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Lifespan Sociability You can expect to pay a lot for your Old German Shepherd puppy, depending on where you live and what breeder you choose. Other factors will increase your ongoing costs, including regular vet visits, flea and tick medication, food, treats, toys, and more. Old German Shepherds are extremely versatile and can be service dogs, police dogs, obedience dogs, and more. Old German Shepherds form stronger bonds with one family member, typically the owner or caretaker. The military has used them since the first World War, and they are still employed today. It is a herding dog, so it has plenty of energy, and it will often try to herd family members. These German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent and able to learn complex multi-step tasks. Their intelligence allows them to find and rescue missing people, drugs, bombs, and more. It can also solve challenging problems, and it can open doors, retrieve specific items, and much more. It enjoys playing with children and being part of family activities. It also makes a fantastic watchdog that will help keep your family safe. The only downside to keeping these dogs is that they like to herd family members, which can cause them to nip and scare small children. Plenty of training and socialization can help reduce this bad behavior. However, it will chase small animals in the yard, and it could try to herd your pets, especially the cats, which can cause some problems, but they usually get used to each other quickly. We recommend looking for brands that provide omega fats because they help reduce swelling and promote a shiny coat. Avoid brands that contain artificial colors and chemical preservatives as they can cause health problems for some dogs. We recommend setting aside a minimum of 45 minutes each day for games, playing, and running. These dogs love games of fetch and will chase a ball around for most of the day. It also loves games of tug of war, and if you have the strength, it can be a great way to help them expend energy. We recommend holding short training exercises right after your exercise time to help your pet stay focused on your training. Holding your sessions at the same time each day can also help, as can plenty of reinforcement in the form of praise and treats. Avoid showing your dog any disappointment as that can set back any progress made, and be patient because it can take even the smartest dogs several weeks to learn a new trick and commit it to memory. Some owners even recommend a professional groomer to minimize the effort required. We also recommend brushing the teeth as often as possible to slow the progression of dental disease and trimming the nails if you hear them clicking on the floor. Image Credit: Couleur, Pixabay. The likelihood that you have encountered an authentic Old German Shepherd Dog is low. This breed of dog is incredibly rare nowadays, with some sources stating that they are in real danger of extinction in the near future. Before the establishment of the German Shepherd breed, any dog in Germany that was used for shepherding was referred to by this term. His main purpose was to breed and document the dogs, with the aim to establish a superior animal. Traditionally, these dogs were popular on rural, German farms, where they would move flocks of sheep around the lands. As well as this, they would act as guard dogs, defending the livestock from potential predators. Without the input of Captain von Stephanitz, these dogs were bred purely on the basis for their working ability, rather than their aesthetic appearance or conformation. As they have never been bred for their physical looks, there is a huge variety from breed member to breed member, and they are much less uniform in appearance than the modern German Shepherd dog. Their owners sought after traits, such as intelligence, speed and hardiness. Any breed standard you read will focus on capability rather than physicality, with their ability to herd being the most important factor. The focus on working competence alone has meant that this breed is less predisposed to some of the health conditions suffered by a modern day German Shepherd, and its features are less exaggerated. Generally, they most closely resemble long-haired German Shepherds. In fact, some breeders will classify any long-haired German Shepherd as an Old German Shepherd — though this is not an entirely accurate classification. The authenticity of the Old German Shepherd Dog being a breed in its own right is very controversial, and an often hotly debated topic. Currently, there are some breed enthusiasts who are working hard to have the breed more widely recognised and accepted. Appearance The Old German Shepherd has never been bred to look a certain way, and so there is no true breed standard in existence. A medium to large sized athletically-built breed, dogs will measure between 55 and 65cm, while weighing anything between 22 and 40kg. Their coat colour can be black, brown, tan or grey, and often consists of more than one colour. The length and type of the coat varies between individuals, though tends to be long. Constantly alert, they make very good watchdogs, immediately warning their owner of any unwelcome visitor. Loyal to their family, they will form tight bonds with those they trust, and are often strongly protective of them. If socialised from a young age, they can integrate well with children and other animals. Trainability Intellectually-gifted, with the right guidance, these dogs can learn to perform a variety of tasks to a high standard. They require firm guidance, as well as consistent and interesting training. Quick to learn, these dogs can really keep a trainer on their toes. Keeping sessions interesting will prevent a Shepherd from becoming bored and disengaging with the task set to them. Health Owing to the incredible rarity of this breed, relevant medical studies are lacking. It would be prudent to assume that they share many of the health issues suffered by the modern German Shepherd, as they are, of course, their ancestors. It is likely that the health issues are suffered with less frequency and severity in the Old German Shepherd due to the lack of historical inbreeding and the fact that they have not been bred to look a certain way. Conditions to be on the lookout for include: Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is incredibly prevalent within the German Shepherd community. While the Old German Shepherd was never bred to have sloping hips, it is likely that they are still more predisposed to this debilitating condition than the general canine population. Hip scoring is performed by a veterinarian. Dogs will normally need to be sedated or anaesthetised, and x-rays will be taken of their hips and pelvis. When an animal does have hip dysplasia, the symptoms will become more obvious as the animal ages and the disease progresses. The osteoarthritis that ensues will vary between each individual but can often cause high levels of discomfort and immobility. Various treatment recommendations exist, including surgery, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture and medication. Many dogs will be managed with a variety of treatments throughout their lifetime. Elbow Dysplasia The term elbow dysplasia is used to describe a group of conditions that can occur within the elbow joint of an animal. If an animal suffers from any of these conditions, they will exhibit reluctance to exercise and stiffness or limping when moving. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, will help to confirm the diagnosis, and surgery is indicated in many cases. Degenerative Myelopathy This is a disorder whereby the animal suffers from nerve degeneration, resulting in a slowly progressive weakness in the hind limbs. Signs start to develop in later life and can be subtle at first. Initially, animals will seem un-coordinated or weak, and eventually, will start to drag their feet. While watching an affected animal walking can be alarming, it is not a painful condition. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for this condition, and dogs are managed with supportive therapy. Affected dogs will be in pain, and often have matted, smelly fur under their tail. The draining tracts may extend to the surface of the skin, in which case, they are visible. In some cases, however, the tracts cannot be seen externally. This condition is usually managed medically, with varying success rates. Digestive Diseases Unfortunately, there are many disorders of the digestive system that this breed is thought to be particularly prone to. Determining which specific disease an animal is suffering from can be difficult and may require an extensive work-up. Exercise and Activity Levels Traditionally used as herding animals who would vigilantly patrol fields, tirelessly protecting their flock, the Old German Shepherd has a particularly high need for exercise. They should have access to a large, secure garden, as well as given several, long exercise walks a day. Owing to their intelligence, they excel in activities, such as agility, flyball and obedience, and require large amounts of mental, as well as physical, stimulation. Grooming From a young age, the Old German Shepherd should be taught to stand still and remain relaxed while an owner checks their ears, eyes, teeth, coat, paw pads, claws and under their tail. They should also be habituated to claw clipping and tooth brushing. Regular grooming is a must as this breed can shed extensively. User comments There are no user comments for this listing. Popular Dog Breeds. They closely resemble a Long-Haired GSD, and since they are so similar in many ways, they are often referred to as such. These dogs have been used by German farmers for centuries and are bred mostly as diligent working dogs for herding, but they are often kept as family and companion animals too. 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. Indeed, most breeders of these dogs focus on capability rather than appearance. Their ability to herd has long been the most important factor. Luckily, this effort on breeding based on ability rather than appearance has made the breed less predisposed to some of the health conditions suffered by modern GSDs. Where it gets confusing is that many breeders will simply classify any long-haired GSD as an Old German Shepherd Dog, but this is not entirely accurate. This means that they will not simply be content with a stroll around the neighborhood once a day and need far more exercise than even standard GSDs. The Old German Shepherd Dog is said to be friendlier and more balanced in personality, although this depends on the individual dog. The Old German Shepherd is a hard-working, reliable, and loyal dog that is seemingly constantly on the alert and makes an excellent watchdog. They are also highly independent, a wonderful trait for a working and herding dog to have, but it can present challenges in a more urban setting. These dogs form powerful bonds with their owners and are supremely loyal, with a protective nature that is unwavering and may even be problematic at times. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They have a higher threshold for irritation and are said to be much harder to upset, but they should still not be left unsupervised with young children. Still, they make excellent playmates and supreme protectors for families. The Old German Shepherd Dog has a powerful prey drive and hunting instinct, a trait that they can keep in check with small children but may have a harder time of with a smaller dog, cat, or small pet. The key to keeping this prey drive in check is to introduce them at as young an age as possible and to make socialization a priority early. Proper training is also essential, and since Old German Shepherd Dogs are so loyal and eager to please their owners, this may overshadow their instinct for chasing!

