ship their puppies unattended. They offer a delivery service for an additional fee. Golden Retriever puppy with a red collar lying on a comfortable pillow. They take their breeding philosophy seriously, which calls for health testing and clearances to ensure the health and well-being of their puppies. They also take pride in their commitment to programs like the Canine Good Citizen CGC Program, which emphasizes responsible pet ownership and etiquette. With their state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch trainers and caregivers, and dedication to programs like the CGC, you can rest assured that their dogs are well-behaved and esteemed members of the community. This results in symmetrical, balanced, and powerful dogs with friendly and confident temperaments. The Golden Retriever puppy smiles while sitting on a blanket. For Lucky Charm Goldens, health is a top priority. They undertake all necessary health testing and clearances to produce the healthiest puppies possible. They give the dogs high-quality food and proper care so that they develop into affectionate and intelligent Golden Retrievers. The breeding philosophy of Lucky Charm Goldens is simple—breed for conformation, health, and temperament. Every year, they go to at least two shows to make sure their dogs are champions before they breed them. They interact with their puppies to learn their personalities and match them with the perfect families. Moreover, Lucky Charm Goldens understands the importance of socialization and takes the necessary measures to expose the pups to various age-appropriate activities, noises, textures, and other safe outdoor activities. This socialization will help them become well-rounded and happy pets in their forever homes. Overall, Lucky Charm Goldens gives their puppies and adult dogs the best possible care. They are confident about the soundness of their breeding program and back it up with a 1-year health guarantee. While their puppies are not for breeding and sold with limited registration, Lucky Charm Goldens ensures they are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted in their forever homes. Breeder Details: Address: Colton, California 4. The English type has a fuller head, rounder eyes, and a lighter color than the American type. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. The breeder involves everyone in raising their animals, from the youngest to the oldest members of the family, and their kids help with showing the dogs and raising them. The puppies go home to their new families, well-socialized and loved. Classic Heritage Golden Retrievers prioritizes health and ensures the dogs undergo health testing and clearances. The breeder also provides quality care for puppies and adult dogs. They ensure that their English Golden Retrievers are household dogs that enjoy time with their family. The breeder travels with puppies to deliver them to their new homes out of state. Overall, Classic Heritage Golden Retrievers is a breeder committed to producing English Golden Retrievers of the highest caliber, each with perfect health, beauty, and temperament. They also place a high value on the welfare and socialization of their puppies. Breeder Details: Address: Newcastle, California 5. Golden Retriever puppy with a ribbon on a plain background. Noam had a great temperament and was a regal and loving companion. As a result, Shayla started breeding Noam to preserve his legacy and to help others through therapy dogs. They also carry out genetic testing to look for any flaws. The breeder believes in socializing the puppies, which includes visiting nursing homes and mingling with the community. They believe in using their dogs for therapy and are working towards a future where all their dogs can help others. Five Golden Retriever puppies bathed in a large basin. They use European Golden Retrievers in their breeding program because of their reputation for looks and health. However, they do not breed full American Goldens as they are at an increased risk of cancer. They socialize their puppies with Toy Poodles, cats, and young grandchildren while raising them in a loving home. To ensure that their puppies grow up to be well-rounded companions, they give them lots of love and early socialization. They conduct health testing and clearances to ensure the highest quality of care. They also require their buyers to wait until their pups are two years old before spaying or neutering them, due to the increased risk of cancer from early spaying and neutering. All of their puppies are fully vaccinated, wormed, vet examined, microchipped, and doggy-door trained. Shadalane Golden Retrievers Shadalane Golden Retrievers is a breeding program dedicated to producing high-quality Golden Retrievers with exceptional structure, attractiveness, intellect, and temperament. They collaborate with numerous established Golden Retriever breeders in America to integrate lineage with the best possible results and variety in a restricted breeding program. Golden Retriever puppies playing on the grass together. Shadalane also offers trained Golden Retriever puppies for families who do not have the expertise, patience, or ability to teach young puppies. In collaboration with the Puppy Training Academy, they have put together a highly successful training program with experienced trainers. This helps families lay a solid foundation through positive reinforcement training techniques. They have also meticulously screened for the health of their dogs for several generations, and they remove any dog from their breeding program with any health issues. They raise their pups in a family atmosphere, where they learn basic etiquette and house rules. They also offer the option of acquiring an older, trained Golden Retriever puppy or young adult for families who prefer to avoid going through the puppy stages. Breeder Details: Address: Margale Lane, Vista, CA Conclusion Choosing a Golden Retriever breeder is like choosing a partner—you want someone with a good reputation, health screening, and someone you can trust. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. We are a northern California breeder near Sacramento that prides itself on choosing our breeding dogs for top health, temperament, and beauty that conforms to the breed standard. Our dogs are selected from champion lines with health clearances. We will only breed dogs that pass all of these tests, so we can continue reaching to improve the breed through imposing high standards for our dogs. We breed dogs from these lines to continue a heritage of excellence in the breed. This standard is different from the AKC standard for golden retrievers, but both are accepted and licensed. The English type should have a blockier and fuller head, shorter muzzle, lower ear set, rounder eyes, stouter body structure, as well as a lighter color than the American type see comparison figure below. As an adult, it has been a pleasure to now show and selectively breed these beautiful English Golden Retrievers. Raising our English Golden Retrievers is a family endeavor that includes everyone from the youngest to the oldest. It is wonderful to make family memories with our dogs and children together. Our English Goldens are first and foremost pets who live and play among our family. Our children are involved from showing our dogs to whelping the puppies. Our puppies go home to their new families very loved and well socialized. In Northern California, we are located in Newcastle which is at the base of the Sierra Mountain foothills; close to Sacramento, and about miles from San Francisco or about miles from San Jose other cities near us are Roseville, Loomis, Folsom, Orangevale, Auburn, Lake Tahoe about an hour , and Reno about 2 hours. We can deliver our puppies to you if you are out of state, and personally travel with the puppy to bring your puppy to you. We cordially invite you to visit us and meet our beloved puppies and amazing dogs. We're located in the California Gold County just 25 miles east of Sacramento. Surrounded by golden foothills, we offer the perfect place to meet and enjoy the dogs. Expect to be greeted with wagging tails and wet noses during your visit, as our dogs are always excited to meet new people. Please let us know when you would like to visit by booking an appointment. The care and love you, Heather, and all at Classic Heritage devote to these pups is remarkable. The efforts taken to ensure pups are matched with their new happy forever home are excellent. Everyone I met was equally professional, educated, loving, kind, and a lot of fun. All of the dogs are beautiful and happy.We have had the best experience and have the most loving pup so anything we can do to help Classic Heritage we would. We have recommended you to everyone who has asked. In spite of their size, they think they are lap dogs, and in spite of being dogs, they think they are also human, and nearly every human they meet is judged to have the potential to be a boon companion who might, at many moment, cry, "Let's go! I do not have a wait list. I have golden retriever puppies for sale perhaps once or twice a year. Because I breed infrequently, I can not guarantee I will have a puppy that meets your needs by any set time. I'd hate to have families waiting for a puppy and find I do not have one for them. After a litter arrives and I know what I have in terms of numbers and gender, then I can get serious about reviewing questionnaires submitted by interested families, and I contact people to discuss the specifics once the pups are a few weeks old. The pups require a great deal of time and attention, so it can take me a little while after a litter arrives to get to this part of the placement process. Please keep in mind that I breed golden retriever puppies in northern Virginia, and I do not ship puppies. Do I get to pick which pup I want? I place the pups based on the pups' individual characteristics and each family's specific requirements. I obviously take your preferences into consideration, but your puppy's personality should fit the lifestyle you'll have with him for the next 12 or so years. I raise the pups in my home. For their first few weeks the pups are in my family room with my family, other dogs, and cats, and, after they are old enough and need more room to move freely, the pups move to a large pen in my basement with access to an outdoor pen. All of my dogs are house dogs; the pups are not raised in a kennel. As the pups mature, I spend a great deal of time with them, getting to know their individual personalities. I also watch how they move and determine which have the best conformation. As they get older, they are exposed to many different sounds, textures, flooring and ground surfaces, environments, and people. During this socialization process, I learn which pups would be best suited to which types of homes, and I place them accordingly. Show, performance and working homes take priority, and homes who already have an Eta D'Oro dog generally also take priority. I get frequent inquiries regarding my pups, and I do save those questionnaires as they come in. However, I find most people are not willing to wait the several months, or longer, it may take before I actually have pups available to go to their homes. Accordingly, I do not have extensive contact with most potential buyers until I have pups that are several weeks old. I don't want to waste anyone's time until I know I have a puppy available. That being said, I like to get to know my puppy buyers as much as I can before they take their new puppy home. I often have folks come to visit the pups when they are old enough, and our initial phone conversation s often take a little time so you can learn about me and my dogs, and so I can learn as much as I can about the type of dog that fits into your family. A laid-back dog might be better suited to a less active family, and a higher energy dog would be better suited to an active family. Why health testing? All my dogs are health tested prior to breeding. Health testing means so much more than just a vet check. It's testing in specific areas by board certified veterinarians to ensure my breeding dogs meet the standards expected of breeders under the GRCA Code of Ethics, a standard designed to ensure the entire breed is as healthy as possible, and that buyers get the most healthy pups possible. By testing for things like eye, cardiac, and joint issues and by DNA testing for several common genetic conditions common to golden retrievers, I can ensure I am doing all I can to produce healthy puppies that grow into long-lived, healthy dogs. I test for all the things the GRCA wants its breeders to test for, and do additional testing, as well. For example, all my current breeding animals get heart clearances by echocardiogram, not only by auscultation. While there is no way to guarantee nothing bad will ever happen, I want to do everything I can to reduce or in some cases even eliminate the risk. How do you choose to do a particular breeding? My dogs are purposefully bred, versatile golden retrievers. I have kept or co-own at least one dog from almost every breeding I have done. One of my goals with all of my breedings is to produce pups I would want to keep for myself, and that I will be proud to have in the various competition venues representing my kennel. I also want them to be much loved companion golden retrievers. To meet those goals, I need to produce long-lived, healthy, correct, versatile dogs that can do all the things a golden is supposed to be able to do. I look for health and longevity when picking a sire, and I look for dogs that are physically correct meet the breed standard , have the correct golden disposition, and will be a good match for my girls. Many of the sires of my litters have produced well in the past, which is a good indicator of what they'll produce with my girls. For some breedings, I am looking for dogs with certain skills or capabilities prominent in the pedigrees. In others I am looking to improve upon what I have, to better some area I feel could be improved in my dogs on the whole. I am also careful not to lose the features I particularly like and that are correct in my dogs. I spend many, many hours reviewing pedigrees, observing dogs and talking to breeders and owners about their dogs, as well as others who may be familiar with their pedigrees from before I started watching those things. For the time being, you won't be able to meet both parents here at my home when you visit. My dogs are all related too closely to breed them to each other. In fact, I have done breedings with long deceased sires, choosing to use their frozen semen because they are very well known quantities; they have adult pups out there that help me evaluate what the sire will bring to a breeding, and I have life-long health and longevity information on both the sire and his other offspring. In other cases, I have had semen shipped from the far reaches of the country. This capability gives me the opportunity to expand the gene pool I use in my breedings, and I can search out the healthiest and best matches for my girls. I also have done local breedings by live cover, but it is a great benefit not to be limited by access to only local boys. What will our relationship be after one of your pups comes home with me? I usually set up closed Facebook groups for each litter so puppy buyers can stay in touch with each other, ask questions of me or each other, and so folks can share pictures, triumphs, and news. I have found it a great way to stay in touch, but not everyone is on Facebook, and those who are may not be frequent Facebook users. Be assured I am always accessible to answer your questions, and will always be happy to take your dog back and find him or her a great new home in the event you are no longer able to care for your pup due to health, personal, financial, or any other reasons. None of my dogs need ever become rescue dogs. I love these pups from a time before they are even born, and will always do what is best for them. I even have buyers that have put it in their wills that their dogs come back to me when the time comes, because they know I will put the dogs first. What are your requirements in terms of spay or neuter? For a good number of years, peer reviewed studies and vets and breeders whom I trust have agreed that early spay or neuter is very dangerous to the short- and long-term health of dogs. Everything from orthopedic issues, cancers, and fear of storms can be blamed in part on early spay and neuter. At the very least, I want my dogs to remain intact not spayed or neutered for long enough for the hormones to do their job getting the pups' bones and bodies to maturity. For girls, they should remain intact for at least two heat cycles, and for boys ideally until at least 2 years. I can tell you my boys do not reach full physical maturity until around three, so for their bones, joints, and skulls and other things less obvious to fully mature, I'd prefer they not be neutered ever, but at least not until they are three. Neutering a dog does not affect his instinct to mark. Training affects that. Neutering does not affect his instinct to mount other dogs as a dominance play. Training does. Neutering an aggressive dog does not alleviate his aggressiveness. Neutering a dog does greatly increase his risk of cancers common in goldens. You can often identify a dog spayed or neutered young by its disproportionately long, gangly legs. Those growth plates in the legs were still open when the hormones were removed from the dog, and growth no longer could continue in a balanced way. Buyers are often looking for good bone and big heads on their goldens, particularly the boys. Those things come with maturity while the hormones are intact. What is your guidance on vaccination? My general rule is to keep vaccinations to a minimum. I am not an antivaxer; vaccinations are vital to our dogs' health. For example, without vaccination, parvo kills puppies. I know breeders and dog owners who have lost puppies to parvo. These diseases we vaccinate against are serious. However, I believe in limiting vaccinations to the ones required, at the frequency required. My puppies will have their first round of puppy vaccinations before they go to their homes. After that, vaccinations need only be done if the dog needs additional protection. Titer testing will tell you if that is the case. My foundation bitch received puppy shots and then no further vaccinations other than periodic 3-year rabies as required by law where I live. At her senior physical at age 9, she was found by titer testing to still be fully protected against those things she was vaccinated against as a pup. Research what vaccinations are recommended where you live. Leptospirosis is common in some areas, very rare in others. The various dog influenza vaccines do not protect against all strains of flu, do not last long, and are not fully effective. Balancing the risk of infection essentially a contagious cough unless the infected dog has underlying conditions that make it hard to fight the infection against the effectiveness of the vaccine, consider if it is really worth putting those chemicals into your dog's body. Bordetella kennel cough vaccination is required by some boarding facilities, so you may feel forced to get that. However, it also does not protect against all strains, is not fully effective, and does not last long. I do not vaccinate for Bordetella. It is a cough that lasts several days, and can be treated if it is bacterial. In addition, I recommend vaccinating smartly - the fewer vaccinations given at a time, the less risk for complications. Vaccinating a dog weakened by some other condition or illness, for example an infection, can also lead to complications or reactions. Don't let a vet pressure you into doing anything unsafe for your dog. Your puppy can't advocate for him- or herself, and needs you to look out for him or her. We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge!

The 7 Best Harnesses For Bulldogs October 22, by Kyle Battis Bulldogs have a different body build when compared to other dogs owing to their short legs and wide shoulders. As a result, a bulldog harness has unique dimensions. In this article, I set out to compare different harnesses and find out the best English bulldog harness. Read the sections that follow below for more information about my findings. What you should know about Harnesses for bulldogs Bulldogs are short and their compact body structure makes their breathing system unique. They have necks and trachea that are shorter as compared to other dog breeds. In this regard, every bulldog owner should use a harness that makes it easy for their bulldog to breathe. Why a dog harness is a better option to restrain your bulldog over a leash Dogs get excited sometimes and need restraining. A harness distributes the force used to restrain the dog because it goes over the shoulders and under the neck. Bulldogs have significantly more body energy and since their necks are thick, fitting a collar on them might end up chocking them. Choosing a lose fitting collar presents another problem. Because of the short nose of the bulldog, a loosely fitted collar tends to fall off. This makes collars unsuitable for restraining bulldogs. Types of bulldog harnesses A harness offers comfort to the dog due to the way it fits around the neck and shoulders. It also gives the owner a sure way of controlling their bulldog without chances of slipping off. Furthermore, a harness boosts confidence on shy dogs because of the way it fits and makes the dog more receptive to commands. When selecting a harness for my bulldog, I found it easier to take the dog with me so that I could test a few harnesses and see how my bulldog responded to each type of harness. I noticed that this harness made my dog uncomfortable after a while because he is not used to such restrictions. Since my aim was to find a harness that allows me to control my dog and offer enough comfort to him while at it, I discarded this harness. Maybe dog owners whose dogs get out of hand frequently can find better use for it. Mobility harness Next, we tried the mobility harness and I found that this was the perfect English bulldog harness. The mobility bulldog harness comes in a variety of options with some having hip-lift handles while others have a back handle. Some even come with a strap extending from the back to the front of the harness. Different fits of harnesses Each harness fits differently on your dog. That is why you need to take the dog with you when selecting a harness. Step-in Harness A step in harness easily fits on the dog. It has straps that open to allow the dog to step into the harness and then lock over the back of the dog. Step-in harnesses fit well over small dogs but you can also find a few that will fit big dogs. Roman harness The Roman harness has two pieces that allow you to strap in the dog over the shoulders and under the neck. Fitting the Roman harness over a bulldog is much more challenging than the step-in harness. However, it gives the owner more control and feels more comfortable on the dog. The dog can easily escape from a loosely fitted harness while a harness that is too tight might hurt the dog. A good way to measure the optimum fit is putting two fingers under the harness. Perfectly fitted harnesses should not allow a third finger. Also remember to pick a harness that is made of durable material. The material used to make the harness should also be easy to clean. It is also lightweight and easy to put on the bulldog since it is made in the step in design. The adjustable straps also allow this harness to fit any size of dog meaning that you can use it on your puppy and adjust the size as your French bulldog grows into its full adult size over the years. If you like taking your dog along with you in the car, you will love the extra strap that fits a car safety belt on this harness. Is also comes with a padded handle that allows you to gain better control of your bulldog when taking a stroll with him in the park in the morning or evening. Pros Padded and breathable material for extra comfort Comes with a free handle and car safety belt strap Straps are adjustable Wide variety of colors available Easy to put on and remove Covered under a 1-year warranty Cons Only one type of fabric is available The straps are thin RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness The Ruffwear harness also comes in a wide variety of bright colors that boost visibility in the dark. It provides adjustments to four different positions, thus making this harness suitable for big and small bulldogs. The harness design shape enhances weight distribution when walking, running, or training and does not restrict leg movement. It has an aluminum v-shaped leash attachment point at the back and a loop shaped leash attachment at the front. Ruffwear has included these leash attachments to allow you to control your dog while in front or when trailing behind you. The chest and back straps are extra padded and made of mesh material, which allows airflow and enhances comfort. This harness has a small lockable pocket located on the top that provides storage space for a dog tag or ID. The pocket also prevents losing the tags and ID when you take your favorite companion to the outdoors. Pros Easy to put on and remove Has a pocket for storage of small items Made of breathable fabric Easily adjustable to fit small and big dogs Allows dog-ahead and dog-behind control Has a reflective strip which boosts visibility in the dark Cons Does not protect the dog in the car The elastic strips easily yield allowing the dog to wiggle out of the harness Julius-K9 K9 Powerharness The Julius K9 PowerHarness has an escape proof design that comes with thick wide shoulder pads and slimmer under-chest straps. It is widely used by professional dog trainers and police dogs to control movements of aggressive dogs. It boasts of thick sturdy side buckles that have undergone stress testing before release, thus ensuring that once you put the harness on your dog, it fits snug and only comes off when you unbuckle it. The straps are slightly adjustable to allow the harness to custom fit over your dog should he grow bigger or smaller. The harness has a reflective strip that runs across the back for visibility in the dark and snowy weather. You can increase the visibility using the additional reflective logo attachments or custom made design strips that fit on the sides of the harness. Customized chest bags are also available for purchase which serve to enhance visibility and keep your dog warm during cold weather. The nylon materials guarantee that the harness will not suffer damage from the dog chewing on it. It also comes with extra elongated straps to safeguard the harness from interfering with the leg movement. It fits on multiple breeds of dogs and dogs of different sizes that range from small, medium, to large. The shoulder pads and underbelly pads are filled with form material and covered with breathable fabric for enhanced comfort when the dog is walking, running, or jumping. The straps also have reflective strips allowing you to comfortably see the dog when walking in poorly lit conditions. Pros Padded should and underbelly patches for comfort Fits on many dog breeds Does not interfere with leg movement Easy to put on and remove Perfect for daily walks, jogging and running Dogs cannot easily chew on the material used to make the pads Cons Eagloo Dog Harness No Pull This Eagloo Dog harness features 2 leash attachment rings: one at the back and the other at the chest. This design allows for no pull operation with the dog leading as well as chest control operation with your dog in tow. The nylon fabric used in construction is durable and holds up well against chewing, which makes this one of the most durable English bulldog harnesses. It comes with a study handle on the back that allows you to fit a safety belt over the dog snugly when you have it inside the car. Extra padding on the chest plate boost comfort when the dog is donning the harness and the breathable mesh cover on the surface prevents overheating. The straps are built into a step in design which is easy to wear and remove. They are also adjustable to allow the harness to fit on dogs of any age or size. The reflective strips around the edges allow easy visibility of your dog in the dark to make it easy to locate him in case he wanders off. Pros Edges have reflective strips which enhance visibility Has a handle at the back for easy control Padded plate prevents overheating and sweating Cons The strap fasteners can be hard to manipulate when putting the harness on the dog Adjustments around the neck can make the harness be fitted on too tight iChoue Dog Vest Harness Soft Padded This harness is made of elastic cloth, which allows it to fit snug on the body of the dog without causing any discomfort. It comes with a unique pattern painted on the surface and two rings for leash attachment. The chest ring is centrally located to discourage pulling while the back ring allows the dog to take the lead and guide the owner along the path to follow when walking. The harness also features adjustable straps that allow it to fit both small and large dogs. The edges have reflective strips that boost visibility and safety when walking with your dog at night. Pros Easy to put on and remove Elastic fabric fits comfortably and snug Has reflective strips for night time visibility Unique pattern on the surface Solid connections on the parts that join each other Cons. Made by Babyltrl, the harness is made from a premium durable nylon oxford with an internal layer of soft padded material for comfort. It is designed to be both no-choke and no-pull. A Collar or Harness for an English Bulldog? Like their cousins, the French Bulldog , English Bulldogs have been bred with short faces brachycephalic. Respiratory problems are common and can lead to excessive panting and loud snoring. With all dog breeds, if you have a dog that pulls when walking on a dog collar and leash — pressure can be put on the neck, particularly if the dog is prone to suddenly bolt. This is particularly true for Bulldogs who may already have issues with respiration which could be made worse by constant pressure on their necks. For an English Bulldog puppy, a harness can take the initial strains away which can lead to long term issues. It can also train them to reduce or extinguish pulling behaviour. For an adult, the harness can offer support as well as continually allow the dog owner to control their pet reinforcing good behaviours. It is essential to find a harness that not only can deal with the strength of an English Bulldog but can also offer support to reduce any undue pressure on the dog. Dog collars , though useful for ID tags and walking well-behaved dogs, can be problematic and with enough force can slip off. It is definitely worth considering a harness for your English Bulldog. No Pull Harness for an English Bulldog As the name suggests, a no-pull dog harness is one designed to reduce pulling. Given the strength of a British Bulldog, when they decide to pull — the person walking can feel it. Not only that but a poorly designed or fitting harness can be ineffective in reducing the pulling behaviour. The second type is a front range, a harness type that includes two leash attachment points. The main lead attachment is normally located at the back top of the dog and any good lead can be clipped on for normal walking. The other point is usually located at the front chest and can be attached using a double-ended training leads. These training leads, such as the HALTI , can be used as a normal leash or can be separated out so both ends can be attached to the harness. Your dog can then be guided similar to the way a horse is manoeuvred. There are several examples of both harness types in the collection below. Types of Bulldog Harnesses Vest Harness: This is a basic type of harness, generally inexpensive and lacking in features — it can be a great alternative to a dog collar for well-behaved Bulldogs. Leash attachment points of vest harnesses are generally located at the top back. Front or Back Clip No-Pull Harness: As discussed above, this no-pull harness can either have one or two leash attachment points. Front Range harnesses such as the Ruffwear has two lead attachment points for use with a training leash. These are the most common types of harnesses and are featured several times in this collection. The second is that this unpleasant sensation can actually increase the pulling behaviour as they try to escape the pain. Head Collars: We have an entire article on the pros and cons of head collars as well as some general recommendations. Though not technically classed as a harness, the head collar can be used solely or in conjunction with a harness to offer better control of your dog. They can be used for both walking and guiding the canine as well as stopping sudden lunging or jumping. Although often associated as stylish or fashionable rather than practical — these are many excellent leather harnesses that do both. Leather has the advantage of being strong but you should also look out for padding on the inside to avoid chafing as well as a good design to offer all the practical aspects of a no-pull harness. Support and Rehabilitation Harnesses: We do not cover them in this article but are looking to include a feature on them shortly. Essentially these are designed for disabled, senior or dogs suffering from mobility issues and back problems. Measuring your English Bulldog for a Dog Harness It is important to measure your English Bulldog correctly when fitting a harness for a snug fit which is neither too tight or they could escape from. If you find yourself between two sizes of harness e. You can check out our handy guide to measuring your dog for a harness here — however, here are a few tips. Measure the chest: Using a tape measurer you will need to measure the widest part of the chest. Add two inches: to allow for some flexibility and potential future weight gain. Bulldog Harnesses: Summary Table We compiled the top seven harnesses for this collection including review summaries. Full coverage below this table. Shopping for a dog harness should be easy. As a bulldog owner though, you might be experiencing a different story. Dog harness shopping becomes a challenge for different breeds like bulldogs and English Bulldogs because of their unique chest shapes. And these fur babies are strong as heck! Combine the challenge of shopping harnesses for a bulldog because of their girth with the challenge of shopping harnesses for a puller, and things seem more difficult; that was until you learned about Joyride Harness. You can use our "By Weight" size chart or you can use our "By Girth" size chart. As far as shopping for bulldogs goes though, we recommend going by girth size chart since the most common pain point is finding the right size for your bulldog's large or broad chest. When you receive your harness in the mail, the first thing you'll do is put it on your bulldog, buckling one strap behind their front legs under their chest and using the velcro strap across the front of the dog's chest. You'll then turn your focus to the adjustment straps. The durable mesh design of the harness allows you to tighten the straps at the adjustable points to mold to a perfect fit. You can find more information on exchanges at this link. What are the other benefits to this harness? We've shared with you countless dog owner reviews from customers with puppies, small dogs, health issues with concerns of their dog's neck, small dogs and big dogs that pull, service dogs, and more. Now, we're sharing with you real Joyride Harness customer testimonials explaining why this harness is the best harness for bulldogs. Bulldog puppy owners and adult bulldog owners, take a look at these! Tiffany L. He pulls less and I can control him, making our walks a lot easier!!! I ordered one to replace the cheaply harness I had purchased from Petco. I immediately noticed the ease of putting it on and taking it off my 4-month English Bulldog. I love the handle and multiple points of clipping on a leash. H is 71 lbs and has a large chest. I have wanted soft harnesses for a while but the ones in the store are dainty and never seemed like they would hold up to my boys. This one does. Very well made. Also super easy to get on them. Their regular harnesses were a chore and of course they are excited so it takes forever to get them on. I am so so so very happy with these! Blu is 45 lbs, also with the wide bulldog chest, and he is in a large. These harnesses were very easy to adjust to their odd bully shapes as well! The handle is perfect to re-direct him, plus, he looks really handsome in it. We had an issue where the clip was unhooking randomly, and the Joyride customer service team was amazing by sending us a replacement right away, no questions asked. I respect this brand and will continue to recommend them to everyone I know! You can view all submitted reviews by checking out this page. You can search by breed with our updated review features! We also have more blog posts that round-up reviews based on different dog types for your convenience. Joyride Harness Reviews For Big Dogs Additionally, if you have sizing questions you can always reach our team through the contact form on our website if the sizing charts provided on this page do not suffice! Want more? Feel free to follow us on Instagram at joyrideharness and take a look at more furbaby photos! New to Joyride Harness and need some help picking the right size for your doggo? We have a detailed informational blog post that you can check out: Click Here To View Share this post. This gentle leader harness is truly beautiful piece of hand made working dog equipment! One of the best available harnesses. The agitation harness is some of the most functional and handsome on the market today. The no pull harness is made for agitation or protection work our agitation harness is built for strength and comfort. Our