Should a Boxer Mix take after their Boxer parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and friendly dog that loves their family and loves being active with them. Boxers are known for their energetic and exuberant personalities. They bond closely with their families, tend to have a cheerful disposition, and also tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they are friendly dogs, they do have the instinct to protect their families. If the other parent breed has similar traits, then you should be able to expect a similar temperament in a Boxer Mix. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix is a good start. You can also meet the mother dog to get a feel for her temperament and to see what behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should be socializing puppies while they have them, it is up to you to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home. Boxers are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartments as long as they get exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. Although all dogs are sensitive to heat, the Boxer is even more so because of their short snout. And, because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that could affect the adaptability of a Boxer Mix, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. Knowing more about the other parent breed will help you get a better idea of what range of potential characteristics to expect. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A Boxer Mix can inherit any combination of the potential health issues common to one or both of their parent breeds. Or, they could inherit none of them. From the Boxer side, potential health conditions include degenerative myelopathy, thyroid deficiency, hip dysplasia, and heart conditions. Boxers also tend to have sensitive digestive systems, which often makes them gassy. As a brachycephalic dog, they will also snort and snore. Because they are a barrel-chested breed, they are also at a higher risk for bloat in dogs. This can become dangerous, especially if the stomach flips, so you want to make sure you reduce the risk when you can and know the symptoms so you can get help as soon as possible. Since reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies, they should be able to answer your questions. Despite their high energy, Boxers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are intelligent, they pick up on things quickly and can get bored easily. But, they are eager to please their owners and tend to respond well to training. The other parent breed could make a Boxer Mix even easier to train or more difficult to train. You want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed so you know what range of trainability to expect. A Boxer Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a combination of both of them. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ears should be dry, clean, and free of debris or pests. Unfortunately, many dog owners overlook dental care, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed. Daily walks plus playtime and other activities should be enough for this dog. However, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Boxer Mix to also be a high-energy dog. However, this is a potential range, so you will still need to be prepared to deal with a Boxer Mix that is high-energy. A Boxer usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can affect this, especially if they are the mother, so you do want to ask about them. A Boxer generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you can likely expect a similar life span in a Boxer Mix. Featured Boxer Mix Article. Boxer Puppies for Sale in OHIO Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Boxer, Ohio » Hardy Township. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Ohio. I'm Natasha, and I'm a shy 3. Robert Jones is from Ohio MY wife and I have been breeding quality boxers for the past 25 years and you can call me anytime at .Similar Boxer Puppies. Boxer puppy for sale in Ohio. Boxers for Sale in Columbus. Cincinnati Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Cincinnati, OH Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly. Four - Boxer Mix Puppy for Sale in. Find a puppies near me Category. Boxer puppies in Cincinnati, OH. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Ohio 1. Good Dog helps you find Boxer puppies for sale near Ohio. Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser. My husband got his first Boxer puppy at the age of 9, and fell in love with the breed. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. All pups come with a 2yr health guarantee! For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. Dayton Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Dayton, OH Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to. Boxer Breeders in Ohio OH. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Share this listing: Breed: Boxer. Lancaster Puppies advertises puppies for sale in PA, as well as Ohio. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies in Parma, OH. Browse photos and descriptions of of Ohio Boxer puppies of many breeds available right now! AnimalsSale found Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio near you, which meet your criteria. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Cincinnati, OH. That means reputable breeders must perform screening for clean future bloodlines. Also, be sure to check the Boxer Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. It's also free to list your available puppies and litters on our site. While these dogs are definitely brave and. WE can set up delivery for you for a additional fee if you need that anywhere in the 50 states. Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio from trusted breeders. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Ohio Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Tessie - Boxer Puppy for Sale in. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Columbus OH? We want to offer an exceptional quality English Bulldog to you by producing go Boxer Ohio charming and. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. Maggie reverse brindle female and Tuco fawn are around lbs. Browse search results for boxer puppies for sale in Ohio. No puppies where found matching your criteria. Feel free to browse hundreds of active. Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio with Price. Boxer puppies for sale in Cincinnati, OH from trusted. Cincinnati Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Cincinnati, OH Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. His main purpose is for hunting large game. Boxer puppies in Toledo, OH. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Breeds: Boxer. Through Good Dog's community of trusted Boxer breeders in Ohio, meet the Boxer puppy meant for you and start the application process today. Printable version Email this Page. Trusted Breeders: Certified; Licensed;. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. He was only 6lbs at 11 weeks old, which made him about 15lbs underweight. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Winesburg, OH. Boxer puppies for sale in Michigan from trusted breeders. Boxer Puppies for Sale in OH. Should be about lbs when full-grown. Location: Youngstown, OH .We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members. Ohio Boxer Classifieds Hoobly. We offer quality, healthy, family-raised AKC Boxer puppies from health-tested parents. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy. We have three females six males available they are all fawn color with white markings. Dobby is a typical sweet puppy see more at Petfinder. If you are unable to find your Boxer. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy. Adorable Boxer puppies for sale vet checked shots up-to-date Champions Ruthweaver.Find your Boxer puppy for sale. Boxers for Sale in Akron, OH. Boxer For Sale in Ohio .Boxer puppies for sale in Dayton, OH from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies in. Boxers: Todd and Jen have been raising boxer puppies for 30 years. Boxer puppies in Dayton, OH. Boxer puppies sale Toledo OH. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Ohio. Boxer puppies for sale in Cincinnati, OH from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies in Akron, OH. Columbus Boxer breeders will set their prices depending on the pedigree of their pups, and each pups markings and coat color. When it comes to the price of Boxers for sale Columbus you'll see quite a large difference between different adverts. Find Boxer puppies for sale Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Find Boxer dogs and puppies from Ohio breeders. Find Boxer Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Boxer information. Boxer Puppies For Sale in Ohio When contemplating Boxer breeding, health must be the primary concern because some genetic diseases affect this breed. I love my leash walks and getting attention. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified. We want to offer an exceptional quality English Bulldog to you by producing go Boxer. Boxer Dogs for Sale in Ohio. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Dayton, OH Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Maddie is a gorgeous sealed brindle boxer female , she has a great confirmation. She will be vet checked at 7 weeks. Both parents are on site , mom is 50 lbs and dad is 85 lbs both are in great health. Learn About Boxer Blvd. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Cincinnati, OH. Find Boxer puppies for sale Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer Dogs for Sale in Ohio. Boxer puppy for sale in Baltic, OH. He came from a litter of 8, is super playful and extremely cuddly as well. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. Boxer For Sale in Ohio .Puppies for Sale. No puppies where found matching your criteria. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Ohio Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Call us any time at See our available puppies!! Mocha is a cute female boxer puppy with a great personality and very sweet. Boxer Puppies for Sale in OHIO Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. We are a small family of 4 located in Ohio. Boxer Blvd. Browse photos and descriptions of of Ohio Boxer puppies of many breeds available right now! AnimalsSale found Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio near you, which meet your criteria. We want to offer an exceptional quality English Bulldog to you by producing go Boxer. Ohio State Boxers invites you to come over and see their modern kennels and green fields where their puppies spend their days playing around and exercising. Boxer puppies for sale in Cincinnati, OH from trusted breeders. Boxer For Sale in Toledo 7. We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members. Puppies For Sale in Ohio. Feel free to browse hundreds of active. Find Puppies and Breeders in OH and helpful information. A sweet pretty girl who is just so kind of laid back. She is up to date on her shots and deworming. German Shepherd, Ohio » Cincinnati. Printable version Email this Page. My husband got his first Boxer puppy at the age of 9, and fell in love with the breed. Find a puppies near me Category. Puppys are included tails docked. They offer puppies of all breeds, so you. Maddie is microchipped and her tail is docked and her dewclaws are removed. AnimalsSale found Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio near you, which meet. He started raising Boxer puppies in at the young age of .This litter has at least one dog. Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Mocha is microchipped and her tail is docked and her dewclaws are removed. Boxers for Sale in Akron, OH. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Columbus OH? When it comes to the price of Boxers for sale Columbus you'll see quite a large difference between different adverts. He was only 6lbs at 11 weeks old, which made him about 15lbs underweight. Boxer Puppies for Sale in OHIO Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate. Parents Murphy Dad and Mabel Mom and their. She might be some one's future princess of the house. Dobby is a typical sweet puppy see more at Petfinder. Hi, my name is Tawny! I am years old and weigh 40 pounds. Boxers for Sale in Columbus. Mocha is a Boxer puppy for sale in Baltic, OH. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Trusted Breeders: Certified; Licensed;. These puppies come from breeders who offer safe, convenient puppy drop-off options — so you can get your new. Boxer puppies for sale in Cincinnati, OH from trusted. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Boxer puppies for sale in Ohio with Price. Andrew - Boxer Puppy for Sale in Baltic, Find Boxer puppies for sale. We are pet owners first and foremost. I am a very sweet girl that loves to be with my humans. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Ohio 1. Call us today to set up your appointment. All of our puppies are raised as members of our family until they're ready to join yours. Boxer Breeders in Ohio OH. Boxer puppy for sale in Ohio. In contrast, buying Boxers from breeders can be prohibitively expensive. Boxers for Sale in Cleveland. Also, be sure to check the Boxer Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Ohio. Please contact melissa XXXX pawsandprayers. Where can I adopt a Boxer? For anyone looking for a boxer puppy on sale, adopt a pet is a reputable online website that you should check out. We offer beautiful European Boxer puppies from health-tested parents. Share this listing: Breed: Boxer. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Ohio. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. He is friendly and seems to be ok with other dogshe loves to play. Loves to cuddle and loves the attention. Tessie - Boxer Puppy for Sale in.