easy walk dog harness is expertly crafted to provide maximum strength and durability. Click on the pictures to see bigger image Training Leather English Bulldog Harness padded for comfort A precisely designed breast plate is lined with extra thick felt to offer supreme comfort for your dog and to absorb the shock of a strong dog hitting during bite work. The best no pull dog harness is built for the stress of agitation work. T he dog harness is designed to fit almost any sized working dogs. The leather dog harness is five way adjustable so you can adjust it to fit to your dogs dimensions. Once all straps are adjusted, the dog harness can be quickly put on the dog by using only one buckle and strap. This petsafe easy walk harness is handmade from high quality, heavy duty strong leather. The k9 dog harness is flexible and will not rub or wear into the skin of your dog. Designed so the resistance is on the shoulders and not on the throat our agitation harness allows dogs to bark and track in free way and still be restrained enough. Click on the pictures to see bigger image Adjustable Leather Dog Harness for English Bulldog walking Made of finest quality soft and strong leather with nickel buckles and rings that won't rust for long life. D ring is stitched and rivetted so it won't pull out. This heavy duty Protection harness is valuable tool for agitation work,designed to withstand the rigors of professional K9 duties. Our Protection harness will quickly become your favorite trial or training equipment! It fits very well with the arm straps are in their shortest position and the chest strap is set to the middle. It's beautiful! I'm super excited to try it out tomorrow. Thanks for all your help with this purchase. How to size your English Bulldog for this harness: XXSmall: around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm around the chest behind the front legs red color on the picture : inches cm Its dog-friendly design does not cause the English Bulldog stress or injury but keeps him comfortable. It is an excellent choice for dogs with tracheal problems and for those pulling on the leash. It is difficult not to admit that our police dog harness has a great look. This model was neatly and carefully finished for continuous service. This nylon harness is not a restrictive device and consequently does not cause pinching, choking, constricting, and hobbling. Nylon harnesses are considered to be the most practical and functional. This particular harness was made of selected non-toxic nylon and total weight of this equipment is light. The construction of the harness provides ultimate comfort over extended intervals. This patrol dog harness is available in many sizes. This thick and prime nylon was specially engineered to prevent fraying. It is a multifunctional dog device which can be used for training, walks and work with English Bulldog of any age and size. I put it on my dog and to my surprise he liked it. Thank-you so much for all your help. I will definitely recommend your products and site to my family, friends and clients. Take care! Whether you just brought a new English Bulldog puppy into your life, or adopted from a bullie rescue — You need to learn about harnesses. Finding a correctly fitted bulldog harness can be a challenge. English bulldogs are a unique breed, for so many reasons. One of which is their short and condensed stature. This can lead to frustration and difficulty in finding the best fitting harness for bulldogs. Brachycephalic breeds like English and French bulldogs have smushed faces and their famous underbite. But they also have broad shoulders, deep chests, and stocky frames. Because of these physical characteristics, bullies are difficult to fit for harnesses. You may wonder why a pet owner would buy a harness, instead of just a regular collar. Many dogs can successfully wear collars made from leather, nylon, or even sometimes chrome. Note: This page includes affiliate links — which means I may receive some sort of compensation at no cost to you if you sign up or make a purchase through these links. Some pet owners and trainers do very well with them. However, I would never recommend using a choke collar on a bulldog, or any brachycephalic breed. Their tracheas are typically more narrow than other types of dogs. Also, while their esophagus is essentially the same length as other breeds, they are more compressed in a bulldog. Their short muzzles cause their airways to collapse a bit, sort of like an accordion. Which can be exacerbated by strenuous activity, warm weather, and even obesity. So if the bulldog already has a hard time breathing, why would anyone want to restrict their airway any further? Any possibility of a bulldog pulling against a collar can be harmful. Why even take that kind of risk by putting a collar on your bullie? How Collars Can Affect Bulldog Safety In addition, stubborn bulldogs who pull in the opposite direction can have their share of collar issues as well. Since bulldogs tend to have thicker necks, their collars can tend to be roughly the same circumference as their heads. As opposed to other dog breeds, who have slimmer necks in proportion to their heads. Especially when it comes to younger pups, who tend to be unpredictable and may have less training. Ask me how I know this — I have a vivid recollection of when my first bulldog was a puppy. She backed right out of here leather collar when I was taking her outside for a walk. And she started running around the parking lot where I lived, as I desperately chased her. Luckily, two of my neighbors helped me catch her, and I brought her safely back inside. Instead, the force is spread evenly over her broad chest. There are many training harnesses available to assist with bulldog puppy training or any active dog who has a propensity for jumping. No pull harnesses help support training activities and defer your bullie from pulling away from you. If you have a bulldog, then you know how stubborn they can be. At times, they will plant their paws squarely into the ground, refusing to budge. But with a properly fitted no pull harness, you can help your bulldog to walk confidently by your side. These are reviews based on my experience as a bulldog owner, over the past two decades. The links below also will bring you to the Amazon product page for each dog harness. To be clear, these are from my experiences, as well as reviews that these harnesses have received online through Amazon. However, I have not tried every single English Bulldog harness in existence. So therefore, please keep in mind there might be other great ones out there. But from my own personal experience, here are some of the best harnesses I have used with my bulldogs, and gladly recommend to others. And, it goes without saying, please do your own homework. If your bulldog has special needs or different proportions from the norm, be sure to choose the harness that is best for your particular situation. Personally, I think this can be the crucial timeframe for finding the right harness for your bulldog. Also, getting your English Bulldog accustomed to wearing a harness when they are young is always a good idea. Otherwise, you may encounter a struggle when they are older. My male bulldog has always been great about wearing his harness and walking on leash. Any time we left the house, he needed to be fully equipped and harnessed. Putting a Harness on a Fussy Dog On the other hand, our younger girl is not as comfortable with wearing her harness. By the time we brought her home, we were living in a house with a fenced-in yard. So she grew up being leash- and harness-free the majority of the time. We would only put a harness on her when going to the vet, training, or any other outing. She eventually concedes, but not as quickly or amiably as my bullie boy. But she is also a lot sassier than he is, in general. But which is best for you to use? As a result, collars can become uncomfortable for them. This may cause them to become stubborn during their walk or try to slip out of their collar completely. Collars can restrict their breathing Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. This means that they have short muzzles and a flat face. As adorable as bulldogs can be, their flat faces can cause them to have difficulty breathing. This can result in excess panting or overheating. A collar can worsen this problem by further restricting their breathing. How to choose a harness Not all harnesses are created equal. The number you get will give you a range of harness sizes appropriate for your bulldog. From there, you can choose between harnesses with adjustable straps, step-in straps, over-the-head straps, and more. Go to the nearest pet store and experiment with different types to see which will be easiest for your English bulldog. Have further questions on how to care for your English bulldog? Then contact Bulldog Angels today! Submit a Comment Your email address will not be published.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.

Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Jennifer Creed raises all of our puppies with her children, ensuring puppies are kept to the highest standards of veterinary care. How to Reserve Your Goldendoodle Puppy If you would like to make one of our Goldendoodle puppies for sale a part of your family, you can reserve your puppy several months in advance. Here are the easy steps to follow: View our Facebook page or website to see pictures and more about the Goldendoodle puppies we have for sale. Choose a puppy that captivates your heart! Our puppies are available in cream, apricot, and parti colors. Note: If you need help deciding the gender or color, we are here to help. Just email or text Dr. Jennifer to receive more information and guidance on choosing the right puppy. When your puppy is ready, you can pick up your Goldendoodle from our hobby farm in St. We also offer limited delivery assistance upon request. If you are searching for an adorable, fluffy friend to add to your family, Parti Goldendoodle is an excellent choice. We are a veterinarian-owned dog breeder in the Midwest that specializes in breeding F1 and F1B Parti Goldendoodle puppies. Our professional approach to breeding and raising Goldendoodles is backed by our commitment to providing a happy and loving environment for our dogs. The result is that all our Goldendoodle puppies are healthy, low shedding, social, and friendly — and make for perfect family pets. To learn about our Goldendoodle puppies for sale or reserve your Goldendoodle puppy , contact us online or by calling or texting at .All of our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are raised as part of our family! Located just west of Chicago, IL, our family-owned business is based out of our hobby farmhouse that has abundant space to raise Goldendoodle puppies that are well socialized and adjusted. We have been breeding only the finest dogs and cats through our company Midwest Ragdolls since .Apart from our extensive breeding experience and expertise, the other feature that sets Parti Goldendoodle apart is that we are owned and operated by Dr. Jennifer Creed, a highly skilled veterinarian. Creed has over two decades of experience in caring for and breeding cats and dogs. In addition, our commitment to following the best practices in breeding Goldendoodles ensures our dogs and puppies enjoy wholesome health. All our dogs are OFA and Paw Prints Genetics tested using stringent laboratory standards to screen dogs for genetic markers and other signs of illnesses. Apart from delivering the highest standards of veterinary care, we at Parti Goldendoodle take every possible care to ensure our puppies are well socialized with children and cats. Our Goldendoodle puppies will come to you healthy, friendly, well socialized, and with a 3-year congenital guarantee. How to Choose the Best Goldendoodle Puppy Adopting a puppy from a breeder is much different than purchasing a puppy from a pet store. At a pet store, you see many animals from different sources, usually kept away in tiny cages. Not only is the source and breeding subpar, but you select based on what looks cute instead of the best fit for you and your family. When you adopt a puppy from a good breeder, you are selecting based on the characteristics of the breed and how they will fit into your life. Our Goldendoodle puppies are free from major health concerns or illnesses and they are naturally low shedding, which makes them the perfect choice for those with allergies. Contact us online or call or text Dr. Jennifer at to reserve your puppy or to learn more about our Goldendoodle puppies for sale and see if one is the right fit for your family. Experienced Family Goldendoodle Breeder I am an experienced small animal veterinarian and a breeder. Our puppies are guaranteed healthy and wonderful pets. The come with all age appropriate vaccines and deworming. Our parents are genetic and OFA tested to ensure a healthy puppy. And this breeder has one of the most loving facilities I have ever seen. Tyler W. The sweetest dogs ever and they do not bother my allergies. JoAnne W. We will always recommend Mountain Meadow Puppies to all. Your kindness and professionalism made it all possible. We made the epic trip up from Southern California all in one weekend. Our family made memories that we will never forget. Kona is now 10 months old and we love her! I highly recommend Norma and her puppies. Very special! Donna Phenomenal in every way!!! Mountain Meadows is absolutely phenomenal in every way!!! We fell in love with Murphy on their website, spoke with Norma multiple times over the phone, and made the drive to Libby to pick him up. Norma is incredibly knowledgeable and kind, you can tell the puppies love her!!! Their home is beautiful and their facility is beautiful and very well kept. Amazing amazing amazing. They are the best! He is perfect! Jim Lorino Happy 1st. Birthday, Maya! You are such a blessing to our family! Yacelin P. Best Friend I am so happy to have received my little Lisa. They made sure as first time puppy owner I was ready, keeping me updated on her health, as I waited for pickup date. I would recommend them to anyone interested in a goldendoodle, or bernedoodle. Emily Haaland Wonderful Experience! We had a wonderful experience adopting our sweet mini Goldendoodle from Mountain Meadow Puppies! Norma was absolutely amazing! She was prompt in messaging me back and answering any questions that I had. We are beyond smitten over our sweet Benny???? Tara Ball Love Our Puppy! We love our puppy! Very nice people, easy to get ahold of! Great experience all around! I was looking for a very specific dog and she was more than accommodating and helpful! My puppy is the greatest addition and he was well taken care of. I cannot thank Norma enough for everything or say enough about how much of an amazing breeder she is! Jade Parker Super Impressed I have purchased quite a few puppies in my 76 years but I have to say I am super impressed with the breeders of Mountain Meadow puppies. The entire facility was immaculate and you could tell the dogs are well loved and taken care of. I had lost my 14 year old Goldendoodle to cancer the week before contacting this facility and was worried. But our little Violette is brimming with personality, smart as a whip, healthy and she gets along great with our mastiff and 75 pound Goldendoodle as well as our 2 cats. I highly recommend Norma and her amazing operation. She just got her bath and is still wet. She has settled down a lot these past few weeks, and is a joy in our lives. She loves to play and cuddle. We love to watch her play outside in the snow. She is very entertaining. Thanks again for everything. Donna M. We Love Him So Much!!! Norma was amazing and helped us find Murphy. .She was really a joy to work with! Helped me find my fur baby Nala Rose! A picture with my 1-year-old pup with long and short hair???? Chrystal Canales A Beautiful, Caring Establishment Mountain Meadow Puppies we would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for this special girl that we were blessed to get from you. I have to say I have never seen such a clean, beautiful, and caring establishment. Norma I pray the Lord blesses you and your family, thank you for taking care of your puppies the way you do and your customers, making sure my questions were answered. Just to watch you with your puppies and how you love them and care where they are going is amazing. I would recommend everyone I know who wants a healthy gorgeous puppy to come to Mountain Meadow Puppies. The Sweetest Boy! Hi Norma! I just wanted to send you some pictures of Scout Stallone. We love him so much. He is the sweetest boy! Bryant M. She is such a doll and I can see that you raised her well during those first few weeks. She has kept her beautiful red color and is the hit in the neighborhood. Everyone loves her. Thank you! Susan Moxley Absolutely Delightful We drove a long distance to get our little girl, and it was worth it! Norma was so helpful throughout the process and our new puppy is absolutely delightful. Norma made the entire process seamless! Meeting her and her husband and seeing the hard work and love they put into these dogs was amazing. So thankful for all they do for these puppies and our new family member Mango! This is Mango smiling after a bath. She is so gentle and intelligent. She slept through the night from the first night. She loves toys that are a challenge and to play fetch. She struggles a bit with housetraining. We still have a foot of snow in our yard and she would rather play than do what needs to be done, but we are getting there. Patience, consistency, and kindness really pay off with these guys. Love this girl! The process was so easy and enjoyable. We would recommend Mountain Meadow Puppies to everyone! He checks off all my desires in a new pup. Carol C. He loves to play, go on walks and cuddle???? Hogan and Gracie are now 2 yrs and 1 yr and thriving! Thank you again, Norma. First haircut! Hazel is such a sweetheart. So smart, kind and a bit of a clown. We love her so much!????

A bunny hopping gait or loose walk. Trouble getting up from a nap Difficulty walking up or down stairs to greet you. Other common Lab joint problems include osteoarthritis from old age and not necessarily hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can result in lameness of the front legs. Always consult your veterinarian if you see the symptoms of Labrador hip dysplasia. X-rays and a full exam are necessary for proper diagnosis. Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium-to large-sized dogs can be expensive. In most cases, rehabilitation services can also be costly and postoperative care can be long and arduous. Age may keep your dog from being a good candidate for surgery. Non-surgical treatment options often have no age restrictions. Dog hip braces, such as the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace , support the low back and hip area for mild to moderate hip dysplasia. The purpose of the Hip Hound brace is to stabilize the hip and lower back areas by holding the head of the femur in the hip socket. This reduces grating of the bone, which allows for post-surgical healing or pain-free exercise. Braces come in all sizes so you can find one that is perfect for your pet and allows for maximum support. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Since Labs are prone to joint issues, your dog may be diagnosed with elbow dysplasia Fragmented medial coronoid process. A veterinarian we work with has used the Ortho Dog Hock Holder brace for the hind leg over the elbow joint. We recommend you give it a try! This breed already loves water so much, you may not be able to get them to stop swimming! To hold that distinction for 29 years in a row is not surprising since Labs are affectionate, intelligent, and fun-loving family dogs. They are also known for their trainability and versatility, so that you see members of the breed in various endeavors such as search-and-rescue missions, drug and weapons detection, and guide dogs for the visually impaired. For individuals who have Labs as loyal companions, it can be very distressing when they see their beloved dog suddenly limping or, worse, collapsing because of problems with their hind legs. Signs of Back Leg Problems Despite being a sturdy breed, Labrador Retrievers are prone to problems in their hind legs. This is due to a genetic predisposition to certain diseases, their size and body frame, and weight distribution. Please note that an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian after a complete physical examination and diagnostic procedures. Among the most common injuries that younger aged Labs sustain are bone and toe fractures and avulsions or tearing of leg parts below the knee. In middle-aged and elderly Labs, they may develop a partial or complete tearing in the ligament of the knee, a condition known as Anterior Cruciate Ligament ACL injury. The reason for this improper fit is because the socket is shallow and not deep enough to accommodate the femur head. Because of this, the joint wear out faster, causing pain when the head and socket surfaces grind together. There is a genetic predisposition for CHD. If a puppy has CHD, the signs will start to manifest at the age of two years old. In some cases, CHD may develop as a result of nutritional and environmental factors, or you may have these factors aggravating the existing genetic condition. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis in dogs is also accompanied by degenerative joint disease. You may find your Lab unable to walk because of weakness or pain in the legs. First is Canine Diabetes , which presents signs and symptoms that are similar to humans, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, appetite changes, and hind leg weakness. This is frequently seen in senior dogs that are overweight. This is a deceptive condition because it mimics the signs of aging in dogs, including increased drinking and urination, and increased appetite. However, it also manifests with weakness and muscle wasting in the hind legs. A common condition in the breed is slipped discs as a result of their active behavior. Your Lab may also suffer from Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy FCE , which develops when a piece of cartilage travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel in the spine. On the other hand, Degenerative Myelopathy is a painless, but gradually progressing disease wherein the dog exhibits hind leg weakness. Leg weakness occurs gradually over a long period of time until the dog collapses, unable to hold its weight any longer. Treatment When you notice back leg problems in Labradors, they must be brought to the veterinarian immediately for an assessment. Aside from a physical exam, the vet may have x-rays and MRI scans done to determine the cause. Once the cause is determined, the vet may advise surgery, such as in the cases of CHD, tumors, and myelopathies. Dogs with hormonal problems may require regular injections of insulin and other medications. Conservative treatment includes putting the Lab on a weight loss program, reducing their physical and play activity, making changes in the home putting ramps on stairs and couches for ease of access to the dog, and wearing braces or other supportive devices for the hind legs. Many back leg problems in Labradors can be treated. It is vital that they be detected early so that treatment can be done immediately before they become serious. Further reading. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. However, if you had a veterinarian watching this plump pup play in the grass, they would have a much more sobering outlook. This puppy is suffering from the early stages of Canine Hip Dysplasia. What is Canine Hip Dysplasia? This results in the separation of the joint and the resulting wear and tear on the cartilage and bones. What Dogs Get Hip Dysplasia? No one knows for sure why some dogs develop this painful joint condition. However the severity of the illness seems to be linked to both the nature genetic component and the nurture environmental and nutritional elements that the dogs experience as they grow. However, it seems to be less prevalent in puppies with parents passing rigorous hip testing through the OFA Orthopedic Foundation of Animals. This is why it is vital to only buy puppies from breeders who have tested the parents for both hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia , which is the same joint deformity in the elbow socket. For example, if puppies grow too quickly, are lacking specific nutrients or have electrolyte imbalances, they are more likely to get CHD when they get older. Again, this issue is more often seen in larger breeds since they undergo more growth and skeletal changes than smaller breeds. The main two things you want to avoid are rapid weight gain and over supplementing too much calcium into the diet. You will also need to follow the feeding schedule set out by your veterinarian and not feed your puppy too much food. All dogs have a genetic code of how big they will get as adults. Your job, to reduce their risk of hip dysplasia, is to make sure they grow at a steady growth rate over time and not shoot up too quickly by feeding them a balanced diet specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. Environmental Factors Puppies are not usually born with hip dysplasia; it develops as the dog matures. You can take your pup out for a low-impact game of fetch in a park or a swim in a pool. However, doing activities such as forced running, stairs, jumping or agility courses when joints have not fully matured is thought to increase the likelihood of hip dysplasia later in life. The easiest way to tell if you pup has CHD is to do an x-ray of their hips while they are sedated. This allows the veterinarian to see if the joint fits together as it should. However, barring an x-ray diagnosis, there are a few symptoms to look for in more advanced cases. Signs of CHD include: Sitting in a frog position with one hip splayed out. Exercise intolerance. Swaying gait where the back end moves back and forth in a pronounced fashion. Reluctance to run, jump or climb stairs. Bunny hopping , especially up stairs. Difficulty getting up. Back legs or hips are painful when touched. Hind leg lameness, which worsens with exercise. Back legs are more close together when the dog stands than the front legs. In more severe cases, you may see muscle wasting in the back legs and hindquarters. Arthritis may develop as the disease progresses. Your dog may start to show unexplained aggressive behavior as the pain increases. Again, the best way to diagnose CHD is with an x-ray. These test rank the hips as Excellent, Good and Fair. You should not buy a puppy without ensuring the parents have at least a Fair rating, and preferably a Good or Excellent hip score. Obviously, dogs exhibiting these scores should not be bred. Yet, even if both parents have great hips, this is not a guarantee that the puppy will be free from hip issues. Refrain from making your puppy your jogging or jumping partner until they are grown. Even if you do everything right, if your dog carries the genetic predisposition for CHD, you may still encounter it when your pup reaches adulthood. If your dog develops CHD, there are several ways to treat it. The best course of action should be determined with your veterinarian. You can also add in exercises such as swimming and leash walking to keep the muscles toned around the joints. Physical therapy and massages have also been known to help. Some dogs undergo total hip replacement surgery , just like humans, and have good success with this approach. There are other preventative surgeries, such as juvenile pubic symphysiodesis JPS that vets give puppies with a high likelihood of developing CHD as a preventative measure. Conclusion While CHD is certainly a frustrating diagnosis, there are many treatment options to help your dog live a long, satisfying life. If you take a proactive approach to their treatment, you can still have an energetic, happy companion that will keep you company on walks, swim with you at the beach and lay by your feet when you relax. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. 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. Learn how your comment data is processed. Why is My Labrador limping takeaways 1. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint becomes misaligned. It causes pain and lameness in the affected leg. The symptoms usually appear between 6 months and 2 years old. Dog inherit the predisposition to hip dysplasia from their parents. Labradors and hybrid Labradoodles are prone to this preventable disease through improper breeding. Your puppy will have trouble walking if it has hip dysplasia. You need to get an X-ray done on both hips at least once before they reach 1 year old. There are no known non surgical cures for this disease so make sure you keep up with regular checkups. This disorder results from abnormal development of the pelvis and legs. The bones of the pelvic region do not form correctly and instead fuse together prematurely. This creates problems with weight bearing and movement. Arthritis in dogs can also cause limping Dog arthritis the joints of a dog become inflamed, swollen or painful. The most common type of arthritis that affects dogs are osteoarthritis which causes inflammation in one or more of their joints. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, gouty arthritis and crystal-induced arthritis. Genetics plays a role in whether a dog develops arthritis. Age also contributes to its development. Older dogs are more prone to develop arthritis than younger ones. Weight also affects arthritis; heavier dogs are more susceptible to arthritis than lighter dogs. Activity levels play a part in the progression of arthritis. High activity levels increase wear on joints, while low activity levels decrease wear on joints. Diet can influence joint health Dogs who have had an injury such as surgery, trauma or infection will be predisposed to developing these conditions. A Labrador as a guard dog 3. Infections can make a dog limp — especially ones involving bones Infections of the foot or paw are commonly caused by bacterial infections. This includes bacterial infections like staphylococcus bacteria, streptococcus bacteria and yeast infections. These infections tend to affect the skin around the paw pads and sometimes spread into other areas of the body causing fever and lethargic behavior. In addition to causing pain and swelling, these infections can lead to lameness if not treated properly. Infectious diseases like parvovirus and Lyme disease can affect joints and muscles causing pain and inflammation. Your vet will know what tests to order to diagnose these conditions and treat accordingly. Trauma to the foot or paw A traumatic event can lead to swelling and bruising in the area where the injury occurred. In addition, the muscles surrounding the site of the injury may tighten up due to fear or stress. As a result, the leg becomes stiff and sore. Common trauma to dog feet include Abrasions — A small wound caused by a sharp object such as a nail or splinter. Bruises — A bruise is an injury to the soft tissue under the skin. It may be caused by a blow, fall, or other impact. Bruising occurs when blood vessels are broken and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Contusions — Contusions are bruises that are larger than a bruise. They are caused by a blunt force, such as a blow from a fist or another object. Sun burn in dogs or heat burn from hot asphalt 5. Dog Toenail Injuries can make a Labrador limp The nails of dogs grow continuously throughout their lives. However, there are times when the nails begin to look longer than normal. These changes happen naturally over time. If the change happens suddenly, however, then it could indicate something wrong. Toenails should never be trimmed too short because there is a blood vessel and nerve inside the nail. Trimming them too long or not trimming them can result in broken nails. Happy Labrador! Patella Luxation Patellar luxation is a common condition affecting many breeds including German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Dobermans and of course — Labs Labs are times more likely to have this than other breeds It involves the kneecap becoming dislocated out of place. This can cause severe discomfort and lameness. Dogs can sprain a muscle and this can make them limp Muscles can become strained through exercise or playing rough with your pet. The most common places for strains to occur are at the elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees. Strains usually heal themselves within three weeks — but if it is not improving or becomes exacerbated you will need to consult your Vet. Over exertion can make a dog limp Exercise causes our bodies to work harder which leads to increased heart rate and breathing. Our legs also get tired quickly so we must take breaks often during physical activity. The exact same is true for dogs! An over fatigued Lab can limp for a while due to muscle exhaustion. Give them a few days of rest and your Labrador will be back in tip top shape soon. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 9. Insect Bites can make a dog walk funny or limp It is common for dogs to run into nature and the creep crawly insects that populate it. Through no fault of their own Labradors LOVE to explore grass and nature — which runs the risk of being bitten by ants, bees or wasps. Most of the time a dog insect bite is not a huge concern BUT sometimes they do leave behind nasty infections on the bite site if the dog licks or chews it. You should always seek veterinary care if you see any signs of infection after having been stung by an ant or bee. FAQ — My Lab has had surgery recently and is now limping? Luckily your Vet is only a phone call away So please contact us today if you think your puppy is limping. An older Labrador limps A reader Sara emailed in to tell us about her elderly Labrador dog just turned 10! As a result, she walks differently than before. Her stride length is shorter and her steps are wider apart. She loves the outdoors — but we know not to push her too far. Labradors are prone to a variety of conditions that can cause pain, including hip dysplasia, arthritic pain, and infections. Make sure you get regular checkups to ensure that your dog is healthy. Dog arthritis is a very common condition that can affect any breed. Bridie is a proud Goldendoodle mom! Part-time health worker, life-time dog writer and lover. She loves to help people best care for their puppies. Load More. A stone or thorn stuck in the pads Nerve damage Genetic disorders. This is a genetic condition that causes the joint to become malformed. This causes lameness and pain from a relatively young age. Some dogs require surgery such as a hip replacement and some dogs may have to take medicine for the rest of their lives. Most reputable breeders now do screening for the conditions to help reduce the chance of it being inherited. Lameness in older dogs Lameness in older dogs is often due to arthritis setting in. This is a very common condition in older dogs and affects the joints, mainly the knee, shoulder and hips. Elderly dogs may benefit from nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatories and complimentary therapies such as hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and acupuncture. Lameness in younger dogs Lameness in younger dogs and puppies can be due to several reasons. Weight management Weight management is very important when it comes to preventing your dog becoming lame and if you think your dog may be overweight you could call the vet nursing team at Vetfone for advice on this or contact your local vet practice and enquire about their weight clinic. Diagnosis of lameness by your vet Your vet will give your dog a thorough examination and take a full history from you. The vet will determine where your dog is most painful and check for any abnormalities of the bones or joints. Your vet may want to perform a few tests, including x-rays or even a blood test. It will be important for a veterinary professional to know the age of your pet as there are specific complaints that affect puppies and young dogs and older dogs. If the vet recommends an x-ray, then this will be performed under General Anaesthetic. This will allow the vet to move the limb about to get a good view without causing pain or discomfort. The dog will usually stay with the vet for a few hours and come home that same day depending on the diagnosis. When your vet has looked at the x-rays they will decide on the next course of action. Sometimes they may need to refer your dog onto a specialist vet such as an Orthopaedic vet or a Neurologist. If the exact cause is not known, a period of exercise reduction together