Your labrador retriever has a huge appetite. It loves to eat, so it may carry its food bowl around with them, beg for food, or eat unconventional things. This is normal. The exact quantity of food you give your lab depends on which food you're offering and how many calories it contains. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging, and increase or decrease the amount depending on whether the dog loses or gains weight on this ration. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source If your dog is more active than most dogs, then you should increase its food intake accordingly. For instance, if every morning you and your furry friend go for a 5 mile 8 km jog together, you should consider giving it more food than usual. If you cannot easily feel its rib bones anymore, then you are probably overfeeding it. At the same time, you should not be able to see its rib bones from afar. Your lab will get very thirsty after exercise and will need to quench that thirst. It will drink more or less water depending on how active it has been and how hot it is outside. Do not limit your dog's water consumption. Unlike food, your dog will regulate itself. Dehydration can be fatal, so don't take any chances. You lab needs a lot of exercise in order to stay healthy. Walk your lab up to three times a day and if you can, take it on long walks of a couple miles or more. Go to source If you have a backyard, make sure that it is big enough for your dog to run around. Small backyards are not suitable for big dogs like labs. Whether your lab lives outside or inside, make sure that it has a space it can call its own. Include a large, durable dog bed. Your lab will paw at the bed constantly to get comfortable. Cheap beds will rip easily and can cause quite a mess. Giving your labrador its own bed will also help you train it to stay off of yours, if you are so inclined. Labradors are a short-haired breed that come in brown, black, and gold. For most of the year, your lab will remain fairly low maintenance. Brushing your lab will also help remove dirt and spread natural oils throughout. The natural oils in your lab's fur can even help fend off fleas and ticks. Go to source Bathe your lab 3 or 4 times a year or whenever its stench gets too strong. If you take your dog on frequent walks, the hard pavement will naturally file its nails down. You can trim them at home or have a vet do it. In general, you can train your lab to sit still to have its nails trimmed. Just offer it a treat after every successful trip to your at-home doggie nail salon. Eventually, your dog will welcome it. Human nail clippers won't work effectively. Secure your dog's foot in place and then quickly clip off the nail. Do not clip too close to the base of the nail. Doing so can be very painful and cause bleeding. Make sure that the nail does not curve back into the dog's paw or is too sharp to cause accidental damage. Your Labrador's ears can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned regularly and properly. Check the dog's ears regularly for any excessive or smelly discharge, and seek veterinary advice if you notice anything amiss. If you want to clean the ears, use a specific product designed for the purpose. The more active your lab is the more likely it'll have dental issues. Take your dog to the vet for teeth cleaning 1 or 2 times a year. Routine trips to your vet can also help combat terrible breath. Since you are on the receiving end of so many slobbery kisses, this issue has probably crossed your mind and therefore is just one more reason why you should have your lab's teeth cleaned. Several kinds of toothpaste are available, many of which come in tasty flavors - e. Introduce the brush into your dog's mouth gently. Use your fingers to lift your dog's lips in order to expose their teeth. Work the brush in circles and go from tooth to tooth. Its back teeth will be the most difficult to get to, so save them for last. Make sure that you brush both sides of each tooth. Reward you dog with a treat afterwards. Every dog needs certain core vaccinations on a regular basis. It is a good idea to take your dog to the vet at least twice a year for routine exams to monitor its health and to establish a good relationship with your veterinary staff. If your pet should get hurt or is not acting normally, it is always a good idea to visit the veterinarian for an exam and medical care if needed. Your vet will also prescribe necessary medicines topical and supplemental to help ward off parasites like fleas and ticks. Go to source As your dog ages, you may see such health issues as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, or seizures. Your labrador retriever may also experience eye problems. An elderly dog with any such conditions should see a vet every two months or as advised by your vet. Go to source Advertisement. When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Well-bred Labradors are relatively low maintenance, fit and healthy dogs. But your Labradors continuing health and well-being does depend entirely on you. A nutritious diet, regular exercise, grooming, preventive measures and regular visits to the vet are the real key to maintaining a high level of wellness and good health. All these actions are your responsibility and solely under your control. Daily routines will be diet control, exercise and physical inspections. Weekly routines will be grooming, ears, eyes, teeth and nail care. Quarterly routines could be shared between visits to the vet, a canine dentist and bathing. And the annual routine will be vaccinations. Just remember that prevention is always better than cure, so doing your best to prevent any illness and catching problems at the earliest possible stage is the goal to aim for. The following are all areas where you only need a little knowledge to effectively take care of your Labrador well. And if you cannot dedicate this time and effort, then in the nicest possible way, you might be better suited to a pet with less demanding care requirements such as goldfish. Making Safe Your Home and Garden Labradors are a lively and inquisitive breed, especially during their first three years so you need to keep dangerous household items out of their reach. Conceal electrical wiring…we all know of their infamous love for chewing. Sharp teeth and electricity do not mix! A Labrador can easily choke on wrappings or trash that may be swallowed along with edible scraps. Labs are smart and opening cupboards and drawers soon becomes easy for them. Be mindful of the toxicity of certain plants — Over plants have been identified as toxic to dogs , so be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home. Fence of any ponds or pools in your yard. These are just a few points to consider around your home and garden, there are many more. Just try to put yourself in your Labradors shoes and take a good look at his environment as he would see it. Try to see how he could get into trouble and take measures to prevent it. Click here for a more detailed guide on puppy-proofing your home and garden. Brushing also helps to shake loose dirt out of and spread the natural oils throughout their coat for that desirable, healthy glossy look we know and love. Related article: The Best vacuums for removing pet hair from your home. Frequent baths will strip their oils, leaving them prone to wet and cold in winter, causing dry skin and making their coat look dull and not shiny. Keeping Nails Trim Most Labradors will need a nail trim every 2 to 3 months, although some may never need it. Regularly walking your dog on hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will have a natural filing effect and keep your dogs claws in order. This can make them sore and bleed. Ear Care What with a Labradors slightly drooping ears and their love of water, the inside of their ears can sometimes retain too much moisture, causing bacteria to build up and infections to form. I shall be writing an article on this very soon. Just some of the problems a Labrador may have with its teeth are gum disease, loose teeth, cracked or broken teeth, root abscesses and a build up of tartar. These can be very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to further problems if neglected. Therefore, you need to inspect their teeth regularly, take measures to clean their teeth and even visit a professional canine dentist every 6 months or annually for a thorough check up and any necessary treatments. Treat their teeth like you would your own. Dealing with Parasites Controlling fleas, ticks and other parasites is essential for keeping your Labrador healthy. Immediate problems include extreme irritation and skin sores, but extreme infestations can lead to more dangerous problems including Lyme disease and tape worms. If you stick to a regular grooming schedule as you should! Simply brush your hand against the lie of your Labradors fur and watch for any small moving dots and check for any clearly visible ticks. There are many safe and effective over-the-counter flea control products , many of which contain formulations to prevent ticks at the same time. Finally, depending on where you live in the world, you may need to put your Labrador on medication for heartworm. Where mosquitoes are a problem, they can pass on heartworm and this can be fatal. Even the medicine for heartworm makes your dog very ill so prevention is definitely better than cure! Diseases such as distemper, rabies, hepatitis and parvoviros to name just a few. Your puppy will have had his first shots at five or six weeks before you got to take him home, and he will need a few further shots over a period of up to 18 weeks. A rabies shot usually follows at 6 months of age or so. After this, your adult Labrador will need just a single booster each year to stay protected. For many facts on vaccinations and the schedule you should follow when vaccinating your puppy, please click here. Dogs need a balance of vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins different to that of a human and feeding them on human leftovers can lead to malnutrition, as can a diet based on cheap filler packed dog food. You should perform a little research to find and use a recognized healthy brand of dog food that will cater to your Labradors needs. To help with this, please see our articles that list 4 of the best foods for Labrador puppies opens in new window or the best dog foods for adult Labradors opens in new window …yours really will thrive on these handpicked, quality foods! Additionally, the best thing you can do is set up a feeding schedule for your dog, twice per day being the recommended, and be mindful of any extra treats. Your Lab should always be well fed but not over-fed. I shall discuss this more in a later article. An Important Note On Drastic Changes In Eating And Drinking Habits If your dog is off their food, drinks way too much or way too little for a period of time more than 36 hours, you should call your vet as this is almost surely a sign of an underlying problem. They are voracious eaters and will eat just because they can, not because they need it. Excess weight can lead to all sorts of issues including arthritis and heart problems. To prevent this, control their diet and give them plenty of exercise for them to burn off those calories. They really do need very little exercise of just a few short minutes a couple of times per day. Too much exercise for a puppy can cause skeletal formation issues and plays a large part in joint problems. Take it easy until your puppy is at least a year old. Bedding and Shelter A Labrador should always have a soft surface to lay upon. To prevent this you should get your Lab a large sized dog bed or line a crate to offer a soft and comfortable place to rest. If your Lab spends any amount of time outside, you must provide shelter to offer an escape from the sun in summer, and preferably the shelter should have a raised floor so the wet and cold is kept away in winter. If your Lab puppy gets used to sleeping in a bed of yours or your children, it will be a hard habit to break and will more than likely end in separation anxiety and night-time whining. You want your Labrador to be comfortable alone for periods of time and should start forming this habit ASAP. Training The importance of training your Labrador cannot be overstated. A dog is a dog and not a human. You need to teach your dog how to behave and what your instructions are asking them to do. Before a puppy can become a trusted, well-behaved dog they have a lot of learning to do…and you a lot of teaching! To learn from the written word, I am part way through building the ultimate resource in the form of this site. Routines for feeding, exercise, grooming and visits to the vet are all easily managed with a little knowledge and by planning a schedule in advance and sticking to it. Spending quality time with your Lab is also key, especially regular grooming sessions. You should also attempt to learn your dogs normal living habits, how much he eats, drinks and sleeps. Anything To Add? As always, if you have any questions, would like to offer feedback, suggestions or further advice on the subject, please do so in the comments section below. 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. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Learning to be alone Happiness is a Balancing Act Your job is a bit of a balancing act. Keeping your little one happy, while ensuring that he is educated in the ways of our curious human world, and that he learns to behave himself Here are a few tips to help you along the way. This is natural and normal. It makes them feel safe. Puppies also feel safe if they have a den, a place of safety, like the whelping box or nest where they were born, to rest in when they are on their own. But you can hurry that process up by leaving the door open all day and leaving food and nice toys in there for your puppy to find. If you or your children are very excited, your puppy will get excited too. He may get very overexcited, which is when biting can get very out of hand. Of course, there are bound to be times when, despite your best efforts, your puppy gets a little too over-excited. But, learning how to deal with this can help calm things back down. Outdoor Time To Potty I get a lot of questions from people that are struggling with potty training because they are expecting a new puppy to go too long without a wee during the day. Sometimes two or three hours. Some eight week old puppies will empty their bladder in the garden, come indoors and wee again just 15 or 20 minutes later! This is very annoying, but it is a short-lived phase. Restricted Access Many people find it hard to cope with their puppy simply because they are giving him access to too large an area of the family home. He has no chance of learning to be clean if he cannot be watched constantly by a family member and is far more likely to have accidents on carpets, than on hard floors. He will also be constantly in trouble for chewing things he should never have been able to reach. Baby gates are a brilliant way of restricting very small puppies to a fairly small designated part of your home with washable floors. The puppy can then be gradually introduced to more rooms as they mature. The Right Feeding Routines Puppies often have sensitive tummies. Especially in the first few days and weeks in their new home. Most Labrador puppies are greedy and will eat large meals. The quantities on food packet are daily rations and should be divided into at least four portions to begin with. And the result is can be a nasty attack of diarrhea, although of course there are other causes of upset stomaches too! Puppies need to be out and about. There is a small period of time during which puppies can easily accept new experiences. And after which they become fearful of strangers, strange objects, and strange experiences. This unique time slot is called the window for socialization, and it is all but closed before the puppy is 14 weeks old. So you need to get your puppy out and about, meeting all kinds of people, vehicles, shops, machinery, and so on. Positive Reinforcement Leads To Happiness! Nowadays we train dogs using positive reinforcement. Essentially this means with rewards. These rewards can be anything he enjoys, from toys, to food, to simply running around. But puppies need to be shown how to earn rewards the right way. So that we get the right responses from them. It is all too easy to reward your puppy for doing the wrong things. Lots of puppies learn to bark to get attention for example or to jump up to get a stroke. There are lots of games you can play with puppies to help them learn how to earn rewards. Let the puppy know what you like them doing with a marker word like YES and follow it up with a treat. You can start rewarding your puppy like this, for making eye contact with you, right from the very first day. Learn To Be Happy Alone? All companion dogs need to be alone at times. And the best time to learn this skill is when he is small. As soon as your puppy has settled in to his new den, after the first few days it is time to start leaving him alone for short periods of time. Pull up a chair and start by getting the puppy used to being shut in the crate with you next to him. When he is happy to be crated while you are there, you can start leaving him for very short periods of time. Just a few seconds to begin with. Time Off The Leash! Small puppies have a powerful following response — I call this the safety response because they do it to feel safe. If you put and eight week old puppy on the ground and walk away, he will follow you. If you keep your puppy on a leash for the first six months of his life, when you let him off he will no longer have this following reflex, and you will have wasted a great opportunity to establish this good behavior. Check out below for a demonstration, on teaching the puppy recall. So that he can learn to follow in your footsteps as you lead the way in exploring the great wide world. Obviously this needs to be done in a very safe space. Later on when you take your puppy into a more distracting environment, you should attach a trailing line to their harness for safety. If your little one is allowed on the sofa today, he may think he is allowed on the sofa tomorrow. Decide what your rules are, and work out how to achieve them. Find out everything you can about how puppies learn so that you can teach your puppy how to live in our world, with love and kindness. Quiet nights and crate training. This article will take you through everything you need to know, from what to buy, to how to help your pup settle in on his first day and night. Bringing a Puppy Home Bringing home a new 8 or 9 week old puppy is a potentially stressful experience for you and the pup. Of course, it will be better if you have been able to visit your puppy regularly before collecting him. But for most people, time and distance make this an unlikely option. Everything he sees, smells and hears, in your home will seem very strange to him at first. Fortunately, most puppies leave their mother and siblings at an age when they will readily accept their new friends and family. In a few days time, he will have settled in and accepted your home as his, and your family as his own. Holding Your Puppy The first thing to master when bringing home a new puppy is holding them the right way. This is the most comfortable position for puppies. But if you have had a long car journey, the first thing your puppy will need is to pee! Carry him in your arms to the area you want him to use for toilet purposes, and put him down there. Your first steps in potty training have begun. Maintaining Regular Bathroom Breaks Puppies vary widely in how often they need to empty their bladder. Some may last an hour or more from day one, whilst others seem to need to go every 15 minutes or so. During the course of the day, take the puppy to the toilet area at regular intervals half hourly at least to begin with. In addition, take him there every time he finishes a meal or wakes from a sleep. Set an alarm on your cell phone to remind you. Many Labrador puppies are very greedy and will eat astonishing quantities of food. New puppies are especially prone to upset tummies. The new environment and the stress of leaving home all add to the risk. You can reduce that risk by feeding little and often. If you want to change diets, do this gradually once the puppy has settled in. How often to feed Four times a day is the minimum number of feeds for an 8 week old puppy. Five or even six portions are better for a puppy with an upset tummy. Remember that the daily quantity is the same. More portions means smaller portions. If you get this right, there will be little or nothing left to put in the bowl when mealtimes come around You can find out more about using puppy food in training games by joining our Puppy Parenting course Meeting the Kids Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for all the family. For much of the first day, your puppy will probably be cuddled and admired. Kids should also be aware of safety precautions, such as learning to let the pup be if he seems uncomfortable. Some older dogs will play too roughly with a puppy. Others will growl and appear to reject the puppy at first. These are normal reactions but they do indicate that you are going to need to keep a close eye on things for a while. A baby gate or other barrier is a perfect way to keep a puppy from annoying the resident dog or cat while they adjust to the newcomer. As the day draws to a close, your thoughts will turn to night time, and getting your puppy to sleep! Or he howls the house down either constantly or intermittently throughout the night. There are two approaches to choosing where a puppy sleeps for those first few nights. One is to get him used to his permanent sleeping quarters right from the start. The other is to have him next to your bed until he has got over his homesickness usually three or four days. And if you keep going back, the howling may well increase. Leaving a puppy to cry alone in a strange house is also probably very distressing for the puppy and not a great way to start their new life. But we recommend having the puppy next to your bed for the first three nights. This reduces the risk of getting into an increasing spiral of night howling or having your puppy miserable for the first week. Just pop his blankets in there and put the box right next to where you sleep. Night waking Most 8 week old puppies wake in the night to pee for the first week or so. But the first few days is a time for settling your puppy in, building their confidence and avoiding bad habits such as whining or howling, getting started The best way to meet all those goals, is to keep your puppy very close to you until their homesickness has passed. Bonding with your puppy Your main objective now is to bond with your puppy. Spend lots of time with your puppy. Make him feel at home. Pay him a lot of attention when he is quiet, fuss and praise him when he pees outside. Once he has settled in, there will be plenty of time to think about crate training and learning manners, but for now just enjoy his Labrador puppy loveliness, and that scrummy new puppy smell. It will be gone all too soon, replaced by a bouncing, boisterous, and joyful friend who all too often smells of pond water. What you are doing is establishing good habits, which will last a lifetime. What About Crate Training? A quality dog crate is an excellent source of help with potty-training. But a puppy should not be left inside a crate for longer than his immature bladder can hold its contents. For some puppies, this is not very long at all. Socialization is a big part of bringing home a new puppy. This is the process we take puppies through, to make sure they are comfortable with all aspects of living in human society. For instance, dogs need to be confident around things like vehicles and machines. They should be happy to meet people of all different shapes and sizes and to go boldly wherever people want to take them. A confident dog is not just a happy dog; he is a safe dog. Socializing also means taking your puppy out and about. Naturally, many worry about exposing a not-yet-fully vaccinated puppy to the risk of infection. Yes you can! If you use modern dog training methods, you can get going right after bringing home a new puppy! In the first week puppy training is based on a series of fun games. So that your puppy will be learning without even realising. The games you play should lay foundations for future good behavior, teaching your puppy not snatch, to say please, to focus on you, to love their crate, to wear a harness or collar and to run towards you rather than away from you. A lot of people worry about whether or not to take a puppy to classes, and some are unable to do so. But there is a great deal you can do at home by yourself. You can avoid this by getting off to a great start with recall training in the very first week. The video below will help you. And never chase after a puppy. Puppy recall training starts right after bringing home a new puppy. Build an association between the act of running towards you and the sound of the recall word or whistle. If you call the puppy and he does not come, you will have begun to teach him that the recall command is optional. Check out our puppy recall training video to give you an idea of how easy it is to build this a good association if you start off in the right way. You can find out more about building a great recall from the beginning in Total Recall. But for now, in these first few days at home together, make sure no one calls the puppy to them. When they want him, they can simply pick him up. If he runs away, all they need to do is run in the opposite direction and he will come chasing after them. For the first few days after bringing home a new puppy, focus on bonding and helping him to feel safe. Consider having your puppy next to your bed for the first few nights. This will comfort him while he is feeling homesick and missing his mom and playmates. Expect to get up in the night to take your puppy out to pee for at least the first couple of weeks. Set a reminder to avoid teaching your puppy to cry for your attention. During his daytime naps, dive into the feeding, potty training, and obedience training guides mentioned in this article, and head over to the forum for support from our other readers, many of whom have been where you are now, and come safely out the other side! If you want help choosing an adorable puppy name, make sure you take a look at this article too! Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. A dog with the original black body was created using the Black Collie. These dogs have Black colouring as a result, giving them blue to green eyes, pure black paws, and blue to grey skin. The available Black female Pug is incredibly clever and energetic. Because they exert pressure on livestock and deter predators, this has made them well-known on farms. They enjoy playing, but they can be obstinate and need frequent praise. Black Pugs have frequently devoted friends and are helpful with kids. They might not get along with other pets in the house as well unless they were raised together since they occasionally view them as prey. Their double coat is another distinguishing characteristic of this breed. Their entire individuality and appeal are enhanced by the Black colouring, which causes differences in coat lengths and textures across the body. With their owners, they are highly affectionate, yet they can be distant from outsiders. They can live with whom? The Black Pug is a highly well-known breed. They are referred to as the clown of the dog world and like playing with other dogs. Nearby Black Pugs for sale get along well with other dogs and enjoy social interactions with people. However, if you have to leave your house for an extended amount of time, make sure someone is watching them. These Pugs for sale nearby do not enjoy being left alone. Children, other dogs, cats, and even rabbits are all acceptable housemates for our Black Pug for sale! However, due to their high requirement for care and socialisation, they are not recommended for novice dog owners. They may reside in an apartment building or a home with a yard. They thrive in households with a continual presence of people because they require constant company. Where can I find Black Pugs for sale locally? Our selection of Black Pug pups for sale is incredible, and they are all very sweet! Related products.