with anti-inflammatories and pain killers may be required to see if the lameness improves. Weight management if your dog is overweight and contributing to the lameness. For more serious causes broken bones, slipped discs orthopaedic or neurological surgery is required. Prevention of lameness Lameness can arise during normal everyday activity. Serious injuries such as being hit by a car or falling from a height can be avoided by keeping your dog on a lead until it is safe to let them off. Be aware of genetic issues that affect some pedigree breeds. Inspect their paws and pads regularly and remove any debris. Use foot covers or a barrier ointment on the pads during the winter months to stop the salt and grit hurting them. Limit how much you exercise a dog that is still growing to prevent joint problems. Elderly dogs need less exercise and if you notice them slowing down seek veterinary advice in the first instance. You may want to consider using nutritional supplements that contain glucosamine or chondroitin to help support the joints as the animal ages. Frequently asked questions about dog limping How can I tell if my dog is lame? Your dog may be slowing down a bit on walks and may start struggling when walking up the stairs. You may notice him walking on three legs or doing a little skip when he walks. How can I tell if my dog has pulled a muscle? If your dog has pulled a muscle you may notice him limping or walking on 3 legs. He may hold his leg up when he is standing still or sitting. You may also hear him whine or cry and may go off his food if it is very sore. How do I tell if my dog has cut its paw? You may notice that your dog is bleeding or he could be licking his paw excessively. He might not want to put weight on it and he may whine or cry if he is in pain. How can I tell if my dog has broken a bone? Your dog may be whining or crying as a break or fracture of a bone is usually quite painful. They will probably be holding the leg up but may attempt to put a little weight on it. The leg may become swollen and will probably be sore to touch, if your dog can tolerate your touch then gently check for any heat coming from the leg. The leg may also appear floppy. How can I tell if my dog has hip problems? You might notice your dog limping or slowing down on walks. He may have trouble going upstairs and downstairs and might be reluctant to jump up. He may have an abnormal gait the way his back legs move when he walks , or the position of his back legs when he stands may look different. Some dogs develop a swaying motion when walking if they have hip problems. How do I tell which leg my dog is lame on? It is sometimes difficult to tell which leg is causing your dog to be lame. The most obvious way is if the dog is not weight bearing or holding the affected limb up when he walks, sits or stands. If he can put weight on it then watch his whole body when he walks — sometimes a dog will lift his head slightly when he uses the sore leg and put his head down when he uses the leg that is fine. Can I walk my dog if it has a limp? You should rest your dog for at least two days if you notice a limp. Rest means lead exercise only and short 5 minute walks at a time. Stay with them in the garden and even put a lead on to restrict their exercise and help them if they need to go upstairs, downstairs or jump up anywhere car, sofa, bed etc. Is my dog in pain? Signs of pain in a dog can vary greatly. Some dogs are very stoical and brave while others are more delicate. You may hear your dog whining, crying or whimpering. You may notice the dog is licking the affected area or sometimes an area nearby. Some dogs go off their food and may be more clingy and attentive than normal. On the other hand, some dogs will become more distant and want to be on their own if they are in pain. Sometimes the subtlest changes in behaviour or demeanour are enough to tell a vigilant owner that their dog is in pain. If you notice a limp after exercising it may be that the dog is doing too much at once. You could try shorter walks more often, rather than one long walk and if there is no improvement then you could call us at Vetfone to help assess the lameness. My dog is limping on its hind leg. The most obvious sign of hind leg lameness is a little hop or skip when they are walking and running. Sometimes this can develop into them holding the leg up and not wanting to put weight on it. It could be a simple strain so try resting your dog for a day or so but if you think your dog is in pain then you should contact a vet. My dog is limping on its foreleg. You might have noticed your dog is reluctant to go on walks or is favouring one side more than the other. If there is nothing to see, try resting him for a day or calling us at Vetfone One of our nurses could help assess the lameness to see if you need to contact a vet. My dog is limping when it gets up after resting. In older dogs this can be a sign of arthritis. The joints become stiffer as the dog gets older. You may notice that after a few minutes of walking about the lameness improves. In dogs that are still growing it can be the sign of other joint problems. At Vetfone we can help assess the animal over the phone and let you know if we think you need to contact a vet. Finding the cause of lameness in your dog As noted above, the causes of lameness in dogs can be wide ranging. This process will hopefully rule out the more serious cases which must be dealt with by a vet and leads to advice on what you should do next for your pet. Our UK based Registered Veterinary Nurses will ask you several questions designed to assess triage the condition You will need to be with the dog as we will ask you to check a few things while you are on the phone to us We will ask if you how long the dog has been lame for and if you know how the injury happened We will ask you to touch the affected leg and feel for any swelling, heat or pain and to look at the leg and paw in case there are any cuts or abnormalities to see. Call us at Vetfone or visit Vetfone if you are unsure or worried and our expert nurses will advise you on what to do next. If the situation does not merit a trip to the vet, we will give advice for managing the situation at home. If the lameness is caused by a simple sprain or strain, then 48 hours of rest and restricted exercise may be enough to improve the situation drastically. Your dog may have a small cut on his pad which, if not bleeding or infected, may be fine to treat at home with some rest and a clean with saline solution. If the situation is more serious we will advise that you contact your vet. Limping in dogs is quite common. Limping occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. He may walk slowly or with difficulty and will usually favor one leg. There are two types of limping that your Lab may experience. Some types occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens quickly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be treated at home, whereas others will require professional medical help. Overexertion Too much of a good thing, such as fetch, intense running, or rough play with other dogs, can leave your Labrador sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. However, most dogs will recover quickly after a couple of rest days. Look out for your Lab incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by scorching sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your Labrador to limp. Get your dog some booties or paw protectors in extremely hot or cold temperatures. Toenail Injuries Examine your Labrador for ingrowing or overgrown toenails, as these can cause discomfort and pain when they dig into the skin. My dog once had a dewclaw injury, so make sure you also keep these trim. Insect Sting or Animal Bite Stings and bites can cause limping. Your Lab may raise its paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can cause injury and also lead to infections. Fracture A broken leg should be suspected if the limping occurred suddenly. Broken bones may not always be visible. Sprain A sprain is the result of a stretched or torn ligament or tendon. It can be caused by something as simple as jumping off the couch and landing awkwardly. Your Labrador will be reluctant to put any weight on his paw or leg. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition causing hip and elbow joints to become loose and move out of position. According to the OFA, .Osteoarthritis Older and larger dogs are more at risk of this chronic painful disease. It results in joint inflammation caused by cartilage deterioration. Signs include lameness, stiffness, or difficulty in getting up. My dog Willow has osteoarthritis of her lower spine. Her initial symptoms were lameness of the rear leg and difficulty getting up from a lying position. However, she manages it pretty well along with her hip dysplasia with prescribed medication, and exercise adjustments. My vet recommended these, they get excellent reviews online, and they seem to work for her. She has the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce joint stiffness and pain. You can read my comprehensive review here. Cruciate Ligament Injury or Disease This is where damage is caused to one or both cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together. Limping is usually the first sign of a cruciate problem and can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can occur suddenly or be progressive. It is common in dogs, but Labrador retrievers are three times as likely as other breeds to have patellar luxation. Infection An infection of the paw or leg can cause your Labrador to Limp. He may lick and chew the site and may need to take antibiotics. Lyme Disease This bacterial illness transmitted by certain ticks can cause intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy Older dogs are at risk of this inherited disorder that affects the spinal cord causing a gradual paralysis of the back end. Symptoms are weakness, lameness in the hind legs, and incontinence. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains This condition affects the long bones of the legs due to painful inflammation. Panosteitis tends to affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the Labrador. A shifting lameness from one bone to another is caused and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD This is a bone disease occurring in fast-growing large dogs, usually between 3 and 5 months old. The Labrador Retriever is one of the breeds predisposed to Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. The shoulder is most commonly affected, but it can also appear in the elbow, hip, and knee. It occurs when large puppies grow too quickly. Limping, lameness, and pain are symptoms. Labrador Retrievers are predisposed to Osteochondritis Dissecans , but the genes involved have not been identified. Dwarf dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis This disorder of the immune system causes inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your Lab will be reluctant to walk — or he will hobble on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic Neuropathy If diabetes is left untreated, excessive glucose can cause progressive weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in dogs. Congenital Limb Deformities Abnormally developed limbs can cause limping in your dog. These are pretty rare, and this study on the congenital deformities of the distal extremities in three dogs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer Bone tumors can rapidly grow, causing limping and pain, particularly in leg bones. Limping can vary from mild to severe. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Labs were bred as hunting dogs. Hunters in Atlantic Canada and Britain used labs to retrieve waterfowl from marshes and lakes. As a result, your Lab is strong, intelligent, and an adept swimmer and runner. However, your Lab, like all dogs, is more vulnerable to certain diseases than other breeds due to its genetic makeup. Degenerative Myelopathy in Labs Degenerative myelopathy DM , a spinal nerve disease, is more likely to affect your Lab than other dogs. A Lab with degenerative myelopathy will gradually start to lose movement in their legs and lower body. Dogs with severe degenerative myelopathy can actually become paralyzed. Yet it can hold your Lab back. As you know, your Lab loves to run, swim, and socialize. If your Lab has DM, give it a comfortable bed. Keep the bed and the dog clean—a dog that lies around for long periods can develop bed sores, just like a person might. Dogs with DM can get some circulation and sensation back with the help of kinesiology tape. A wheelchair is another helpful tool. A custom-built dog wheel chair can help an animal with DM get around comfortably. Hip Dysplasia in Labs Some Labs are born with hip dysplasia HD , a genetic condition that causes the bones to form a bad fit in the joint. A dog with HD will experience some combination of pain, damage to the cartilage in the joint that connects the bones, and arthritis. Breeders should screen their dogs for this condition. After all, hip dysplasia may not be obvious right away. A Lab with HD might favor one of its legs instead of the other. A dog with HD will be reluctant to exercise due to the pain. HD has a range of severity. Low-impact cases are easy to manage with anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Moderate cases can be mitigated or repaired with surgery. In extreme, inoperable cases, a Lab with HD might require a wheelchair. Obesity in Labs Labs are more likely to be overweight than other dogs. Since they were bred to be an energetic, hardworking dog, contemporary Labs with busy caretakers might not get the exercise they need. A Lab can run around for hours and want to keep going long after their human is ready to take a break. To help your Lab cut their weight, and avoid problems weight gain can cause, like arthritis and diabetes, you should adjust their diet and activity level. Take your dog out for plenty of exercise. Vets recommend these exercise guidelines: weigh your dog, then multiply the weight by two. A pound dog, for example, should get at least minutes of exercise per day. And cut back on the table scraps. If your dog displays any of the symptoms above, take them to the vet as soon as you can. The frequent misconception is this condition is only prominent in labs or large breed dogs over 50 lbs. Therefore, if we know the symptoms and causes of the condition, we can do everything in our power, as pet owners, to stop it from happening in our pooch. These are just a few signs your lab might be experiencing some Labrador joint issues. This causes the ball and socket to painfully rub each other instead of sliding smoothly. Much like joint issues with humans, this rubbing causes a loss of cartilage, thus resulting in chronic pain and long-term joint disease. Because this disease is so severe, early detection is key to the most successful treatment. The severity differs based on each lab, but overall muscle mass will decrease because of their reduced mobility due to the pain. Exercise will dwindle but the time frame depends on each lab. Look for these symptoms in your lab that signify canine hip dysplasia: Decreased activity Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs Favoring a back leg Trouble standing up to greet you Enlargement of shoulders to compensate for hind leg If you see any of these signs in your lab, be sure to contact a vet immediately. X-rays and a full exam are needed to properly diagnose your four-legged friend and if they need a puppy hip dysplasia treatment. Ever wonder which dog breeds are the most expensive in the world? We got you covered. The leading cause of joint issues is genetics. Hip dysplasia is hereditary in specific dog breeds, particularly with Labrador retrievers , German Shepherds , and Saint Bernards. Unfortunately, simply being one of these breeds increases their chances of contracting the disease tenfold. Diet is the most important aspect other than genetics for joint issues. Lab puppies should be kept at a lean weight during their growing years, instead of being overfed to grow big and strong. Not only can overfeeding lead to pet obesity , it can also cause puppy hip dysplasia. Since this normally occurs during the first year of their lives, the puppy stages are the most critical for their health. Overexercise is another cause of hip dysplasia. This added weight can put extra stress on their bodies, especially their hip joints which is largely connected to the condition. How to Prevent Canine Hip Dysplasia Nutrition A lot of the joint issues begin with poor nutrition, which is extremely important for your little lab. Make sure to feed your pooch specially formulated foods that prevent excessive growth. By using this special food, it allows their joints to develop without putting too much strain on their body to carry their weight, thus maintaining their growth and weight. Without this specialized dog food, large breeds can grow too quickly for their joints to maintain their weight. This exacerbates the condition with too much stress being put on their overweight bodies. Exercise Dog food is important to hip dysplasia prevention, but exercise is just as crucial to the health of your lab. We know that not enough physical activity can cause joint issues, but surprisingly, too much movement can have the same effects. Overworking your doggo can cause the joints to rub too frequently and fast thus creating irritation and loss of cartilage, which causes hip dysplasia. The appropriate amount of exercise is up to your pup, but be sure to find the right line to keep them in peak physical condition. Treatment for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia The type of treatment depends on the discomfort of each lab. While some may require surgery, others can be fixed with simple lifestyle choices. The non-surgical approach involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs that decrease the pain levels for your pooch. Thankfully, alternatives therapies used to treat hip dysplasia are often covered by dog insurance. Vets also commonly recommend weight reduction to take stress off the hips, which can be done through a steady diet. This process is more difficult because exercise must also be limited to keep the weight off the hips. However, if your pup is beyond the pain level of NSAIDs or weight reduction, they might be a candidate for surgery. The pelvic bone is cut and rotated to fall in place with the ball and socket hip joint. The ball of the hip joint is cut off, creating a false joint that increases comfort. It eliminates all discomfort and is the most invasive. While the cost of surgery may be higher than you expected, you can get reimbursed for the vet bills if you purchase a dog insurance policy from Prudent Pet.

A possible goal of mixing the pug and beagle was to create a healthier dog with all the much-loved personality traits of the pug. Today, the puggle is considered one of the most popular cross breeds in the United States. However, the beagle only really began to gain its distinctive attributes in 16th-century England, where it was further selectively-bred to hunt rabbits and other small prey. Beagles are active dogs that belong to the hound breed group. The beagle excels at dog sports, agility, and scent work. Pug Pugs are one of the oldest breeds in history and have existed before BC. The breed originates from ancient China, where the dogs were developed to be companions for ruling families and other wealthy individuals. Pugs were later imported to Europe in the 16th century. The pug enjoys family life and belongs to the toy breed group. Pugs were officially recognized by the AKC in .Lifespan Puggles have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years when properly cared for. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and frequent grooming can help prevent health problems. Puggle Appearance Puggles are compact designer dogs that exhibit a combination of physical traits from their pug and beagle parent breeds. This dog breed grows up to 15 inches tall, has a short coat, and comes in a range of colors. Height and Weight Puggles are considered small dogs, with a height at the withers of 10 to 15 inches and a weight of 14 to 30 pounds. Puggles that take after the beagle typically weigh more than puggles that take after the pug. Colors Puggles come in different shades of black, tan, red, white, lemon, and fawn. Puggles can be solid-colored, bi-colored, or tri-colored, with a combination of black, tan, and white being the most common coat type. Some puggles have ticked markings. Coat Puggles have short, smooth double coats that shed moderately throughout the year, especially during spring. The outer coat consists of coarse, water-resistant hairs, while the undercoat is dense and soft. Facial Features Puggles typically have floppy ears and dark markings around their eyes and muzzles. Puggle Personality and Temperament The puggle temperament is friendly, playful, and easygoing. Because of their nurturing nature, puggles make suitable companions for families with children or other dogs. These mixes are curious and thrive with plenty of mental stimulation. While loyal and generally eager to please, puggles have a stubborn streak and can be difficult to train. They are also known to be quite mischievous. These dogs need an owner that can be firm, patient, and assertive. Puggles are prone to separation anxiety, so they do best with a family that can keep them company throughout the day. Barking Puggles are vocal and frequently bark to gain attention or communicate their needs. Avoid leaving the dog alone for long periods of time. Puggle Care Puggles are moderately difficult to care for because of their proneness to health conditions and stubborn streak. Puggles should be exercised daily, fed a nutritious diet, and given lots of attention throughout the day. Split the kibble into two separate meals to aid digestion. The food should be dry, specially formulated for a small breed, and contain a lean protein, like turkey. Grooming Needs Puggles should be brushed twice a week, or more often when they blow their coats, to remove excess fur and trapped debris. Skin folds should also be cleaned daily with dog-friendly wipes. Bathe puggles once a month with a hypoallergenic shampoo to keep their fur and skin in good condition. Exercise Needs Puggles are moderately active dogs that require up to an hour of exercise per day in the form of walks or play. Most mixes are laid back and can happily live in apartments, as long as their needs are met. Mental Needs Puggles are curious, playful dogs that need at least half an hour of mental stimulation per day to stay happy and mentally fit. Good stimulating activities for puggles include hide and seek, puzzle toys, and learning new tricks. Common Health Concerns Puggles are a relatively healthy designer breed, though dogs that inherit more traits from the pug parent are unfortunately prone to several health issues, including: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS : A term for a group of conditions caused by physical malformations such as a small skull, compact skeleton, and short muzzle. Most dogs with BOAS experience respiratory difficulties and are prone to overheating. Symptoms include noisy breathing, snoring, snorting, vomiting, nasal discharge, and regurgitation. Treatment involves surgery, weight management, and lifestyle changes, depending on severity Eye problems : Puggles often have shallow eye sockets with bulging eyes, which makes them prone to several eye issues, including dry eye, corneal ulcers, and trauma. Symptoms include a hopping gait, lameness, and leg dragging. Treatment involves weight management, exercise restriction, anti-inflammatory medication, and in some cases, surgery Pug Dog Encephalitis PDE : An inherited, fatal disease that causes inflammation in the brain. Symptoms include seizures, collapse, disorientation, abnormal behavior, and blindness. There is no known cure for pug dog encephalitis Skin problems : Puggles with wrinkles are more prone to skin problems. Sweat and dirt collect in the folds, causing irritation, inflammation, and infection. Symptoms include a foul odor, scratching, red sores, and yellow discharge at the folds. Treatment typically involves cleaning the folds with dog-friendly wipes and topical medication Hemivertebrae : A birth defect that causes vertebrae deformation. Symptoms include hind leg weakness, incontinence, muscle deterioration, and back pain. Treatment involves anti-inflammatory drugs, rest, and surgery Dental Disease : A painful, progressive condition that causes damage to the mouth, gums, and teeth. Symptoms include bad breath, teeth discoloration, gum inflammation, bleeding, and excessive drooling. Symptoms include pain, limping, stiffness, and muscle wastage. Symptoms include weakness, pain, a wobbly gait, and struggling to climb steps. The main symptom is a prominent, red swelling at the corner of the eye. Treatment involves eye drops, surgery, and pain relief Epilepsy : A brain disorder that causes seizures in dogs. Symptoms include muscle spasms, twitching, incontinence, disorientation, and foaming at the mouth. Symptoms include inflammation, scabs, a foul odor emanating from the ear, loss of balance, scratching, and head shaking. Treatment typically involves a medicated ear drop and anti-inflammatory medication Intervertebral disc disease IVDD : A degenerative disease that affects the spine. Symptoms include mobility issues, pain, excessive panting, and a hunched back. Treatment involves anti-inflammatory medication, surgery, and rest Hypothyroidism : A condition that affects how the thyroid gland functions. Symptoms include weight gain, skin problems, and lethargy. Treatment involves thyroid hormone replacement Puggles also have an insatiable appetite and can put on weight quickly. Obesity can cause several health issues, including arthritis, breathing problems, and diabetes. Puggle Training While intelligent and loyal, puggles are relatively difficult to train, especially for first-time owners. Puggles have a stubborn streak and like to do things at their own pace. These dogs are also curious and get easily distracted by their surroundings. Use a firm, patient, and consistent training approach with plenty of treats for the best results. Never resort to punishments because puggles can become stressed, anxious, or aggressive. Training can begin as soon as your new puggle puppy has settled into its home. How Much Is a Puggle? Puggles with good lineage and rare coloration cost the most. Adopting an adult puggle from a rescue group is cheaper than buying a puppy directly from a reputable breeder. A puggle is expensive to look after because the dog is prone to health conditions and requires frequent vet checkups. Dog walkers, training classes, and puppysitters are other expenses to consider. The first year of care is more expensive because of initial costs like bedding, puppy vaccinations, and neutering or spaying. Some puggles also require surgery to treat brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Is a Puggle Right for You? Puggles are Suitable for: Puggles are playful, gentle, and nurturing, all traits that make them excellent companions for families with children or other animals. Puggles are suitable for people who can spend time with a dog throughout the day and afford regular vet checkups. This mixed breed dog does well in small apartments, as long as the puggle is taken on walks daily. Puggles are prone to health issues and need an owner who is willing to accommodate their lifestyle around these potential ailments. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: Pug Mixes. Pocket Puggles While Puggles are small-sized mixes of the Beagle and Pug, Pocket Puggles are the miniature versions of the latter, weighing below 15 pounds and having a height less than 10 inches. Pocket Puggles are however undesirable as they have higher chances of inheriting a lot of genetic defects. History Originating in the s, Wallace Havens, a Wisconsin breeder was said to be officially responsible for its creation. However, much before Havens, some other breeders had also experimented in developing this unique breed. Temperament and Personality Gentle, friendly, smart, sweet, and affectionate— these are the traits that define a Puggle, which it rightly inherits from its Beagle and Pug parents. This trait could perhaps trigger separation anxiety in them as they cannot withstand being left alone for prolonged periods. However, they do not excel to be effective watchdogs as their Beagle parent. Puggles are friendly with babies and even older children, emerging as the perfect playmate the little ones could ask for. Care Exercise They have moderate exercise needs, requiring a brisk walk, alongside sufficient playtime. However, make sure you leash them when you take them out on a walk. Grooming A rubber curry brush is needed to comb their short coat on a bi-weekly basis. However, during the shedding seasons, they need to be brushed on a regular basis for dead hair removal. Health Problems There are chances of the Pug-Beagle mix to develop respiratory problems like the Pug, particularly if they have short snouts like the latter. They could even develop eye problems like cherry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy, that both their parents suffer from. Hip dysplasia and environmental allergies are the other common conditions the Beagle and Pug mix could get afflicted with. Training Despite their cute disposition and high intelligence level, their stubborn nature could pose challenges while training. The master should be firm and even introduce positive reinforcement techniques. Giving obedience training to the Puggle puppies is of utmost importance since they tend to display certain destructive habits of both their parents like incessant barking, digging, chewing and wandering around. Engaging them in some activity or the other would keep them busy, preventing them from resorting to destructive behaviors. Crate training your Puggle is essential to help it get over its separation anxiety. Accustom it to stay in the crate at least for sometimes in a day since its puppyhood. First keep it inside for a short span and then increase the time. Housetraining the Puggles would regularize their toilet schedule. First, you need to select a particular area where your Puggle would eliminate every day. Take it out to that designated place every morning and then in two hours for the whole day. Once he does his business reward and encourage him so that he housebreaks every day without showing any stubbornness. Feeding While selecting a dog food for the Puggle, make sure you go for the ones that contain essential nutrients like Vitamin C, E, fats, and amino acids. Blue Buffalo, Tate of the Wild and Royal Canin are few of the good brands of dog food that you can select for your pet Puggle. A homemade diet comprising of boiled vegetables and meat may also be added to its dog food in measured amounts, but always speak to the veterinarian before doing so. How much to feed You should feed a full-grown Puggle about one to one and a half cup of dry dog food regularly, twice or thrice in a day. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Cherry eye Collapsed lungs A full-grown Pug can reach a height of 10 — 12 inches 25 — 30 cm and a weight of 14 — 18 pounds 6 — 8 kg. Their life expectancy ranges from 10 — 14 years. The Beagle is recognized for its floppy ears and tri-colored coat in brown, black, and white. This dog also has an independent streak that allows it to think for itself, follow its own nose, and ignore your commands. A full-grown Beagle can reach a height of 13 — 15 inches 33 — 41 cm and a weight of 20 — 24 pounds 9 — 11 kg. In comparison to the Pug, the Beagle is a much healthier dog, but it stills has some illnesses to watch out for. The most common ones are the cherry eye, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and patellar luxation bad kneecaps. The Beagle can live to 12 — 15 years. Drum roll, please…now we can finally talk about the Puggle! Keep in mind that all predictions and expectations about Puggle are based on its parent breeds, so nothing should come as too big of a surprise. This breed typically carries the floppy ears of a Beagle, and the black muzzle and curled tail of the Pug. Floppy ears seem to be a common feature among Beagle mixes. Take a look at the Beabull. Some owners have noticed that their Puggle has an overbite or an underbite. Its coat color is a blend of black, brown, and white. Maybe Husky. As mentioned above a full-grown Puggle weighs between 18 — 30 pounds and reaches a height of 13 — 15 inches. If you need help picking the right crate size for your dog, check out this page for useful tips and information. As pointed out in the first paragraph the Pug-Beagle mix can live between 12 — 14 years. During this time, your female Puggle will go into heat. The average cycle of a female Pug is 2 — 3 weeks and begins as early as 4 — 6 months. If you want to see what Puggle puppies look and sound like right after birth, check out this video! Realize that the Puggle is slightly bigger in height and weight than the Pug by a couple of inches due to the Beagle genes. Another thing to consider is your stance on designer dogs and intentional cross-breeding. On the other hand, the main purpose of cross-breeding is to eliminate certain health issues, which may suggest that the Puggle can live longer than the Pug. It is not a bullet-proof fact that crossbreeds are healthier than purebreds, and vice versa. Each case should be analyzed independently. Think of it as a Mini Puggle with a maximum height of 13 inches 8 cm and a weight range of 8 — 17 pounds 4- 8 kg. Be careful when shopping for Pocket Puggles, though, as many stem from irresponsible breeding habits such as using small and unhealthy dogs in the gene pool. Pocket Puggles may also be a gimmick dog sellers use to bring in more money at puppy mills. It was shortly after that Puggle was registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club, and by the early s, Puggles were being sold commercially. Most designer dogs have a purpose; a reason for being bred. And just in case you needed an additional holiday to celebrate, October 15 is National Pug Day. From what we know about the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is predicted to have a fun-loving, affectionate, and intelligent temperament. Like the Beagle, it should be a great family dog that gets along well with kids, strangers, and adults. The Puggle is adaptable, which means it can live in a small apartment or big mansion in most climates. Many owners say this breed is a great option for first-time dog buyers thanks to its resilient personality and forgiving attitude. Another bonus: the Puggle hardly drools. I also noticed many people were interested in using Puggle as a service dog and wondered if it were possible. Technically speaking, any dog can be trained to help humans. The likelihood of a top service dog depends on six main things and how well it can meet in the middle of all of them. If this mix sounds too good to be true, then keep on reading. There are some downsides to owning a Puggle. Firstly, it may enjoy excessive barking, yapping, or howling out of boredom or separation anxiety , which comes from the Beagle side and being a Hound dog. Crying all the time. It may snore and wheeze, so consider keeping its bed away from yours at night if you want proper rest. Bred to be a companion dog, the Puggle does not do well on its own for long periods of time as it may result in anxiety or sadness. It craves human attention and would much rather be inside with you than playing outdoors all day. Beagles also have a high prey-drive that cannot be unlearned. As for Pugs, they have been known to show signs of aggression if not socialized properly. This includes biting and acting territorial. You may want to invest in a muzzle if this occurs. The Puggle can do well with other dogs as long as you take the time to introduce them and monitor their behavior. Not just the Puggle. For example, some owners noticed their dog has urinary problems, itchy skin, arthritis, or joint pain. These are common issues, especially in old age, that are not limited to Puggles. I could write out a whole list of medical concerns your Puggle may experience in its lifetime, but it would save us a lot of time to only focus on the serious and breed-specific ones. As mentioned before, Pug Dog Encephalitis is a big concern as it causes brain seizures and uncontrollable shaking that may lead to death. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease requires immediate attention and in most cases surgery as it reduces the blood flow to the thigh bone. I hate the C-word, but Pugs are prone to cancer. They can grow mast cell tumors that affect the immune system. Beagles, unfortunately, also rank in the top four breeds that are sensitive to cancer. For these life-threatening illnesses, consider pet insurance for cheaper medical bills. It may have diabetes, hypothyroidism, or internal parasites. Your Puggle may have momentary digestive issues and feel the need to throw up to feel better. Lastly, what about all that licking? Dogs often lick to relieve themselves from stress, anxiety, or boredom when their owners are away for a long time. Many owners give their Puggles haircuts in the summer by shaving them or cutting the fur close to the body. This should keep the shedding under control. Its skin folds and wrinkles need to be checked regularly for allergies, infections, and bad odors that come from natural body oils and the humidity. If you Puggle skinks, it needs a bath. Brush its teeth 2 — 3 times a week and check the eyes for redness and discharge. As for training, the stubbornness of the Pug and the independence of the Beagle could give you a hard time in this department. To help keep the attention of your Puggle, use treats as positive reinforcement and maintain a consistent training schedule. The Puggle is a relatively low-energy dog that only requires 15 minute walks twice a day. That being said, it may have sudden bursts of hyperactivity. You know, the zoomies. The Pug Beagle mix requires more mental stimulation than physical, so provide it with lots of toys and a fenced yard for when the zoomies kick in. Fair warning: do not leave your Puggle outside for long periods of time in the summer. The Pug is prone to overheat and is sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Swimming is another hot topic that came up during my research. Meanwhile, purebred Pugs cannot swim. At all. The Pug is prone to obesity so measure each scoop exactly. If you want to check for signs of being overweight, place your thumbs against its spine and feel for ribs. You should be able to feel them easily without pressing down — but you should never be able to see them. If you sense your Puggle is overweight, put it on a diet. Lifespan Sociability Though Puggles have a frowning, serious expression, nothing could be farther from the truth! These pups are exceptionally playful and affectionate. Puggles make wonderful family dogs and companions, and they love being around people. Before going to a breeder or shelter it would be wise to seriously consider if you have the finances, time, and energy to dedicate to a dog for the next 15 years. A knowledgeable breeder will be able to tell you all about food choices, toys and games, socialization techniques, and even health care. Beagles Used to Be Tiny Too When the Beagle breed was in the beginnings of being established, there was a larger differentiation in size than there is now. According to the 18th-century poet, Gervase Markham, some Beagles were bred to be so tiny that they could sit in the palm of your hand, or be tucked inside a ladies kirtle! Though they were small for a hound, they are no less capable than their bigger cousins. Pugs Are Tiny Mastiffs It is a commonly accepted theory that Pugs were initially bred as miniature mastiffs. All the genial personality and goodwill towards family, and none of the slobber or crushed furniture! In ancient times Pugs were kept by Chinese royalty, but as the breed spread in popularity, they found a home with the Buddhist monks in temples all across Tibet. Though they started out as a longer, leaner breed they have slowly been guided to their current pudgy and adorable shape. The longer snout of the Beagle effectively cuts out any of the common brachycephalic issues that Pugs are prone to. On the flip side, the Pug also brings amazing befits to this mixed breed. Pugs are some of the friendliest, most easy-going dogs around and this predominate personality trait smooths out the often nervous and anxious Beagle. Puggles are a charming mix of good-natured, independent, loving, and inquisitive. They are total people-pleasers and love playing with children and other animals. Puggles will flourish in an environment where they can be close to people and do best with couples or families with children. They love to follow family members around and get their noses into everything that you do! Busy body, or best friend? Are These Dogs Good for Families? Socializing your Puggle and children with each other early on is sensible, though these pups are naturally friendly. Puggles are genial and kind dogs with other animals, making them a great choice for a multi-pet home. The only thing to keep in mind when letting your pets interact is that Puggles may inherit a little hunting instinct from their Beagle parent. Look for food designed for smaller breeds and avoid questionable by-product ingredients and excessive grains. Whole foods are great for dogs — animal proteins, healthy fats, and fruits and veggies too! Lean proteins like fish and fowl will serve these little adventurers well, giving them plenty of energy to burn without weighing them down. We recommend giving your Puggle at least one long walk a day, as well as providing indoor activities. Puggles deeply enjoy a good outdoor adventure where they can smell absolutely everything. But they are also conveniently sized, of moderate energy levels, and social enough that city living with sufficient exercise will suit them fine. The Beagle and Pug mixed dog can be very sensitive to heat, however, so avoid taking your Puggle out during the hottest parts of the day. And if they spend much time outdoors make sure they have a shady, cool area to relax. A gentle and treat generous hand is needed to train these pups, as well as plenty of patience. And do give them lots of praise and snacks when they follow directions. With a low-key routine, their short hair is simple to maintain. All pups need to have their ears, teeth, and nails checked to keep them healthy. Ears should be swabbed of excess dirt and wax, and teeth ought to be brushed on a weekly basis. And the relaxed temperament of the Pug mellows the sometimes-anxious Beagle. Though very healthy and unlikely to be prone to serious conditions, it is possible for a Puggle to inherit any of the common ailments of their parent breeds. To be as thorough as possible, here is a list of the health concerns that could be pertinent for a Puggle. Minor Conditions Deformities of the eye, nose, mouth Legg-Perthes disease. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Puggle Overview Puggles are a cross breed of the Pug and Beagle. They have the wrinkles of their Pug parents and the longer muzzle, ears, and tail of a Beagle — a look that draws comparisons to miniature Mastiffs. This unique appearance and his friendly nature has driven a rapid rise in popularity since the first Puggle was bred in the s. Puggles are active. Not content to laze around the house, they play energetically indoors and out, racing around the dining room table and down the hall. Some enjoy digging outdoors. Expect to give them at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. Puggles are smart, but they may or may not be eager to please. Neither the Pug nor the Beagle is especially known for ease of training , and both breeds can be stubborn. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as food rewards, play, and praise, and keep training sessions short and sweet. Being a social dog, the Puggle gets along well with everyone. Some are howlers, a trait inherited from their Beagle parent. The Puggle can be a cute and cuddly lovebug. Puggle Highlights Small to medium size: Puggles are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 15 and 30 pounds and standing 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them a good size for apartments or small homes. Friendly and outgoing: Puggles are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family companions. Easy to train: Puggles are intelligent dogs and are relatively easy to train. However, they can be stubborn at times, so it is important to be patient and consistent with training. Low-maintenance coat: Puggles have short, smooth coats that are easy to groom. They also need to have their teeth brushed regularly and their nails trimmed as needed. Overall, Puggles are great pets for people who are looking for a friendly, outgoing, and low-maintenance dog. They are a good size for apartments or small homes, and they are relatively easy to train. If you are thinking about getting a dog, a Puggle may be a great breed for you! Puggle History The Puggle is the result of an accidental cross breeding between a Pug and a Beagle , probably sometime in the s. The breed has become very popular, thanks to their novelty, sweet nature, and cute looks. Most litters are the result of first generation breedings between Beagles and Pugs, but there have been a few breedings of Puggles to Puggles. Puggle Size Most Puggles are 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 18 to 30 pounds. Toy-size Puggles are usually less than 13 inches tall and weigh 8 to 17 pounds. Puggle Personality The Puggle is a sweet, intelligent dog who can fit easily into family life. They can be playful and cuddly and enjoy spending time with the people in their lives. Puggles usually get along well with everyone, including kids and other pets. Potential behavior problems include howling, barking , digging , or wandering. Socialization helps ensure that your Puggle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Stenotic Nares , also known as pinched nostrils, is a congenital disorder meaning the dog is born with it. It affects dogs with short muzzles and makes it difficult for them to breathe. Signs include noisy breathing and exercise intolerance. Mild cases can be managed by preventing obesity, limiting exercise during hot or humid weather, and using a harness instead of a neck collar. More severe cases may require surgical repair. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. Hypothyroidism is caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone and may produce signs that include infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. Hypothyroidism can be managed very well with daily medication. A dog that is being treated for hypothyroidism can live a full and happy life. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts-the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf -is not properly lined up. This causes lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. It is a condition that is present at birth although the actual misalignment or luxation does not always occur until much later. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation, ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. Epilepsy is a disorder that causes seizures. Epilepsy can be managed with medication, but it cannot be cured. A dog can live a full and healthy life with the proper management of epilepsy, which can be either hereditary or of unknown cause. It looks like a reddened mass at the inner corner of the eye. Cherry eye can be repaired surgically. Both parents should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips, patellas knees , and thyroid and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certifying that the eyes are normal. Puggle Care Puggles are people-lovers and should live indoors with the family, not outside. Some even have a tendency to howl, a trait they inherit from their Beagle parent. Puggles are intelligent but can be stubborn. Ample exercise will help keep them from becoming unruly. Give your Puggle a couple of minute walks or playtimes every day. Be sure to always walk your Puggle on leash or play with him in a securely fenced area. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age , build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Like their parent breeds, Puggles enjoy their meals and are prone to obesity. Keep your Puggle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Puggle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The undercoat is short and dense, covered by a slightly longer topcoat. Colors include fawn, red, tan, lemon, black, or any of those colors with white known as particolor. Some Puggles have black masks on the face. Puggles shed, like both their parent breeds. Brush your Puggle weekly to get rid of excess hair. Bathe him only as needed, but be sure to keep the folds on his skin and around his muzzle and eyes free of dirt, debris, and moisture to prevent infections. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Daily is better. Trim his nails once or twice a month, as needed. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Puggle Children And Other Pets The Puggle is generally a sweet-tempered dog who gets along well with children of all ages. Puggles are sociable and generally do well with other dogs and pets. Proper training , plus lots of exposure to small pets, beginning in puppyhood , can minimize this trait. Puggle Rescue Groups This cross is often available at local animal shelters. You may also find Puggles through the rescue group below:. In addition, they tend to wander and howl though they are sweet and playful, so they will most often capture your heart. However, the dogs shed a lot, so they require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Like their Beagle parent, they are extremely intelligent dogs, though sometimes they can become stubborn. Due to their intelligence, they will have the ability to socialize, but they will need constant positive enforcement training from a young age. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Plus, their smaller size means their upkeep expenses will be lower. It is crucial to do much research to determine how much you are willing to spend and if this will cover the costs of a Puggle. In addition, you need to explore the background of any breeder you are considering. This process consumes time and effort, but it will all be worth it for a happy and healthy new Puggle. They are a perfect choice for those that already have kids and pets at home and for the first-time dog owner since they are good with kids and other animals. In addition, Puggles are extremely friendly, charming, always ready to play, and known for their tendency to cuddle. Puggles inherited their land speed and their sweet, friendly nature from their Pug parent. From their Beagle parent, they inherited the love for sniffing, the ability to jump, and their playful and inquisitive nature. The Puggle is quite an adaptable dog, but it may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for an extended period. It is truly a family dog that likes to be close to its loved ones. Although they require minimal exercise, Puggles tend to need a lot of water during their walks since they become thirsty very fast due to their high internal temperatures. Puggles can exhibit respiratory issues known to occur in Pugs, the tendency to wander and howl attributed to the Beagle, or the stubbornness of both. A stubborn Puggle can be more difficult to train, requiring more patience and consistency. Even if they are not guarding dogs, Puggles tends to back and howl, which could be a downside if you leave in a condo or apartment. However, Puggles are lovable lap pups that will make the wonder of everyone around them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Puggles are generally good-tempered dogs who get along well with kids of all ages. However, it is crucial always to teach your kids how to approach and touch your Puggle. In addition, make sure to supervise any interactions between young kids and dogs to prevent ear pulling and biting from either party. To minimize this trait, give your dog proper training and lots of exposure to small pets from an early age. Things to Know When Owning a Puggle: Here is a basic walkthrough of the day-to-day care and upkeep of this little adorable dog breed. Canines have no nutrition understanding, and they will eat anything that you put in front of their faces. For Puggles, the best diet should include high-quality dry food that suits their unique requirements. Alternatively, you can go for cooked meals or a raw food diet for your dog at home. Dog nutrition is complex, and only a vet can tell what your Puggle requires to stay healthy. Unfortunately, if you allow them, they will eat so much food that they will easily become overweight or unhealthy. So, make sure to feed them high-quality dry kibble with the amount suggested on the package. You can break down the meals into two or three smaller parts, so you Puggle can eat several times throughout the day. Vets recommend 1. In addition, always ensure there is continuous availability of clean, fresh water. They like going on brisk walks through the neighborhood to look for the sights and sounds around them. A fenced yard will give your Puggle a space to run and play without getting hurt. When the weather is chilly, your Puggle will enjoy playing a game of fetch in the living room to burn off their energy. Without proper exercise, this dog breed tends to howl and do so loudly. That can be an issue for you or your neighbors and may end with a local animal control agency visit. Ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercises will help you avoid paying fines or be known as the family with the annoying dog. However, they tend to be stubborn, so you must make their training session fun and interesting. Be consistent with your training techniques but try to mix things up as well. For example, look for a few shorter sessions mixed with a bit of playtime. Keep them entertained, and they will not have a chance to be stubborn. Early socialization is the key to ensuring that your Puggle grows up into a well-behaved dog. As with every other canine, reward-based positive reinforcement training is the most effective way to train. Puggles are obsessed with everything edible, so make sure to use this to your advantage. You will quickly have a new great friend when you reward your Puggle with small treats during training sessions. Negative reinforcement or punishment-based training is closer to abuse than training and should be avoided at all costs. Puggles have a double coat, meaning they will shed more during the winter and in the summer. Puggles grooming needs are quite lower. Brushing their hair twice a week will keep their short shiny coat healthy. It will also ensure that any dead furs will be picked up rather than find themselves on your clothes or carpet. Due to their proneness to skin allergies, it is good to use grooming products specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin. If your dog has a wrinkly face, then ensure to clean its folds with a cotton wool ball and specialized Pug products. Make sure to keep their eyes clean too and wash them with water if you can see any dirt in them. In addition, it is crucial to regularly check their large floppy ears since they may often become infected with wax build-up and dirt. Other grooming requirements include nails care and dental hygiene. Begin grooming your Puggle at an early age to get them used to it. Handle their paws gently since dogs are sensitive about their feet and look inside their ears and mouth. Make grooming a positive experience filled with rewards and praise, and you will lay the base for easy vet exams and any other handling when your Puggle is an adult. The Beagle is a healthier breed than the Pug, so the Puggle is a healthy alternative to the Pug dog. The best way to find out what your Puggle may be prone to is by looking at the recommended health tests for both parents. Both their parents suffer from Hip Dysplasia, the abnormal formation of the hip joint, so make sure to look out for signs of painful walking. In addition, both their parents suffer from several eye conditions, particularly the Pug. That means cleaning and monitoring their eyes are essential. Epilepsy is also common in Puggles, and so when you suspect they are having a seizure, take them to your vet immediately. The Puggle is likely to inherit the Brachycephalic face of the Pug, resulting in several health problems. It can leave your dog with difficulties in breathing or cause difficulty for their heat regulation. Therefore, on a hot day, make sure to monitor your Puggle closely. If they appear to be struggling, calm and cool them down immediately with a cold, moist towel placed over your dog. However, the symptoms will be slightly alleviated since they will have a slightly longer muzzle than the average Pug due to the Beagle influence. Minor Conditions. What Is A Puggle? Nov 5, Jun 4, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. A puggle is the result of cross breeding a pug and a beagle. Generally speaking, the puggle ends up being healthier than either of its parents as it has greater genetic diversity at play. When two dog breeds are crossed, they each add their own physical and temperamental characteristics to their offspring in varying degrees. This means that not all puggles look the same or even behave the same way. Pug The pug dog breed stands at 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder and weighs 14 to 18 pounds on average. They have a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, although their overall health can play a serious role in shortening their lifespan. Although they look rather funny and are treated as cute and dopey pets, pugs are actually an ancient dog breed dating back to BCE China. They were originally bred to be companion dogs for the rich and wealthy, and were even the companion