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. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. 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. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden 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. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Females are about 21 to 22 inches tall and weigh about 55 to 65 pounds 25 to 29 kilograms. The golden retriever has a water-repellent coat that is wavy or flat and gold to cream in color. One of the most attractive features of this breed is the feathering on the neck, legs, thighs, underside and tail. The dog's head is strong and broad. The ears are not very large, but they sit high on the head and hang just below the jaw line. The chest is deep, and the body is well balanced. Golden retrievers live about 10 to 13 years. Personality: The golden retriever is even-tempered, intelligent and affectionate. Golden retrievers are playful, yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. These dogs are eager to please, which probably explains why they respond so well to obedience training and are such popular service dogs. They also like to work, whether it involves hunting birds or fetching their guardian's slippers. .Golden retrievers are not often barkers, and they lack guard instincts, so do not count on them to make good watchdogs. However, some golden retrievers will let you know when strangers are approaching. Living With: This breed likes to be active. Remember, golden retrievers are bird dogs at heart, so they love a good game of fetch or a swim. If exercise is provided daily, golden retrievers can adapt to any type of home, even if it is a city apartment. Golden retrievers are considered average shedders. Brushing about once weekly will keep the coat looking nice. History: In , the golden retriever was the second most popular AKC breed. This ranking is no surprise, because the dog has many qualities that make for a perfect family pet. The golden retriever's roots are in the fields and waterways of Great Britain, however. The golden retriever was bred to be a bird dog, particularly for hunting water fowl, and the breed resulted from crossing a number of other breeds thought to include spaniels, setters, and the Newfoundland but not the Newfoundland we know today , and perhaps even a bloodhound. The combination created a hardy, strong swimming dog that could withstand cold water, track wounded game and deal with crippled birds. Today, golden retrievers are not only good bird dogs and family pets; they also are popular as service dogs for the blind and disabled, and as search and rescue dogs and contraband detection dogs. Few dogs can claim this breed's versatility. Related Pet Care Articles. Frequently Asked Questions Male vs. As with most breeds, the males tend to be larger than the females. A fully grown male Golden Retriever can weigh anywhere between 65 and 75 pounds, while a fully grown female will top out at around 55 to 65 pounds. As expected, the two differ in height, as well. Adult male Goldens usually stand between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders. In contrast, adult females stand at around 21 and 22 inches tall at the shoulders. Aside from height and weight, there are other visible differences between male and female Golden Retrievers. Both male and female Goldens need regular brushing and grooming , but males may require more, due to their thicker coats. Male Golden Retrievers also tend to have broader heads and snouts, while females have a more narrow head and a skinnier snout. In general, females are more slender, while males tend to have a stockier appearance. Male vs. Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 2: Personality Traits and Demeanor Male and female Golden Retrievers share many of the same personality traits , like friendliness and gentle nature. Some owners report that males and females tend to have different personality traits. However, many of these reports are anecdotal, rather than proven. Some owners believe that their male Goldens tend to be far more attached to members of the family, while female Goldens are more independent. A male Golden might be more likely to stay glued at your hip, eager to please you and earn your affection. While female Goldens do get attached and want to please you, they might not be as clingy as their male counterparts. This is not to say that female Goldens are not affectionate. They just might express their affection differently than male Goldens. Some owners also report that male Goldens also tend to have more stubborn behavior than females. That is true for both male and female Goldens. Whether they are male or female, if your Golden Retrievers has a higher energy level, they may require more regular physical activity and exertion to prevent destructive behaviors or mood issues. That can be throwing a ball in the backyard or going for a daily walk around the neighborhood. In the case of male vs. All Golden Retrievers are prone to certain medical and physical conditions, including elbow dysplasia, retinal cataracts, bloat, epilepsy, aortic stenosis, Von Willebrand disease, and various types of cancer. While all Goldens are susceptible to these conditions, female Goldens come with their unique health concerns in addition to those experienced by the breed. For example, unspayed female Goldens have an increased risk of conditions like hip dysplasia. Improvements in screening and careful breeding have been lowering the rates of this condition in recent years. Females are also more likely to develop ocular myasthenia and adrenocortical insufficiency. Overall, male and female Goldens have the same life expectancy, reaching anywhere between 10 and 12 years. In some cases, both male and female Golden Retrievers can even live between 14 and 15 years. While all Goldens are highly intelligent, some puppy owners report that their female Goldens seem to pick up concepts slightly quicker than males, making them more adept at associating prompts and actions. This may lead to the assumption that females are easier to train. Goldens can often correctly respond to commands starting as young as 12 weeks old, whether they are male or female. Working with an experienced professional who can show you positive training methods can help make things like obedience training much easier, no matter whether you have a male Golden puppy or a female one. Male vs Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 6: Family Compatibility While Golden Retrievers make great family pets, there are a few things about the two genders that may make you choose one over the other for your household. Since female Goldens are sometimes reported to have calmer dispositions, they may be a nice choice for families that include children or seniors. Female Goldens are sometimes believed to be more careful and observant around small children, whereas male Goldens might be more carefree and playful. Due to their larger size, a male Golden Retriever might be able to knock children or senior adults over if they get hyper. Goldens of either gender are remarkably friendly, but this energetic spirit could cause injury to certain family members who cannot handle the size of a medium-to-large breed dog. Goldens are an ideal match for young couples who love a lot of activity. Whether you choose a male or female Golden Retriever, rest assured they will bring years of love, loyalty, and fun to your family! Exercise and Play: Regular exercise is essential to keep these energetic dogs healthy and happy, ensuring daily walks and playtime. Early Training and Socialization: Begin training early and expose your Golden Retriever to various people and situations for a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Grooming Care: Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and occasional baths. Health Maintenance: Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and preventive care are vital for their overall well-being. Living Space: Ensure you have enough room in your home and yard to accommodate their medium to large size and active lifestyle. Family Compatibility: Golden Retrievers are generally good with children and other pets , but supervise interactions to ensure safety and harmony. Financial Preparedness: Owning a dog comes with expenses, so be financially ready for their care and well-being. Safety Precautions: Puppy-proof your living space to eliminate potential hazards and provide a safe environment. Lifelong Commitment: Be prepared for a long-term commitment as Golden Retrievers typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years or more. Although golden retrievers are generally not hyperactive, females are sometimes believed to mature faster than males. This may help them to learn commands at a slightly younger age, although these differences tend to disappear as a dog gets a little older. Are male dogs friendlier than females? Male dogs are not necessarily more friendly, than female Golden Retrievers. In most cases, the differences will come from the individual personality of the puppy in question, rather than the gender. What is the difference between male dogs and female dogs? It really comes down to the individual personality of a puppy more than its gender. Can you have 2 male Golden Retrievers? Goldens are actually happier when they have companions, and while two males may fight to figure out who is the alpha between them, you could just as easily experience this same dynamic between two female Golden Retrievers or mixed genders. Do male or female dogs live longer? It has been noted that gender does not typically play a role in determining the life span of a dog, although males tend to live slightly longer on average. Spaying and neutering a dog seems to have a greater impact on the lifespan of a Golden Retriever. Is it better to get a male or female golden retriever? The answer to this question will usually come down to your personal preferences. While some dog owners report that males or females tend to have certain characteristics, in most cases, these differences stem more from the personality of an individual puppy than from their gender. 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. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

By Patricia Kaowthumrong. Reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Dec. Since then, the dogs have been coveted companions that are beloved for having low-shedding qualities, a clever-yet-highly-trainable personality, and a patient family-friendly nature. The standard large-size, wavy-haired Goldendoodle can grow to 20—24 inches tall and about 50—90 pounds, but also come in smaller sizes as Mini Goldendoodles. Caring for a Goldendoodle The Goldendoodle is bred to exhibit the best qualities of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Goldendoodles are very intelligent and do well in obedience classes and agility training. While they can live happily with other dogs, cats, and children, the pups can be prone to separation anxiety. Goldendoodle Health Issues Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs that can live 10—15 years, but they are prone to common health conditions of the Poodle and Golden Retriever breeds. Discomfort is commonly displayed by pups via limited mobility, which can include reduced activity, difficulty going up stairs, or even difficulty just getting up. Heart Disease Goldendoodles are genetically predisposed to heart disease, particularly a congenital variation called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS. The heart must work harder than normal to pump blood through this narrowed area, causing heart muscle abnormalities, says Whittenburg. Grain-free and boutique brand foods should be avoided. Glaucoma is an eye disease involving increased pressure. Symptoms pet parents should look out for include bulging eyeballs, watery discharge, redness to the whites of the eyes, and dilated pupils. The condition can be treated with long-term medication. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Cataracts is a common condition in dogs that causes clouding in the eyes and can lead to vision loss. Cataracts can be treated with surgery but, left untreated, can lead to complete loss of vision. What To Feed a Goldendoodle A balanced diet will help your Goldendoodle maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related health conditions. That means ensuring your pup eats the proper amount of high-quality dog food and always has access to fresh water. First bred in the late s as guide dogs, the Goldendoodle—a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle—became a popular household pet in the United States during the s. To help reduce the risks of heart disease, avoid feeding your dog grain-free and boutique brand foods, Whittenburg says. Behavior and Training Tips for Goldendoodles Goldendoodle Personality and Temperament If socialized properly as puppies, Goldendoodles can certainly live in homes with other canines. Goldendoodles are energetic dogs that require 30—60 minutes of physical exercise per day, which can encompass a combination of everything from walks and runs to hikes and playtime. Pet parents should avoid leaving their four-legged friends at home alone for too long. Goldendoodles are energetic dogs that require 30—60 minutes of physical exercise per day. Overall, Goldendoodles are known for their gentle temperament, making them ideal for households with kids and elders. Goldendoodle Training Goldendoodles are known for being intelligent and easily trained, so they excel in activities like agility and obedience classes. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, using treats to reward good behavior. Pin16 Wanna remember this blog post!? Be sure to Pin to your favorite Pinterest Board! Goldendoodles are becoming quite popular. Being a first-time Goldendoodle pet parent can be both fun and overwhelming. The fun about a Goldendoodle is their goofy personalities, playfulness, sweet demeanor, and of course their ability to get along with any dog they meet! However, coat care tends to be the most overwhelming aspect of owning a Goldendoodle. This is why for first-time Goldendoodle pet parents, coat care tips are essential. Instead, there is matting knots and tangles , mildewing of the coat from access to water, overgrown hair in the eyes, dingleberries, hair in the ears, hair breakage from harnesses, dry skin, and coat, and of course an overgrown coat that is impossible to manage. Here are my 5 Coat Care tips for 1st time Goldendoodle parents. Using the right brush for your Goldendoodle is essential. The only brush you wanna use is a slicker brush. Check out my top brush recommendations. And that will lead your Goldendoodle to get skin issues and possibly shaved at the groomer. A doggie blow dryer is a much more expensive purchase— but is your best investment for a Goldendoodle. Allowing your Goldendoodle to air dry—can cause the coat to sour and mildew. And cause skin problems as well from growing bacteria. This also causes matting. It is best to fully dry, brush, and comb your Goldendoodle. This is usually my 1 rookie mistake amongst my first-time Goldendoodle pet parent. However, Goldendoodles have a very high maintenance coat and require extra TLC. A high-quality groomer will absolutely help you along your journey. Wanna know if you have the best groomer for your Goldendoodle? Many first-time Goldendoodle Pet Parents try to groom their doodle at home to save money at the groomers. But that is just so dangerous. Read more about why it is dangerous to groom your dog at home. This will help keep your dog mat-free, accustomed to grooming, and free from odors. Goldendoodle coats are man-made. This will get on your furniture and can be incredibly unhygienic if you have small children or if you allow your pup in your bed. Choose high-quality food and supplements to give your dog healthy skin and coat. Low-quality food causes a dull coat, dry skin, allergies, and smelly feet. All fluff no substance. If you have any more questions regarding your Goldendoodle check out my Ebook just for Goldendoodle Pet Parents! Or leave a comment below! With Love, At the time, Labradoodles and Cockapoos had already gained popularity as service dogs. However, over time, breeders received requests for smaller versions and started breeding Golden Retrievers with Poodles of different sizes. Now, Goldendoodles typically come in the following three sizes: Miniature: The miniature Goldendoodle stands at inches and weighs pounds. Small: The small Goldendoodle is much more comparable to medium-sized dog breeds , standing at inches and weighing an average of 50 pounds. Large: The large Goldendoodle is similar to other large breeds, weighing pounds with a height of inches. However, most Goldendoodles take after their Golden Retriever parents with golden fur, while others have Poodle colors ranging from orange and cream to dark brown, gray, and black. The type of Goldendoodle coat also varies depending on the parents. For example, you can find Goldendoodles with wavy, straight or curly coats, and many even have tight curls. However, Golden Retrievers and Poodles are highly active dogs that require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Poodles and Golden Retrievers are two of the smartest dog breeds, making Goldendoodles highly intelligent and eager to please, which is good news for you! In addition, your Goldendoodle will be easy to train and love to learn, so they make great service dogs. For example, a recent study found that Goldendoodles experienced more dog-directed fear than Golden Retrievers and Poodles. Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day to prevent destructive behavior. Therefore, when adopting a Goldendoodle, try to learn as much as possible about the parents and ensure they have no history of health issues. Goldendoodles are prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia and canine seizures because Golden Retrievers and Poodles are. Additionally, Goldendoodles score significantly higher than their parent breeds in some problematic behaviors, including dog-directed aggression, dog-directed fear, and stranger-directed fear. Most Goldendoodles will be happy with at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, but some might need several hours, depending on their age and overall health. In any case, expect your dog to want to spend a lot of time outside playing fetch, running off-leash, and going on adventures. Nutrition Like all dogs, Goldendoodles require a balanced diet to keep them healthy and happy. Your dog should eat high-quality food appropriate for their age. For example, puppies should eat food formulated for puppies to ensure they get the right balance of nutrients. How much you feed them is as important as feeding them a healthy diet. How much your Goldendoodle should eat largely depends on their activity level. The more your Goldendoodle runs and plays, the more they should eat. Grooming Grooming is essential for all dogs because it can help prevent odor and treat certain skin conditions like canine dermatitis. Goldendoodles shed minimally but still need regular brushing and baths to remove dirt and debris. Additionally, some Goldendoodles have skin allergies you can treat with medicated shampoos. Your Goldendoodle will also need regular trims to prevent their fur from matting. Dogs with floppy ears, like the Goldendoodle, are prone to ear infections , so you should check their ears for discharge and odor every time you groom them. Training Goldendoodles are highly active, intelligent dogs that will require training. High-energy dogs without proper training are prone to destructive behaviors, like chewing furniture or jumping on people. However, obedience training at a young age can prevent undesirable behaviors. These dogs are known to be food motivated, so find them a treat they love and invest in reward-based obedience training to help them learn how to behave in everyday situations. In addition to obedience training, you should focus on socializing your dog. However, socialization can prevent fearfulness around strangers and other dogs. Abused or neglected dogs are more likely to have behavioral problems, so taking the time to train your Goldendoodle should prevent any unwanted behaviors. Additionally, training is beneficial for your dog because it provides mental stimulation that can prevent boredom and keep them calm when relaxing at home. This breed typically does best in homes with extensive, enclosed yards that allow them to roam freely, run, and play. Where can I get a Goldendoodle? You can adopt a Goldendoodle from a shelter or purchase one from a reputable breeder. However, adopting from a rescue specializing in Goldendoodles is usually much cheaper. Are there any downsides to owning a Goldendoodle? However, there are several downsides to owning a Goldendoodle. However, if you get your dog from a shelter or breeder, they can provide a health history to ensure both parents are healthy. In addition to potential health issues, Goldendoodles need a lot of exercise and play. Goldendoodles that don't receive enough exercise may engage in undesirable behaviors. Goldendoodles also require lots of grooming, like their Poodle parents, to prevent their fur from matting. Taking your Goldendoodle to a groomer every month or so is recommended. They also make good family pets since they're social. Apart from grooming and providing them with exercise, caring for a Goldendoodle is straightforward. Talk to a Dutch vet today. Dutch offers telemedicine for pets to ensure your Goldendoodle gets the care they need from the comfort of home. Try Dutch today. Published on Mar 07, and updated at Mar 13, .Click Play to Learn More About the Lovable Goldendoodle History of the Goldendoodle Goldendoodles were first bred in to be guide dogs, but the breed gained popularity among breeders during the s. The idea for the crossbreed was inspired by the successful breeding of the labradoodle, which is a poodle and Labrador retriever hybrid. As one of the most popular domestic dog breeds in the United States, the golden retriever was an obvious choice for crossbreeding with the delightfully hypoallergenic poodle. The first three dogs to earn the American Kennel Club Obedience Champion title after its introduction in were golden retrievers, which proves their loyalty and ease of trainability poodles were originally bred as retrievers and water dogs, and both the breeds score in the top 5 of the smartest dog breeds. These genes pass on to the goldendoodle, so owners can be assured of an athletic, intelligent and obedient companion. Goldendoodle Care Though low-maintenance, goldendoodles require adequate exercise, grooming, and training. This social breed thrives with its family and friends inside. The fur of a goldendoodle varies, but most of the time, their fur is in between the two extremes when it comes to grooming. They respond best to positive, reward-based training and will gladly show off their tricks for a tasty treat. Exercise With average to above average energy levels, goldendoodles require daily exercise and love to go for walks, runs, hikes, and swims. Their playful nature and retriever genes make them great fetch partners, too. Owners should aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day including walking, running, swimming, and tackling agility courses. To keep their skin and coat healthy, they need a moisturizing bath every few months. Depending on the dog, a goldendoodles may grow long hair over its eyes or between its toes and appropriate trimming is required. Training Goldendoodles are obedient, athletic, and smart so they take well to training and are eager to please. Agility comes to them naturally and courses are a great place for goldendoodles to burn energy and create a strong bond between owner and companion. They may inherit the health problems associated with poodles and golden retrievers, but it is possible that the hybrid minimizes health problems due to their genetic diversity. Goldendoodles often do exhibit this enhanced health, but only when its parents are purebred golden retrievers and poodles who have been bred responsibly and have no hereditary health issues. Hip dysplasia : Poodles and golden retrievers are both prone to hip dysplasia, so a hip exam is highly recommended to keep a potential issue in check. Eye disorders : Eye issues are also a common problem among poodles and golden retrievers. Setting up an annual eye exam with your veterinarian is a great idea for all goldendoodle owners. A dry kibble high in protein and fats does the trick. Dry kibble is helpful in removing plaque and promoting general dental hygiene. Corn, wheat, soy, and dairy are common canine food allergies. Goldendoodles are susceptible to food allergies, so it is a good idea to minimize these ingredients in their diet. Go for a grain-free diet with whole vegetables. Where to Adopt or Buy a Goldendoodle Check with your local animal shelter or rescue group to see if there's a goldendoodle available for your home. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue also includes goldendoodles in the type of dogs that it rescues. The Goldendoodle Association of North America provides a list of breeders on its website. Goldendoodle Overview Smart and fairly easy to train Good for those with pet allergies Friendly dogs that are good with kids and other pets Cons Needs at least 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise Doesn't do well being left alone for long periods of time Susceptible to food allergies, requiring higher-quality, allergen-free food What Is a Designer Dog Breed? Like goldendoodles? You might also enjoy these breeds:. By Dr. They are known for their excellent temperaments and for being great for people with allergies. They make great guide dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, or just plain old family pets. But there are many things that you need to do to make sure that your puppy is happy and healthy. This article is a complete Goldendoodle Care guide for puppies. How do care for a Goldendoodle puppy? There are many things that you need to do to make sure that your puppy is healthy and happy. Vet visits for vaccines and spay or neuter Provide a high-quality diet Behavioral Training Monitor for signs of Illness By following these steps, you will have your Goldendoodle puppy started on the right track for a long healthy, and happy life. This Golden Doodle Care guide will provide you with the needed resources when you have a question on how to raise your Goldendoodle puppy. How To Care For A Goldendoodle A Visit to the Vet When you get your Goldendoodle a crossbreed between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever that has recently increased in popularity , you will want to schedule an appointment for them at your veterinary office. While this hybrid dog breed is not prone to health issues, they can still contract issues like ear infections or other issues from their environment. Your vet will examine your puppy to make sure that they are healthy and review what vaccines they may have previously received. Most of the time, they will check their stool for worms and get them started on a vaccine schedule. This is a common schedule that most vets follow for vaccines. This is usually done by the breeder before you get your Goldendoodle puppy. Most of these worms are microscopic, but some you can see in their stool. If you see worms, make sure to let your vet know. Your vet can give your Goldendoodle puppy medication to get rid of these nasty worms. Not only will your pet need vaccines, but they will also need heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. All of these parasites can cause health problems in your Goldendoodle , some of which can be fatal. When do I need to get my Goldendoodle Spayed or Neutered? Most vets recommend spaying or neutering your Goldendoodle puppy around 6 months of age. Some people will wait a little longer before spaying and neutering to allow their Goldendoodle with you. Your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of spaying your dog around 6-month vs. This decreases the chance of mammary tumors in females and eliminates testicular cancer in males. By not spaying your dog, you are risking them developing a pyometra. A pyometra is an infection in the uterus that can be fatal if not caught early enough. Puppies recover from the spay or neuter procedure very quickly, where older dogs may take a few days. Surgery on your young puppy will help them from developing major problems later on in life. While puppies can be very cute, over breeding dogs has caused lots of pets to end up in a shelter and not in a loving home. For your dog to stay healthy, they will need proper nutrition. There are many great diets on the market. Most pups will need food that is higher in protein than adult food. You should also look at the ingredient list on the back. The first ingredient should be protein. It is also better if it is the whole protein and not a protein meal. Once your Goldendoodle puppy is almost fully grown , you can switch to adult food. This is usually 8 months to 1 year of age. Most Goldendoodles will stay on an adult diet until they are around 7 years, then they will switch to a senior diet. Your veterinarian can recommend many great brands of dog food. Treats often contain higher amounts of fat than regular dog food. How much to feed a Goldendoodle Puppy? Most recommended following the feeding instructions on the bag, but a good rule of thumb is about 1 cup per 15 pounds a day. Most of the time, it is recommended to split these feeding into a few different feedings each day. When your puppy is very young, most vets worry about your Goldendoodle puppy being able to regulate their blood sugar. By giving them multiple meals a day will help keep their blood sugar at optimal levels. Some people will feed their puppy a mixture of wet food and dry food as their teeth are coming in, and once they have all of their teeth with switch them to strictly dry food. When feeding your Goldendoodle wet food, make sure to decrease the amount of dry food that you are feeding them, or your Goldendoodle can become overweight. Behavioral Training and Socialization When you first get your Goldendoodle puppy, you will need to train them on how to act and socialize them with other people and pets. This makes sure that you raise a well-mannered Goldendoodle. You will have to train them on how to do many things such as: Potty Training Not to Chew on things Simple sit and stay commands How to walk on a leash Potty Training There are two main ways that people potty train their dogs. Most people will crate train or potty pad train their Goldendoodle puppies. Crate training is the most common way, but people in apartments or people who live where winter is very harsh sometimes prefer potty pad training as they do not have to always take their dog outside. Crate Training Some people do not want to keep their Goldendoodle in a crate all day while they are gone. Usually, after a few days, these puppies will adapt to being in a crate during the day. It will even make life easier for you, especially if they are making a mess all over the house or destroying everything in the house. By using consistency and teaching your dog that staying in a crate is fun and not scary will not only make potty training easier, it will also help with vet visits and traveling. Goldendoodles love having a place to call their own. By providing them with a crate, full of blankets and toys, and their food bowl, they will quickly love spending time in their crate. By making this space fun and cozy will make it very easy to train your Goldendoodle to stay in a crate and reduce the likelihood of separation anxiety. They do not like lying next to or in their urine or poop. If you have a large mixed breed Goldendoodle puppy probably from a Standard Poodle parent , you can still get a big crate and use the partition provided with the crate to block off a section of the crate for them to stay in while they are growing. When you are not able to watch your puppy constantly put them in their crate. Many times, this will be when your puppy wants to sleep, or you are gone from the house. Your new puppy will let you know that they need out to potty. These signals may be whining and scratching at the side of the crate or barking at you. As soon as you notice these signs, take your puppy out immediately. Do not let them use the bathroom in their crate as this teaches them it is okay to potty in their crate. Eventually, your puppy will be able to hold it the whole time in their crate without having an accident. Potty Pad or Paper Training If you do want to allow your Goldendoodle to have a place to potty inside, the potty pad training them is a great idea. Potty pad training is great for people who are at work for a very long time or people who cannot make it home during the day to let their Goldendoodle outside. This is also great for small Goldendoodles that live in an apartment or in an area where winter is very harsh. By potty pad training your Goldendoodle puppy, you are giving them an approved location to use the bathroom while you are gone. Sometimes potty pad or paper training your puppy is not the best thing to teach them to do. If your final goal is to only have your dog use the bathroom outside, then it is advised to skip potty pad. Potty pad training can teach your dog bad habits and that it is okay to use the bathroom inside the house. Many times, this can be very confusing for young Goldendoodle puppies. How to potty train your Goldendoodle puppy Potty training is very simple. There are both disposable potty pads and washable potty pads that you can reuse. Lay one of these pads out for your puppy. When you would take your Goldendoodle puppy outside to use the bathroom, take them to the potty pad instead. Your Goldendoodle puppy will quickly learn that this is an approved place for them to use the bathroom. With a little persistence and patience, your Goldendoodle puppy with quickly learn where is an approved spot for them to use the bathroom. Goldendoodles are very smart, and very quick learners most only have a few accidents in the house. Some do take a little longer to potty train usually because they can also be very stubborn. Why is my Goldendoodle Chewing on Everything All puppies will go through a teething phase where they will chew on anything. This is a normal and sometimes painful process. Your Goldendoodle puppy will start to lose teeth around 3 months of age and continue until they are a little over 6 months. During this time, you will notice that your Goldendoodle puppy is chewing on anything and everything. This behavior can become a lifelong habit if you do not give your dog something approved to chew on during this puppy teething phase. During the teething phase , your Goldendoodle puppy will find many different types of objects to chew on to relieve the pain from the new teeth coming in. But chewing on your furniture and shoes is usually not a wanted behavior. You should give your dog appropriate toys and teething devices during this time. Also, you need to teach your Goldendoodle puppy that nipping and biting people and other animals are not allowed. If you have another pet in the house during the time that your Goldendoodle puppy is teething, monitor their playtime as sometimes these nips and bites can escalate into a serious fight. Socializing Your Goldendoodle Puppy It is best to start to socialize your puppy early. This is one of the most important parts of caring for your Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles are a very energetic dog, so give them a chance to get in some exercise! Socialization should start around 8 weeks old. Most people will start with puppy classes. This is a way that you can get your Goldendoodle puppy around other puppies. During your Goldendoodle puppy first few months of life, you need to introduce them to many different sounds and environments. Puppy classes will give your puppy the opportunity to learn basic commands such as sit and stay as well as how to walk on a leash. During this time, it is recommended that your Goldendoodle experiences different types of social environments involving people and other dogs. Without this proper Socialization and training, your Goldendoodle puppy may be afraid in certain situations, such as with new people or animals. When training your Goldendoodle puppy, think of all situations that they may have to encounter in their life. Your Goldendoodle puppy should be relaxed around new people, pets, cars, people on bicycles, honking horns, stairs, cats, exams by the vet, and large crowds of people. If you can get your dog to get used to these situations will make for a much more relaxed life for you and your Goldendoodle. Between 2 and 4 months of age, your puppy is the most comfortable learning these new behaviors, having new experiences, and meeting new people or animals. They may still be scared at first, but you can help them by taking them very often to new places and around new people. Also, provide positive reinforcement when they behave appropriately and support them if they are afraid. After your Goldendoodle is 4 months old, they are usually less tolerant of learning to adapt to new environments and people or animals. This can make obedience training difficult in an older dog. Grooming Training Your Goldendoodle puppy will not need much grooming for the first few months. Just a good brushing every day or so to prevent mats and remove tangles will suffice. Show them all the tools, including your clipper, comb , brush , and scissors, and give your Goldendoodle puppy a lot of praise. Touch their nails and face and make sure that they have a good time. This will make grooming them as adults much easier in the future your groomer will thank you! Signs of Illness in Your Goldendoodle When your puppy is young, they are susceptible to many diseases and illnesses. This is why you need to make sure that your Goldendoodle receives all their needed vaccines. These vaccines alone will not prevent all disease. You will also need to watch your puppy for any signs of Illness. If you see any of these signs, you need to take your Goldendoodle puppy to your vet as soon as possible. Not eating. If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend.

This considerably reduces the breeding cost of the puppy and hence, the cheaper selling price. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. The breeder should normally give you the papers of both parents of your Lab puppy so you can register him with the AKC. Both parents should already be registered with the AKC as well. Some breeders fail to register the parents in the AKC or simply choose not to do so, but they continue breeding anyway. This gives you a good idea of the genetic and physical conditions you should be expecting or not expecting from your puppy. It may seem that purchasing a lab puppy without papers is a good bargain. Initially, it definitely seems like it. However, your puppy may or may not develop some health issues as he grows up. You may end up paying much more money than you saved when initially buying the Lab puppy. The AKC registration ensures that any participating dog is a perfect example of its breed. The decision is yours in the end but we recommend against it. For one, having a pedigree is important to make sure that your puppy has healthy parents and grandparents. Secondly, many issues could happen during the breeding process which could cause health problems for the puppy. With that in mind, you can rest assured that a registered Lab puppy is often a healthy one. The AKC even provides a day trial of pet insurance once you register your puppy with them. Unpredictability is the main issue with the absence of papers. You may end up with a perfectly healthy puppy that develops no health conditions at all. However, the chances of that happening are unlikely. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. What if I Still Want the Puppy? We get it. Your heart might just latch to that one puppy. Try to make sure that both parents are physically and mentally healthy if you can. You may even ask if someone bought one of the parents and pay them a visit to see the parent. The score for each hip ranges from 0 to .The lower the score is, the better. The total score for both hips should range from 0 to .A good hip score for each hip ranges between 0—3. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Check out our. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs.

Pug puppies for sale What can I expect to pay for a Pug puppy near me? Pugs for Sale in Lancaster, PA. They're great for families with kids and perfect for seniors and any dog lovers. Pug puppies adapt quickly to their new environments and are just as quick to bond with their new families. Boston Terriers are eager and easy to train, and are excellent with children. Similar Pug Puppies. Anything Look…Weird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the latest version of Chrome or Safari. Short and stocky, with that cute curly tail over the back. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, Two Black male pug puppies and One Fawn male puppy available. We have 2 girls pugs and 2 boys pugs to sell, they are 5 weeks old, mum and dad are available to view, pups will be health checked, microchipped and first vaccinations will be done before pick up. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale. If you find anything suspicious. Report this Listing Sellers are not affiliated with Lancaster Puppies. The puppies are very excited to meet you! Call today to adopt one of these precious puppies into your home! Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and. He is as sweet as they come. Here, at Premier Pups, we specialize in raising happy and healthy Pug puppies. Pug Puppies For Sale No puppies available at this time. Indiana, New York and other states. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. Location: Lancaster, PA We have adorable pug puppies available. View our Available Puppies. Say hello to these adorable Pug puppies! These beautiful pups will bring so much joy and happiness to your life with their sweet and friendly personalities! Rockvale Puppies are specialists in rare color, purebred Pugs. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified. Share this listing: Breed: Pug. Pug Puppies in Pennsylvania. Although this breed is most commonly called a Jug, they are sometimes also referred to as a Jack Pug or a Jack Russell Pug. Trotter - Pug Puppy for Sale in. Delightful Pug Puppies For Sale. They can all be viewed on our website along information on each individual puppy! Please contact us for more… Pug Puppies!! Greenfield Puppies has been finding loving homes for puppies for over a decade. Breeders on our site are located throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states. As the leading source of cute puppies for adoption from responsible pet breeders in Lancaster, PA and surrounding areas look no further than the team at Homemade Puppies. Pug puppies for sale in Lancaster, PA from trusted breeders. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pugs for adoption in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area come with a year health guarantee. Location: New Florence, Pennsylvania. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other classifieds in your neighborhood. Say hello to these charming Pug puppies! Their sweet, inquisitive personalities win over the hearts of all who meet them. Family and Companionship Thanks to their sweet, goofy, and kind nature, Pugs make fantastic companion pets for any type of owner. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Their motto is that they "raise right, raise well, and raise for you". Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. Why buy a Pug puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Pug puppies in Lancaster who need a home. She has a white triangle patch on her chest and a white front paw. Find your new puppy here! Pug puppies for sale! Lancaster Puppies has your Pug puppy. Pug Puppies for Sale in Pennsylvania. All of our puppies will be seeing a vet at 7 weeks old. Call now to bring this darling puppy home with you! At AKC Marketplace, we connect you with only AKC-registerable puppies from responsible, passionate breeders, as well as supply you with the tools you need to bring home the perfect puppy for you! She is as sweet as they come. Pug Puppies for Sale in Lancaster Pennsylvania. We expect every breeder to comply with all state laws and follow strict guidelines that we have put in place. Lancaster PA, Phone: Email: rockvalepuppies gmail. Interview the Breeder Contact the breeder and learn more about the puppy you are interested in. Pug Puppies for Sale in PA. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Lancaster Township , Pennsylvania? Size: Lancaster Puppies advertises puppies for. Browse our listings today to find your new pet or contact us about our breeding and puppy listing services using our web form. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Date Available: May 5, .Schedule Your Puppies Adoption Arrange a time to personally meet and adopt your puppy or schedule safe delivery to your home. Pugs for adoption in the Lancaster Township , Pennsylvania area come with a year health guarantee. Lancaster, PA Puppies for Sale. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. Black and Fawn Male Pug Puppies available .As they are very active pups, they love exploring the outdoors and will make great playmates! If you're looking for a loyal friend and protector to keep you. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the. Pugs are in the "companion dog" category. Pug puppies for sale in PA. Puppies for Sale from Lancaster, Pennsylvania Breeders. Find Pug puppies for sale Near Lancaster, PA Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Browse our listings today to find your new. Our Pug puppies are raised in a family environment and interacted with daily to prepare them for a smooth transition to their new homes. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Browse our selection of reputable breeders. Will have shots, be wormed and have vet check. About Us. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article.

Our cutters are offered in different sizes ranging from 2 to 6 inches in height, depending on the design. Please contact us if the desired size is not shown. All our cutters are made from quality PLA biodegradable plastic. Our cookie cutter designs have a 5 mm wide grip for comfort when used, a 17 mm tapered blade to allow for a clean crisp cut, and a reinforced base to give them extra strength. Our store's standard PLA color is red. However, colors of ordered cookie cutters may vary. We recommend that you soak them in soapy water after each use and gently clean with a soft brush a new toothbrush would do -only to be used for this purpose. Dough residue may accumulate between the very fine layers of the cutter walls. Avoid storing them with metal cutters, as these can damage your PLA cutters. We always do our best to ship all orders as quickly as possible! Sorry… no returns or exchanges. Please contact us should you have any problems with your order. Happy baking and decorating.We would love to see what you create with our cutters… tag us on Instagram sugartess. DBA Sugartess. All rights reserved. Cutters are copyrighted and shall not be recreated. Images and pictures cannot be reproduced, printed nor published in any social media platform as your own. When used, please make sure you give Sugartess credit. The pictures of the cookies and cookie cutter shapes presented in this website are for reference only. They may have minor differences to the actual printed cutter you'll receive. The cutters may have merged lines and edges to make your cookies more resistant and easier to decorate. Friday, March 16, Puppy Surprise by Playskool I am going to veer away from my normal doll talk to share two things with you. First, an awesome toy called Puppy Surprise. Remember how I mentioned a while back about how much I like surprises? Well, this toy is perfect for me. It's perfect for a lot of kids in the year old range, too, in my experience. I think I have bought one of these for almost every kid I know in that age range. What is Puppy Surprise? It is a plush dog who is pregnant stuffed with removable puppies. The surprise is, you don't know how many puppies she has until you open the box and the dog. She could have anywhere from 2 to 4 puppies, and if she has 4, one of them is likely to be a runt. It's awesome. The puppies are also gendered, so you don't know if you're going to get boys or girls.In the early 90s, Hasbro made a similar toy, also called Puppy Surprise, but these dogs had vinyl faces. The older toys are also still available on eBay, but they tend to command higher prices, especially if the set is complete and in good shape. I like both versions, but slightly prefer the newer ones because they are all plush. A few years ago, when these started to go on clearance, I hoarded a ton of them so I could give them away as gifts. I have a few left over. Let's have some fun with them! Playskool Puppy Surprise discontinued. The dogs are about 9 inches tall and come in a fairly simple window box. The box emphasizes the surprise element, which works like a charm to get me to shell out my money: I hope it's 4! I need to know!! The box also gives you the exact odds of getting each number of puppies, which I think is very nice: 2 puppies: 1 out of every 4 boxes 3 puppies: 2 out of 4 boxes interesting 4 puppies 1 out of 4 boxes It also says that all twins are girls. The chances of having a boy are 1 in 6. Those are good odds for the fellas. Each mother dog has a pattern on her cheek called a "Pretty Patch. This way, if you have lots of these dogs, you can always reunite a mother with her original puppies by matching the patches. The gender of the puppies is indicated by the lining of their ears. If the lining is pink they're overheated girls, if it is blue, they're holding their breath boys. There are lots of different colors and styles of dog to choose from. I have seen purple poodles, pink poodles, black and white spotted dogs, pink and white spotted ones with fluffy ears, cream ones with fluffy ears, pure white ones, tan and pink ones.Playskool also made some different animals, like cats and rabbits. This one is a bit drab. She was on a massive clearance sale: You have to wrestle her out of three wire ties, and that's it. Let's get right to that part. The puppies are in the dog's belly, which opens and closes with velcro. It's nicely done and the dog has enough stuffing to be cuddly even without the puppies. Of course you can't tell how many puppies there are inside until you open her up. My kids and I used to hold every single box in the store and try to tell from the weight which ones had the most puppies. Here is the exciting moment! These dogs should come with a scalpel and sutures. It's a girl! She looks just like her mother: And it's.Who also looks just like her mother. Ah, well. These babies are essentially identical, but the way they are stuffed gives them very different personalities. The firstborn is very cute and normal and maybe a little shy-looking, and the second one has some serious attitude. She'd be telling dog jokes and running all over the place making trouble if she were real: Hey, hey! Did you hear the one about the chihuahuas and the light bulb? Ok, let's try again. I happen to have another one: This is my favorite out of all of the colors. She reminds me of my very first dog: She has a different Pretty Patch: Here we go! Puppy Surprise features a soft and huggable Mommy dog with a surprise number of puppies in her litter. Will it be three four or five puppies inside her tummy? There is no way of knowing until you get your dog home to play with! You can learn more about Puppy Surprise Dogs on the Flair website. She loved the fact that it was a surprise! There are various seasons of the Puppy Surprises toys available, all with different hair, fur and nose colours. The Mommy dogs can contain 3, 4 or 5 puppies with one having an interactive sound or bark. We were sent Cali, who is from Puppy Surprise Wave 5, and has white fur with a lilac hair and tail, as well as a glittery blue nose and a heart shaped collar. Erin loved hearing the first of the pups make her little barking and panting noises. We had 2 more, making a litter of three, and judging by the little pink bows on their backs, this little was an all female brood! I like the fact that additional puppies are available to buy separately, which is great in case you lose one, or want to add more puppies to your brood! One interactive barking pup included. Encourages nurturing imaginative play Lots of different designs, colours and characters to collect. Additional puppy packs are available individually if your child wanted to add additional puppies to their litter. Everyone loves a true Christmas surprise. And that is exactly what my husband and I had planned this year. A surprise puppy is what we had up our sleeves! We lost our Golden, Cooper, almost 2 years prior at age .He was the best dog! We had him before our boys were born, so they never knew a life without Cooper around. To say it was a hard thing to lose him is an understatement, as anyone who has had a pet knows. We spent the past couple years talking about it, but every time our boys would ask we would put them off and tell them not just yet. That was all part of our little plan to throw them off! But, we decided we were ready and we decided our surprise puppy would be another Golden Retriever. Research, research and more research…and we finally found a litter and went behind our boys backs and picked out our pup. We were going to pick her up on Christmas eve and surprise them Christmas morning. You know, the thing I have always dreamed about happening. We were crushed and heartbroken, but we also knew that we had to keep looking and try again. The good news is that we found another litter, but they were ready to go right then. When they woke up that morning, Elfie our elf had left them a note…. They got ready, and we put the gifts under the tree… Each boy had a box with a dog bowl and one had a collar and one had a toy. The confusion was hysterical. I got a bowl and a Christmas bracelet? We loaded up in the car on a road trip to bring home our Bailey. She was cute, perfect and healthy and we were instantly in love. And I think my boys loved being able to be there to pick her out and bring her home. Here are some pictures since she has been home with us! Have you ever surprised your kiddos with a puppy? I would love to hear how!! Until next time….