dogs of several Chinese Emperors. Pugs have a brachycephalic face. This means their snouts are severely shortened to give their face a flat appearance a sought-after look by the ancient Chinese. This plays havoc with their eyes, sinuses, soft palate, and breathing ability. Beagle The beagle dog breed as we know it today was refined around the s from the small foot hounds of the s. However, this breed also has ancient ties to the small pack hounds of Britain when the Roman legions landed in 55 BCE. Beagles were bred, have been used, and are still used today as small hunting dogs that can be followed on foot by their human companions. Beagles have excellent noses that sniff out large and small prey, track them, and chase them down with their distinctive baying bark. There are two variations of the beagle breed, one slightly smaller than the other. The larger beagle variation stands at 13 to 15 inches in height and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. The smaller beagle variation stands under 13 inches and weighs less than 20 pounds. Puggle Puggles are the result of breeding a pug and beagle together. They have been called a designer breed as people intentionally breed the two to hopefully get the best of both in one dog. Unfortunately, when the breeder is not happy with the outcome, these dogs are often abandoned, surrendered, or given to animal shelters instead of being cherished for the balls of joy they are. However, there are some generalizations we can make, so read on to find out what these are. However, this may vary depending on the color of the pug parent. If the pug parent was black or silver, then the puggle offspring may be a lighter or darker tan color. This coloration comes from the pug parent. This helps the puggle avoid certain health issues that other brachycephalic dogs breeds face, such as severe sinus and breathing issues. Temperament Characteristics Of The Puggle Beagles and pugs both love having a family around them—they are both excellent with children and play well with other animals. So, how do these traits transfer to the puggle? Is The Puggle Friendly? The puggle is an incredibly friendly dog. They love being around people and other animals because they love having a pack. This pack mentality comes from the beagle genetics. When they want some alone time, they will simply leave and not make a big fuss about it. The puggle is a wonderful companion for children. They are medium to small-sized dogs, which means they are not intimidating to younger children. They are also stronger and more densely built than other small dog breeds, which can be hurt easily during playtime. Puggles are an intelligent cross-breed owing to the fact that pugs and beagles are intelligent too. This means you can teach them tricks and train them effectively through kind words and positive reinforcement. Common Health Concerns Of The Puggle As a mixed dog breed, the puggle enjoys genetic variety and will not be plagued with serious genetic issues the same way purebred dogs are. However, they are still prone to certain conditions, which means you will need to keep a careful eye out for them. Luxating Patella A luxating patella happens when the knee cap moves around or dislocates, causing pain and discomfort when your dog tries to move. If you notice your puggle running around, suddenly shift to hopping on three legs and then back to all fours, it may be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their kneecaps checked out. Cherry Eye Cherry eye is an unfortunate occurrence in brachycephalic dog breeds. The nictitans the small red blob in the inner corner of their eyes becomes prolapsed pushed out and this looks like little cherries. If your dog has a cherry eye, take them straight to the vet. If left untreated, conjunctivitis, scratching, and serious infection can occur. Proper grooming for puggles includes weekly brushing, weekly cleaning of the ears, brushing teeth every second day, and keeping wrinkles and other skin folds clean and dry. Puggles require an hour of exercise a day, broken down into three to four sessions. While they are small to medium-sized dogs, they need plenty of space to roll around, explore, and stimulate their senses. Puggles are very intelligent and require mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Mental exercise can be provided to them by giving them puzzles, treats they need to work for, or running through their training and list of commands. It is essential that their physical and mental exercise is kept up. A regular exercise routine helps build and maintain strong muscles and muscle attachments, which can help to avoid certain health issues. Mental stimulation is key to prevent intelligent dogs from becoming destructive and a nuisance. Puggles are known to bark and howl quite a bit. Both the beagle and pug parents are known to be noisy dogs—the pug is known for their high-pitched bark and the beagle for their baying. Puggles get the best of both worlds and are very chatty dogs. If your apartment or condo home has noise restrictions in place, the puggle may be too noisy for you. Puggles live for 10 to 15 years on average. As a small to medium mixed breed dog, puggles live longer than a medium-sized dog and slightly less than a small dog breed due to their mixed heritage. Can puggles be used as service dogs? Beagles are sometimes used as service dogs; therefore, the logic may go that puggles could be used as service dogs, too, right? However, owing to their mixed breed nature, their temperaments are not predictable enough for them to be used as service dogs. Additionally, puggles do not always have the need to please their humans, which is an essential trait in dogs that are trained to be service dogs. My puggle puppy looks like a Mastiff! Did the breeder give me the wrong dog? Puggles have a very similar appearance to Mastiffs, except they are about a quarter of the size. They have a very similar tan coloring, a darkening of the muzzle and ears, a straight tail thanks to the beagle parent , and are full of energy. This may be because pugs were bred from Mastiffs a couple thousand years ago. Therefore, the coloring and physical similarities they share are genetic in nature. If you think you may have a Mastiff instead of a puggle, look at the paws. Puggles are slightly larger than a pug and slightly smaller than the large beagle, and sport a tan coat with black muzzle and ears. Although they are small, they are strong and full of energy. Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But there are so many choices. The pet food industry has exploded in recent years. Remember though that, if you intend to switch your dog to a new diet, do so over the course of seven to 10 days to help avoid intestinal upsets or diarrhea. Types of Foods The main types of commercial foods are dry, moist, dehydrated, and fresh. As a large-breed dog, it would take a lot of moist food to properly feed a golden. Why Do the Ingredients of a Food Matter? Of course, your golden is a highly intelligent and sociable dog. Unfortunately, goldens have a higher-than-average incidence of cancer. But AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles consist only of minimum values for all the nutrients required by dogs and maximum values for just a few nutrients that can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts. But, even with such regulation, not all foods are created equal. Feeding a food with low-quality ingredients may contribute to chronic inflammation and obesity. And chronic inflammation can contribute to arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and infection. Foods should be made from wholesome, natural ingredients with no fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. They should be rich in high-quality animal sources such as poultry, meat, and fish. Our beloved goldens are one of the breeds most likely to become obese. If your dog becomes obese, you can even ask your vet about prescription weight-loss diets. There are certain requirements foods should meet. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that adult dogs require a minimum of 18 percent of protein in their diets, whereas puppies require at least 22 percent protein. A good food should contain healthy meats and fats. They should also contain fruits and vegetables. And, of course, the proper mix of vitamins and minerals for optimal health. Natural preservatives such as tocopherols vitamin E , vitamin C, or rosemary extract should be used rather than artificial ones. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements than small breeds do. They grow more quickly than breeds who are small or medium-sized as adults. Golden retriever puppies have a greater risk of developing a crippling form of hip disease if fed a diet that contains too much calcium. Adult goldens can be fed any high-quality kibble or a kibble specifically for large breed dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA , large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than their smaller counterparts and can be considered seniors when five or six years old. The veterinary community has also been compiling and analyzing data on diet-related DCM in dogs. DCM is a disease in which the heart muscle weakens, leading to the loss of the ability to contract normally and pump blood through the body. Symptoms of DCM can include weakness, lethargy, shortness of breath, fainting, and the inability of exercise. It can become life-threatening. The link between grain-free foods and DCM is still being investigated, as there are many variables to be considered. Note that some dogs are allergic to certain grains and may need to avoid them. But this is best decided by a veterinarian, especially a board-certified nutritionist. Diseases which impact goldens, such as inflammatory bowel disease or atopic skin diseases and allergies, have a strong link to the foods they ingest. And, in determining how much to feed, the manufacturers of pet foods provide guidelines on their labels. But remember that the guidelines are just that. You can always adjust the amount of food he eats depending on his weight and health. In addition to doing your own research, you can consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to determine which food and amount would be best for your golden. But remember: there is no one perfect food for any dog. And choosing a high-quality food may also reduce his risk of health problems. What Do the Terms on the Label Mean? The labels on pet foods can be confusing. Learning what the terms mean can help you decipher which one is a higher-quality product. The terms on a label are listed in descending amounts of ingredients. So the first few listed are found in larger amounts than those at the bottom of the items listed on the label. Meat Meat is the skeletal muscle of animals as well as tissue from the heart. This may be beef, chicken, pork, lamb, or salmon. This is the animal flesh without any water extracted. Meat Meal It can include only actual meat, skin, and bone, which can be nutritious. But it can legally contain animals who were dying, diseased, deformed, or had died before slaughtering. Meat meals are the product after the excess moisture has been removed from the meat. These include lungs, kidneys, brains, bone, blood, heads, spleens, stomachs, beaks, feet, feathers, and intestines. Unfortunately, like meat meal, it can contain animals who were very sick or dead before slaughtering which need not be disclosed to the consumer. Whole Meats versus Named Protein Meals These are named proteins such as chicken, salmon, beef, and lamb. They can contain up to 70 percent moisture prior to cooking. Named protein meals, such as lamb meal, have that excess moisture removed being processed into kibble. So meals actually have more protein by weight than whole meats do. Fish Meal Fish meal is the clean ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings, with or without the oil extracted. Ground Corn Ground corn is the entire corn kernel ground or chopped. Corn Gluten Meal Corn gluten meal is the by-product after the manufacture of corn syrup or starch, and is the dried residue after the removal of the bran, germ, and starch. Brewers Rice Brewers rice is the small fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from larger kernels of milled rice. Brown Rice Brown rice is the unpolished rice left over after the kernels have been removed. Soybean Meal Soybean meal is a by-product of the production of soybean oil. Holistic or Natural These are terms that some companies use. But they have no meaning according to the FDA. So beware that such foods may not be what we think of as being holistic or natural. Organic This means that the food is free from antibiotics, synthetic hormones, pesticides, and preservatives. Of course, higher-quality ingredients cost more. Also avoid foods that have been overly processed or contain hormones or steroids. Meat by-products and poultry by-products are one of the lower-quality ingredients. Try to avoid them. It can also be restaurant grease. Corn and soy are generally regarded to be inferior ingredients and fillers. Remember that if you feed a high-quality food to your dog without fillers, you often can feed less. And I also considered various foods before making my selection. My dogs are doing well on this food. Goldens love their food and eat a lot because of their size. The Dog Food Advisor is a public service website designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food. The write-ups are taken from those found on the Dog Food Advisor website. The links will also lead to information regarding additional high-rated foods. The formula contains a minimum of 34 percent of named proteins. Its high-protein content helps form strong muscles. The formula includes increased amounts of glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health in larger-sized dogs. This recipe contains the preferred amount of fat and calories to help maintain a healthy weight for a dog the size of a golden. It has no meat by-products or fillers. And no corn, wheat, or soy. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Large-Breed Chicken Formula The top five ingredients are deboned salmon, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch, with a minimum of 32 percent protein. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken is a great option for those looking for higher protein and an optimal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins to help keep bones strong. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish meal and flaxseed ensure a healthy coat. An ideal blend of protein, fat and carbohydrates are also included to assist your large breed dog in keeping a healthy weight. It also has antioxidants to boost immune health and no poultry by-products. Glucosamine and chondroitin are added for healthy joints. It contains a minimum of 27 percent with named proteins. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult contains balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon, and duck. The formula also has antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables such as spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, and carrots. These are great for building a strong immune system to help fight disease. This recipe is recommended for dogs over 50 pounds and between 15 months and five years of age. It contains extra nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint care for larger-breed dogs. There are no by-products or artificial preservatives. The formula contains probiotics to support digestion. There is no gluten, wheat, corn, or soy Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large-Breed Adult Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes. The food contains a minimum of 38 percent protein. The Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Large Breed recipe contains added glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy hip and joint function, essential for large-breed dogs. Omega fatty acids from salmon oil help ensure a healthy skin and coat. A unique raw-infused kibble recipe is loaded with protein. The recipe has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and is gluten free. Purina Pro Plan Adult Dog Food The top five ingredients in this formula are chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, and soybean meal. It has a minimum protein of 26 protein percent. The formula also has live probiotics to support healthy digestion. Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend combines a hard kibble with tender, pieces of real, shredded chicken for enhanced flavor and texture. It has live probiotics to support healthy digestion as well as omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It contains no artificial colors or flavors. Although this formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. But apparently many consumers have found that their dogs are doing well on this food. Some Suggested Foods for Your Golden Retriever Puppy Of course puppies require a higher amount of protein and fat than adults generally do. But note that adult goldens who are very active, such as dogs who do agility, generally need more protein and fat than other goldens do. But they may not need as much as puppies do. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy Food The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, and salmon meal. The recipe contains a minimum of 32 percent protein. It has 14 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs and has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44percent. It also has a safe, balanced amount of calcium. Origen Puppy Large Breed Formula The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, deboned turkey, yellowtail flounder, whole eggs, and whole atlantic mackerel. This recipe contains a minimum of 43 percent protein, 18 percent fat and 30percent estimated carbs, creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41percent. This high-quality food is more expensive than many five-star rated foods. Diamond Naturals Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and ground white rice. This budget-friendly food has a dry matter label analysis of 30 percent protein, 17 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs. It has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56 percent. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29 percent protein, 17 percent fat and 46 percent estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58 percent. This is a top-rated food that is budget conscious. Purina Pro Plan Large-Breed Puppy Formula The top five ingredients are chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, and poultry by-product meal. The dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32 percent protein. It also contains 15 percent fat and 45 percent estimated carbs. This yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47 percent. This formula is highly-ranked and has been a favorite with consumers. Purina Pro Plan is what we are currently feeding our guide dog puppies. But, as is true of the adult Pro Plan food listed above, please note that it contains poultry by-product and soybean meal, both of which are often considered to be inferior ingredients. Final Thoughts There are so many choices when selecting a food for your beloved golden retriever. It can really be challenging to find the right food. But remember because there are so many choices, there is no one right food for your pup. Dog food ratings can help make a choice. So can knowing the basics regarding what the terms on a food label mean. Are you thinking of switching foods? Please leave your comments in the section below. Related Article:. Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.